Explora Journeys Mediterranean: 14 nights from Il Pireo with Explora II
Jun 1, 2026

Paros

Rhodes

Ancient Charms and Aegean Sails from Rhodes!

Embark on a captivating cruise from Rhodes, Greece, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, steeped in ancient history and medieval charm. From its impressive Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to its beautiful beaches, Rhodes offers a magical departure point for exploring the Aegean Sea. Immerse yourself in its legendary past before setting sail on a journey filled with sun-drenched islands, historical treasures, and serene sea days.

Rhodes is the 3rd largest island in Greece. Its geographical location and beauty have long been a target for many empires. Considered one of the most important centers of ancient Greece, this locality was frequented by wealthy Romans. In the Middle Ages, the city came under the dominion of the Knights of Malta and was later occupied by the Ottomans. Thus, Rhodes is known both for the variety of landscapes and the richness of its historical architecture. The old city, thanks to its imposing fortifications, makes it one of the largest inhabited medieval cities in Europe. The metropolis is divided into three areas. The modern and cosmopolitan city, with its hotels and buildings. The ancient one, built in 408 BC, later restored and where the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, Athena, and Apollo, the stadium, the gymnasium, and the theater are located. Finally, the one characterized by medieval Gothic architecture, built during the Ottoman period. Not to mention the Grand Masters Palace, home to ancient mosaics and a collection of Western-style furniture. Rhodes is the sunniest in Europe, with 300 days of sunshine a year. You will find both modern comfort and vintage style. You can also appreciate the warm hospitality of its people and the traditions that are still alive. After visiting the city, you will notice its beautiful beaches, some of which are equipped for water sports.

Korfu

Corfù is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, located off the northwestern coast of Greece and south of Albania. The Greek island is a natural paradise. It is the second largest island of Greece, with 220 km of coastline. Its geography is dominated by mountain ranges and reaching 1000 meters above sea level, you will find Mont Pantokrator.

This mountain divides the island into three different areas. The northern area, abundant in olive groves, features green valleys and coastlines that form both small and large bays. The central part, the most populous and important, is covered by dense vegetation and lush hills.

 

 

The southern area consists of a large plain with less vegetation than the other regions but is decidedly more fertile. The most lively part of the city is found at Liston, similar to Paris’ Rue de Rivoli- a grand avenue lined with beautiful cafes and excellent restaurants. On the other hand, the island also has beautiful beaches washed by the Ionian Sea.

One of the most beautiful walks in the capital is along the harbor promenade, next to the city walls, where you can contemplate the view of the city. Corfù was the first Greek Island to open its doors to tourism, becoming an important international tourist centre that attracts many visitors every year. Even if tourism is evident in the coastal areas, the island has managed to preserve its authenticity.

Hvar

Located on the Adriatic Sea, the island of Lesina is one of the largest islands overlooking the Croatian coast. An ancient city with a rich past, it is located on the west side of the island, towards the south. A popular tourist destination, not only in summer but also in spring and autumn, it becomes the most visited destination in Croatia.
During your stay in Lesina, you can discover the richness of its natural heritage: the island is well-equipped with a series of caves, some of which are completely uninhabited.
Do not forget to visit the various monuments such as the imposing fortress, built in the early 16th century and restored in 1579, following an explosion, which offers extraordinary panoramic views of the city of Lesina and the Pakleni islands. Other significant monuments are: The Cathedral of San Stjepan, located on the east side of the main square of the city, the Arsenal, the oldest public theater built in 1612, the Franciscan monastery, now a museum and gallery of rarities, and many other works that testify to the turbulent past of the Nation. In this country, you will find a transparent and crystalline sea with small beaches of sand and rocks. In front of the bay of Lesina you will find the "Infernal" islands, where you will meet the most beautiful beaches.
The city is connected to the islands by regular ferry lines. Sports and leisure lovers can go trekking, scuba diving, numerous water activities, walking, playing football, handball, volleyball, basketball, and tennis. The nightlife of the city of Hvar is more active in Dalmatia. You can relax among enchanting beaches, watching shows, exhibitions, concerts, musical, and folklore events.

Rijeka

Rijeka is a Croatian seaport and city located in the Gulf of Kvarner, on the Adriatic coast. It is the third largest city in the country.
Before being annexed to the Yugoslav Republic in the twentieth century, it underwent Austro-Hungarian and later Italian dominations at the end of the nineteenth century. Today, the country has an excellent shipbuilding industry.

In this location there are some historical places of interest, which are located in the so-called Old Town preserved since ancient times. It is decorated with images of great Austrian emperors such as Charles VI and Leopold I. One of the most important architectural complexes is the castle of Tersatto, which is located on one of the highest hills. The construction of the castle took place in the 13th century, consisting of 538 steps of steep stairs. For those who want to take a more comfortable climb, they can use the funicular. After visiting the castle you can observe and admire the magnificent panorama of the city. In addition to the beautiful fortification, built in late Gothic style and its panorama, on the hill you will also find the Temple of the Madonna di Tersatto and the Franciscan convent, the most important religious places in the area. The most notable part of the city is the central one, called Corso. Here the streets are entirely reserved for pedestrians. During a walk you can see the shops and popular restaurants, visit the new cinema or simply relax in beautiful parks, where one of the most colorful markets in the city is located. Traditional souvenirs, which the locals call moric and are represented by small silver objects with the image of the Moor's head, are really very popular with visitors. We associate its original souvenirs with many interesting legends, known to all merchants and inhabitants. This beautiful place attracts many tourists fascinated by the Mediterranean climate and the beautiful landscapes composed of steep mountain ranges, accompanied by a crystal clear sea. The nearest airport is 35 km away, on the island of Krk. It provides European destinations such as Oslo, London and Stuttgart. The Croatian Railways offers connections from Fiume to the heart of Europe. The ferry line connects the port to several major coastal cities in the Mediterranean.

Venice

Setting sail from Venice on a cruise ship is unique and unforgettable. Discover all the cruises that depart from Venice for a great start to your holiday!

Venice it is one of the golden destinations of our age. A unique city of 120 islands, with an ancient history and endless waterways, it attracts a constant flow of tourists from all over the world to see its inspiring architecture and navigate its canals.

There are many souvenirs you can bring home from Venice, but the most lasting memory will be your impression of the city itself.

Rovinj

Zadar

Thanks to its geographical position, its beaches and attractive environment Zadar is an ideal destination for visiting the Dalmatia. Icing on the cake: the sunset would be the best in the world according to Alfred
Hitchcock.
Regional capital of northern Dalmatia, Zadar is a small coastal city in Croatia protected by lots of islands of the Kornati archipelago, one of the largest in the Mediterranean. If you want to enjoy your stay in this enchanting country, May, June and September are the most ideal times. A peaceful atmosphere is emanated from this ancient walled city. Surrounded by the sea and numerous pebble beaches, in the territory there are many national parks, in particular the most notably are the Plitvice Lakes, the Krka waterfalls and Velibit Mountain. Even after getting to know the city, you can admire the islands of the Kornati National Park, where you will find a labyrinth of untouched oases. This blessed place of the gods is ideal for diving and snorkling.

The surprising feature of Zadar: it is the only city in the world with a
marine 'organ', the waves produce a sound similar to the instrument used in the church. This is a further reason to discover this city rich in history and full of charm. This island has been inhabitaed for more that three decades, this is testifyed by its magnificent historical and archelogist ruins for example the 9th century monastery of San Donato, the 16th century Venetian bastions or the Porta della Terraferma, both Venetian. The central arch is decorated with a statue of St Chrysogonus, the patron saint of the city, these are just some of the places to visit. If you also plan to have fun, you will find several summer cultural events here, including Zara of Dreams or the musical nights of San Donato. For party-goers, we recommend one of the most famous clubs in Croatia, the Hacienda, which always hosts famous DJs and it is located between Zadar and Šibenik. While for liquors lovers, especially local ones, you can enjoy a typical local Maraschino in the evening.

The capital of Dalmatia, Zadar, is a small coastal city, located in Croatia and protected by numerous islands of the Kornati archipelago, one of the largest in the Mediterranean. If you want to enjoy your stay in this enchanting country, May, June, and September are the most ideal period. In this ancient walled city emanates a peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by the sea and numerous pebble beaches, the territory has various national parks, in particular, the Plitvice Lakes, the Krka waterfalls, or the Velibit mountain. Even after knowing the city, you can contemplate the islands of the Kornati National Park, where you will find a labyrinth of pristine oases. This place blessed by the gods is ideal for diving and snorkeling. The striking feature of Zadar: it is the only city in the world with a "sea organ", the waves produce a sound similar to that of the instrument used in the church. One more reason to discover this coastal city rich in history and full of charm. This region has been inhabited for more than three millennia, as evidenced by the magnificent historical and archaeological finds. The monastery of San Donato of the 9th century, the Venetian bastions of the 16th century or the Porta della Terraferma, also Venetian. The central arch is decorated with a statue of San Crisogono, patron saint of the city, these are just some of the places to visit. If you also plan to have fun, here you will find several summer cultural events including Zadar of Dreams or the musical nights of San Donato. For partygoers, we recommend one of the most famous clubs in Croatia, Hacienda which always hosts well-known DJs, is located between Zadar and Sibenik. While for lovers of liqueurs, especially the local ones, in the evening you can enjoy a Maraschino typical of the area.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is definitely special. A magnificent curtain wall surrounds marble streets and Baroque buildings exude a pearly light in the Adriatic sun.

Picturesque and artistic, Dubrovnik is a tourist hotspot and port in southern Dalmatia, at the foot of the Srđ mountain. From a historical and cultural point of view, it has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Thanks to its beauty and everything it has on offer for tourists, Dubrovnik is one of the most attractive destinations in the Mediterranean, so much so that the city can be visited all year round. In addition to its world-famous architectural heritage, this place has beautiful rocky beaches, pebble beaches and sandy beaches, enjoys a Mediterranean climate and also has lush vegetation. The main pedestrian street, Placa, is a melange of cafes and shops with monuments at each end.

Churches, monasteries and museums adorned with finely carved stone, recall an eventful history and a rich artistic tradition. Beyond the city there is a paradise of beaches, wooded peninsulas and a crystal-clear sea dotted with lush islands.

The city is also known for its delicious cuisine and its infrastructure of hotels for tourists. The city offers a wide selection of first-class restaurants, numerous sport and leisure activities, as well as cultural and entertainment events

Brindisi

Many cruise ships, whose destination are Greek Islands, Croatia and Venice, set sail from Bari. On Taoticket you will find all departures on offer from Brindisi for a fairytale cruise in the Adriatic Sea.
Located in Salento plain along the Adriatic Sea, Brindisi has a magnificent natural port. The province of Brindisi stretches from the coast to the Adriatic Sea and includes areas of great historical interest. For instance, Via Traiana, the eastern part of the Itria Valley or the Roman road of Via Appia, the oldest road of the Roman Empire. In addition, Greece, Turkey and Albania can be easily reached from Brindisi by sea. The main trade traffic concerns coal, fuel oil, natural gas and chemicals.

If your cruise ship sets sail from Brindisi, do not miss the opportunity to visit this beautiful city in Puglia. We recommend you to visit the church of San Benedetto with its bell tower in Apulian Romanesque style, built around 1090 for the Benedictine nuns of Salento.

Do not a performance of the traditional dance of these lands: the pizzica. Its origins date back to the the cult of tarantismo, the belief that some women suffering from hysteria had been bitten by a tarantula. The only way to recover was to dance the pizzica continuously for days accompanied by the rhythm of tambourines, violins and mandolins. Nowadays pizzica is often still danced by young and old locals. There are many shows and artistic events you can attend, especially in the summer months. The traditional cuisine of Brindisi is made up of peasant elements such as barley flour and rich in blue fish, once undervalued but very nutritious. Stop here and try the famous fish soup with a glass of Negroamaro and your cruise will be tastier.

Brindisi: A Historical Gateway to the East

Set sail from Brindisi, a city in Puglia, Italy, steeped in history and serving as an ancient gateway to the East. With its Roman columns, charming waterfront, and historical churches, Brindisi offers a captivating starting point for your cruise. Explore its rich past, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak in the laid-back Southern Italian atmosphere before embarking on a journey across the Adriatic and Ionian seas. This vibrant port is your perfect introduction to a world of maritime adventure and cultural discovery.

Unveiling New Horizons from Brindisi

Cruises departing from Brindisi invite you to explore diverse and enchanting destinations, from the sun-kissed islands of Greece to the picturesque coasts of Albania and Montenegro. Whether you seek ancient historical sites, bustling markets, or tranquil beaches, Brindisi provides excellent access to a variety of compelling itineraries. Enjoy the convenience of a well-located port and the anticipation of new discoveries as you leave the heel of Italy behind for unforgettable experiences on the open water, promising relaxation and endless exploration.

Milo

Il Pireo

Explore Ancient Greece from Piraeus (Il Pireo)!

Embark on a legendary cruise from Piraeus, the historic port of Athens, Greece. This bustling gateway to the Aegean Sea offers immediate access to the ancient wonders of the Acropolis, Parthenon, and countless archaeological sites. Immerse yourself in the cradle of Western civilization before setting sail on a journey to the sun-drenched Greek Islands and beyond, promising a voyage rich in history, culture, and breathtaking beauty.