Explora Journeys Mediterranean: 21 nights from Venice with Explora II
Oct 29, 2026

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

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.

Volos

Volos is a town located in the center of mainland Greece, about 326 km north of Athens and 215 km south of Thessaloniki, the second most important city. Built at the deepest point of the Pagasean Gulf and at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos is a large port city that enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with rather humid summers and mild winters.

Built at the deepest point of the Gulf of Pagaseo and at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos is located on the Pelion peninsula in central Greece.
The etymology of the name " Volos ", according to a historical version, is the result of the distortion of the name of the Mycenaean city of Iolkos, where Jason set off with his Argonauts and his ship Argo in search of the Golden Fleece.
Volos is one of the oldest port cities in Greece. Capital of the province of Magnesia, the city belongs to the central region of Thessaly, its only outlet to the sea. It is located on the inner part of the mouth of the Gulf of Pagaseo, at the foot of the mythical Mount Pelion, the legendary country of the centaurs, as mythology tells.
Volos represents the ideal base to discover not only the picturesque mountain villages but also the Sporades islands of Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos, connected by ferries. The city owes its current economic boom and its development to maritime trade, to the industries established in the area, and to the increase in tourism.
Volos is a relatively new city, it began to develop in the mid-19th century in the place where a small Turkish village previously resided. After its annexation to Greece from the Ottoman Empire, in 1881, it grew very rapidly in the following 40 years. In the 1920s there was a large influx of refugees. Merchants, entrepreneurs, artisans, and sailors went to live in Volos and the surrounding areas.
The development of the city has been closely linked to the creation of industrial areas, the restructuring of the port and the increase in tourism thanks to its geographical position, near Mount Pelion, and the fabulous beaches of Magnesia, especially those located in the Sporades.
The city is also known for its variety of " mezedes ", mixed appetizer dishes based on fish or seafood, served with a traditional alcoholic beverage called "Tsipouro".

Istanbul

An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).

The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Istanbul

An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).

The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Canakkale

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.

Bodrum

Begin your captivating cruise adventure from Bodrum, Turkey, a city where ancient history meets modern charm on the Aegean coast. From its iconic castle to its vibrant marina, Bodrum offers a stunning backdrop for your departure. Explore historical ruins and enjoy the lively atmosphere before embarking on a journey to discover sun-drenched islands and historical sites of the Aegean and Mediterranean.

Marmaris

Limassol

Limassol is the second largest city on the island of Cyprus after the capital, Nicosia. It has a population of around 200,000, and is located on the south coast of the country, in Akrotiri Bay. Its geographical position and its cultural heritage attract many tourists and foreigners every year. It is one of the most important commercial ports in the Mediterranean. Here you will find a wide range of activities and a large number of museums and archaeological sites.

Limassol is one of the most important cities in this country, its economy, as well as tourism, is closely linked to its commercial port, one of the most notable in European Mediterranean. Very important location from an economic and cultural point of view.
The country grew between the cities of Amathus and Kourion, two cities of maximum importance in the Byzantine era. Its geographical position has also been the cause of various conflicts and maritime invasions by Greeks, Egyptians, Ottomans and English, imprinting the city.
In less than 3 decades, they transformed the country into a particularly tourist place. With British influence, starting from the 1970s, they began to develop tourist infrastructures. Beaches, hotels, bars and restaurants are what makes Limassol a top tourist destination in Cyprus, a city whose tourism boom came after the Turkish invasion, as in the countries of Kyrenia or Famagusta, one of the main locations characteristics of the island. In addition to the aspect of tourism, the territory is also known for being an important producer of wines. The city center is renowned for its great cultural tradition.
The port is divided into two areas: the old and the new. The new part is intended for ferries and the transport of passengers and containers, while the old one is aimed at commercial areas, such as bars, restaurants and import and export of wines.
The most important events are various, in particular the carnival and the Wine Festival. The first is celebrated in February or March and lasts about 10 days, where costumes and fun are the order of the day, the second takes place in the month of September, recommended for those who love to taste local wines.
We must not forget some of the most significant municipalities in the area such as: Polemidhia, Agios Athanasios, Geitona or Mesa.

Antalya

Start your unforgettable cruise adventure from Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera. This vibrant city, with its stunning coastline and ancient ruins, provides a spectacular setting for your departure. Imagine sailing away from golden beaches and historical wonders into the azure waters of the Mediterranean, promising a journey filled with sun, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Antalya is the largest city on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Genuine Turkish Riviera, welcomes millions of visitors every year. This jewel has a myriad of natural and historical finds, many of which date back to the Hellenistic period. Its climate is Mediterranean with mild and very humid winters and dry and very hot summers. Antalya is a dream destination and a breathtaking landscape, with steep cliffs, clean sea, beautiful beaches, adorned by lush vegetation and mysterious caves. The international airport, served by many foreign airlines, has been decisive for the development of tourism. The metropolis is one of the largest cities in southern Turkey. Just over 800,000 inhabitants for an area of ​​141,700 hectares. The history of Antalya began to exist in 150 BC. When King Attalus II, King of Pergamon, founded the city. Romans and Byzantines occupied the city before it fell under Ottoman rule, leaving many traces of their passage found through the numerous ancient ruins. The most fascinating sites to visit are: the best preserved theater of Aspendos, the Termessos site, with a wonderful fauna and the waterfall on the Duden river. Other very interesting monuments to see are: the Yivli mosque, symbol of Antalya, the old city with its alleys, its tower and Hadrian's Roman gate built for the celebration that took place in 130. The city offers activities such as exploring Koprulu Canyon, the ancient ruins of Perge, Hierapolis, Pamukkaleballade, the flea market and Karaalioglu Park. To have a splendid view of the city, go up to the Tünektepe hill, you will appreciate the places you will find nearby. In Antalya, the food offered in restaurants is usually spicy and inexpensive. You will find most of the restaurants based on seafood and fish. The traditional drink is raki, similar to Greek ouzo.

Heraklion

Heraklion is the capital of Cray. It is the largest port and economic center of the island and the third largest city in Greece. This city hosts the archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church and has religious buildings of great interest.

Heraklion is located in the center of the northern coast of the Greek Islands. With more than 100,00 inhabitants, the city is the capital of Crete, a Venetian fortress during the Middle Ages. The ancient city, with its squares and wide cobbled streets, balconies with wonderful view on the sea, mantains numerous fortifications. In particular there are important and magnificent monuments such as the Church of Agia Ekaterini, dated back to 1555, where the Museum of Sacred Art is hosted. The Archaeological Museum, home to ceramic sculptures, jewellery and frescoes on the Minoan culture. The Historical Museum, home to the only exhibited work of the painter Domenico Theotokopoulos (The Greek), and where you can have a view of Mount Sinai. The Cathedral of St Mena, the patron saint of the city, built between 1862 and 1895 is one of the largest buildings in the area.

Heraklion has an important port and a considerable center for the coastal trade of oil, soap, wine and hides. It has ferry boats and ships with regular itineraries to the islands of Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, Rhodes, Karpathos and Syros. There are also several daily ferry bgoats to Piraeus, south-west of Athens. The Venetian fortress, still in perfect condition, protects the entrance to the port.

The large combination of reality and mythology, tradition and modernity, make Herklion a cosmopolitan center and one of the most important tourist destination in the Mediterranean. Great beaches, lively nightlife, sunny people, excellent cuisine and the strange "interplay" between the old and the new, guarantees to tourists an unforgettable holiday.

Heraklion is located in the center of the northern coast of the Greek island. With more than 100,000 inhabitants, the locality is the capital and largest city of Crete, a Venetian stronghold during the Middle Ages.
The ancient city, between squares and wide cobbled streets, balconies overlooking the sea, preserves numerous fortifications. Particular importance and beauty are its magnificent monuments such as: the church of Agia Ekaterini, dating back to 1555, is where the museum of Sacred Art is housed. The Archaeological Museum, home to ceramic sculptures, jewelry, and frescoes on Minoan culture. The Historical Museum, home to the only work on display by the painter Domenico Theotokopoulos (El Greco), and where it is possible to have a view of Mount Sinai. The Cathedral of Saint Mena, patron saint of the city, built between 1862 and 1895, is one of the largest buildings in the area.
Heraklion has an important port and a considerable center for the coastal trade of oil, soap, wine, and hides. It has ferries and boats with regular routes to the islands of Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, Rhodes, Karpathos, and Syros. There are also several daily ferries to Piraeus, southwest of Athens. The Venetian fortress, still in perfect condition, protects the entrance to the port.
The great combination of reality and mythology, tradition and modernity, make Heraklion a cosmopolitan center and one of the most important tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. Large beaches, intense nightlife, sunny people, excellent cuisine, and the strange "game" between the old and the new, assures tourists an unforgettable vacation.

Milo

Nafplion

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.