Explora Journeys Middle East: 11 nights from Venice with Explora IV
Oct 31, 2028

Split

Split is a city in Croatia, the capital of the Split-Dalmatia region, the main center of Dalmatia and, with its 178,192 inhabitants (2011), the second largest city in the country. Split is also a university and archiepiscopal seat.

The name of the city derives from the thorny broom, a very common shrub in the region, which in ancient Greek was called Aspálathos (Aσπάλαθος). Under the Roman Empire the city was called "Spalatum" and in the Middle Ages "Spalatro" in the Dalmatian language. In the Slavic language it is called "Split" while in Italian "Spalato". In the early 19th century the name became "Spljet" and then returned to the form "Split".

Embark on a captivating cruise from Split, Croatia, a vibrant city on the Dalmatian coast, famous for its stunning Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historical port offers a unique blend of ancient Roman architecture and modern Croatian life. Before setting sail, wander through the palace walls, explore its bustling markets, and enjoy the lively Riva promenade. Split provides a truly immersive cultural experience as your gateway to the enchanting Adriatic Sea.

Cruises departing from Split open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. Whether you dream of discovering the secluded coves of the Croatian islands, the historical richness of Montenegro, or the ancient allure of Greece, Split serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the vibrant Croatian coast to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Split promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

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

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.

Port Said

Suez

Sharm El Sheik

Embark on a captivating cruise from Sharm El Sheik, Egypt, a world-renowned resort town on the Red Sea coast. Known for its spectacular coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and desert landscapes, Sharm El Sheik offers an extraordinary departure point for exploring the wonders of the Red Sea and beyond. Prepare for a journey filled with sun, adventure, and breathtaking underwater discoveries, all from this luxurious desert oasis.

Aqaba

Begin your extraordinary cruise experience from the historical port of Aqaba, Jordan. This unique gateway to ancient treasures like Petra and the stunning Red Sea offers an unparalleled start to your journey. Sail away into a world of vibrant marine life and desert landscapes, promising a voyage rich in adventure, history, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Jeddah

During the stop in Jeddah, a must-see visit is the Corniche, the promenade that extends for several kilometers along the Red Sea. This place offers a pleasant walk among palm trees, manicured gardens and modern sculptures, with a breathtaking view of the sea. Not to be missed is the King Fahd Fountain, the tallest in the world, which shoots water jets up to 312 meters high: a fascinating evening show, especially at sunset when the colored lights give life to a unique atmosphere.

For an immersion in local culture, Souq Al-Alawi is an essential stop. It is one of the oldest markets in the city, where you can buy spices, perfumes, fabrics and traditional crafts. Located in the historic Old Town of Jeddah, the souq is surrounded by ancient buildings decorated with the typical mashrabiya, the carved wooden lattice windows. Walking through the narrow streets of the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you have the opportunity to breathe the history and traditions of this fascinating city.