Princess Cruises Mediterranean: 21 nights from Athens with Caribbean Princess
Mar 20, 2028

Mykonos

Mykonos is an extremely fun and fascinating place, where the frenetic mix of vacationers, fashionistas and celebrities is magically subdued to the cubist charm of the old town.

Mykonos is famous for being a cosmopolitan destination among the Greek islands and widely recognized as one of the meccas of great tourism. It is one of the most touristy islands in the Aegean Sea. Mykonos tends to be extremely crowded with visitors in July and August. The best time to visit Mykonos is mid-May through June (early in the season, accommodation is much cheaper and it's not that hot), or from September to mid-October.

Chania

Chania, the second largest city in Crete, is a jewel overlooking the Aegean Sea, rich in history and natural beauty. Here's what to do during your stop in this city:

1. Walk in the Venetian Port: Start your visit with a walk along the picturesque Venetian port. Admire the Lighthouse, one of the symbols of the city, and visit the Janissaries Mosque.

2. Explore the Historic Quarter: Get lost in the narrow streets of the old quarter, where you can discover craft shops, traditional taverns and colorful houses. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania.

3. Municipal Market: Take a jump to the covered market of Chania, where you can buy local products such as olives, cheeses and spices.

4. Stop in a Local Tavern: Savor Cretan cuisine in one of the taverns on the waterfront or in the alleys of the historic center. Try typical dishes such as dakos, moussaka and oven-baked lamb.

 

Chania: Crete's Venetian Jewel for Your Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable Mediterranean journey from Chania, Crete's most picturesque city. With its charming Venetian harbor, lighthouse, and labyrinthine Old Town, Chania offers a captivating and romantic setting for your cruise departure. Before setting sail, wander through its narrow alleys, discover ancient ruins, and savor the authentic Cretan cuisine. Chania provides a vibrant blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal beauty, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Aegean and beyond.

Explore the Aegean and Beyond from Chania

Cruises departing from Chania open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Imagine discovering the ancient wonders of mainland Greece, the volcanic landscapes of Santorini, or the historical richness of Turkey. Whether you seek vibrant island life, serene beaches, or profound historical sites, Chania serves as an excellent launchpad for diverse itineraries. Enjoy the seamless transition from Crete's charming city to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments on the open water, promising a truly enriching voyage.

Katakolon

Katakolon is known as the 'gateway to Olympia' in fact it is located just east of the ancient city of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Katakolon is a seaside town in the municipality of Pyrgos in western Greece. It is located on a picturesque promontory overlooking the Ionian Sea and separating the Gulf of Kyparissia from the rest of the Ionian Sea. It is 11 km west of the center of Pyrgos. The small village of Agios Andreas is located north-west of Katakolon. The port of Katakolon is a very popular stop for cruise ships, offering passengers the opportunity to visit the site of ancient Olympia. Low hills with forests surround Katakolo. In 1865 the Katakolon lighthouse was built. One of the most important sites in Katakolon is the Museum of Ancient Greek technology.

Saranda

Located in the extreme south-west of Albania along the Ionian Sea, opposite the Greek island of Corfu, Saranda is a popular Albanian city, one of the most important tourist cities on the Ionian coast.

The most welcoming and tourist city in Albania, draped along a curved bay with a thin strip of beach. The city developed in antiquity, from the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, archaeological excavations have revealed the remains in the center of the metropolis.
Despite its lack of popularity, it has a fascinating heritage: a promenade decorated with palm and eucalyptus trees, surrounded by numerous clubs.
The beaches also offer the opportunity to practice numerous water activities.

One of the most beautiful beaches is Kakome Bay north of Seranda: The beach is huge, absolutely stunning.
Blue Eye is a lagoon, so called thanks to its turquoise shades similar to the color of the iris of an eye. At 45 meters deep, the water is incredibly transparent.
Ksamil is a small village near Saranda (15 km) and also has a beautiful beach surrounded by small islands accessible by swimming.

Castle Lekures dating back to the 16th century is located on the hills of Saranda and offers panoramic views of the Ionian Sea. The dominant position of the castle was a strategic point for protecting the city from invasions: on one side the sea and on the other a large tray suitable for cultivation and breeding. The castle has a splendid terrace and a restaurant. It is reachable by car or on foot.
The Butrint National Heritage Park World Heritage by UNESCO, is a natural park, rich in wildlife such as foxes, reptiles, martens, seals, turtles and various birds. The climate is mild and sunny for most of the year. The economy of the city of Saranda is mainly based on agricultural products from the Valtos valley, on the cultivation of mussels from the salt lake of Vouthrotos (Butrint).
In addition to the slow and constant growth of tourism, fishing is another source of wealth.

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

Kotor

The Adriatic Sea penetrates the jagged coast of Montenegro and winds between high mountains until it meets the exquisite and walled medieval city of Kotor.

Along the Adriatic coast of the former Yugoslavia, we find one of the most unique and fascinating European coastal areas, the city hidden in Montenegro, Kotor.
Located at the bottom of a bay, the beautiful medieval city of Kotor is considered a Mediterranean location surrounded by cliffs and an interesting historic wall. The tourist attractions of Kotor are easily reached with a pleasant walk. This small walled city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has compact dimensions that make it comfortable and easy to visit.

The central part of Kotor was built between the XII and XIV centuries. A historic center surrounded by a rather thick wall, four and a half kilometers long and fifteen meters high. This immense fortified wall reaches the bastion of Sveti Ivan (San Giovanni).
Inside the walls, it preserves an urban network cut into the stone. Its most emblematic work is the Cathedral of San Trifone, built in the 12th century. Inside the church it contains objects and frescoes sculpted during the 14th century. Furthermore, The Orthodox Church of San Nicolas, built between 1902 and 1909 in neo-Byzantine style and that of San Luca (13th century) built in Romanesque and Byzantine style.

Together with the churches, the city includes many palaces that tell its history: the Maritime Museum, located in the Grgurina Palace, a splendid baroque building located in the historic center of the country. The Drago house, with its beautiful Gothic windows, the Prima building, where Renaissance and Baroque lines are combined, the Ducal Palace and the Bizanti, both from the 17th century and the Napoleonic theater in the 19th century.
In Kotor, it is very common to see locals located along the rocky coast in the lower part of the city. In the old part of the area you will find many shops and restaurants that will delight your eyes. This location is the classic ideal city to spend quiet days or for a romantic getaway.

Catania

Set sail from Catania for your Mediterranean Cruise Holiday. Discover on our website all departures with embarkation from Catania and visit Barcelona, Marseille and Naples on board the best cruise ships. The city's Baroque historic centre has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2002.
Catania is a beautiful city on the east coast of Sicily, the second largest after Palermo, located at the foot of Europe's largest volcanic site: Mount Etna. Besides being really beautiful and full of tourist attractions, Catania is also a very important and complete city.
The hub of the city is the port, the main economic center of the region, and one of the busiest in Italy, it is bustling both day and night. An ideal city to enjoy the pleasures of life and savour true Mediterranean
gastronomy Catania will offer you magical moments. Visit the city's various markets, the colourful and lively Pescheria, where you will find the best fresh fish in town, or stop at the market in Piazza Carlo Alberto, also known as Fera'o Luni, where a characteristic flea market is also held on Sundays.
If you want a snack, don't miss the typical Sicilian cannoli with ricotta cheese or have breakfast with a Sicilian brioche and almond granita, a real treat for your palate before arriving at the port and embarking on your Mediterranean cruise from Catania.

Catania: A Sicilian Symphony for Your Cruise

Set sail from Catania, the vibrant baroque city at the foot of Mount Etna, on Sicily's eastern coast. This bustling port offers a dramatic backdrop for your cruise departure, blending ancient history with a dynamic modern spirit. Before embarking, explore the city's UNESCO-listed architecture, taste its famous street food, and gaze upon the majestic volcano. Catania provides a unique and culturally rich starting point for an unforgettable journey across the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean Wonders from the Heart of Sicily

Cruises departing from Catania offer diverse itineraries that span the enchanting Mediterranean. Whether you dream of exploring the Greek Isles, the historical cities of mainland Italy, or the sun-kissed coasts of North Africa, Catania serves as an excellent launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Sicily to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. Each voyage from Catania promises breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences on the open water.

Naples

Set sail from Naples for a holiday in Mediterranean with a cruise from Naples. The port of Naples offers cruises that depart from April to November at extremely convenient prices. Discover all the itineraries and companies sailing from Naples.
A jewel set between a dormant volcano and the steaming Campi Flegrei, Naples is an eclectic metropolitan city, always active and full of contradictions. The romantic Naples, distant two hours in the south of Rome, is one of the largest and most beautiful art cities in the Mediterranean. In addition to its beautiful scenery, the city owes its well-deserved fame to the beautiful historic centre, which was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1995.
Naples is rich in monuments and squares, for example the large and famous Piazza del Plebiscito. Do not miss the residential district of Posillipo or the characteristic small streets of the historic center. Naples is an ideal starting point for many excursions to discover Amalfi coast: visit Sorrento, Capri and Ischia, and you will be faschinated by the beauty of these lands! If you are history and archaeology lover you should visit Pompeii and Herculaneum, two great archaeological sites of worldwide importance preserved thanks to the ancient and devastating eruption of Vesuvius, the volcano on whose slopes the city of Campania was founded.

Not to be missed is a visit to the Reggia di Caserta, just a few kilometres away from Naples, where you will find yourself immersed in a magical atmosphere full of luxury, opulence and wealth. Handicrafts typical of the city are nativity scenes, which are very important all year round. The main street full of specialised workshops is Via San Gregorio Armeno, which can be reached by walking along the famous Spaccanapoli to an open space full of characteristic nativity scenes.

Before embarking on a cruise from Naples, soak up the city atmosphere without missing the Porta Nolana Market, where you will find fresh fish, seasonal fruit and vegetables, as well as all kinds of clothing, bags and furnishings. For art lovers there is the Capodimonte Museum and the unmissable Cloister of Santa Chiara, while for the more daring we recommend a visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro and Underground Naples, a parallel city carved out of the tuff and full of mystery.

Naples: Your Historic Gateway to the Southern Mediterranean

Set sail from Naples, Italy's vibrant and historic city, nestled against the stunning backdrop of Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples. As one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Naples offers a rich tapestry of art, history, and culinary delights. Before embarking, explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, savor authentic Neapolitan pizza, or wander through the charming Spaccanapoli district. Naples provides a captivating and culturally immersive starting point for your Mediterranean cruise.

Mediterranean Treasures Await from Naples

Cruises departing from Naples open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast, the picturesque Greek Islands, the historical richness of Sicily, or the charming ports of the French Riviera, Naples serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Southern Italy to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Naples promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Civitavecchia

The port town of Civitavecchia is about an hour away from the Italian capital and is where ships will dock before bringing lucky holidaymakers into the city of Rome. It is an important port for cruise ships and ferries, connecting to Corsica, Sardinia and Barcelona. Civitavecchia is a town in the heart of Lazio. It is a small, sleepy town that overlooks the sea from behind the busy and chaotic commercial port.

Spreading out along the coast, the town is situated between the Mignon river to the north and the Marangone river to the south.
Civitavecchia is a port town in the heart of Italy, in the province of Rome, 80 kilometres northwest of the capital.

It is shrouded in art and history, and is rich in bays and coves with sandy and rocky beaches. Today the town is the departure point for many cruises and journeys around the Mediterranean. It is an excellent tourist destination where you can simply enjoy 'la dolce vita' or visit the amazing historical monuments. On a level with the majestic ancient capital, in terms of its monuments, gardens, villas and works of art, it also gives you easy access to the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Terme della Ficoncella, and the Etruscan ruins.

Civitavecchia will guarantee you an original and enchanting experience.

Cagliari

There are many cruises embarking from the port of Cagliari in the West Mediterranean. From this city you can easily reach the Balearic Islands and the southern coasts of France and Spain. Cruises from Cagliari offer favourable prices and the city is an ideal starting point for visiting Sardinia. Straddling a long bay between enchanting blue waters and sun-drenched fields, Cagliari is a true emerald green waiting to be discovered. The city rises on and around the hill of the historic district of Castello, and spreads over the surrounding 9 limestone hills.

Cagliari is the regional capital of Sardinia and is called Casteddu in the local dialect. Its territory is one of the most interesting places to visit on the island, full of pure Mediterranean essence expressed in every corner, in every bite of its delicious cuisine and in its history of colonisation. The international port of Cagliari is very busy due to both the traffic and the passengers, especially in the summer months when the crowd of tourists remarkably increases. The best time to visit this city is spring, when the weather is not yet too hot and the average temperatures is 20°C. Discover cruises that depart from Cagliari on Taoticket and let our travel agents recommend you to find the best departure for you.

If your ship calls at Cagliari do not miss the Poetto beach, the most famous city beach where you can enjoy fresh drinks accompanied by traditional fish dishes. Local cuisine is very varied thanks to various influences received from other places like those from Liguria and even from distant Catalonia.

Cagliari: Sardinia's Enchanting Cruise Gateway

Begin your captivating Mediterranean cruise from Cagliari, the historical capital of Sardinia. Perched on seven hills overlooking the sparkling sea, Cagliari offers a blend of ancient history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Before you set sail, explore the medieval Castello district, stroll along Poetto Beach, and savor the island's unique cuisine. Cagliari provides a picturesque and culturally rich starting point for an unforgettable voyage through the azure waters of the Mediterranean.

Mediterranean Dreams Set Sail from Cagliari

Cruises departing from Cagliari open up a world of discovery across the Mediterranean, from the sun-drenched coasts of Italy and Spain to the exotic shores of North Africa. Whether you dream of ancient ruins, bustling souks, or pristine beaches, Cagliari serves as an ideal launchpad for diverse itineraries. Enjoy the seamless transition from Sardinia's charming capital to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready to explore new horizons and create lasting memories. Each journey from Cagliari promises relaxation, adventure, and the allure of the Mediterranean sea.

Palermo

Cruises from Palermo all year round, set sail from the Sicialian capital to discover the Mediterranean Sea at the best price with Taoticket's offers. Cruises that embark from Palermo will surprise you!

Palermo is a thousand-year-old city with an important artistic and architectural heritage. Once Palermo was a prestigious center in the Mediterranean and still today it shows the charm and grandeur of its past grandeur combined with the natural beauty that surrounds it.

Sicily's capital offers excellent gastronomy to its visitors, beautiful landscapes, monuments and much more. If you are walking along its streets and you want to have a snack, you will discover that Palermo is renowned for its delicious street food: try the Martorana marzipan fruit or try a panelle sandwich, you will not be disappointed!

Theatre lovers should not miss a performance by the Pupi Siciliani, puppets that perform Carolingian-style pieces and that have been considered a Unesco Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity since 2008. The main characters are Charlemagne and all his paladins and adversaries.

Characteristic is the fixed market of Ballarò, where you will find fresh, seasonal foodstuffs and be immersed in the city's noisy and truest atmosphere. The inhabitants of Palermo frequent this market daily, either for shopping or for a lunch break with ready-made regional dishes. We recommend visiting the city especially in autumn or spring when the heat is not excessive and walking through the sunny streets is a real pleasure! Set sail on a cruise from Palermo on board the best ships for a fun and carefree cruise with our offers!

Palermo: Sicily's Vibrant Gateway to the Mediterranean

Set sail from Palermo, Sicily's captivating capital, a city rich in history, art, and vibrant street life. With its stunning Norman cathedrals, bustling markets, and unique blend of architectural styles, Palermo offers a truly immersive cultural experience before your cruise. Before stepping aboard, explore the Ballarò market, admire the Palermo Cathedral, and savor delicious Sicilian street food. Palermo provides a fascinating and lively starting point for your Mediterranean adventure.

Mediterranean Journeys from the Heart of Sicily

Cruises departing from Palermo open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean. Whether you dream of discovering the ancient ruins of Greece, the sun-drenched coasts of mainland Italy, the charming ports of the French Riviera, or the exotic allure of North Africa, Palermo serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the vibrant Sicilian capital to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Palermo promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Valletta

Malta is one the smallest States in the Mediterranean. Few European countries have such a concentration of history, architecture and, beautiful beaches in such a small area. Malta is one of the most concentrated areas of historical interest anywhere in the world, for this reason it was called La Valletta when Unesco awarded it the title of World Heritage Site. The city is therefore the ideal city for art lovers and it is renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

One of the most concentrated areas of historical interest elements in the world, so La Valletta was described when Unesco awarded it the title of world heritage site, the city is therefore a guarantee for art lovers and certainly renowned for its massive fortifications and architectural excellence.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a port city on the Mediterranean Sea, in northern Egypt, founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great and which also served as the backdrop to the stormy love story between Anthony and Cleopatra.

Nicknamed the Pearl of the Mediterranean, it is most famous in ancient times as the location of the Pharos, the great lighthouse, considered one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, for the Temple of Serapis, the Serapion, which was part of the legendary library of Alexandria, as a seat of learning and, once, the largest and most prosperous city in the world. Today, Alexandria offers fascinating aspects of its proud Greek past, as well as interesting mosques, the Corniche's string of casinos, some charming gardens and hotels both modern and traditional, which conquers with the charm of a unique mix of history and modernity, an atmosphere more similar to Magna Graecia than to the Middle East.

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.

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.

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.

Athens

For many, Athens is a city lived two thousand five hundred years ago. Symbol is the mighty Acropolis which dominates almost every view and itinerary of every visitor, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, stands above the city, watching the sprawling modern metropolis in evolution.

Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where antiquity and modernity, history and contemporary culture blend in a unique way. Everyone knows that the name of the city derives from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and justice. However, few people actually know the legend behind this event. According to myth, Athena and Poseidon, the God of the seas, vied for the right to name the city. Poseidon, to impress the inhabitants, gave them water, while Athena gave them an olive branch.

At first the choice fell on Poseidon, since the citizens considered water the most precious gift. When, once they tasted the water, they discovered that it was salty and not drinkable, they changed their minds and recognized Athena as their patron. One of the most famous historical sites in the city is the Acropolis, a majestic hill topped by ancient Doric temples, including the Parthenon, built in 477 BC. and the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC. Climbing the Acropolis, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Aegean Sea. However, Athens is not only history, but also a lively cultural capital. In the Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is possible to stroll through the welcoming streets, visit the traditional Greek taverns and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

Then there are the numerous cultural activities offered by the numerous museums, galleries and theaters present in the city. Athens is an important port for cruise ships that offer trips to the Mediterranean and beyond. Cruises from Athens allow guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Greece, including the islands of Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, where you can admire the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and a coast of white houses.

In addition to the Greek islands, cruises from Athens also offer the opportunity to visit other exciting Mediterranean destinations, including historic cities in Italy, Croatia and Turkey. Athens is therefore not only the historical and cultural center of Greece, but also an important starting point for cruises in the Mediterranean, which offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the great history and splendid landscapes of this unique region.

Many still think of Athens as an ancient city that thrived two and a half thousand years ago. Its symbol is the mighty Acropolis, which dominates almost every view and the itinerary of every visitor, and it is crowned by the iconic Parthenon, which rises above the city, overlooking the sprawling and evolving modern metropolis.

Perhaps the most significant change is in the historical centre, which is almost unrecognisable since cars have been banned. This has liberated the area with the most significant archaeological sites, creating the longest, and undoubtedly one of the most splendid, pedestrianised zones in Europe. This huge archaeological park has brought past and present together, returning the cultural and social life of the city to the area around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Athens remains a city of contradictions; it is both frustrating and seductive. It is the oldest city in Europe, yet still in a state of transition. It is one of the safest and most vibrant European cities - an intoxicating mix of grunge and grace with an undeniably urban soul.