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A Journey into Ancient Empires

Embark on a journey from Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome, cruising to Palermo's historic wonders, then on to the idyllic shores of Corfu, Mykonos's island charm, and the ancient splendours of Piraeus, Athens. A Mediterranean dream unfolds.

Cruise Only
8 nights

Luxury Holiday
Athens temple
Mykonos Windmills
Corfu beach
Palermo cathedral

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Resplendent Rome, exalted wonder of ancient empires, holds us in her embrace for an enchanting overnight in port.

Watch the world go by with a creamy gelato while sunlight dances through the waters of Trevi Fountain and gaze in awe at the mighty Corinthian columns of the Pantheon. Mythological beasts and ageless deities prance in Palermo's Pizza Pretoria, surrounded by chapels and palazzos adorned with frescoes and mosaics of indescribable beauty.

Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets of Corfu under fragrant blooms that spill from shuttered facades and pause to ponder in shaded colonnade cafes. Wander among the pretty whitewashed buildings and creaking windmills of Mykonos, belle of the Cyclades, before surrendering to her nocturnal charms. The next morning, mooch around art galleries or UNESCO-listed Delos Island, birthplace of gods. Close your eyes as we arrive in Athens and picture 200 trireme warships, the greatest fleet in Ancient Greece, ready to set sail.

EJ160 Operated by Explora Journeys

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A Journey into Ancient Empires Itinerary

Day 1-2 - Civitavecchia

There’s more to Rome than its ancient architecture. The Eternal City is home to a seemingly endless array of hidden gems. The artistic-minded can enjoy fashion aristocracy, street art, vespa jaunts to The Appian Way and toss coins into fountains. Or you can stroll by appointment to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and the Pope’s private quarters at the Vatican. Explore the historic ruins of The Colosseum, Caravaggio churches, the Spanish Steps and The Pantheon. Learn how to make pasta the true Italian way, hunt truffles, nibble gelato, sip coffee and sink into a 3000 year old pool for a wellness experience. an ode to homespun pasta at a Renaissance piazza. When in Rome, fusing old with new makes it simple to indulge in whatever you like.

Day 3 - Palermo

Be drawn into a balmy blend of olive-strewn landscapes, starkly beautiful Greek temples, Byzantine mosaics, and ricotta-filled farm-to-table delights. Wander Palermo's ficus-filled streets as you tour through the Florio family tale. Taste wine through a patchwork of fertile vineyards below rumbling giant Mount Etna and talented Teatro Greco, Sicily's most dolce vita hill town. Take in noble UNESCO heritage sites, tour leafy Villa Tasca, marvel medieval mosaic masterpieces at Monreale or Cefalù and continue the Greek theme to visit tumbled ruins and secluded temples. Welcome Baroque brilliance, Aztec chocolate, and modern-day charms in Sicily's honey-hued deep south towns. From Michelin-starred temple dining to Trapani beaches and fishermen mending nets outside hipster bars - such contrasts are at the soul of this irresistible island.

Day 5 - Corfu

Revel in a heady mix of Ionian landmarks amid spirit-boosting views. Sit beneath the iconic Liston arches in the atmospheric Old Town, span Spianada Square where skinny streets radiate off past churches and cross the moat to the Old Fortress. Slip into homey tavernas where chefs work meze finesse, skip aboard a caique, mountain bike, horse ride or shop ceramics. Head for staggering Paleokastritsa views strewn with pines, firs and sleepy Corfiot villages, bird spot in lush wetlands and climb Mount Pantokrator to capture rare icons. An enticing and scenic jaunt through an eternal Greek classic.

Day 7-8 - Mykonos

If you start early, you’ll have Mykonos to yourself. Stroll narrow streets famous for Cycladic architecture and getting lost; white-washed cubed buildings, alluring boutiques, orthodox churches and traditional windmills. Join glitterati guests at elegant events on iconic beaches, sink into saltwater pools, tour vineyards and dance at bars where beats evolve in tempo (and volume). When the heat of the day dies down, drop into the sacred isle of Delos to explore remarkable ruins; amphitheatres, temples, public squares, marketplaces and shrines to Greek Gods. Take a table in central Chora for perfectly-cooked, local dishes with generous views; mounds of flaky filo, Greek salads, halloumi and sea urchin, washed down with freddo. When the sun sets, head for a signature sundowner with views across the ocean. After dark, follow the fun to legendary bars and clubs. Progressive and profoundly beautiful.

Day 9 - Piraeus

Athenians don’t live in the past. Ahead of its time, Athens exudes glamour and a sense of possibility - housing galleries, gelaterias, bijoux boutiques alongside a plethora of museums. And you can’t help but marvel at the archaeological wonders of the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Stroll through vibrant streets and markets, dance at buzzing bouzoukia, sing along in tavernas. At night, head to the harbour, where dimly lit bars serve the local ice cold beer. And, as you inhale the salty air and watch Greek fishing boats peacefully depart for their catch, reflect on this ancient city's progressive attitude.

Price Includes

  • All-inclusive journey
  • In-suite welcome bottle of champagne
  • Authentic, cultured and intuitive service from a team of hospitality experts
  • Eight distinct culinary experiences, including in-suite dining
  • Unlimited beverages, fine wines and premium spirits, speciality coffees, teas and soft drinks available anytime, including in-suite mini-bar
  • Access to the spa thermal area
  • Wellbeing and fitness programmes on board and at the destinations
  • All on-board gratuities
  • Unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the ship
  • Shuttle services from port to city centre (where required/available)

Please contact us for the latest dates and prices

Call us now on 01756 706500

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