10-Night Rome to Athens

Civitavecchia acts as the main terminal for all cruises heading into Rome or the less-crowded, nearby Tarquinia. From there a shuttle bus takes you to the Service Center of Largo della Pace where you can embark on adventures through the Eternal City. Rome maintains its position in the world as a powerful influence in religion, politics, and art, as it is well known as the site for intellectual and artistic achievements past. From the iconic Roman Coliseum aboveground to the mysterious catacombs of the Capuchin Crypt below ground, the capital of Italy beckons the adventurous to discover its many secrets and stories. The city holds a certain cosmopolitan feel as well with countless rooftop bars that are a prime location for an evening sunset. For explorations further off the beaten path, Tarquinia offers historic treasures such as the Monterozzi Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an authentic, Italian small-town feel.

Perched atop soaring cliffs, Sorrento is a coastal town in southwestern Italy, facing the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula. A lovely stroll through the historic center will take you to the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, dedicated to the town's patron saint. Sorrento is the gateway to the remarkable ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, time seems frozen, as you observe the eerie plaster casts of numerous victims who are caught in their final moment of life. Herculaneum, also destroyed by the same eruption, is the smaller sister to Pompeii and offers a closer look at ancient Roman life.

Perched atop soaring cliffs, Sorrento is a coastal town in southwestern Italy, facing the Bay of Naples on the Sorrentine Peninsula. A lovely stroll through the historic center will take you to the Basilica di Sant'Antonio, dedicated to the town's patron saint. Sorrento is the gateway to the remarkable ruins of Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There, time seems frozen, as you observe the eerie plaster casts of numerous victims who are caught in their final moment of life. Herculaneum, also destroyed by the same eruption, is the smaller sister to Pompeii and offers a closer look at ancient Roman life.

Off the coast of Sicily you find the volcanic Aeolian Islands, the largest of which is Lipari. But not to worry, as the island's last eruption took place over 1,000 years ago and the only signs of volcanic activity today are fumaroles and thermal springs. From a place in ancient Greek mythology to UNESCO World Heritage status, the Aeolian Islands and Lipari hold a rich and intriguing history. Seek the ultimate views with an invigorating hike through Monte Rosa. Archaeological excavations within the citadel tell a story dating as far back as the Neolithic era.

Chania exudes a rich culture, coming from every corner, crack, and cranny found throughout the city. In the summer, the municipal government hosts a series of music and theater performances. The best spots to catch one of these iconic shows is in Public Garden, the theatre at Eastern Trench, or Park of Peace and Friendship. Not far from Chania lies the small town of Souda, Crete's second-largest port. On a verdant island nearby you find the Fortress of Souda, one of the strongest castles built in Crete by the Venetians, as well as the archaeological site of ancient Aptera.

Within Crete's Mirabello Bay lies the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, a mix of cosmopolitan luxury, ancient ruins and intriguing mythology. The picturesque inner harbor of Voulismeni, which legend has it that the lake is bottomless and where once the goddess Athena bathed in it, paints a quaint scene with colorful bobbing boats, tavernas, cafes and bars. Savor the fresh catch of the day at a local eatery as you and your fellow explorers get ready for an adventure. Share a bottle of Cretan raki (or Tsikoudia) with new friends, a traditional ritual that represents hospitality, communication and friendship. Tucked within the waterfront are cozy beaches Kitroplatiea and Amnos, offering glittering views of the gulf. Up the road sits the elegant resort village of Elounda and just across the way is the Spinalonga Peninsula. Here you and your friends will find pristine wilderness and immaculate beaches, hidden away from the crowds.

At the intersect where the Aegean and Mediterranean Seas meet lies the Turkish town of Marmaris. Stunning vistas of deep blue ocean and sky surrounded by expansive mountain ranges dotted with lush green make this city an absolute heaven on earth. Sandy beaches dotted with multicolored umbrellas along the water’s edge invite travelers to stop for a moment and take in the wonder.

As soon as you step on shore the sight of Marmaris Castle, built around 1044 B.C.E., greets you. The path that leads you to the castle lies on a stone road between whitewashed houses with vibrant flower decorations. Interspersed within the castle’s stone walls stand tropical palms, creating a juxtaposed image of ancient history with paradise vibes.

Throughout the town, structures range from the iconic Greek style to brick paved houses and streets. But all paths wind their way through the city, giving you plenty of corners to explore and discover away from crowded areas. Between adventures you can stop at one of the many tavernas to grab a kebab or indulge in a piece of baklava or kunefe. You may get pulled into conversation among the friendly residents while you’re there.

In the evening, the musical dancing fountain provides a fantastic spectacle that will bring out your inner child. Located in the heart of the Marmaris town center, many visitors stop for a few minutes to catch the show. Colorful lights synchronized with music and a spewing fountain make for a delightful performance to forever keep in your memory.

The "Holy Island" of Patmos holds religious history as the site where St. John wrote the Book of Revelations. Venturing over to the Cave of the Apocalypse amid the hills between Skala and Chora, you get a whole new view of the countryside. Along the seaside village you find an array of restaurants with the fresh catch of the day. With quintessential whitewashed houses in the Greek style and iconic windmills against a backdrop of blue skies, the Sacred Land of the Aegean also offers breathtaking panoramas that will impress the most experienced travelers.

Sitting in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Paros invites you to explore its enchanting blend of rich history and modern-day charm. Ancient marble quarries whisper stories of the past, while age-old windmills stand as proud sentinels over rolling hills. Visit the Panagia Ekatontapiliani, a Byzantine jewel and one of Greece's oldest churches, rich with spiritual heritage. Paros is also a culinary delight, offering a taste of vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Relish in local delicacies, savor the freshness of seafood straight from the Aegean, dive into creamy tzatziki, or indulge in a slice of sweet baklava. For the intrepid traveler, wander the scenic hiking trails of Paros Park, revealing breathtaking vistas at every turn. Dive into the azure waters at Kolymbithres Beach, where natural granite sculptures add a unique touch to the serene landscape. Explore the charming alleys of Lefkes, where every corner tells a story, and time seems to slow down. With its magnificent blend of culture, cuisine, and history, Paros promises an unforgettable odyssey.

Athens is still as iconic as ever. Winding pathways from ancient times transformed into modern-day roads and streets lead you to the monumental gateway of the Acropolis and other archaeological sites. It is a land soaked in history and mythology, but not stuck in the past.

As you wend through back alleys, passing the street art and getting serenaded by street musicians, you are never lost. You are simply taking a journey to an unknown destination. You may find yourself at the likes of the Church of Agioi at the southeast corner of the Holy Apostles Ancient Agora, a less-crowded historical site away from the flocks of tourists.

Try your hand at haggling with local vendors at the Plaka or Monastiraki flea market. There are so many handmade wares and trinkets to peruse and purchase. Keep an eye out for the more risqué souvenirs if you want a good laugh.

Aside from venturing through the cradle of Western Civilization, you can explore the port of Piraeus. It is the biggest port in Greece and one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean. Centuries of history have transformed this seaside town from a wartime fortress to a major shipping and transportation center.