Greece & Italy cruise with MSC

The port of Piraeus is one of the last old-style Mediterranean ports from where you can catch ferries to all of the Greek islands and travel a short distance to Greece's capital city Athens. In the heart of the city lies the ancient Plaka district, with its honeycomb of streets, little shops - and tavernas that come alive at night. Situated on the north and east slopes of the Acropolis, it is rich with historic sites, such as ancient monuments and churches. Within Athens there are eight large hills, including the Acropolis, and on the outskirts, Mount Parnitha, Mount Pendeli and Mount Hymettos surround the city. A trip to Athens' most famous tourist attraction, the impressive Parthenon built on the Acropolis around 2,500 years ago, will be memorable to say the least. There are an extraordinary number of historic tourist sights in Athens and many of these are known world-wide. Some of the top Athens attractions include the Agora - a grand, ruined Roman building, Hadrian's Arch - originally the city gate linking the Roman quarters with original town of Athens and the stunning Dionysos Theatre - the world's oldest theatre where many great plays have been performed over the years.

Katakolon is a charming seaside port on Greece’s western Peloponnese, set along the Ionian Sea and framed by olive groves, rolling hills, and clear blue water. Just a short drive inland lies Ancient Olympia, where you can explore the Temple of Zeus, the original Olympic Stadium, and the Archaeological Museum filled with remarkable statues and relics. Back in Katakolon, stroll the relaxed waterfront promenade, browse local shops, enjoy fresh seafood at a taverna, or swim at nearby Agios Andreas Beach. Wine lovers can visit a local winery for tastings, while history fans may enjoy the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. For a slower pace, sip Greek coffee by the harbour or take a scenic drive through the countryside, making Katakolon an easy blend of history, nature, and laid-back coastal life.

Cefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands, set off Greece’s west coast and known for its dramatic scenery of turquoise bays, rugged mountains, and lush pine forests. Visitors can swim or relax on iconic beaches like Myrtos and Petani, explore the enchanting Melissani Cave with its glowing underground lake, and wander the colourful harbour town of Fiskardo. History lovers can visit the ruins of ancient Sami or St George’s Castle, while nature fans can hike Mount Ainos, home to rare wild horses and sweeping views. Other highlights include tasting local Robola wine at a hillside vineyard, discovering the seaside village of Assos with its Venetian fortress, and enjoying fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna as the sun sets over the Ionian Sea.

Corfu is the second largest Greek island on the north side of the Ionian Sea, in the entrance of the Adriatic Sea, 6 km’s from the coast of Albania. The principal town of the island is also named Corfu, or Kerkyra in Greek. The island is steeped in history and it is directly connected to the history of Greece starting from Greek mythology. Corfu is a popular tourist destination, offering something for everyone. It boasts many beachside resorts, leisure and entertainment facilities, unspoiled countryside, secluded coves, traditional villages and scenic mountain walks. There are two excellent beaches close (about 25 km) to Corfu Town at Benitses Glyfada and Paeleokastritsa.

Bari is the capital of the Apulia region of Italy. It's the mezzogiorno's (Italy's south) largest city after Naples, and a bustling commercial center and port. The city is separated into the winding streets of La Citta Vecchia (old city) and the more modern plan of the Citta Nuova (new city). The old city is home to the famous Basilica of San Nicola, resting place of the saint who inspired Santa Clause whose remains were stolen from his homeland in Turkey. The Basilica is the oldest surviving building in Bari. The imposing Norman Castle, enlarged by Frederick II is an excellent place to get a view of the old city and the Adriatic. The new city is a grid of broad streets and avenues lined with shops and grand hotels. The immediate area around Bari makes an excellent road trip to visit the many Cathedrals stretching along the coast road north of the city. Things to See & Do * Basilica di San Nicola * Cathedral of St. Sabinus * Petruzzelli Theatre * Old Bari * Murat city Centre of Bari

At Sea

Santorini is a small, circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km south-east from Greece's mainland. It is one of the best-known of the Cyclades where towering cliffs crowned by tiny white houses plunge straight into the depths of the sea. The steep coastline of the west is countered by the vast beaches of the east side, some of them sandy and others with pebbles. Santorini is famous for dramatic views, stunning sunsets from Oia town, the strange white aubergine, the town of Thira and naturally its very own active volcano. There are also fantastic beaches such as the Perissa and Kamari.

Piraeus (Athens), Greece