Mediterranean from Trieste

On the border between Italy and Istria, Trieste awaits you with that “surly grace” as sung by Umberto Saba: a mysterious charm of sullen beauty and Central European allure.
At the foot of the karst plateau, where the two peninsulas span the Adriatic, outlining a vast secluded Gulf, Trieste is a natural port and one of the most important in the Mediterranean. Its particular geographical position, which made it the setting for some major historical events, is today a tourist destination of endless fascination.
Among the splendours of the landscape and traces of an imperial past, the visit to Trieste is a tour of historical and architectural wonders. A short way from the port, after passing the Grand Canal built by Trieste’s Venetian neighbours, Piazza Unità d’Italia invites you to admire the ancient Habsburg heart of the city and enjoy a glass of Prosecco. And if you love hiking and photography, a walk on the Rilke path overlooking the sea and the “Napoleonic road” with a view of the Gulf from the edge of the karst plateau is a real treat.

The antiquity of Split harbour, located in Croatia, is testified by the presence of a palace built by Emperor Diocletian 295 BC.
Split harbour is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful, but also one of the oldest in the Adriatic: it is over 1,700 years old, and is surrounded by an extraordinary historical heritage. You can easily reach the nearby islands from here. With its 16 towers and three temples, the Palace of Diocletian, built in around 295 BC, still enjoys an extraordinary state of preservation that makes this an unmissable stage during our stop-off.

Treat yourself to a trip to Corfu and you will experience the unforgettable thrill of cruising to one of Greece’s most beautiful islands.
The city of Corfu owes much of its charm to the wonderful old town, an ancient district made of narrow, cobbled alleys, with cafés and artisan shops. A labyrinth to lose yourself in and where every sight will be an indelible memory of your cruise to Corfu. In the old city, studded with Venetian architectural influences but best represented in the Campiello district, don’t miss a shore excursion to the 16th century fortress that stands on a spur of rock overlooking the sea. At the foot of the old town is the beautiful Spianada, once a Venetian parade ground, now a green city square overlooking the Museum of Asian Art.

During a Mediterranean cruise you will arrive at the port of Corfu, Neo Limani, which is a few minutes’ walk from the city centre, and therefore a quick hop from the quay. Entrance to the town lies at the foot of the New Fortress. At this point, stopping at Corfu lets you roam the narrow streets lined with tourist shops. Complete your tour of the island with total immersion in the lush greenery: olive trees, orange trees, cypresses as well as cultural events in the heart of the walled city are the norm!

On the Greek island of Kefalonia, peace and beauty reign. The Ionian Sea, the sea of epic heroes, stretches ahead of us, ready to greet us for a modern adventure.
Located at the western end of Greece, Kefalonia remains one of the most beautiful islands of the Ionian Sea. Upon arrival at Argostoli, the port of Kefalonia, the splendour of the place looks amazing. Argostoli is full of wonders to be discovered: the Melissani cave, for example, is a must. This cave of exceptional beauty holds a clear-water lake inside. The lunar landscapes of Xi Beach or the village of Assos, with its Venetian fortress, are an equally unforgettable destination.

Not to be missed:

• The Monastery of Saint Gerasimos

• Visit to the village of Assos

• Crossing the Lake Melissani

Crete is part of the history of the Mediterranean. The myth about Theseus, the Minotaur in the labyrinth of Knossos and Ariadne’s famous thread is among the best known in the world.
The stop at Heraklion starts with a visit to the port of Crete. Situated in the centre of the island, this former British watchtower has a long history. You cannot land on the island that gave birth to the legend of the Minotaur without visiting the ancient Palace of Knossos. Its ancient Minoan ruins and its maze of corridors and rooms evoke the famous Greek myth of the labyrinth. Equally impressive is the island fortress of Spinalonga, which is well worth a visit. Heraklion embodies the charm of an era both ancient and medieval.

Many say this is the most beautiful city in the world. What is certain is that it’s a unique city, the gateway to the East with a portion of its heart still in the West.
The city of Istanbul is located on the border between Europe and Asia. It’s the largest city in Turkey and is included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The port of Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus, in Karaköy. From there you can easily reach the city centre on foot or by tram. During the stop you can take a walk to visit the main historical monuments and browse through the bazaars you will encounter along the way. Let yourself be carried away by this incredible experience and fascinating culture that unites Europe and Asia.

Many say this is the most beautiful city in the world. What is certain is that it’s a unique city, the gateway to the East with a portion of its heart still in the West.
The city of Istanbul is located on the border between Europe and Asia. It’s the largest city in Turkey and is included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The port of Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus, in Karaköy. From there you can easily reach the city centre on foot or by tram. During the stop you can take a walk to visit the main historical monuments and browse through the bazaars you will encounter along the way. Let yourself be carried away by this incredible experience and fascinating culture that unites Europe and Asia.