Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich cultures of northern Italy, Greece and Croatia on a 7-night cruise through the Eastern Mediterranean. After touring Milan and Como in the picturesque Italian Lakes region, your first port of call is Bari. Here, whimsical round houses with cone-topped roofs dot the landscape like chanterelle mushrooms. Then it’s on to the island playgrounds of Santorini, Mykonos, and Corfu, characterized by vibrant blue waters, gorgeous beaches, and whitewashed villages. Soak up the sun, taste delicious fresh seafood, and browse the colorful markets for souvenirs. Next you'll travel to Dubrovnik, Croatia, an interesting ancient city built on a peninsula and protected by a 1,000-year-old wall. After exploring this city, sail to enchanting Venice. Here meander through the romantic canals, have a cappuccino in St. Mark's Square, and see the sites including the Clock Tower, the Doge’s Palace, and the famous Bridge of Sighs.
Itinerary:
Day #1 Overnight Flight - Join us and explore the magnificent historical sights and cultures of northern Italy, Croatia and the stunning Greek Islands. Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Italian lakes region followed by a 7-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise aboard the Costa Fortuna.
Day #2 Lago Maggiore, Italy - Tour Begins - Your tour begins on the picturesque Lago Maggiore. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.
Day #3 Como - Stresa, Lago Maggiore - LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. This morning enjoy time in the beautiful resort town of Como, whose charm is tied to its beautiful villas, colorful gardens and spectacular views. Return to Stresa to soak up the lakeside atmosphere of this delightful town. Visit one of Stresa’s specialty wine shops to enjoy a fun wine tasting while learning about Italy’s famous products such as olive oil, balsamic vinegar and fine wines.
Day #4 Lago Maggiore - Venice - Board Cruise Ship - Following breakfast, depart for Venice. Your exciting 7-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise begins today on the Costa Fortuna. This lovely ship draws inspiration from the grand Italian steamships that provided trans-Atlantic passage. While on board breakfast, lunch and dinner are included daily in luscious Italian-style! Early this evening you will set sail for Bari.
Day #5 Bari, Italy - This afternoon you dock in Bari. Perhaps you will spend the afternoon exploring the medieval streets and Romanesque churches, including the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, built to house the body of Saint Nicholas, now known throughout the world as the man behind the legend of Santa Claus.
Day #6 Katakolon, Greece - Enjoy an afternoon in stunning Katakolon. Upon arrival, you may wish to visit the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and explore the site of the very first Olympic Games. Sail this evening to breathtaking Santorini.
Day #7 Santorini - Mykonos - Welcome to the beautiful island of Santorini. In 1500 BC, a powerful volcano erupted and caused the central part of the island to sink into the sea. Could this be the lost city of Atlantis? Enjoy leisure time to soak in the breathtaking views and delve into the mysteries of ancient Santorini. Your next stop is the fashionable island of Mykonos. Enjoy an evening stroll through Mykonos, where picturesque windmills dot the landscape and view the beautiful beaches, whitewashed houses, and an endless line of boutiques and chapels. Depart late this evening to sail overnight to Rhodes.
Day #8 Rhodes - Dock this morning on the beautiful island of Rhodes where, centuries ago, the Crusader Knights of St. John made it their headquarters. Take time to explore the Palace of Grand Masters and explore the island's beauty.
Day #9 At Sea - Enjoy a full day at sea to sit back, relax by the pool and enjoy all of the amenities available on board your cruise ship.
Day #10 Dubrovnik, Croatia - Your ship docks in Dubrovnik offering you the opportunity to explore this ancient city, known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Set on a peninsula, this beautiful city is surrounded by a 1,000-year-old protective wall. This afternoon, the Fortuna sets sail for enchanting Venice.
Day #11 Venice, Italy - Disembark Cruise Ship - Milan/Malpensa - Your morning disembarkation is followed by a visit to Venice's St. Mark’s Square, a bustling hub of quintessentially Italian activity and events. A local expert provides a walking tour featuring the Clock Tower, St. Mark's Basilica, the Grand Canal and the famous Bridge of Sighs. Depart Venice mid-afternoon. This evening enjoy a farewell dinner celebrating the end of a fun-filled, memorable trip.
Day #12 Milan/Malpensa - Tour Ends - Your tour ends today.