14-Day Mediterranean Mosaic
Starting from
$5,499*
Piraeus (Athens), Greece to Barcelona, Spain
Ship: Seabourn Ovation
Departure Date :
Optional tours are available from most ports for an additional charge.
Itinerary
Day Piraeus (Athens), GreeceDeparts 11:00 PM
"No modern metropolis is more steeped in myth than Athens, Greece. From the gritty port of Piraeusâgateway to Greece's fabled islesâto the Parthenonâeternal symbol of Western civilizationâAthens has attracted adventurers and classicists for centuries. This heritage is still very much alive for modern visitors sightseeing in Athens: ancient stadiums and temples dwell alongside apartment blocks, modern performances are staged in the marble amphitheaters where Greek drama was born and millennia-old monuments are scattered in the archaeological park that circles the Acropolis. One of the world's oldest maritime powers, Athens is blessed with a balmy climate and stunning coastline. The seaside suburbs of Athens are scalloped with sandy beaches, fancy yacht clubs and glamorous beach bars. While the Athenian lifestyle is known for late-night dinners and dancing until dawn, the city shines brightly by day in the bustling markets, lively cafés and fascinating museums that illuminate Greece's past and present. Contemplate the magnitude of all that culture and ancient tourist attractions while marveling at the sun setting into the Aegean or rising over the Acropolis. "
"No modern metropolis is more steeped in myth than Athens, Greece. From the gritty port of Piraeusâgateway to Greece's fabled islesâto the Parthenonâeternal symbol of Western civilizationâAthens has attracted adventurers and classicists for centuries. This heritage is still very much alive for modern visitors sightseeing in Athens: ancient stadiums and temples dwell alongside apartment blocks, modern performances are staged in the marble amphitheaters where Greek drama was born and millennia-old monuments are scattered in the archaeological park that circles the Acropolis. One of the world's oldest maritime powers, Athens is blessed with a balmy climate and stunning coastline. The seaside suburbs of Athens are scalloped with sandy beaches, fancy yacht clubs and glamorous beach bars. While the Athenian lifestyle is known for late-night dinners and dancing until dawn, the city shines brightly by day in the bustling markets, lively cafés and fascinating museums that illuminate Greece's past and present. Contemplate the magnitude of all that culture and ancient tourist attractions while marveling at the sun setting into the Aegean or rising over the Acropolis. "
Day Mykonos, GreeceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 09:00 PM
One of the most visited of Greece's Cyclades Islands, Mykonos is also known by the lyrical name of "the island of winds." The name comes from its first ruler, Mykons, son of the god Apollo. Today, you'll see what look like the descendants of the gods lounging on Mykonos's beachesâthe island is known for being a lure for the rich and beautiful and was once a favorite vacation destination of Jackie Kennedy Onassis and her entourage. Although a mystique of money and hedonism still lingers around the island, there's lots to see, do, taste and buy in Mykonos that's accessible to us mere mortals. There's also the simple beauty of Greek windmills, whitewashed houses clinging to the hills and charming tavernas with terraces open to the sky and the sea air.
One of the most visited of Greece's Cyclades Islands, Mykonos is also known by the lyrical name of "the island of winds." The name comes from its first ruler, Mykons, son of the god Apollo. Today, you'll see what look like the descendants of the gods lounging on Mykonos's beachesâthe island is known for being a lure for the rich and beautiful and was once a favorite vacation destination of Jackie Kennedy Onassis and her entourage. Although a mystique of money and hedonism still lingers around the island, there's lots to see, do, taste and buy in Mykonos that's accessible to us mere mortals. There's also the simple beauty of Greek windmills, whitewashed houses clinging to the hills and charming tavernas with terraces open to the sky and the sea air.
Day Kusadasi (Ephesus), TurkeyArrives 07:00 AM Departs 11:00 PM
"Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the city's role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesus's mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region."
"Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the city's role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesus's mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region."
Day Bodrum, TurkeyArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Today Bodrum is a picturesque yacht harbor filled with traditional wood-varnished sailboats, charming outdoor cafes and streets bursting with small shops selling carpets, leatherwear, jewelry and local artwork. In antiquity, it was the site of ancient Halicarnassus. Under King Mausolus, the city prospered, and in death, the king left the city its most enduring legacy, his majestic tomb, from which we derive the term "mausoleum." Only its massive foundations remain today but it was the largest tomb ever built by the Greeks and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Models on the site recreate its form for visitors. Alexander the Great attacked the city in 334 BC, leveling all but the Mausoleum, which was later destroyed by an earthquake.
Today Bodrum is a picturesque yacht harbor filled with traditional wood-varnished sailboats, charming outdoor cafes and streets bursting with small shops selling carpets, leatherwear, jewelry and local artwork. In antiquity, it was the site of ancient Halicarnassus. Under King Mausolus, the city prospered, and in death, the king left the city its most enduring legacy, his majestic tomb, from which we derive the term "mausoleum." Only its massive foundations remain today but it was the largest tomb ever built by the Greeks and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Models on the site recreate its form for visitors. Alexander the Great attacked the city in 334 BC, leveling all but the Mausoleum, which was later destroyed by an earthquake.
Day Iraklion (Crete), GreeceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Iraklion is the regional capital and the biggest city on Crete (Greece's largest island), and a favorite of travelers for hundreds of years. Members of the first great European civilization, the Minoans, were building palace complexes near here 5,000 years ago; these were only rediscovered in the 20th century. The city was founded in 824 B.C.E. by the Saracens, and in the modern era the island and city saw some of the fiercest resistance to invaders: first against the Turks in the 18th and 19th centuries, and then against the Germans in World War II. Even today Crete and its capital maintain a character distinct from that of the rest of Greece. It is a mixture of a certain wildness and traditional hospitality, blended with its history and a harsh but beautiful landscape of hidden plateaus and mountains that tower to almost 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). The people, peaks, ancient sites and stunning coast make it an altogether unforgettable place.
Iraklion is the regional capital and the biggest city on Crete (Greece's largest island), and a favorite of travelers for hundreds of years. Members of the first great European civilization, the Minoans, were building palace complexes near here 5,000 years ago; these were only rediscovered in the 20th century. The city was founded in 824 B.C.E. by the Saracens, and in the modern era the island and city saw some of the fiercest resistance to invaders: first against the Turks in the 18th and 19th centuries, and then against the Germans in World War II. Even today Crete and its capital maintain a character distinct from that of the rest of Greece. It is a mixture of a certain wildness and traditional hospitality, blended with its history and a harsh but beautiful landscape of hidden plateaus and mountains that tower to almost 2,500 meters (8,200 feet). The people, peaks, ancient sites and stunning coast make it an altogether unforgettable place.
Day At Sea
Day Syracuse, ItalyArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Now a sun-bleached provincial capital, Siracusa was once one of the most prestigious cities in the known world. Founded in the 8th century BC by settlers from Corinth, Siracusa gradually grew in prestige to rival Athens and was considered the western capital of Magna Graecia. In the Greek world dictators, often called tyrants, exercised unlimited power over colonies like Siracusa. Although often unpleasant people, they also often patronized poets and artists and competed to bring intellectuals to their courts. Siracusa was home to Archimedes, Plato and Aeschylus during its height of power and prestige. Today's visitors come to marvel at the remains of the ancient structures, reminders of the past glory and rich history of the area. The city is superbly situated at the head of a beautiful bay and enjoys a mild climate. The coastline to the south is renowned for its beauty, clear waters and evocative, mythical scenery. There are romantic abandoned coves and wide, sandy beaches not easily matched anywhere else in Italy.
Now a sun-bleached provincial capital, Siracusa was once one of the most prestigious cities in the known world. Founded in the 8th century BC by settlers from Corinth, Siracusa gradually grew in prestige to rival Athens and was considered the western capital of Magna Graecia. In the Greek world dictators, often called tyrants, exercised unlimited power over colonies like Siracusa. Although often unpleasant people, they also often patronized poets and artists and competed to bring intellectuals to their courts. Siracusa was home to Archimedes, Plato and Aeschylus during its height of power and prestige. Today's visitors come to marvel at the remains of the ancient structures, reminders of the past glory and rich history of the area. The city is superbly situated at the head of a beautiful bay and enjoys a mild climate. The coastline to the south is renowned for its beauty, clear waters and evocative, mythical scenery. There are romantic abandoned coves and wide, sandy beaches not easily matched anywhere else in Italy.
Day Valletta, MaltaArrives 07:00 AM Departs 11:00 PM
"The ancient city of Valletta is teeming with historic monuments, churches and gardens. At just one-third of a square mile in area, Europe's southernmost capital is one of the easiest to explore on foot. Given Malta's strategic location and succession of rulers including the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French and British, it's somewhat surprising to see Valletta so well preserved. The city dates back to the 16th century and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Extensive restorations of historic buildings are underway, including the rebuilding of the city entrance to mark Valletta's recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2018."
"The ancient city of Valletta is teeming with historic monuments, churches and gardens. At just one-third of a square mile in area, Europe's southernmost capital is one of the easiest to explore on foot. Given Malta's strategic location and succession of rulers including the Romans, Normans, Sicilians, Spanish, Knights of St. John, French and British, it's somewhat surprising to see Valletta so well preserved. The city dates back to the 16th century and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Extensive restorations of historic buildings are underway, including the rebuilding of the city entrance to mark Valletta's recognition as the European Capital of Culture in 2018."
Day At Sea
Day Naples (Pompeii), ItalyArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
"Rising behind the wide curve of its bay with brooding Mount Vesuvius and the deep blue sea as a backdrop, Naples, Italy enjoys a magnificent natural setting. It is the third-largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan, and arguably the most colorful and seductive of them all: Splendor and squalor live side by side in 21st-century Naples, and the mix is intoxicating. Home to world-class museums and attractions, superb restaurants, eclectic shopping, a thriving contemporary art scene and an edgy, vibrant street life, Naples has something for everyone. But once you've had enough of the pounding traffic and jostling crowds while sightseeing in Naples, there are endless opportunities for exploration further afield. The celebrated Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both victims of Vesuvius' devastating 79 C.E. eruption, lie just south of the city. The delightful town of Sorrento and the magnificent scenery of the Amalfi Coast are within easy reach, and the dolce vita glamour of Capriânot to mention the healing thermal waters of Ischiaâare a short hydrofoil hop from the mainland. Naples and its surrounding area offer a perfect mix of cultural and natural attractions. "
"Rising behind the wide curve of its bay with brooding Mount Vesuvius and the deep blue sea as a backdrop, Naples, Italy enjoys a magnificent natural setting. It is the third-largest city in Italy after Rome and Milan, and arguably the most colorful and seductive of them all: Splendor and squalor live side by side in 21st-century Naples, and the mix is intoxicating. Home to world-class museums and attractions, superb restaurants, eclectic shopping, a thriving contemporary art scene and an edgy, vibrant street life, Naples has something for everyone. But once you've had enough of the pounding traffic and jostling crowds while sightseeing in Naples, there are endless opportunities for exploration further afield. The celebrated Roman ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, both victims of Vesuvius' devastating 79 C.E. eruption, lie just south of the city. The delightful town of Sorrento and the magnificent scenery of the Amalfi Coast are within easy reach, and the dolce vita glamour of Capriânot to mention the healing thermal waters of Ischiaâare a short hydrofoil hop from the mainland. Naples and its surrounding area offer a perfect mix of cultural and natural attractions. "
Day Civitavecchia (Rome), ItalyArrives 08:00 AM Departs 10:00 PM
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.
Originally built by Emperor Trajan who had a villa here, Civitavecchia has flourished as a major port for Rome since the 13th century. Today it is an important ferry terminal and for many travelers the gateway to the Eternal City, Rome. The Renaissance fortifications that surround the harbor area were begun by Bramante and completed by Michelangelo in 1535.
Day Bastia, Corsica, FranceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
Filled with heart, soul and character, the bustling old port of Bastia is a good surprise. Sure, it might not measure up to the sexy style of Ajaccio or the architectural appeal of Bonifacio, but it has an irresistible magnetism. Bastia is an authentic snapshot of modern-day Corsica, a lived-in city that's resisted the urge to polish up its image just to please the tourists.
Filled with heart, soul and character, the bustling old port of Bastia is a good surprise. Sure, it might not measure up to the sexy style of Ajaccio or the architectural appeal of Bonifacio, but it has an irresistible magnetism. Bastia is an authentic snapshot of modern-day Corsica, a lived-in city that's resisted the urge to polish up its image just to please the tourists.
Day Toulon, FranceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
"The sun-dappled port of Toulon lies at the very heart of the French Riviera, halfway between Marseille and St.-Tropez. The pleasant city of some 200,000 has a long history. It was settled as early as the 7th century B.C.E. by Greek colonists, followed by the Romans in the 2nd century B.C.E. The city is best known as a center for the French Navy, beginning in the 15th century and continuing to today. The harborfront fortifications are only the most obvious reminders of this legacy. Toulon's cityscape was shaped by the preeminent city planner of the 19th century, Baron Haussmann. Before he reimagined Paris, Hausmann was the prefect of Var (the region of which Toulon is the capital) and the city's upper town served as a trial run of his ideas on urban design. Buildings from that era include France's second-largest opera house as well as the Galeries Lafayette and a number of stately streets and squares."
"The sun-dappled port of Toulon lies at the very heart of the French Riviera, halfway between Marseille and St.-Tropez. The pleasant city of some 200,000 has a long history. It was settled as early as the 7th century B.C.E. by Greek colonists, followed by the Romans in the 2nd century B.C.E. The city is best known as a center for the French Navy, beginning in the 15th century and continuing to today. The harborfront fortifications are only the most obvious reminders of this legacy. Toulon's cityscape was shaped by the preeminent city planner of the 19th century, Baron Haussmann. Before he reimagined Paris, Hausmann was the prefect of Var (the region of which Toulon is the capital) and the city's upper town served as a trial run of his ideas on urban design. Buildings from that era include France's second-largest opera house as well as the Galeries Lafayette and a number of stately streets and squares."
Day Palamos, SpainArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
"Palamós is a quaint fishing village turned summer-vacation spot along Spain's sun-drenched Costa Brava. The town still thrives on fishing: Visitors can peruse the fish market and view the day's catch at the bustling harbor, or check out the nearby Fishing Museum to learn more about both Palamós's past and the history and techniques of angling around the world. (Make sure you sample the local prawns at one of the town's seafood restaurants.) Palamós is also a convenient departure point for attractions around the region, from wine and olive oil tastings in the countryside to the home and museums of legendary Catalan artist Salvador DalÃ. Ancient historic sites dot the landscape up and down the coast, including the Greek and Roman ruins at Empúries and the medieval Castle of Begur. For an infusion of urban culture, plan a day trip to nearby Girona, where narrow, cobbled lanes wind around an imposing Gothic cathedral. Or simply take a stroll to one of the nearby beaches to swim and sunbathe along the Mediterranean coast. "
"Palamós is a quaint fishing village turned summer-vacation spot along Spain's sun-drenched Costa Brava. The town still thrives on fishing: Visitors can peruse the fish market and view the day's catch at the bustling harbor, or check out the nearby Fishing Museum to learn more about both Palamós's past and the history and techniques of angling around the world. (Make sure you sample the local prawns at one of the town's seafood restaurants.) Palamós is also a convenient departure point for attractions around the region, from wine and olive oil tastings in the countryside to the home and museums of legendary Catalan artist Salvador DalÃ. Ancient historic sites dot the landscape up and down the coast, including the Greek and Roman ruins at Empúries and the medieval Castle of Begur. For an infusion of urban culture, plan a day trip to nearby Girona, where narrow, cobbled lanes wind around an imposing Gothic cathedral. Or simply take a stroll to one of the nearby beaches to swim and sunbathe along the Mediterranean coast. "
Day Barcelona, SpainArrives 07:00 AM
On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architectureâGaudà and Picasso both called it homeâand lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shopsâsome of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's GaudÃ's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await.
On the northeast coast of Spain, overlooking the Mediterranean, Barcelona is a vibrant port city, packed with centuries of iconic art and architectureâGaudà and Picasso both called it homeâand lined with sunny white-sand beaches. Explore the Catalan capital's tourist attractions and historic neighborhoods, Modernisme and world-renowned art museums, galleries and local crafts shopsâsome of which are centuries old and stock traditional Catalan wares. After you see the sights, there are lively tapas bars around every corner where you can stop for a drink, a café amb llet (Catalan for espresso with steamed milk) or a snack, no matter the hour. Green spaces for picnics, long walks and respite from the hustle and bustle are scattered throughout Barcelona's attractions: There's GaudÃ's mosaic-decorated park, a neoclassical maze at the Laberint d'Horta, as well as plenty of high places (mountains, monuments and edifices) where sightseeing visitors can take in the view. A short trip from Barcelona by car or train, luxury outlets, cava wineries, a mountaintop abbey and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean coast await.
