Lisbon to Trieste

The Lisbon to Trieste is a 26-night Mediterranean cruise aboard Marina, operated by Oceania Cruises. Departing Lisbon on June 27, 2028, the voyage visits 25 ports. Fares start from $8,099 per person.

Length: 26 nights
Departs: Jun 27, 2028
Returns: Jul 23, 2028
Ports of call: 25
Days at sea: 1

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$311 / night per person, incl. taxes & fees

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Itinerary

Day 1 Jun 27, 2028 Lisbon 13:00 – 17:00 4.0 hrs ashore Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city open to the sea and carefully planned with 18th-century elegance. Its founder is said to be the legendary Ulysses, but the theory of an original Phoenician settlement is probably more realistic. Known in Portugal as Lisboa, the city was inhabited by the Romans, Visigoths and, beginning in the 8th century, the Moors. Much of the 16th century was a period of great prosperity and overseas expansion for Portugal. Tragedy struck on All Saints' Day in 1755 with a devastating earthquake that killed about 40,000 people. The destruction of Lisbon shocked the continent. As a result, the Baixa (lower city) emerged in a single phase of building, carried out in less than a decade by the royal minister, the Marques de Pombal. His carefully planned layout of a perfect neo-classical grid survived to this day and remains the heart of the city. Evidence of pre-quake Lisbon can still be seen in the Belém suburb and the old Moorish section of the Alfama that sprawls below the Castle of St. George. Lisbon is a compact city on the banks of the Tagus River. Visitors find it easy to get around as many places of interest are in the vicinity of the central downtown area. There is a convenient bus and tram system and taxis are plentiful. Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon since medieval times, is an ideal place to start exploring. After a fire destroyed parts of the historic neighborhood behind Rossio in 1988, many of the restored buildings emerged with modern interiors behind the original façades. The city boasts a good many monuments and museums, such as the Jeronimos Monastery, Tower of Belém, the Royal Coach Museum and the Gulbenkian Museum. High above the Baixa is the Bairro Alto (upper city) with its teeming nightlife. The easiest way to connect between the two areas is via the public elevator designed by Gustave Eiffel. Cruising up the Tagus River to the ship's berth, you can already spot three of Lisbon's famous landmarks: the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belém and the Statue of Christ, which welcomes visitors from its hilltop location high above Europe's longest suspension bridge. Lisbon port guide Search cruises visiting Lisbon

Lisbon photo — Day 1 Jun 27, 2028 Lisbon 13:00 – 17:00 4.0 hrs ashore Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, is a city open to the sea and carefully planned with 18th-century elegance. Its founder is said to be the legendary Ulysses, but the theory of an original Phoenician settlement is probably more realistic. Known in Portugal as Lisboa, the city was inhabited by the Romans, Visigoths and, beginning in the 8th century, the Moors. Much of the 16th century was a period of great prosperity and overseas expansion for Portugal. Tragedy struck on All Saints' Day in 1755 with a devastating earthquake that killed about 40,000 people. The destruction of Lisbon shocked the continent. As a result, the Baixa (lower city) emerged in a single phase of building, carried out in less than a decade by the royal minister, the Marques de Pombal. His carefully planned layout of a perfect neo-classical grid survived to this day and remains the heart of the city. Evidence of pre-quake Lisbon can still be seen in the Belém suburb and the old Moorish section of the Alfama that sprawls below the Castle of St. George. Lisbon is a compact city on the banks of the Tagus River. Visitors find it easy to get around as many places of interest are in the vicinity of the central downtown area. There is a convenient bus and tram system and taxis are plentiful. Rossio Square, the heart of Lisbon since medieval times, is an ideal place to start exploring. After a fire destroyed parts of the historic neighborhood behind Rossio in 1988, many of the restored buildings emerged with modern interiors behind the original façades. The city boasts a good many monuments and museums, such as the Jeronimos Monastery, Tower of Belém, the Royal Coach Museum and the Gulbenkian Museum. High above the Baixa is the Bairro Alto (upper city) with its teeming nightlife. The easiest way to connect between the two areas is via the public elevator designed by Gustave Eiffel. Cruising up the Tagus River to the ship's berth, you can already spot three of Lisbon's famous landmarks: the Monument to the Discoveries, the Tower of Belém and the Statue of Christ, which welcomes visitors from its hilltop location high above Europe's longest suspension bridge. Lisbon port guide Search cruises visiting Lisbon

Day 2 Jun 28, 2028 Portimao 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Located on the estuary of the Arade River, Portimao has made its living from fishing since pre-Romans times. Today a sprawling port and a major sardine-canning centre, the town is also a base for the construction industries generated by the tourist boom. Although summer is the busiest time of the year, the mild climate of the Algarve and many sunny winter days attract multinational tourists in all seasons, coming here to visit historical sites, playing golf, strolling along the river boulevard or exploring the many shopping opportunities. Stunning rock formations and warm seawaters make the beaches particularly alluring. The most beautiful on the entire coast is Praia da Rocha, the first one of several Algarve resort developments. Its wide expanse of sand is framed by jagged sea cliffs and the walls of an old fort that once protected the mouth of the Arade River. From Portimao, explorations can be made along the coast all the way to Cape St. Vincent, Europe's most westerly point, and inland to Lagos and Silves, once the residence and capital of the Moorish kings.

Day 3 Jun 29, 2028 Cadiz Arrives 08:00 More than a hundred watchtowers gaze out across the waves surrounding this ancient Andalusian city. Sprinkled with evocative cobbled side streets, you’ll explore 3,000 years’ worth of history, while stumbling across palm-tree lined plazas of shaded coffee sippers. Cadiz claims the mantle of Western Europe’s oldest city, and every piece of architecture - and every wrong turn - offers a chance to discover fascinating new tales. Founded by the Phoenicians in 1100BC, Christopher Columbus used the city as a base for his exploratory, map-defining voyages of 1493 and 1502. The port grew in importance and wealth as Cadiz’s strategic location close to Africa’s northern tip helped it blossom into a centre for New World trade. Catedral de Cádiz, is a display of the city’s wealth and importance, looming spectacularly over the Atlantic’s waves, with cawing seagulls sweeping between its twin bell towers. Inside, treasures from the city’s trading exploits in the West Indies and beyond - which helped fuel the growth of this historically prosperous city – are on display. Enveloped by ocean on almost every side, Cadiz has something of an island feel, and you can cool off from southern Spain’s unrelenting sunshine on the sweeping golden sand beach of Playa Victoria. The two towers of the new El Puente de la Constitución de 1812 mark a contemporary landmark in this most ancient of cities, in the form of a spectacular new road bridge. Torre Tavira, meanwhile, is the most famous of Cadiz’s army of watchtowers, and the highest point in the city. Reach the top for a view of the ocean fringing the city’s expanse, and to learn about the towers - constructed so trading merchants could survey the harbour from their lavish homes. The Central Market is a chaotic place of bartering, where flashing knives dissect fresh fish. Stop in at the orbiting bars to enjoy tapas, freshly prepared with the market’s produce. Cadiz port guide Search cruises visiting Cadiz

Cadiz photo — Day 3 Jun 29, 2028 Cadiz Arrives 08:00 More than a hundred watchtowers gaze out across the waves surrounding this ancient Andalusian city. Sprinkled with evocative cobbled side streets, you’ll explore 3,000 years’ worth of history, while stumbling across palm-tree lined plazas of shaded coffee sippers. Cadiz claims the mantle of Western Europe’s oldest city, and every piece of architecture - and every wrong turn - offers a chance to discover fascinating new tales. Founded by the Phoenicians in 1100BC, Christopher Columbus used the city as a base for his exploratory, map-defining voyages of 1493 and 1502. The port grew in importance and wealth as Cadiz’s strategic location close to Africa’s northern tip helped it blossom into a centre for New World trade. Catedral de Cádiz, is a display of the city’s wealth and importance, looming spectacularly over the Atlantic’s waves, with cawing seagulls sweeping between its twin bell towers. Inside, treasures from the city’s trading exploits in the West Indies and beyond - which helped fuel the growth of this historically prosperous city – are on display. Enveloped by ocean on almost every side, Cadiz has something of an island feel, and you can cool off from southern Spain’s unrelenting sunshine on the sweeping golden sand beach of Playa Victoria. The two towers of the new El Puente de la Constitución de 1812 mark a contemporary landmark in this most ancient of cities, in the form of a spectacular new road bridge. Torre Tavira, meanwhile, is the most famous of Cadiz’s army of watchtowers, and the highest point in the city. Reach the top for a view of the ocean fringing the city’s expanse, and to learn about the towers - constructed so trading merchants could survey the harbour from their lavish homes. The Central Market is a chaotic place of bartering, where flashing knives dissect fresh fish. Stop in at the orbiting bars to enjoy tapas, freshly prepared with the market’s produce. Cadiz port guide Search cruises visiting Cadiz

Day 6 Jul 2, 2028 Alicante 08:00 – 16:00 8.0 hrs ashore Fresh sea breezes, mountain backdrops and vibrant locals have made this magical city a must-see for both international tourists and residents of Spain alike. It's easy to slip into the local rhythm. Spend your day exploring everything from the Old Town and Santa Bárbara Castle to the trendiest of Spanish stores. Promenade down the marble Explanada de España, an iconic and bustling boulevard dotted with palm trees. Enjoy a proper Spanish lunch that spans several courses and hours, prepared by some of the best chefs in the country. Take advantage of the proximity to the sea to dine on the freshest seafood, or try one of Alicante's many traditional rice dishes. And don’t forget to sample the outstanding regional wines, which are also very tasty souvenirs. Even just a day here will open your eyes to the natural beauty and subtle charms that make proud and elegant Alicante a gem of the Costa Blanca. Alicante port guide Search cruises visiting Alicante

Alicante photo — Day 6 Jul 2, 2028 Alicante 08:00 – 16:00 8.0 hrs ashore Fresh sea breezes, mountain backdrops and vibrant locals have made this magical city a must-see for both international tourists and residents of Spain alike. It's easy to slip into the local rhythm. Spend your day exploring everything from the Old Town and Santa Bárbara Castle to the trendiest of Spanish stores. Promenade down the marble Explanada de España, an iconic and bustling boulevard dotted with palm trees. Enjoy a proper Spanish lunch that spans several courses and hours, prepared by some of the best chefs in the country. Take advantage of the proximity to the sea to dine on the freshest seafood, or try one of Alicante's many traditional rice dishes. And don’t forget to sample the outstanding regional wines, which are also very tasty souvenirs. Even just a day here will open your eyes to the natural beauty and subtle charms that make proud and elegant Alicante a gem of the Costa Blanca. Alicante port guide Search cruises visiting Alicante

Day 7 Jul 3, 2028 Tarragona 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Tarragona, port city of Spain, is located less than 100 km from Barcelona from the top of its walls, here you can admire one of the most important Gothic cathedrals in Catalonia and the immense amphitheatre, stage for gladiatorial combat in Roman times. During your Mediterranean cruise, you will visit the Port of Tarragona; a true gem, with Roman ruins that are the pride of its residents and historical traditions that are part of the local folklore. The Roman heritage is still part of the urban context in Tarragona. Here, you can watch the reenactments of the centurion parades and gladiatorial combat. During the stop in the port of Tarragona, proceed to the Praetorian Tower. On the first floor there is a model of the medieval town and its glory that was lost during a war that is still commemorated with solemn candles on the steps of the cathedral. If you have the time, watch the races of human pyramids that are organised in various districts of the city. Tarragona port guide Search cruises visiting Tarragona

Tarragona photo — Day 7 Jul 3, 2028 Tarragona 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Tarragona, port city of Spain, is located less than 100 km from Barcelona from the top of its walls, here you can admire one of the most important Gothic cathedrals in Catalonia and the immense amphitheatre, stage for gladiatorial combat in Roman times. During your Mediterranean cruise, you will visit the Port of Tarragona; a true gem, with Roman ruins that are the pride of its residents and historical traditions that are part of the local folklore. The Roman heritage is still part of the urban context in Tarragona. Here, you can watch the reenactments of the centurion parades and gladiatorial combat. During the stop in the port of Tarragona, proceed to the Praetorian Tower. On the first floor there is a model of the medieval town and its glory that was lost during a war that is still commemorated with solemn candles on the steps of the cathedral. If you have the time, watch the races of human pyramids that are organised in various districts of the city. Tarragona port guide Search cruises visiting Tarragona

Day 8 Jul 4, 2028 Sete, France 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore n the beginning, under the gallo-romans Sète was known as Ceta or Sita. It was a town on the island of Mont Saint Clair, and made a name for itself in the production of pickled fish. Soon fishing built the towns wealth, making it the envy of local lords and barons. Under the control of the Abbot of Aniane since the 9th century, Sete came under the bishop of Agde in 1246, no doubt to provoke the King of Aragon and the bishops of Maguelone. During this time the lagoon closed up creating the Bassin de Thau. Similarly, silt forced the eventual closure of the then sea ports of Aigues Mortes, Agde, and Narbonne. Under the Duke of Montmorency, Governor of Languedoc, Sète became the definitive Languedoc port, replacing those that had died under the mud. It became the base to hunt the last of the privateers led by the infamous Barbe Rousette. In 1596, construction work was started on a jetty that was to serve to protect the port from the storms of the sea. Because of financial problems the jetty was not completed until 1666 by Colbert. Finally Sète was a secure anchorage for commerce and the royal fleet, as well as a sea entrance for the Canal du Midi. The town was officially created by a decree of the Council of State on 30 September 1673. Forty years later in July 1710, the English attacked and seized the port with apparently little difficulty, before eventually being hunted out. Consequently Languedoc immediately improved the defenses at Fort Saint Pierre and the Citadelle Richeleu. Two centuries later the town was almost totally destroyed whilst being liberated by the allies at the end of the second World War. However, Sète was quickly reborn to become the principal fishing port for France on the Mediterranean. Sete, France port guide Search cruises visiting Sete, France

Sete, France photo — Day 8 Jul 4, 2028 Sete, France 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore n the beginning, under the gallo-romans Sète was known as Ceta or Sita. It was a town on the island of Mont Saint Clair, and made a name for itself in the production of pickled fish. Soon fishing built the towns wealth, making it the envy of local lords and barons. Under the control of the Abbot of Aniane since the 9th century, Sete came under the bishop of Agde in 1246, no doubt to provoke the King of Aragon and the bishops of Maguelone. During this time the lagoon closed up creating the Bassin de Thau. Similarly, silt forced the eventual closure of the then sea ports of Aigues Mortes, Agde, and Narbonne. Under the Duke of Montmorency, Governor of Languedoc, Sète became the definitive Languedoc port, replacing those that had died under the mud. It became the base to hunt the last of the privateers led by the infamous Barbe Rousette. In 1596, construction work was started on a jetty that was to serve to protect the port from the storms of the sea. Because of financial problems the jetty was not completed until 1666 by Colbert. Finally Sète was a secure anchorage for commerce and the royal fleet, as well as a sea entrance for the Canal du Midi. The town was officially created by a decree of the Council of State on 30 September 1673. Forty years later in July 1710, the English attacked and seized the port with apparently little difficulty, before eventually being hunted out. Consequently Languedoc immediately improved the defenses at Fort Saint Pierre and the Citadelle Richeleu. Two centuries later the town was almost totally destroyed whilst being liberated by the allies at the end of the second World War. However, Sète was quickly reborn to become the principal fishing port for France on the Mediterranean. Sete, France port guide Search cruises visiting Sete, France

Day 9 Jul 5, 2028 St. Tropez, France 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore A glitzy, glamorous coastal resort that needs no introduction, Saint Tropez is the French Riviera hotspot of choice for A-listers and flotillas of gleaming yachts. The sparkle of its beaches, and clarity of its light, continues to attract artists - but it was the famous presence of Brigitte Bardot that leant Saint Tropez its enduring glamour and steamy appeal. Nowadays, speedboats skim offshore, while fine vintages from the vineyards nearby are uncorked in top-notch restaurants, in this well-heeled highlight of the Cote d'Azur. View less Famous bars offer views of the port along Quai Jean Jaurès, with its iconic cherry-red directors' chairs. Here you can admire the monstrous wealth of yachts that sparkle on the waters. On the same corner, big-name brand labels glimmer in the shops of rue François Sibilli - which cuts inland from the charming waterfront. The earthier appeal of boules clinking and thumping into the ground can be enjoyed at Place des Lices, where sun-wrinkled locals compete. Saint Tropez has a few beaches of its own, but famous stretches like Pampelonne Beach draw the biggest crowds to relax on star-studded golden sands. La Ponche, the authentic fishing quarter, retains its cobbled, historic elegance, and a 17th-century, hexagon-shaped citadel watches over the city and coastline from above. Coastal walks in the sea air snake away from the city’s bustle, and a series of headlands shape the stunning riviera landscape surrounding Saint Tropez. The historic monochrome Cap Camarat lighthouse adds a pleasing accent to hikes above the sparkling Mediterranean’s waves. St. Tropez, France port guide Search cruises visiting St. Tropez, France

Day 11 Jul 7, 2028 Cagliari 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore The serene sea approach to Cagliari is an exquisitely beautiful way to first lay eyes on the city’s mesmerising interplay of colour, spires and domed churches. Sat on Sardinia’s south coast, Cagliari is the island’s largest city, and a sun-blessed escape of beaches, architecture and Mediterranean food – where stress evaporates on contact. That first sight of Cagliari’s mosaic of architecture reveals much about the island’s history, and is a living document of the civilisations and influences that have passed through. Combining Byzantine churches with crumbling Roman ruins and Pisan towers, it’s an elegant, beguiling place to explore. Usher in the morning with a short, sharp espresso hit, before wandering along to San Benedetto market’s bustle, crammed full of overflowing heaps of local produce. Taste crisp, freshly-baked bread, thin shavings of sheep’s cheese, and ripe red strawberries, as you wander amid the market’s melody of good-natured bartering. The Castello quarter’s tight, flower-draped streets and salmon-hued brick buildings incline up above the Med’s softly lapping waves. Climb Bastione di Saint Remy staircase to Terrazza Umberto’s views of the turquoise Gulf of Angels. Next, Cathedral of Santa Maria awaits, with its marbled interiors, elaborate side chapels and intricately decorated crypt. Once you’ve unravelled Cagliari’s historical tapestry, Poetto Beach invites you to find a spot on almost five miles of uninterrupted sand, met by a dazzling expanse of turquoise water. On a hot summer’s day, soak up some sun before saluting the sunset with an ice cold Spritz at a beachside bar. Spaghetti with salted bottarga and artichokes will keep the good times rolling, perfectly accompanied by a glass of ruby-coloured Cannonau wine. Cagliari port guide Search cruises visiting Cagliari

Cagliari photo — Day 11 Jul 7, 2028 Cagliari 09:00 – 18:00 9.0 hrs ashore The serene sea approach to Cagliari is an exquisitely beautiful way to first lay eyes on the city’s mesmerising interplay of colour, spires and domed churches. Sat on Sardinia’s south coast, Cagliari is the island’s largest city, and a sun-blessed escape of beaches, architecture and Mediterranean food – where stress evaporates on contact. That first sight of Cagliari’s mosaic of architecture reveals much about the island’s history, and is a living document of the civilisations and influences that have passed through. Combining Byzantine churches with crumbling Roman ruins and Pisan towers, it’s an elegant, beguiling place to explore. Usher in the morning with a short, sharp espresso hit, before wandering along to San Benedetto market’s bustle, crammed full of overflowing heaps of local produce. Taste crisp, freshly-baked bread, thin shavings of sheep’s cheese, and ripe red strawberries, as you wander amid the market’s melody of good-natured bartering. The Castello quarter’s tight, flower-draped streets and salmon-hued brick buildings incline up above the Med’s softly lapping waves. Climb Bastione di Saint Remy staircase to Terrazza Umberto’s views of the turquoise Gulf of Angels. Next, Cathedral of Santa Maria awaits, with its marbled interiors, elaborate side chapels and intricately decorated crypt. Once you’ve unravelled Cagliari’s historical tapestry, Poetto Beach invites you to find a spot on almost five miles of uninterrupted sand, met by a dazzling expanse of turquoise water. On a hot summer’s day, soak up some sun before saluting the sunset with an ice cold Spritz at a beachside bar. Spaghetti with salted bottarga and artichokes will keep the good times rolling, perfectly accompanied by a glass of ruby-coloured Cannonau wine. Cagliari port guide Search cruises visiting Cagliari

Day 12 Jul 8, 2028 La Goulette 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Until the time of the French protectorate, the medina was very much the center of things. Then, under the French influence, the ville nouvelle (new city) emerged with its major banks, department stores and administrative services. The main focus of ville nouvelle is the wide, tree-lined Avenue Habib Bourguiba. At its western end, this major thoroughfare becomes the Avenue de France, terminating in the Place de la Victoire and the entrance to the medina. Although today the medina has lost some of its importance, it is still a place where traditions can be readily observed and where visitors can get a feel for the local way of life. It features many of the city's points of interest and countless shops. La Goulette port guide Search cruises visiting La Goulette

La Goulette photo — Day 12 Jul 8, 2028 La Goulette 07:00 – 16:00 9.0 hrs ashore Until the time of the French protectorate, the medina was very much the center of things. Then, under the French influence, the ville nouvelle (new city) emerged with its major banks, department stores and administrative services. The main focus of ville nouvelle is the wide, tree-lined Avenue Habib Bourguiba. At its western end, this major thoroughfare becomes the Avenue de France, terminating in the Place de la Victoire and the entrance to the medina. Although today the medina has lost some of its importance, it is still a place where traditions can be readily observed and where visitors can get a feel for the local way of life. It features many of the city's points of interest and countless shops. La Goulette port guide Search cruises visiting La Goulette

Day 13 Jul 9, 2028 Palermo 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The capital of Sicily is situated on a crescent-shaped bay on the island's north coast. Once the intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo has always been at the crossroads of civilization. Due to its favourable location, Sicily's most interesting city has attracted almost every people and culture touching the Mediterranean world. Its most unique characteristic is a harmonious blend of Arab-Norman cultures mixed with Byzantine and Jewish elements, which created some unforgettable and resplendent works of art. Phoenician traders first colonized Palermo in the 6th-century BC, but it was the Carthaginians, who built the important fortress here that caught the covetous eye of the Romans. After the first Punic War, the Romans took control of the city in the 3rd-century BC. Following several invasions by the Vandals, Sicily was settled by Arabs, who made the country an emirate and Palermo a showpiece capital that rivalled in splendour both Cordoba and Cairo. The city became a magical place of palaces and mosques, minarets and palm trees. In the 11th-century Palermo was conquered by the Norman ruler, Roger de Hauteville. During the Normans' hundred-year occupation, the city experienced a remarkable period of enlightenment and a flourishing of the arts. Counting a population of more than 300,000, Palermo became the centre of Norman rule and one of the most important trading centres between East and West. Eventually, Palermo was incorporated into the “Kingdom of the Two Sicilies” under the Swabian ruler Frederick II, known as the Holy Roman Emperor. After the bloody Sicilian Vespers uprising in 1282, the Spanish took control and brought the Inquisition to Palermo. Some historians believe that the nature of the Inquisition helped foster the protective secret societies that eventually evolved into the Mafia. Today, visitors can still experience the legacy of Palermo's rich past. Great Arab-Norman buildings include the Cappella Palatina, La Martorana, San Giovanni degli Eremiti and, a few miles outside the city, the Cathedral of Monreale. Palermo's bustling streets and animated markets give the town an Oriental feel. The Quattro Canti, or Four Corners, is the monumental crossroads laid out in 1608-1620 at the central intersection of the four longest and straightest streets of the city. North of Piazza Castelnuovo lie the avenues of the new city. Most sights are scattered along three major streets: Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Via Maqueda and Via Roma. A vigorous metropolis with a strong historical profile, Palermo is packed with interesting sights, which make it an enriching and enjoyable place to explore. Palermo port guide Search cruises visiting Palermo

Palermo photo — Day 13 Jul 9, 2028 Palermo 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The capital of Sicily is situated on a crescent-shaped bay on the island's north coast. Once the intellectual capital of southern Europe, Palermo has always been at the crossroads of civilization. Due to its favourable location, Sicily's most interesting city has attracted almost every people and culture touching the Mediterranean world. Its most unique characteristic is a harmonious blend of Arab-Norman cultures mixed with Byzantine and Jewish elements, which created some unforgettable and resplendent works of art. Phoenician traders first colonized Palermo in the 6th-century BC, but it was the Carthaginians, who built the important fortress here that caught the covetous eye of the Romans. After the first Punic War, the Romans took control of the city in the 3rd-century BC. Following several invasions by the Vandals, Sicily was settled by Arabs, who made the country an emirate and Palermo a showpiece capital that rivalled in splendour both Cordoba and Cairo. The city became a magical place of palaces and mosques, minarets and palm trees. In the 11th-century Palermo was conquered by the Norman ruler, Roger de Hauteville. During the Normans' hundred-year occupation, the city experienced a remarkable period of enlightenment and a flourishing of the arts. Counting a population of more than 300,000, Palermo became the centre of Norman rule and one of the most important trading centres between East and West. Eventually, Palermo was incorporated into the “Kingdom of the Two Sicilies” under the Swabian ruler Frederick II, known as the Holy Roman Emperor. After the bloody Sicilian Vespers uprising in 1282, the Spanish took control and brought the Inquisition to Palermo. Some historians believe that the nature of the Inquisition helped foster the protective secret societies that eventually evolved into the Mafia. Today, visitors can still experience the legacy of Palermo's rich past. Great Arab-Norman buildings include the Cappella Palatina, La Martorana, San Giovanni degli Eremiti and, a few miles outside the city, the Cathedral of Monreale. Palermo's bustling streets and animated markets give the town an Oriental feel. The Quattro Canti, or Four Corners, is the monumental crossroads laid out in 1608-1620 at the central intersection of the four longest and straightest streets of the city. North of Piazza Castelnuovo lie the avenues of the new city. Most sights are scattered along three major streets: Corso Vittorio Emanuele, Via Maqueda and Via Roma. A vigorous metropolis with a strong historical profile, Palermo is packed with interesting sights, which make it an enriching and enjoyable place to explore. Palermo port guide Search cruises visiting Palermo

Day 14 Jul 10, 2028 Sorrento 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This Mediterranean land has been depicted, described and immortalized in song by artists, poets and travelers from every period of history. Along the coast, rugged and inaccessible cliffs soar upwards between beautiful beaches, hidden caves, enchanting bays and sheltered coves. Whereas inland, the high plains, rolling hills and lofty mountains are seared by deep valleys to create a truly unique landscape in which man has also left a clear sign of his remarkable work: the more impervious areas have been modeled into the now-famous terraces, those huge steps descending into the sea on which man has planted vineyards and groves of orange, lemon and olive trees. There are the gardens of delight which exude an inebriating perfume of blossom in spring. The mild climate and predominantly fine weather all year round make the Sorrentine Penisula an ideal destination in any season. The first town in the Peninsula is Vico Equense with its Giusso Castle on the coast and the austere Mont Faito (1400 metres high) which allows you to pass from the sea to the mountain in just a few minutes. Next we find Meta di Sorrento , a town hidden in a maze of alleyways whose small hamlets and sun-drenched beaches are a must for visitors. Piano di Sorrento is a bustling town which harmoniously blends its sea-faring vocation with its rural identity and its role as a major shopping centre. The hill rising up behind the town is traversed by narrow roads flanked by high walls that enclose centuries-old orange and lemon groves. Sorrento port guide Search cruises visiting Sorrento

Sorrento photo — Day 14 Jul 10, 2028 Sorrento 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This Mediterranean land has been depicted, described and immortalized in song by artists, poets and travelers from every period of history. Along the coast, rugged and inaccessible cliffs soar upwards between beautiful beaches, hidden caves, enchanting bays and sheltered coves. Whereas inland, the high plains, rolling hills and lofty mountains are seared by deep valleys to create a truly unique landscape in which man has also left a clear sign of his remarkable work: the more impervious areas have been modeled into the now-famous terraces, those huge steps descending into the sea on which man has planted vineyards and groves of orange, lemon and olive trees. There are the gardens of delight which exude an inebriating perfume of blossom in spring. The mild climate and predominantly fine weather all year round make the Sorrentine Penisula an ideal destination in any season. The first town in the Peninsula is Vico Equense with its Giusso Castle on the coast and the austere Mont Faito (1400 metres high) which allows you to pass from the sea to the mountain in just a few minutes. Next we find Meta di Sorrento , a town hidden in a maze of alleyways whose small hamlets and sun-drenched beaches are a must for visitors. Piano di Sorrento is a bustling town which harmoniously blends its sea-faring vocation with its rural identity and its role as a major shopping centre. The hill rising up behind the town is traversed by narrow roads flanked by high walls that enclose centuries-old orange and lemon groves. Sorrento port guide Search cruises visiting Sorrento

Day 15 Jul 11, 2028 Civitavecchia, Rome 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore All roads lead to Rome, and with good reason - this city is one of the world’s most thrilling, offering unmatched history along every street. An evocative, inspiring and utterly artistic capital of unrivalled cultural impact, Rome is a city of back-to-back landmarks, which will take you on an exhilarating journey through the ages. This may be one of the world’s oldest cities, but it’s well and truly lived in. The ruins are punctuated with murmuring cafes, and the outdoor seating of restaurants sprawls out across piazzas, enticing you to sample tangles of creamy pasta and crispy pizzas. Rome’s incredible Roman Forum is littered with the ruins of its ancient administrations, which have stood firm for 2,000 years, since the times when the area was the centre of the Western world. Few sites are more simultaneously beautiful and haunting than that of the storied Colosseum, which looms deep into Rome’s rich blue sky. Take a tour to learn details of the grisly goings-on within. The best way to experience Rome is to wander its streets, gelato in hand. There is a lot to see here - whether it’s the domed spectacle of the Pantheon, or the elaborate flowing waters and artistry of the Trevi Fountain. Vatican City is an astonishing, colossal display of Catholic grandeur, while the Spanish Steps – crowned by the Trinità dei Monti church – offer a beautiful spot to gather and soak up the lively atmosphere of this humming city. With so much on the to-do list, you’ll relish the breaks you take, enjoying simple pleasures like a strong espresso, or fresh pasta with tomato sauce and ripped basil. Civitavecchia, Rome port guide Search cruises visiting Civitavecchia, Rome

Day 16 Jul 12, 2028 Salerno 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore Situated between two of Italy’s most beautiful and best-known destinations, the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park, the lively city of Salerno is – perhaps unsurprisingly, but not justifiably – overlooked by many visitors to, and explorers of, the gorgeous Campania region. However, the loss of the ‘over lookers’ is certainly the gain of those who do take the time to visit and explore Salerno; there are centuries of rich history – influenced by the Romans, Goths and Byzantines – to delve into here, landmarks, monuments and museums and aplenty awaiting discovery, and authentic local life to immerse yourself in. Whether you choose to see the medieval churches and capture the gritty elegance of the neighbourhood trattorias; sample traditional cuisine at the finest restaurants, or people watch at one of the cafés over a proper Italian espresso; or take a stroll along the picturesque, tree-lined promenade, Salerno is sure to get under your skin. Salerno port guide Search cruises visiting Salerno

Salerno photo — Day 16 Jul 12, 2028 Salerno 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore Situated between two of Italy’s most beautiful and best-known destinations, the Amalfi Coast and Cilento National Park, the lively city of Salerno is – perhaps unsurprisingly, but not justifiably – overlooked by many visitors to, and explorers of, the gorgeous Campania region. However, the loss of the ‘over lookers’ is certainly the gain of those who do take the time to visit and explore Salerno; there are centuries of rich history – influenced by the Romans, Goths and Byzantines – to delve into here, landmarks, monuments and museums and aplenty awaiting discovery, and authentic local life to immerse yourself in. Whether you choose to see the medieval churches and capture the gritty elegance of the neighbourhood trattorias; sample traditional cuisine at the finest restaurants, or people watch at one of the cafés over a proper Italian espresso; or take a stroll along the picturesque, tree-lined promenade, Salerno is sure to get under your skin. Salerno port guide Search cruises visiting Salerno

Day 17 Jul 13, 2028 Messina, Italy 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore Messina may well be your first sight of Sicily, and – from your MSC holiday cruise ship – it’s a fine one, the glittering town spread up the hillside beyond its sickle-shaped Mediterranean harbour. On a shore excursion you can discover Messina’s most important monument, the Duomo, which epitomizes the city’s phoenix-like ability to re-create itself from the ashes of its last disaster. It’s the reconstruction of a twelfth-century cathedral erected by Roger II, one of a series of great Norman churches of Sicily that include the sumptuous cathedrals of Palermo and Cefalù. The Duomo’s detached campanile, or bell tower, claims to be the largest astronomical clock in the world, and puts on its best show at noon every day, when a bronze lion (Messina’s ancient emblem) unleashes a mighty roar over the city that can be quite alarming if you’re not expecting it! Just back from the Duomo, the truncated section of the twelfth-century Chiesa Annunziata dei Catalani squats below pavement level, and is Messina’s only surviving example of Arab/Norman church-building. When you are cruising the Mediterranean Sea with MSC Cruises, the most obvious excursion from Messina is to the almost too charming hill town of Taormina, spectacularly located on a rocky bluff between the Ionian Sea and the soaring peak of Mount Etna, whose summit with its bleak lava wilderness is one of the most memorable landscapes Italy has to offer. Once the beloved retreat of poets and writers, Taormina is now the most illustrious resort on the entire island, captivating its visitors with its famous ancient theatre, grand hotels and engaging small-town charm. Messina, Italy port guide Search cruises visiting Messina, Italy

Messina, Italy photo — Day 17 Jul 13, 2028 Messina, Italy 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore Messina may well be your first sight of Sicily, and – from your MSC holiday cruise ship – it’s a fine one, the glittering town spread up the hillside beyond its sickle-shaped Mediterranean harbour. On a shore excursion you can discover Messina’s most important monument, the Duomo, which epitomizes the city’s phoenix-like ability to re-create itself from the ashes of its last disaster. It’s the reconstruction of a twelfth-century cathedral erected by Roger II, one of a series of great Norman churches of Sicily that include the sumptuous cathedrals of Palermo and Cefalù. The Duomo’s detached campanile, or bell tower, claims to be the largest astronomical clock in the world, and puts on its best show at noon every day, when a bronze lion (Messina’s ancient emblem) unleashes a mighty roar over the city that can be quite alarming if you’re not expecting it! Just back from the Duomo, the truncated section of the twelfth-century Chiesa Annunziata dei Catalani squats below pavement level, and is Messina’s only surviving example of Arab/Norman church-building. When you are cruising the Mediterranean Sea with MSC Cruises, the most obvious excursion from Messina is to the almost too charming hill town of Taormina, spectacularly located on a rocky bluff between the Ionian Sea and the soaring peak of Mount Etna, whose summit with its bleak lava wilderness is one of the most memorable landscapes Italy has to offer. Once the beloved retreat of poets and writers, Taormina is now the most illustrious resort on the entire island, captivating its visitors with its famous ancient theatre, grand hotels and engaging small-town charm. Messina, Italy port guide Search cruises visiting Messina, Italy

Day 18 Jul 14, 2028 Malta 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The UNESCO-protected port of Valletta, the capital of the island of Malta, is one of the must-see stops for every Mediterranean cruise of merit. You can admire this port, constructed in the second half of the 16th century by the Frenchman Jean de la Valette and moulded by the religious and military Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, from your MSC ship even before disembarking. The over 300 monuments rising in little more than half a square kilometre make this a place with one of the greatest density of historical attractions to visit during a cruise, not mentioning other attractions such as its beaches, seaside locales and restaurants. An excursion to the island can start right from its capital, Valletta, which enchants the cruise-goer with its famous Maltese balconies, which decorate the facades of houses in its old quarter. Surrounded by a multitude of churches, which the islanders assure are as many as the days of the year, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of Malta’s biggest tourist attractions. The National Museum of Archaeology, on the other hand, hosts prehistoric artefacts found on the island. By the Grand Harbour, one can visit the underground passages of Auberge de Castille and the beautiful Baracca Gardens, which overlook the harbour; at night, when the city gates would close, its porticoes served as shelter for travellers. To get a taste of the life of Malta’s ancient nobility, visit Casa Rocca Piccola. A 16th century Palazzo now the residence of the 9th Marquis De Piro, it has period furnishings and has a bomb shelter built for protection against bombings during the Second World War. The set of the film Popeye can still be seen from Malta’s largest beach, as well as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha with a fresco of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Christ; according to tradition, Saint Luke, who was shipwrecked on the island with Saint Paul, is the author of this Byzantine-style fresco. Malta port guide Search cruises visiting Malta

Malta photo — Day 18 Jul 14, 2028 Malta 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore The UNESCO-protected port of Valletta, the capital of the island of Malta, is one of the must-see stops for every Mediterranean cruise of merit. You can admire this port, constructed in the second half of the 16th century by the Frenchman Jean de la Valette and moulded by the religious and military Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, from your MSC ship even before disembarking. The over 300 monuments rising in little more than half a square kilometre make this a place with one of the greatest density of historical attractions to visit during a cruise, not mentioning other attractions such as its beaches, seaside locales and restaurants. An excursion to the island can start right from its capital, Valletta, which enchants the cruise-goer with its famous Maltese balconies, which decorate the facades of houses in its old quarter. Surrounded by a multitude of churches, which the islanders assure are as many as the days of the year, the St. John’s Co-Cathedral is one of Malta’s biggest tourist attractions. The National Museum of Archaeology, on the other hand, hosts prehistoric artefacts found on the island. By the Grand Harbour, one can visit the underground passages of Auberge de Castille and the beautiful Baracca Gardens, which overlook the harbour; at night, when the city gates would close, its porticoes served as shelter for travellers. To get a taste of the life of Malta’s ancient nobility, visit Casa Rocca Piccola. A 16th century Palazzo now the residence of the 9th Marquis De Piro, it has period furnishings and has a bomb shelter built for protection against bombings during the Second World War. The set of the film Popeye can still be seen from Malta’s largest beach, as well as the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mellieha with a fresco of the Blessed Virgin Mary with Christ; according to tradition, Saint Luke, who was shipwrecked on the island with Saint Paul, is the author of this Byzantine-style fresco. Malta port guide Search cruises visiting Malta

Day 20 Jul 16, 2028 Athens (Piraeus), Greece 05:00 – 18:00 13.0 hrs ashore A city of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece's capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus' giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens' urban area. From there it's a simple jaunt to the centre. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon - which date back to the 5th century BC - stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens' best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city's enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it's an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry - try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation. Athens (Piraeus), Greece port guide Search cruises visiting Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Day 21 Jul 17, 2028 Olympia (Katakolon), Greece 11:00 – 19:00 8.0 hrs ashore The small Greek port of Katakolon was developed in the 19th century to serve the thriving local trade in currants. Today it is your starting block for Olympia - birthplace of the Olympic Games. A pretty town on the banks of the River Alpheios, Olympia lies only a short drive away from the port and its historic stadium - where the first Olympic torch was lit in 776 BC and is a fascinating site to explore. You can still see the marble starting blocks used by early athletes in the 45,000-seat arena, as well as the ruins of the Temple of Hera and the gigantic Temple of Zeus - its gold and ivory statue of Zeus was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. If you have already visited Olympia, you could spend your day exploring the lush wine country north of Katakolon and sampling the local vintages. Olympia (Katakolon), Greece port guide Search cruises visiting Olympia (Katakolon), Greece

Olympia (Katakolon), Greece photo — Day 21 Jul 17, 2028 Olympia (Katakolon), Greece 11:00 – 19:00 8.0 hrs ashore The small Greek port of Katakolon was developed in the 19th century to serve the thriving local trade in currants. Today it is your starting block for Olympia - birthplace of the Olympic Games. A pretty town on the banks of the River Alpheios, Olympia lies only a short drive away from the port and its historic stadium - where the first Olympic torch was lit in 776 BC and is a fascinating site to explore. You can still see the marble starting blocks used by early athletes in the 45,000-seat arena, as well as the ruins of the Temple of Hera and the gigantic Temple of Zeus - its gold and ivory statue of Zeus was one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. If you have already visited Olympia, you could spend your day exploring the lush wine country north of Katakolon and sampling the local vintages. Olympia (Katakolon), Greece port guide Search cruises visiting Olympia (Katakolon), Greece

Day 22 Jul 18, 2028 Corfu 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This sickle-shaped island of Mediterranean bliss flaunts its sun-kissed sophistication with effortless grace - having cherry-picked the best influences from Venetian, French and British occupiers. With over 3,000 years of history, The Grand Lady of the Ionian has played a starring role in Greek history and mythology, and legendary tales swirl around you, as you explore sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. The soft hues of Corfu’s UNESCO World Heritage List Old Town brings together Corfu’s mesh of European influences, with its romantic stone floors and vine-clad cafes. Find somewhere to settle in for a morning coffee ritual like a true Corfiat, and sip at the laid-back pace of the locals - allowing the thick bitter concoction to settle before indulging. The oddly out-of-place sound of leather on willow can be heard in Spianada Square – the largest city square in the Balkan region - where a manicured cricket pitch spreads out incongruously below the Mediterranean sun. Take the hike up to the 13th-century Paleokastritsa Monastery, where you’ll be escorted by the resident goats, and have to step over cats contentedly rolling around your feet on arrival. This beautiful, daffodil-yellow building is splashed with a fresco of vivid purple fuchsias, and a crowning triad of bells. Inside, explore gold-framed frescoes, and watch as monks squeeze oil from the monastery’s trees’ bounty. Wander out among the groves to views of Corfu’s never-ending sea reaching out to the horison below you. Corfu’s sweeping sand beaches and hidden coves display the full spectrum of vivid Mediterranean seaside colours – which shift from turquoise greens to cobalt blues. The famous Canal d’Amour is a gorgeous inlet, and island legend says couples who swim together in this narrow channel of water stay together forever. Enjoy an afternoon sit-down and drink of ginger tea, or something a little stronger in the form of Corfu’s famous, radiant orange, kumquat liqueur. Corfu port guide Search cruises visiting Corfu

Corfu photo — Day 22 Jul 18, 2028 Corfu 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore This sickle-shaped island of Mediterranean bliss flaunts its sun-kissed sophistication with effortless grace - having cherry-picked the best influences from Venetian, French and British occupiers. With over 3,000 years of history, The Grand Lady of the Ionian has played a starring role in Greek history and mythology, and legendary tales swirl around you, as you explore sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. The soft hues of Corfu’s UNESCO World Heritage List Old Town brings together Corfu’s mesh of European influences, with its romantic stone floors and vine-clad cafes. Find somewhere to settle in for a morning coffee ritual like a true Corfiat, and sip at the laid-back pace of the locals - allowing the thick bitter concoction to settle before indulging. The oddly out-of-place sound of leather on willow can be heard in Spianada Square – the largest city square in the Balkan region - where a manicured cricket pitch spreads out incongruously below the Mediterranean sun. Take the hike up to the 13th-century Paleokastritsa Monastery, where you’ll be escorted by the resident goats, and have to step over cats contentedly rolling around your feet on arrival. This beautiful, daffodil-yellow building is splashed with a fresco of vivid purple fuchsias, and a crowning triad of bells. Inside, explore gold-framed frescoes, and watch as monks squeeze oil from the monastery’s trees’ bounty. Wander out among the groves to views of Corfu’s never-ending sea reaching out to the horison below you. Corfu’s sweeping sand beaches and hidden coves display the full spectrum of vivid Mediterranean seaside colours – which shift from turquoise greens to cobalt blues. The famous Canal d’Amour is a gorgeous inlet, and island legend says couples who swim together in this narrow channel of water stay together forever. Enjoy an afternoon sit-down and drink of ginger tea, or something a little stronger in the form of Corfu’s famous, radiant orange, kumquat liqueur. Corfu port guide Search cruises visiting Corfu

Day 23 Jul 19, 2028 Kotor 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Embedded into the slopes of the steep Lovćen mountain, and overlooking the deep blue Adriatic, the fortified town of Kotor boasts a spectacular, imposing staging that few can match. Squeezing in through the tight Bay of Kotor is a daunting and impressive approach in itself, as you arrive via the waterway of Europe’s most southerly fjord. A pearl of Montenegro and the Adriatic, Kotor's warren-like streets drip with history and authenticity. View less Under Venetian influence for four centuries, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site old town invites you to wander amid atmospheric stone-clad streets, overlooked by a sea of terracotta roofs and the double towers of the cathedral. Protected by thick stone walls - and the mountains behind - Kotor draws comparisons with another fortified Adriatic wonder in Dubrovnik. Many favour Kotor for its compact layout, smaller crowds, and authenticity, however - having been spared from shelling during Yugoslavia's breakup. The tightknit streets here are patrolled by a slinking population of feline residents, who were adopted as the town’s mascots, after being left behind by transient trader ships. Learn of the city's extensive heritage on the waves, in the dedicated maritime museum that is contained within Grgurina Palace. Pick your way through tight alleys of workshops and studios, walking below fresh laundry strung from windows, before settling into shiny, paved piazzas for an afternoon coffee or seafood meal. If you’re up for an aerobic challenge, tackle the 1,350 steps up the steep walls to St John's fortress. The views over the gorgeous bay make the arduous slog worth it, as you rise past the city's eye-catching 15th-century church bell tower. Kotor port guide Search cruises visiting Kotor

Kotor photo — Day 23 Jul 19, 2028 Kotor 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore Embedded into the slopes of the steep Lovćen mountain, and overlooking the deep blue Adriatic, the fortified town of Kotor boasts a spectacular, imposing staging that few can match. Squeezing in through the tight Bay of Kotor is a daunting and impressive approach in itself, as you arrive via the waterway of Europe’s most southerly fjord. A pearl of Montenegro and the Adriatic, Kotor's warren-like streets drip with history and authenticity. View less Under Venetian influence for four centuries, the city's UNESCO World Heritage Site old town invites you to wander amid atmospheric stone-clad streets, overlooked by a sea of terracotta roofs and the double towers of the cathedral. Protected by thick stone walls - and the mountains behind - Kotor draws comparisons with another fortified Adriatic wonder in Dubrovnik. Many favour Kotor for its compact layout, smaller crowds, and authenticity, however - having been spared from shelling during Yugoslavia's breakup. The tightknit streets here are patrolled by a slinking population of feline residents, who were adopted as the town’s mascots, after being left behind by transient trader ships. Learn of the city's extensive heritage on the waves, in the dedicated maritime museum that is contained within Grgurina Palace. Pick your way through tight alleys of workshops and studios, walking below fresh laundry strung from windows, before settling into shiny, paved piazzas for an afternoon coffee or seafood meal. If you’re up for an aerobic challenge, tackle the 1,350 steps up the steep walls to St John's fortress. The views over the gorgeous bay make the arduous slog worth it, as you rise past the city's eye-catching 15th-century church bell tower. Kotor port guide Search cruises visiting Kotor

Day 24 Jul 20, 2028 Dubrovnik 07:00 – 15:00 8.0 hrs ashore Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows - from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress’s walls - which are no less than 12-metres thick at places - are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches and splashing fountains. Tapering alleys rocket up from the central boulevard of Stradun, offering spectacular views down, but you’ll need to walk the city walls to appreciate the fortress city’s full scale. Banking up sharply to the rear, you can gaze across an ocean of terracotta roofs and church spires, clamouring together before the sparkling Adriatic. Visit the neighbouring fort of Lovrijenac, for another perspective, or swing up to Srd fortress’s glorious panorama on a cable car. Dubrovnik’s streets are crammed with eateries and candlelit tables, where couples splash wine into glasses and enjoy gnocchi mixed with creamy truffle sauces. Nearby beaches like Banje are also close by, and hidden bays reward the intrepid who venture out beyond the old town. Take sunset drinks to sit back and watch as flotillas of sea kayaks roll by, or sail on the pristine waters to explore island gems like Lokrum - where peacocks are the only permanent residents. Dubrovnik port guide Search cruises visiting Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik photo — Day 24 Jul 20, 2028 Dubrovnik 07:00 – 15:00 8.0 hrs ashore Croatia’s crowning glory rears up vertically from the tranquil waters of the Adriatic, and Dubrovnik’s daunting fortresses town is a truly imposing sight to behold. Encircled by chunky stone walls so thick and dramatic they could have been purpose-built as a film set, this city’s unmatched old town is the setting for countless films and shows - from Star Wars to Robin Hood, Game of Thrones and every production in-between seeking a truly authentic medieval flavour. This fantasy fortress’s walls - which are no less than 12-metres thick at places - are certainly not just for show, however. They kept Dubrovnik safe when it was a maritime republic and they were besieged as recently as 1991, when Serbian and Montenegrin forces attacked, as Yugoslavia broke apart. Fully restored now, the stone streets of the city take you through a beautiful mosaic of architectural splendour, baroque churches and splashing fountains. Tapering alleys rocket up from the central boulevard of Stradun, offering spectacular views down, but you’ll need to walk the city walls to appreciate the fortress city’s full scale. Banking up sharply to the rear, you can gaze across an ocean of terracotta roofs and church spires, clamouring together before the sparkling Adriatic. Visit the neighbouring fort of Lovrijenac, for another perspective, or swing up to Srd fortress’s glorious panorama on a cable car. Dubrovnik’s streets are crammed with eateries and candlelit tables, where couples splash wine into glasses and enjoy gnocchi mixed with creamy truffle sauces. Nearby beaches like Banje are also close by, and hidden bays reward the intrepid who venture out beyond the old town. Take sunset drinks to sit back and watch as flotillas of sea kayaks roll by, or sail on the pristine waters to explore island gems like Lokrum - where peacocks are the only permanent residents. Dubrovnik port guide Search cruises visiting Dubrovnik

Day 25 Jul 21, 2028 Zadar, Croatia 10:00 – 20:00 10.0 hrs ashore Croatia’s Capital of Cool, Zadar is a dazzling mesh of influences and creativity. Romans founded the city before the Venetians, Austrians, French and Italians all had their say, leaving a wealth of architectural interest. Glorious turquoise-water beaches and heavenly waterfalls also lie within easy reach of this energetic city of festivals and outdoor fun. See the old town, with its robust city walls, boasting decorative stone gateways and marble streets. View less The church of St Donatus, was built from stones pillaged from the Roman forum, while Zadar Cathedral - Dalmatia's biggest - stands among the many architectural treats of this city, which was once an impenetrable stronghold of Venice’s republic. Head for the ‘pillar of shame’ with its chains to humiliate the criminals of a bygone time - or succumb to the tempting treats of shopping in the market. The sparkling Adriatic’s waters calls you, and Kolovare Beach is a mere ten-minute stroll from the old town. A day trip to Kornat National Park - which incorporates the Zadar Archipelago's immaculate scattering of beach-fringed islands - or to the divine waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, will introduce you to more of Croatia’s thrilling natural beauty. The sea truly does sing here in Zadar, thanks to a unique waterfront artwork, which encapsulates the city’s playful spirit. Designed to make music when the waves wash over it, the ebb and flow of the Adriatic, plays the Sea Organ instrument like a maestro. Not far away, the Monument to the Sun is a 22-metre-wide disc, which gathers the sun’s rays during the sunny days, and releases the solar energy in the form of a magical light show after dark. Sit and admire the artwork coming to life, as one of the city’s famous sunsets plays out before you. Zadar, Croatia port guide Search cruises visiting Zadar, Croatia

Zadar, Croatia photo — Day 25 Jul 21, 2028 Zadar, Croatia 10:00 – 20:00 10.0 hrs ashore Croatia’s Capital of Cool, Zadar is a dazzling mesh of influences and creativity. Romans founded the city before the Venetians, Austrians, French and Italians all had their say, leaving a wealth of architectural interest. Glorious turquoise-water beaches and heavenly waterfalls also lie within easy reach of this energetic city of festivals and outdoor fun. See the old town, with its robust city walls, boasting decorative stone gateways and marble streets. View less The church of St Donatus, was built from stones pillaged from the Roman forum, while Zadar Cathedral - Dalmatia's biggest - stands among the many architectural treats of this city, which was once an impenetrable stronghold of Venice’s republic. Head for the ‘pillar of shame’ with its chains to humiliate the criminals of a bygone time - or succumb to the tempting treats of shopping in the market. The sparkling Adriatic’s waters calls you, and Kolovare Beach is a mere ten-minute stroll from the old town. A day trip to Kornat National Park - which incorporates the Zadar Archipelago's immaculate scattering of beach-fringed islands - or to the divine waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, will introduce you to more of Croatia’s thrilling natural beauty. The sea truly does sing here in Zadar, thanks to a unique waterfront artwork, which encapsulates the city’s playful spirit. Designed to make music when the waves wash over it, the ebb and flow of the Adriatic, plays the Sea Organ instrument like a maestro. Not far away, the Monument to the Sun is a 22-metre-wide disc, which gathers the sun’s rays during the sunny days, and releases the solar energy in the form of a magical light show after dark. Sit and admire the artwork coming to life, as one of the city’s famous sunsets plays out before you. Zadar, Croatia port guide Search cruises visiting Zadar, Croatia

Day 26 Jul 22, 2028 Rijeka 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore Tucked into Kvarner Bay off the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic, Rijeka is Croatia’s premier seaport and third largest city. It is a mix of modern structures and grand old buildings from the heyday of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city skyline is dominated by the 13th century Trsat Castle, believed to be the oldest fortification on Croatia’s coast, and now a tourist visitor center. The traditional entry to the medieval city is the round, yellow City Tower with its 18th century clock. The Our Lady of Trsat Sanctuary has been a pilgrimage site since the 14th century, when a pope gifted the church with an icon of the Virgin, which still graces the altar. It can be reached by the 16th century Petar Kruzic Stairway, and also contains an extensive collection of sacral art and artifacts. The Habsburg-era Governor’s Palace hosts a Maritime and Historic Museum, and the unique, round St. Vitus Cathedral is from the same period. Stroll the main city market, the Placa, to get a feel of the city and its people. Although the city itself does not have much to offer in the way of beaches, it is the gateway to the fabulous Dalmatian islands playgrounds just offshore. Rijeka port guide Search cruises visiting Rijeka

Rijeka photo — Day 26 Jul 22, 2028 Rijeka 07:00 – 17:00 10.0 hrs ashore Tucked into Kvarner Bay off the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic, Rijeka is Croatia’s premier seaport and third largest city. It is a mix of modern structures and grand old buildings from the heyday of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city skyline is dominated by the 13th century Trsat Castle, believed to be the oldest fortification on Croatia’s coast, and now a tourist visitor center. The traditional entry to the medieval city is the round, yellow City Tower with its 18th century clock. The Our Lady of Trsat Sanctuary has been a pilgrimage site since the 14th century, when a pope gifted the church with an icon of the Virgin, which still graces the altar. It can be reached by the 16th century Petar Kruzic Stairway, and also contains an extensive collection of sacral art and artifacts. The Habsburg-era Governor’s Palace hosts a Maritime and Historic Museum, and the unique, round St. Vitus Cathedral is from the same period. Stroll the main city market, the Placa, to get a feel of the city and its people. Although the city itself does not have much to offer in the way of beaches, it is the gateway to the fabulous Dalmatian islands playgrounds just offshore. Rijeka port guide Search cruises visiting Rijeka

Day 27 Jul 23, 2028 Trieste Arrives 08:00 If you are looking for elegance and culture, the ideal destination is Trieste. An MSC Mediterranean Cruise will take you to the old cafés where you can relive the same atmosphere that inspired many writers, among the Art Nouveau and Neoclassical palaces, or along the Grand Canal. Your MSC Cruise will take you to the "little Vienna on the sea" which is now one of the largest ports in Italy for freight traffic, one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the peninsula. A meeting of peoples, languages and religions that magnify the city's Central European, Slav and Mediterranean soul. One of the MSC Excursions will guide you to visit The Castle of Miramare, residence of Maximilian of Hapsburg and Charlotte of Belgium. A desirable palace for its view of the Gulf of Trieste and unique elegance of the furnishings still visible of the apartments, on the spouses' ground floor and the guests' first floor. Built between 1856 and 1860, it contains a small castle used by the married couple during the construction works in the magnificent richly scented park that surrounds it. Another MSC Excursion will take you to visit the Roman amphitheatre at the foot of the Colle di San Giusto, set among the modern buildings of Trieste, a city with an ancient history. Constructed around the end of the 1st century, it was only brought to light in 1938. Interestingly, it once overlooked the sea. Everything in Trieste faces the sea including Piazza Unità d'Italia, the Piazza Grande, the destination of an MSC Excursion. Strolling along this large rectangle framed on three sides by the city's most famous buildings and the renowned Caffè degli Specchi, stopping under the column of the Statue of Charles VI and idling in front of the Fountain of the Four Continents, are experiences crowned by the view of the sea on the fourth side. Trieste port guide Search cruises visiting Trieste

Trieste photo — Day 27 Jul 23, 2028 Trieste Arrives 08:00 If you are looking for elegance and culture, the ideal destination is Trieste. An MSC Mediterranean Cruise will take you to the old cafés where you can relive the same atmosphere that inspired many writers, among the Art Nouveau and Neoclassical palaces, or along the Grand Canal. Your MSC Cruise will take you to the "little Vienna on the sea" which is now one of the largest ports in Italy for freight traffic, one of the most cosmopolitan cities on the peninsula. A meeting of peoples, languages and religions that magnify the city's Central European, Slav and Mediterranean soul. One of the MSC Excursions will guide you to visit The Castle of Miramare, residence of Maximilian of Hapsburg and Charlotte of Belgium. A desirable palace for its view of the Gulf of Trieste and unique elegance of the furnishings still visible of the apartments, on the spouses' ground floor and the guests' first floor. Built between 1856 and 1860, it contains a small castle used by the married couple during the construction works in the magnificent richly scented park that surrounds it. Another MSC Excursion will take you to visit the Roman amphitheatre at the foot of the Colle di San Giusto, set among the modern buildings of Trieste, a city with an ancient history. Constructed around the end of the 1st century, it was only brought to light in 1938. Interestingly, it once overlooked the sea. Everything in Trieste faces the sea including Piazza Unità d'Italia, the Piazza Grande, the destination of an MSC Excursion. Strolling along this large rectangle framed on three sides by the city's most famous buildings and the renowned Caffè degli Specchi, stopping under the column of the Statue of Charles VI and idling in front of the Fountain of the Four Continents, are experiences crowned by the view of the sea on the fourth side. Trieste port guide Search cruises visiting Trieste

Pricing

Current prices

Per person · 2 guests · incl. taxes & fees

Inside

from $8,099

$311 / night

Fare rows

Inside Stateroom 2

Cabin grade

Available

from $8,099

$311 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Inside Stateroom 1

Cabin grade

Available

from $8,399

$323 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Oceanview

from $10,699

$411 / night

Fare rows

Deluxe Ocean View

Cabin grade

Available

from $10,699

$411 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Balcony

from $12,999

$499 / night

Fare rows

Veranda Stateroom 4

Cabin grade

Available

from $12,999

$499 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Veranda Stateroom 3

Cabin grade

Available

from $13,199

$507 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Veranda Stateroom 2

Cabin grade

Available

from $13,399

$515 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Veranda Stateroom 1

Cabin grade

Available

from $13,699

$526 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Concierge Level 4

Cabin grade

Available

from $14,099

$542 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Concierge Level 3

Cabin grade

Available

from $14,299

$549 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Concierge Level 2

Cabin grade

Available

from $14,499

$557 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Concierge Level 1

Cabin grade

Available

from $14,799

$569 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Suite

from $18,299

$703 / night

Fare rows

Penthouse Suite 3

Cabin grade

Available

from $18,299

$703 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Penthouse Suite 2

Cabin grade

Available

from $18,699

$719 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Penthouse Suite 1

Cabin grade

Available

from $18,999

$730 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Oceania Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $29,399

$1,130 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Vista Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $32,099

$1,234 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Owner's Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $41,999

$1,615 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Prices verified Jun 27, 2026

Prices come from third-party data feeds via Oceania Cruises and may differ from the cruise line's current fare. Confirm the final price before booking. How our pricing works

Show all 17 cabin grades

Cabin grades and pricing
Name	Supplier code	Type
Concierge Level 1	A1	Balcony
Concierge Level 2	A2	Balcony
Concierge Level 3	A3	Balcony
Concierge Level 4	A4	Balcony
Veranda Stateroom 1	B1	Balcony
Veranda Stateroom 2	B2	Balcony
Veranda Stateroom 3	B3	Balcony
Veranda Stateroom 4	B4	Balcony
Inside Stateroom 1	F	Inside
Inside Stateroom 2	G	Inside
Deluxe Ocean View	C	Oceanview
Oceania Suite	OC	Suite
Owner's Suite	OS	Suite
Penthouse Suite 1	PH1	Suite
Penthouse Suite 2	PH2	Suite
Penthouse Suite 3	PH3	Suite
Vista Suite	VS	Suite