Historic Lands - Istanbul to Trieste Cruise

Day 1 - Istanbul

Arrive: Tue 05 May 2026 / Depart: Tue 05 May 2026 at 17:00

Bridging both Europe and Asia Minor, Istanbul is literally where “East meets West.” The city was founded by Constantine the Great and the history of this capital dates back sixteen centuries to the powerful Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. Many of our voyages include overnight stays in this legendary city, allowing more time to explore Istanbul’s highlights. Shop among the winding byways of the Grand Bazaar and the exotic stalls of the Spice Bazaar. Tour the magnificent courtyards of Topkapi Palace, stroll among the treasures of the Blue Mosque with its unique six minarets, then view Dolmabahce Palace, the one-time residence of the sultans. Or you may cruise along the Bosphorus for a unique perspective of the city’s numerous seaside mansions, mosques and palaces.

Day 2 - Dikili

Arrive: Wed 06 May 2026 at 10:00 / Depart: Wed 06 May 2026 at 18:00

Sun-blessed Dikili on Turkey’s Aegean coast, has been home to Greeks (Aristotle lived here), Persians, Romans, and Ottomans in its long history. This popular resort town beckons with miles of lovely beaches kissed by deep blue waters, and is considered one of the best places to catch the wine-red Mediterranean sunset. Nearby are the ruins of ancient Pergamum, where you may view the Asklepion, one of the earliest medical centers on record.

Day 3 - Ephesus (Kusadasi)

Arrive: Thu 07 May 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 07 May 2026 at 18:00

Originally a minor port, Kusadasi now serves as the gateway to Ephesus, one of the ancient world’s largest and most important archaeological and religious sites. As you walk the white marbled pathway, note the grooves made by centuries of chariot wheels. Stand in awe before the great Library of Celsus, and sit for a moment as the past seems to come alive at the Great Amphitheater, carved from the side of a mountain. Sacred places nearby include the Basilica of St. John and the House of the Virgin Mary.

Day 4 - Athens, Piraeus

Arrive: Fri 08 May 2026 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 08 May 2026 at 21:00

Piraeus is the gateway to the ancient city of Athens, known as the “Cradle of Western Civilization” because of its immense impact on cultural and political achievements throughout the world. Due mainly to tourism and the 2004 Olympics, Greece has redeveloped many sites in Athens. A historian’s delight, Athens is home to such magnificent wonders as: the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the atmospheric winding streets of the Plaka, Temple of Olympian Zeus and Temple of Athena Nike, and the Archaeological Museum with the world’s finest collection of ancient artifacts.

Day 5 - Mykonos

Arrive: Sat 09 May 2026 at 07:00 / Depart: Sat 09 May 2026 at 19:00

Steeped in Greek mythological history, Mykonos was named after Apollo’s grandson, Mykons, and was the location of the grand battle between Zeus and the Gigantes. Today, this island is one of Greece’s most adored destinations due to its picture- postcard setting and growing nightlife. Mykonos is a superb example of Cycladic architecture, and by law even new buildings have to be built in the same style of whitewashed, organic, cube-like buildings. Be sure to plan a day trip to take in picturesque Little Venice, the unique Paraportiani church, and the archeological dig at Delos.

Day 6 - At Sea

Day 7 - Gythion

Arrive: Mon 11 May 2026 at 09:00 / Depart: Mon 11 May 2026 at 18:00

Once the seaport of Sparta, Gythion welcomes visitors with a beautiful coastline and white sand beaches. Near the entrance of the city is the Theatre, which still houses the ruins of the Temple of Athena and the Gates of Castorides. The Archaeological Museum of Gythion has a vast collection that includes finds from excavations of the many ancient sites throughout the city. Be sure to enjoy a delicious seafood lunch al fresco in a traditional ouzerie.

Day 8 - Argostoli

Arrive: Tue 12 May 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Tue 12 May 2026 at 18:00

Discover charming Argostoli, flowing up from the turquoise bay along the sides of white limestone hills with its colorful fishing boats, vibrant open-air market and relaxing atmosphere. Visit the archaeological museum and explore the rich artifacts of the Mycenean culture. See the Venetian-built St. Georges Castle dating from the 16th Century in the nearby village of Kastro. Stroll through Vallianos Square in Argostoli browsing the stalls and shops to take home popular gifts and keepsakes including thyme honey, fine gold and silver jewelry, leather goods, and the excellent locally produced Robola Taoussi (white wine).

Day 9 - Corfu

Arrive: Wed 13 May 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Wed 13 May 2026 at 18:00

Legendary Corfu is a lush and romantic island, written about by Homer in his famous Odyssey. The island’s history is full of battles, indicative of Corfu’s turbulent position that lasted until modern times with unification with modern Greece in 1864. Corfu offers a combination of cosmopolitan and time-honored Greece. As well as a flower-strewn countryside and Adriatic-style villages, Corfu has splendid coastal scenery and some excellent secluded beaches.

Day 10 - Kotor

Arrive: Thu 14 May 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 14 May 2026 at 18:00

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro, located in a most secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor. The old port, surrounded by an impressive city wall built by the House of Nemanjicc, is very well preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Numerous other attractions include the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166), and ancient walls which stretch directly above the city. Nightlife also attracts tourists to Kotor with pubs, taverns, cafes, and nightclubs.

Day 11 - Dubrovnik

Arrive: Fri 15 May 2026 at 07:00 / Depart: Fri 15 May 2026 at 16:00

Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik was founded in the 7th century by a group of refugees from Epidaurum (today’s Cavtat). It is known worldwide for its unique marble-paved squares, tall houses, steep-cobbled streets and fountains. The city walls, once used to as protection against its enemies, now keep motorists at bay in this picturesque town. UNESCO named the Old City a World Heritage Site, and Dubrovnik’s beautiful historic sites have been restored to their former glory.

Day 12 - At Sea

Day 13 - Trieste

Arrive: Sun 17 May 2026 at 07:00 / Depart: Sun 17 May 2026