Path Of The Ancients - Trieste To Athens Cruise

Day 1 - Venice (Trieste)

Arrive: Tue 10 November 2026 / Depart: Tue 10 November 2026 at 17:00

Day 2 - Split

Arrive: Wed 11 November 2026 at 10:00 / Depart: Wed 11 November 2026 at 18:00

Split is the largest Croatian city on the Adriatic coast. Split achieved fame when the Roman emperor Diocletian, noted for his persecution of early Christians, had his retirement palace built here. The spectacular stone edifice and its grounds and cellars are a major highlight of any city tour. Other points of interest include the Cathedral of St. Duje, built on the remains of an ancient shrine purported to be the oldest in the world; and the Mestrovic Gallery, where the impressive works of Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic are available for viewing in this home and atelier.

Day 3 - Dubrovnik

Arrive: Thu 12 November 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Thu 12 November 2026 at 18:00

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 4 - Kotor

Arrive: Fri 13 November 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Fri 13 November 2026 at 16:00

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 5 - Cruising the Ionian Sea

Day 6 - Katakolon

Arrive: Sun 15 November 2026 at 08:00 / Depart: Sun 15 November 2026 at 17:00

Katakolon is gateway to ancient Olympia, the chief sanctuary of Zeus. After many centuries of competition which began as early as the eighth century BC, the panhellenic festival was created in 776 AD. Ancient competitions included boxing, wrestling, running, jumping, and the discus throw. It is still honored with the Olympics Games every four years. The ancient site of Olympia is also home to the Temple of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Day 7 - Mykonos

Arrive: Mon 16 November 2026 at 11:00 / Depart: Mon 16 November 2026 at 18:00

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 8 - Athens

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

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.