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25th25 | OctOct | 202424 | Fusina, Italy, embark on the Silver Spirit | 19:00 | |||
Losing none of its allure over the years, this floating city of canals, bridges and masks is a place of eternal beauty and enduring elegance. The lagoon of more than 100 islands is a heavenly sight, transporting visitors on a journey through time - from its Roman inception, through centuries of trade to the modern face we see today. Navigate Venice’s sparkling waterways by romantic gondola, or on cruises along wide canal boulevards. Span the Grand Canal over its iconic original crossing, the Rialto Bridge, which - with its parade of tiny shops - gives some of the city’s most endearing views. If the crowds unsettle you at any point, take two turns away from the main thoroughfares to find peace alone, amid the city's labyrinth of tiny streets. Hurry to Piazza San Marco to be immersed in Venice’s elegant glory. Basilica San Marco transports you back to the wealthy days of the Doges, who ruled for over 1,000 years. Initially their private chapel, it’s now decorated with beautiful Byzantine mosaics. Nearby the Campanile di San Marco bell tower offers views over the higgledy-piggledy rooftops of times gone by. Just a hop skip and a jump around the corner is the Doge’s Palace, where the levels of opulence ramp up even further. Justice was meted out in this stunning Palace, with the guilty walking to the cells across the covered Bridge of Sighs. Vaporetto trips to local islands offer even more adventures to float your boat, whether it’s Murano with its world-famous glass, Torcello with its amazing Cathedrals, or Burano with its handmade lace and delightfully colourful painted houses. | |||||||
26th26 | OctOct | 202424 | Trieste, Italy | 08:00 | 18:00 | ||
Up until the end of World War I, Trieste was the only port of the vast Austro-Hungarian Empire and therefore a major industrial and financial center. In the early years of the 20th century, Trieste and its surroundings also became famous by their association with some of the most important names of Italian literature, such as Italo Svevo, and English and German letters. James Joyce drew inspiration from the city's multiethnic population, and Rainer Maria Rilke was inspired by the seacoast west of the city. Although it has lost its importance as a port and a center of finance, it has never fully lost its roll as an intellectual center. The streets hold a mix of monumental, neoclassical, and art-nouveau architecture built by the Austrians during Trieste's days of glory, granting an air of melancholy stateliness to a city that lives as much in the past as the present. A city happy to keep one foot resolutely in its beautiful illustrious past Trieste is a treasure which sits on a historical frontier of civilisations and cultures. Wealth as a trading hub helped to shape Trieste's grand piazzas and soaring artistic architectural achievements. The legendary Bora wind is greeted like an old friend and it buffs the city in winter. Just like Trieste itself it will take your breath away. Piazza Unità d'Italia is the grand central square and it opens up to the lap of blue waves at one end. Settle in for a quick caffeine hit in this coffee capital - a word of warning however most Trieste baristas don't serve cappuccinos - so plump for a caffè latte instead. The God of the Sea Neptune is honoured in a fountain at Piazza del Borsa nearby. Canale Grande is a centrepiece and was built in the 18th century to allow boats to unload their wares and trade. Lined by grandiose neoclassical buildings you can enjoy a picturesque stroll by the water. Three pretty bridges span it while little boats bob and jostle below. Glorious castles crown the area towering from esteemed vineyards. Don't miss the fairytale castle of Miramare which watches over the azure Gulf of Trieste and looms above glorious gardens. Trieste Cathedral is a constant and reassuring presence for the city standing on a hilltop overlooking the old town - it features an enchanting chandelier and remarkable painted ceiling. | |||||||
27th27 | OctOct | 202424 | Ravenna, Italy | 08:00 | 22:00 | ||
A small, quiet, well-heeled city, Ravenna has brick palaces, cobblestone streets, magnificent monuments, and spectacular Byzantine mosaics. The high point in its civic history occurred in the 5th century, when Pope Honorious moved his court here from Rome. Gothic kings Odoacer and Theodoric ruled the city until it was conquered by the Byzantines in AD 540. Ravenna later fell under the sway of Venice, and then, inevitably, the Papal States.Because Ravenna spent much of its past looking east, its greatest art treasures show that Byzantine influence. Churches and tombs with the most unassuming exteriors contain within them walls covered with sumptuous mosaics. These beautifully preserved Byzantine mosaics put great emphasis on nature, which you can see in the delicate rendering of sky, earth, and animals. Outside Ravenna, the town of Classe hides even more mosaic gems. Wander the historic streets of Ravenna and you may not immediately realise the wealth of artistry contained here. Leave the sun’s glow and let your eyes adjust to the interior of the city’s churches however and you'll discover some of the world’s finest Byzantine mosaics waiting for you. Decorated with spectacular explosions of colour even the humblest church facade can conceal momentous and magnificent artistic displays in this city which harbours 1 500 years of extraordinary history. Ravenna is home to a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage Site designated buildings and no fewer than eight have received protection. Basilica di San Vitale of 525 AD stands as the town’s pièce de résistance - itself a precious mosaic of influence where Byzantine meets Baroque. Glorious light spills in vibrantly illuminating and highlighting the craftwork of its knaves and archways. The Mausoleum of Galla Placido is another noble achievement described by UNESCO as ‘the earliest and best-preserved of all mosaic monuments'. Look up at the glittering stars of the night sky from within and you may be inspired just as Cole Porter was when he penned Night and Day. Ravenna’s beauty has always been stimulating and Dante finished his masterpiece Paradiso here during exile from Florence. Sangiovese wines and prosciutto-filled piadina flatbreads will keep you fed and watered during your stay. Don't miss a taste of the local olive oil either which bursts with intense fruity flavours. | |||||||
28th28 | OctOct | 202424 | Opatija, Croatia | 08:00 | 18:00 | ||
Stroll along Opatija’s seaside promenade, and soak up the splendour, as you enjoy fresh sea air, the sight of waving yacht masts, and the presence of grand ocean-facing buildings. Historically a fashionable destination for European aristocracy, the city is just as in-demand today - with palatial structures watching out over an inviting blue sea, and a border of lush green mountains stretching around the city. Vibrant gardens, glorious weather and endless seafront combine to ensure that Croatia’s original tourist destination remains one of the country’s finest. Indulge in leisurely strolls along Opatija’s expansive seaside promenade - perfect for soaking up the splendour and breathing in deep lungfuls of sea air as you wander beside waving yacht masts and colourful vintage hotels and villas. Sitting on the Istrian peninsula Opatija faces the Kvarner Gulf and is protected by the embrace of the Učka mountain behind where asparagus grows wild. This charmed location lends Opatija a great year-round climate with hot summers and mild winters. Lungomare promenade weaves along the coast and begs to be explored at leisure. The seven miles of walkway will take you to Volosko - a dreamy fishing village next to Opatija. Look out for Opatija’s treasured Maiden with a Seagull monument as you stroll. There are plenty of opportunities to catch some shade along the way - duck into the blossoms and splashes of tumbling fountains in Angiolina Park for example. Or settle back on a beach to watch as locals splash in the shallow water desperately attempting to keep their ball airborne. Slatina beach offers clear swimming waters in the town itself or Volosko’s pebbled Črnikovica beach may be a little quieter. Fishing boats sway in the pretty harbour and you can try thick tuna steaks creamy Istrian truffle-flavoured dishes and seafood risottos served up in seafront restaurants. | |||||||
29th29 | OctOct | 202424 | Split, Croatia | 08:00 | 19:00 | ||
Split's ancient core is so spectacular and unusual that a visit is more than worth your time. The heart of the city lies within the walls of Roman emperor Diocletian's retirement palace, which was built in the 3rd century AD. Diocletian, born in the nearby Roman settlement of Salona in AD 245, achieved a brilliant career as a soldier and became emperor at the age of 40. In 295 he ordered this vast palace to be built in his native Dalmatia, and when it was completed he stepped down from the throne and retired to his beloved homeland. Upon his death, he was laid to rest in an octagonal mausoleum, around which Split's magnificent cathedral was built.In 615, when Salona was sacked by barbarian tribes, those fortunate enough to escape found refuge within the stout palace walls and divided up the vast imperial apartments into more modest living quarters. Thus, the palace developed into an urban center, and by the 11th century the settlement had expanded beyond the ancient walls.Under the rule of Venice (1420–1797), Split—as a gateway to the Balkan interior—became one of the Adriatic's main trading ports, and the city's splendid Renaissance palaces bear witness to the affluence of those times. When the Habsburgs took control during the 19th century, an overland connection to Central Europe was established by the construction of the Split–Zagreb–Vienna railway line.After World War II, the Tito years saw a period of rapid urban expansion: industrialization accelerated and the suburbs extended to accommodate high-rise apartment blocks. Today the historic center of Split is included on UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites. Bathing in the Dalmatian Coast’s generous sunshine and overlooking sparkling island-studded waters Split is a city of romantic beauty built around an extraordinary - still beating - historical heart. The setting may be spectacular but it’s the Diocletian’s Palace - a Roman remain of incredible scale and detail that is truly bewitching. With a natural backdrop of dramatic limestone mountains and Croatia’s trademark scenic wonders all around Split is a true heavyweight of the Adriatic. To enter Split’s Diocletian’s Palace is to step into a beautiful time warp. Head first to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius where a hollow bell tower rockets up puncturing the sky. The perfume of lavender hangs heavy wherever you walk in the old town where tucked shops offer artisan chocolates dried figs and freshly-ground coffees. The expansive seafront promenade is all palm trees buzzing bars and eateries and further out you’ll find the peace of Marion Hill - where you can climb to some of the best views in town. Or take the far less exerting wander to Sustipan cemetery’s breathtaking panorama of sea city and distant islands. Trips to island paradises like Hvar and Brac are tempting as are longer excursions to sites like Krka National Park’s Waterfalls - where wide terraces of frothing water thunder into cooling swimmable splash pools below. Nearby Trogir is another UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a cosier no less charming old town and historic port. | |||||||
30th30 | OctOct | 202424 | Dubrovnik, Croatia | 08:00 | 22:30 | ||
Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost 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. 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. 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. | |||||||
31st31 | OctOct | 202424 | Bari, Italy | 08:00 | 18:00 | ||
Bari, capital of the province of Apulia, lies on southern Italy's Adriatic coast. Its busy port is a leading commercial and industrial centre as well as a transit point for travellers catching ferries across the Adriatic to Greece. Bari comprises a new and an old town. To the north, on a promontory between the old and new harbours, lies the picturesque old town, or Citta Vecchia, with a maze of narrow, crooked streets. To the south is the spacious and regularly planned new town, which has developed considerably since 1930, when the Levant Fair was first held here. The heart of the modern town is Piazza della Liberta. The busy thoroughfare, Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, separates the new town from the old. At the eastern end of the Corso begins the Lungomare Nazario Sauro, a magnificent seafront promenade that runs along the old harbour. Bari and the Apulian region were long recognized for their strategic location, attracting a succession of colonizers such as the Normans, Moors and Spaniards, each leaving their mark. Explore further afield to immerse yourself in Puglia’s beauty and cultural wonders - or simply soak up the atmosphere roaming the crooked streets of Bari’s old town - Bari Vecchia - where matriarchs roll out sheets of pasta in open doorways footballs rattle along dusty streets and sun-wrinkled old men lay out hands of cards. The photogenic old town’s streets are crowned by the chalky white Cattedrale di San Sabino where vaulted archways pretty mosaics and a large rose window await. Wander along the ruler-straight Lungomare Promenade to breathe in fresh salty air and look up at the slowly twirling ferris wheel - take a ride for some of the best views out over Bari’s waterfront. Feeling hungry? Enjoy some local cucina povera - cooking of the poor – deeply traditional food that is simple and rich in elemental flavours. Warm focaccia bread pasted with fruity local olive oil and ear-shaped orecchiette pasta tangled with sun-gorged cherry tomatoes and creamy ricotta cheese is all on the menu. Puglia’s whitewashed ancient villages stunning beaches and laid-back down-to-earth approach to life means you’ll most likely want to explore further than just Bari. Powdery white sand beaches await at Salento - punctuated by arching rock formations. The incredible cave dwellings of Matera – 2019’s European Capital of Culture - are also easily within your grasp as is Polignano a Mare’s spectacularly scenic narrow wedge of urban beach. | |||||||
1st01 | NovNov | 202424 | Corfu, Greece | 09:00 | 18:00 | ||
Corfu town today is a vivid tapestry of cultures—a sophisticated weave, where charm, history, and natural beauty blend. Located about midway along the island's east coast, this spectacularly lively capital is the cultural heart of Corfu and has a remarkable historic center that UNESCO designated as a World Heritage Site in 2007. All ships and planes dock or land near Corfu town, which occupies a small peninsula jutting into the Ionian Sea.Whether arriving by ferry from mainland Greece or Italy, from another island, or directly by plane, catch your breath by first relaxing with a coffee or a gelato in Corfu town's shaded Liston Arcade, then stroll the narrow lanes of its pedestrians-only quarter. For an overview of the immediate area, and a quick tour of Mon Repos palace, hop on the little tourist train that runs from May to September. Corfu town has a different feel at night, so book a table at one of its famed tavernas to savor the island's unique cuisine.The best way to get around Corfu town is on foot. The town is small enough so that you can easily walk to every sight. There are local buses, but they do not thread their way into the streets (many now car-free) of the historic center. If you are arriving by ferry or plane, it's best to take a taxi to your hotel. Expect to pay about €10 from the airport or ferry terminal to a hotel in Corfu town. If there are no taxis waiting, you can call for one. 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. 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. | |||||||
2nd02 | NovNov | 202424 | At Sea | ||||
3rd03 | NovNov | 202424 | Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete, Greece | 08:00 | 23:00 | ||
Having been controlled by Arabic, Venetian and Ottoman empires over the years - it's no surprise that Heraklion is a diverse patchwork of exotic cultures and historical treasures. Celebrated as the birthplace of the Spanish Renaissance artist, El Greco, you can visit to explore the storied ruins of the Minoan empire's capital, and unearth the rich cultural treasures that Crete’s bustling modern capital has to offer. It may not be the prettiest place in Crete but Heraklion's patchwork of history bustling activity and cultural intrigue makes it the perfect change of pace. This is certainly no sleepy island fishing village and Greece's fifth-largest city is adorned with a rich collection of quality museums ancient ruins from antiquity and a lively culture of its own. A refreshing shift-up from the many quaint beach towns and fishing villages you'll encounter in the Greek islands Heraklion – also known as Iraklio - has great shopping extraordinary history and is the ideal base for ventures to the archaeological treasures of Crete. Traded by the Arabic Venetian and Ottoman empires over the years Heraklion is a multi-layered place with fascinating tales to tell. The city's impressive Venetian fortress which waits over the gently rolling waves of the gleaming Mediterranean welcomes you ashore. The sun-roasted earth outside the city hides treasures from the realms of history including the Bronze Age remnants of Europe's oldest city Knossos. A visit to the fantastic Archaeological Museum of Heraklion ties all of this history together and exhibits relics from the civilisations and eras of Crete's past. Elsewhere Daidalou's pedestrianised paving is a charming stroll through Heraklion's shops with streets branching off to café-lined plazas and twinkling fountains. Stop to try local food - like fresh feta and olive sprinkled dakos mezze – all washed down with a sample of local raki brandy. | |||||||
4th04 | NovNov | 202424 | Santorini, Greece | 08:00 | 19:00 | ||
Undoubtedly the most extraordinary island in the Aegean, crescent-shape Santorini remains a mandatory stop on the Cycladic tourist route—even if it's necessary to enjoy the sensational sunsets from Ia, the fascinating excavations, and the dazzling white towns with a million other travelers. Called Kállisti (the "Loveliest") when first settled, the island has now reverted to its subsequent name of Thira, after the 9th-century-BC Dorian colonizer Thiras. The place is better known, however, these days as Santorini, a name derived from its patroness, St. Irene of Thessaloniki, the Byzantine empress who restored icons to Orthodoxy and died in 802. You can fly conveniently to Santorini, but to enjoy a true Santorini rite of passage, opt instead for the boat trip here, which provides a spectacular introduction. After the boat sails between Sikinos and Ios, your deck-side perch approaches two close islands with a passage between them. The bigger one on the left is Santorini, and the smaller on the right is Thirassia. Passing between them, you see the village of Ia adorning Santorini's northernmost cliff like a white geometric beehive. You are in the caldera (volcanic crater), one of the world's truly breathtaking sights: a demilune of cliffs rising 1,100 feet, with the white clusters of the towns of Fira and Ia perched along the top. The bay, once the high center of the island, is 1,300 feet in some places, so deep that when boats dock in Santorini's shabby little port of Athinios, they do not drop anchor. The encircling cliffs are the ancient rim of a still-active volcano, and you are sailing east across its flooded caldera. On your right are the Burnt isles, the White isle, and other volcanic remnants, all lined up as if some outsize display in a geology museum. Hephaestus's subterranean fires smolder still—the volcano erupted in 198 BC, about 735, and there was an earthquake in 1956. Indeed, Santorini and its four neighboring islets are the fragmentary remains of a larger landmass that exploded about 1600 BC: the volcano's core blew sky high, and the sea rushed into the abyss to create the great bay, which measures 10 km by 7 km (6 mi by 4½ mi) and is 1,292 feet deep. The other pieces of the rim, which broke off in later eruptions, are Thirassia, where a few hundred people live, and deserted little Aspronissi ("White isle"). In the center of the bay, black and uninhabited, two cones, the Burnt Isles of Palea Kameni and Nea Kameni, appeared between 1573 and 1925. There has been too much speculation about the identification of Santorini with the mythical Atlantis, mentioned in Egyptian papyri and by Plato (who says it's in the Atlantic), but myths are hard to pin down. This is not true of old arguments about whether tidal waves from Santorini's cataclysmic explosion destroyed Minoan civilization on Crete, 113 km (70 mi) away. The latest carbon-dating evidence, which points to a few years before 1600 BC for the eruption, clearly indicates that the Minoans outlasted the eruption by a couple of hundred years, but most probably in a weakened state. In fact, the island still endures hardships: since antiquity, Santorini has depended on rain collected in cisterns for drinking and irrigating—the well water is often brackish—and the serious shortage is alleviated by the importation of water. However, the volcanic soil also yields riches: small, intense tomatoes with tough skins used for tomato paste (good restaurants here serve them); the famous Santorini fava beans, which have a light, fresh taste; barley; wheat; and white-skin eggplants. Breathlessly romantic and incredibly scenic the azure domes and whitewash buildings that cascade down Santorini's slopes are prime honeymoon material - and relentlessly romantic. A true gem of the Cycladic island group Santorini is startlingly pretty and its white windmills and dazzling villages are incredibly easy on the eye. Envy-inducing and evocatively beautiful Santorini's sunsets are legendary and the island is a highlight of any voyage to the Greek islands. Look out over the endless expanse of blue waves filling the massive volcanic caldera of Santorini – and absorb one of the most spectacular views in the world. The sheer rock shoulders of the caldera create an immense natural amphitheatre - so enjoy the show as you sip a local volcanic-mineral enhanced white wine and fall in love all over again. Any meal is well rounded off with the famous wine Vinsanto. The east side of the island may lack the incredible panoramas but it's ideal if all you want to do is recline on volcanic-sand beaches - which range in hues from charcoal-black to flame-red. This beautiful island was forged by powerful volcanic activity and you can learn more about the huge eruption of 1 600 BCE - which wiped out the Minoan city at Akrotiri. The eruption sank the centre of the island forming the moon-shaped topography we see now. Visit the archaeological site that has revealed and preserved the village which was lost to time below the pumice and ash. Some whisper that this destroyed town may even be the fabled Atlantis. | |||||||
5th05 | NovNov | 202424 | Piraeus, Greece, disembark the Silver Spirit | ||||
It's no wonder that all roads lead to the fascinating and maddening metropolis of Athens. Lift your eyes 200 feet above the city to the Parthenon, its honey-color marble columns rising from a massive limestone base, and you behold architectural perfection that has not been surpassed in 2,500 years. But, today, this shrine of classical form dominates a 21st-century boomtown. To experience Athens—Athína in Greek—fully is to understand the essence of Greece: ancient monuments surviving in a sea of cement, startling beauty amid the squalor, tradition juxtaposed with modernity. Locals depend on humor and flexibility to deal with the chaos; you should do the same. The rewards are immense. Although Athens covers a huge area, the major landmarks of the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods are close to the modern city center. You can easily walk from the Acropolis to many other key sites, taking time to browse in shops and relax in cafés and tavernas along the way. From many quarters of the city you can glimpse "the glory that was Greece" in the form of the Acropolis looming above the horizon, but only by actually climbing that rocky precipice can you feel the impact of the ancient settlement. The Acropolis and Filopappou, two craggy hills sitting side by side; the ancient Agora (marketplace); and Kerameikos, the first cemetery, form the core of ancient and Roman Athens. Along the Unification of Archaeological Sites promenade, you can follow stone-paved, tree-lined walkways from site to site, undisturbed by traffic. Cars have also been banned or reduced in other streets in the historical center. In the National Archaeological Museum, vast numbers of artifacts illustrate the many millennia of Greek civilization; smaller museums such as the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art Museum and the Byzantine and Christian Museum illuminate the history of particular regions or periods. Athens may seem like one huge city, but it is really a conglomeration of neighborhoods with distinctive characters. The Eastern influences that prevailed during the 400-year rule of the Ottoman Empire are still evident in Monastiraki, the bazaar area near the foot of the Acropolis. On the northern slope of the Acropolis, stroll through Plaka (if possible by moonlight), an area of tranquil streets lined with renovated mansions, to get the flavor of the 19th-century's gracious lifestyle. The narrow lanes of Anafiotika, a section of Plaka, thread past tiny churches and small, color-washed houses with wooden upper stories, recalling a Cycladic island village. In this maze of winding streets, vestiges of the older city are everywhere: crumbling stairways lined with festive tavernas; dank cellars filled with wine vats; occasionally a court or diminutive garden, enclosed within high walls and filled with magnolia trees and the flaming trumpet-shaped flowers of hibiscus bushes. Formerly run-down old quarters, such as Thission, Gazi and Psirri, popular nightlife areas filled with bars and mezedopoleia (similar to tapas bars), are now in the process of gentrification, although they still retain much of their original charm, as does the colorful produce and meat market on Athinas. The area around Syntagma Square, the tourist hub, and Omonia Square, the commercial heart of the city about 1 km (½ mi) northwest, is distinctly European, having been designed by the court architects of King Otho, a Bavarian, in the 19th century. The chic shops and bistros of ritzy Kolonaki nestle at the foot of Mt. Lycabettus, Athens's highest hill (909 feet). Each of Athens's outlying suburbs has a distinctive character: in the north is wealthy, tree-lined Kifissia, once a summer resort for aristocratic Athenians, and in the south and southeast lie Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni, with their sandy beaches, seaside bars, and lively summer nightlife. Just beyond the city's southern fringes is Piraeus, a bustling port city of waterside fish tavernas and Saronic Gulf views. 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. |
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
Grade Code | From | To | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | £17,100 | £17,100 |
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600 | £27,600 |
Expertly designed and exquisitely appointed. Ideal for entertaining friends while you cruise or enjoying a quiet dinner “at home”. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 132-142 sq.m. including veranda
Two bedroom: 175 sq.m. including veranda
Please note that the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of the suite.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Grade Code | From | To | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800 | £20,800 |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900 | £29,900 |
The name Owner's Suite says it all. A stylish apartment. Prestigious and classic. For those who seek the superlative level of space, comfort and service on board. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two-bedrooms by adjoining with Panorama Suite.
One bedroom: 1,292 sq. ft. / 120 m² including veranda
Two bedroom: 1,668 sq. ft. / 150 m² including veranda
Please note that the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of the suite.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Grade Code | From | To | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600 | £6,600 |
The Panorama Suite provides generous living space for voyagers. Located on deck 9, the Panorama offers all the comfort and attention to detail that you can expect aboard. A generous expanse of interior comforts — elegant décor, stunning marble bathroom and ample seating area, make this a cosy home away from home. The seating area of the Panorama Suite has plenty of room to relax, while large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views.
One bedroom: 334 ft² / 31 m²
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Grade Code | From | To | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700 | £14,700 |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £25,200 | £25,200 |
Stately describes the Royal Suite. Commanding and majestic. Perfect for entertaining. Enough living space to roam. The pinnacle of good living. Available as a one-bedroom configuration or as two bedrooms by adjoining with a Veranda Suite.
One bedroom: 92 sq.m. including veranda
Two bedroom: 127 sq.m. including veranda
Please note that the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of the suite.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Grade Code | From | To | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900 | £10,900 |
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900 | £19,900 |
Step onto your terrace and bask in the calm feeling of the ocean breeze. Dissolve into the comfort of your king size bed. Prepare for the evening in the beautiful marble bathroom. The upper deck location gives the most spectacular of sea views, the spacious living area allows for comfortable relaxing where cosy nights in become veritable experiences in themselves. The two-bedroom configuration of this suite makes this it the ideal option for families.
One bedroom: 69 sq.m. including veranda
Please note that the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of the suite.
Two bedroom: 100 sq.m. including veranda
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
Grade Code | From | To | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300 | £6,300 |
A quiet sanctuary. The sitting area of the Vista Suite has plenty of room to relax. Large picture windows frame panoramic ocean views. The perfect backdrop for breakfast in bed during the cruise. Some Vista Suites accommodate three guests.
One bedroom: 32 sq.m.
Please note that the 3rd guest will sleep on a comfortable sofa bed in the reception area of the suite.
Essentials
Characteristics
Furniture
Media & Communication
Onboard Services
Amenities
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
Authentic Italian recipes and the freshest, sustainable ingredients come together in this restaurant at sea.
On board this luxury cruise ship, a divine selection of Italy’s best cuisine is served à la carte in La Terrazza. Authentic recipes and the freshest ingredients come together with flair and passion — a flavourful expression of Silversea’s distinctive Italian herita ge. La Terrazza uses buffalo mozzarella from Naples, organic balsamic vinegar and olive oil from Umbria, and air-dried ham out of Parma. The Emilia-Romagna region also produces Silversea’s 24-month aged Parmigiano Reggiano, while the pasta is made daily right on board.La Terrazza is open for casual, buffet-style breakfast and lunch with indoor or al fresco dining on the outdoor terrace. During the evening, La Terrazza transforms into an à la carte traditional Italian restaurant.
Open-seating for breakfast and lunch. Reservations recommended for dinner.
Soft breezes and ocean views beckon at the Grill, especially as the sun goes down when cruise guests gather for cocktails at the outdoor bar and talk about the day’s events.
One of the healthiest cuisines to exist, The Grill features lava stone cooking at its finest. Sourced from volcanic rock and placed in an oven to reach an optimum temperature of 400˚C, The Grill invites guests to cook their food directly at their table. Place your meat, fish or vegetables on top of the grill stone or inside the soup bowl, and then simply cook to your very own taste. Every bite is cooked to perfection, time after time. With the stone cooking available in the evenings only, The Grill becomes a gourmet salad and burger bar, offering build your own burgers from the best selections of meat.
Open seating for lunch. Reservation recommended for dinner.
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
The Library on board this luxury cruise ship has an extensive selection of hardcover books, magazines, reference materials and newspapers, as well as audio listening stations. Movies are also available and can be viewed on your in-suite entertainment centre.
If you appreciate good cognac or premium cigars, be sure to visit the Connoisseur’s Corner to see the ship’s exceptional selection.
Discreet. Tasteful. Polished. If you appreciate the finer things in life, then the sophisticated touches of Connoisseur’s Corner will not disappoint. Rich and luxurious, yet airy and spacious, this indoor/outdoor venue is where you sip the finest cognac or whisky from a prestigious range and revel in the tranquil murmur of after-dinner conversation. A premium choice of cigars is also available, making this a perfect evening haven of serenity.
Whether it is for a card tournament or conference, Silversea will provide a dedicated space for the perfect guest experience.
Whatever your conference or meeting requirements, Silversea is pleased to provide a tailor-made experience. Audio-visual equipment is available and complimentary on board this luxury cruise ship.
Applaud a broad spectrum of entertainment — from full-scale production shows and classical soloists, to cultural entertainment and feature films. Throughout your voyage, this luxury cruise ship’s Venetian Lounge also presents port talks, enrichment lectures and a variety of special events.
No cruise is complete without meeting new people. Enjoy complimentary drinks and live music at the bar while meeting other guests.
What could be a more fitting name for the very heart of Silver Spirit? Central to the soul and inspiration behind Silversea’s Italian heritage, Dolce Vita is the gathering place for our savvy travellers of the world, a place where guests mingle and exchange stories and where new faces become lifelong friends. Let us spoil you with an incredible array of flawless cocktails, wines and spirits, as you relax, enjoy the evening sounds of a live pianist and enjoy “the sweet life” aboard.
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.
Return flights including luggage allowance | |||
Overseas Transfers | |||
11 nights aboard the Silver Spirit | |||
Butler Service in Every Suite | |||
Gratuities Always Included | |||
Beverages In-Suite and Throughout the Ship | |||
Gourmet Dining | |||
In Suite Dining & 24-Hour Room Service | |||
Intimate small size ships | |||
Free Wifi Throughout the Ship | |||
Free Zodiac, Land and Sea Tours & Activities & Complimentary Expedition gear | |||
Port Taxes and Fees | |||
ABTA and ATOL Protection* |
Fly/cruise package |
Date 25th Oct 2024 |
Nts 11 |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Date 25th Oct 2024 |
Nts 11 |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite £6,300pp |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Suite staterooms from | £6,300pp | ||
CV | Classic Veranda Suite | £7,000pp | |
DX | Deluxe Veranda Suite | £7,800pp | |
G1 | Grand Suite (1 Bedroom) | ||
G2 | Grand Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £27,600pp | |
O1 | Owner's Suite (1 Bedroom) | £20,800pp | |
O2 | Owner's Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £29,900pp | |
PA | Panorama Suite | £6,600pp | |
R1 | Royal Suite (1 Bedroom) | £14,700pp | |
R2 | Royal Suite (2 Bedrooms) | ||
S2 | Silver Suite (2 Bedrooms) | £19,900pp | |
SL | Silver Suite | £10,900pp | |
SV | Superior Veranda Suite | £7,400pp | |
VI | Vista Suite | £6,300pp | |
Fusion Cruises when selling travel arrangements is a trading name of The Midcounties Co-operative Ltd. Fusion Cruises is an Accredited Body Member of Midcounties Co-operative Travel Consortium. (ABTA:P6652, ATOL:6053).
Book with Confidence. We are a Member of ABTA which means you have the benefit of ABTA’s assistance and Code of Conduct.
Some of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme but ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services offered on this website. This website will provide you with information on the protection that applies in the case of each holiday and travel service offered before you make your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.caa.co.uk