Mediterranean

One of the greatest cities in human history, known for its legend, mystique and iconic history. Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great and has stories to tell about everyone from Cleopatra to Napoleon. The Pyramids of Giza, River Nile, Sphinx and the mega city of Cairo – Port Said and Alexandria are your portals to some of Egypt’s must-sees.

The old port of Alghero has a distinctive Catalan feel – dubbed as 'Little Barcelona' by its 14th century rulers. Alghero’s strong Catalan influences are revealed through its old fortifications, notably in the church of San Francesco with its colourful dome and gothic bell tower. The legacy extends to menus too, as paella features prominently amongst the charming collection of bars and restaurants dotted around the cobbled streets.

The striking coastline of Ashdod in Israel's Holy Land has witnessed the evolution of history. Revered pilgrimage sites, a 24-hour city and aromatic bazaars are all within easy reach of Ashdod. Here you will have the opportunity to explore two of the world's most celebrated cities, Bethlehem and Jerusalem.

Sun-drenched and mythic, Athens is a big and modern metropolis with inspiring world heritage marvels at its very heart. The most important city-state in ancient Greece and the birthplace of democracy is also the sprawling capital of Greece today, but most of the major archaeological and historical sites are to be found within a compact area around the Acropolis itself. Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and rightly considered to be the cradle of Western Civilization. Even a short visit of the Greek capital’s highlights, starting with the iconic Acropolis, is enough to fall under its legendary spell. And then there’s the Plaka! This enchanting, historic neighborhood curls around the bottom of the south and east slopes of the Acropolis. Cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured neoclassical townhouses and myriad shops and cafes make this the most beautiful of all Athenian neighbourhoods for a stroll.

Sun-drenched and mythic, Athens is a big and modern metropolis with inspiring world heritage marvels at its very heart. The most important city-state in ancient Greece and the birthplace of democracy is also the sprawling capital of Greece today, but most of the major archaeological and historical sites are to be found within a compact area around the Acropolis itself. Celestyal Cruises will operate its three and four night Iconic Aegean cruises to the LAVRION PORT & MARINA. Lavrion is a historic small Greek town on the outskirts of the greater Athens area and just a 10-minute drive from the world-renowned site of the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. The port and city of Lavrion is one more interesting destination worth discovering. Celestyal will operate from a new, dedicated terminal facility at Lavrion, which will provide an enhanced and expedited embarkation and disembarkation experience. The dedicated terminal will allow for the thorough implementation of the comprehensive and enhanced health protocols while ensuring that Celestyal’s intensive three-and-four-night itineraries operate flawlessly within their time sensitive schedule.

Sun-drenched and mythic, Athens is a big and modern metropolis with inspiring world heritage marvels at its very heart. The birthplace of democracy is also the sprawling capital of Greece today, but most of the major archaeological and historical sites are to be found within a compact area around the Acropolis itself. The Plaka is an enchanting, historic neighbourhood curls around the bottom of the south and east slopes of the Acropolis. Cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured neoclassical townhouses and myriad shops and cafes make this a must for a stroll. PIRAEUS is home to Europe's biggest passenger port and has many attractions including religious and historic landmarks as well as fantastic restaurants. Located only 12 km from the city of Athens. Piraeus Port has four cruise terminals - please check which terminal your cruise will be embarking at!

Delve into the Picasso Museum or Miró Foundation. Explore the genius of Gaudí too, as you survey the city from Parc Güell, witness the extraordinary Casa Mila and Casa Batlló, and marvel at his unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia. After all that sight-seeing a shady spot in one of Barcelona's numerous cafés provides the perfect vantage point for watching the colourful street performers on Las Ramblas.

The Basque city and cruise port of Bilbao in northern Spain has become one of the hottest destinations in Europe following the opening of the imaginatively-designed Guggenheim modern art gallery, which is an architectural work of avant-garde art in its own right. Until then, Bilbao was very much a working city but it has always boasted a lively old town dating from the 14th century. Through the winding alleyways of the Casco Viejo you can stop to sample tapas at the many exceptional local bars and restaurants.

You cruise right into the heart of historic Cadiz as immediately across the busy Avenida del Puerto from the Spanish port is the main square and shopping area. Cadiz dates back to the 12th century BC so is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western world but sultry Seville has long since outgrown its neighbour. La Giralda (the bell-tower next to its Gothic cathedral), is in Seville's historic Jewish quarter which also has the whitewashed houses and exquisitely coloured bougainvillea that everyone associates with this lovely city.

Cagliari is situated in southern Sardinia, Italy. This historic city overlooks the Mediterranean sea. Maybe you'll want to take a relaxing stroll around the historic centre, enjoying refreshment in one of the many cafes that line charming piazzas. Or perhaps you'll set off to explore its 13th century towers and fine museums.

With so many countries, three continents and thousands of years of history on the itinerary of our Mediterranean cruises, there are plenty of ways to discover this ancient sea. You can step into grand cities and laid-back harbours, discover lively resorts and sleepy islands, stand before vibrant modern architecture or age-old wonders.

Cruising through the Dardanelles strait - straddling Asia and Europe - Canakkale may sit at the narrowest part, but its history is one to broaden the mind. History and mythology merge in a city defined by its strategic location – Çanakkale is your entry point to the ancient city of Troy and the famous Gallipoli Battlefields. From the cruise ship you can spot the wooden Trojan horse on the vast yacht-lined waterfront promenade - serving a taster of what awaits.

An ancient city with a name to match - it was founded more than 2 200 years ago by a Carthaginian leader Hasdrubal - Cartagena is now one of Spain's busiest commercial centres.

With a fascinating history dating back 3,000 years the natural harbour of Cartagena is a major naval port due to its unique position on the Mediterranean coast. A stroll amidst Cartagena's more recent modernista-style architecture- all flamboyant curves, ornate balconies and striking mosaics- may make the ideal prelude to an asitico, the local liqueur coffee.

Welcome to cosmopolitan Casa, a name synonymous with North African mystique. Explore its busy bazaar in search of leather, ceramic and wooden souvenirs then wind down the scenic Corniche promenade which arcs along the coast. It leads to the stunning Hassan II Mosque, rising in smooth marble from a rocky outcrop crowned by a majestic 210-metre minaret.

Located between Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, this ancient city has suffered the violence of nature on several occasions, while its people have strived to rebuild it. An earthquake in 1693 resulted in the Baroque palaces evident today. Originally founded by Greek colonists, 'Katane' was later conquered by the Romans and its Roman Theatre is one of the best examples of Roman architecture to be found. Head to Catania's principal square, at the end of busy Via Etnea and you'll find most of its main points of interest nearby, including its much photographed lava statue and the Duomo.

Across the water from Gibraltar, Ceuta (pronounced they-OO-tuh) is a tiny Spanish territory that sits on the tip of Morocco. As you arrive at this ancient port, you can't miss 500-year-old Royal Walls rising from the sea. These fortifications are a favourite attraction with visitors, and the first hint that you're in for plenty of interesting architecture and history as you stroll around this compact city. Along the main street, Calle Camoens, designer shops sit beside historic buildings, including the Casa de los Dragones. Just look up to see these creatures taking flight above your head. The palm-lined streets are distinctly Spanish in style, and there are plenty of tapas bars if you're feeling peckish.

A visit to Rome is an unforgettable experience. Explore the legends of the ages: the Vatican and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Catacombs. Stroll down the Via Veneto or sip cappuccino in the Piazza di Spagna. Italy's 'Eternal City' is eternally fascinating. Throw a few coins in the Trevi Fountain and you may be back again!

Explore the legacies of Greek, Roman and Venetian Empires or simply marvel at nature's treasures on this beautiful island swathed in emerald green, lapped by turquoise waters and fringed with golden sand. The once pastel colours on Venetian buildings may have faded, but the welcoming scent of eucalyptus, fig and lemon trees are fragrant as ever.

You may give an understandable gasp of delight as you approach Corigliano Calabro on your ship. The white houses of the hilltop town look as if they've been piled higgledy-piggledy on top of each other and like they're tumbling into the sea. Climb to the castle to see its hall of mirrors, all framed in gilded stucco and hung with Bohemian crystal chandeliers from a trompe-l'oeil ceiling. And, as if your ship were not an opulent enough experience, you could always visit the nearby ancient city of Sybaris which amassed great wealth thanks to its fertile land and busy port.

Rich in history and nature - Dikili is an idyllic Turkish retreat. Beautiful Blue Flag beaches, secluded bays and therapeutic spas - rest your mind and soul. Turquoise water glitters before you and isolated bays reveal their mystical charm – a place dripping in wondrous natural sights and history. Spend some time in the sweet coastal village of Bademli, further south on the Dikili Turkey map, and enjoy the peace and quiet as you stroll along seafront promenades and relax on pristine beaches. Journey inland and you’ll also uncover incredible ruins from ancient cities that whisk you centuries back in time.

With so many countries, three continents and thousands of years of history on the itinerary of our Mediterranean cruises, there are plenty of ways to discover this ancient sea. You can step into grand cities and laid-back harbours, discover lively resorts and sleepy islands, stand before vibrant modern architecture or age-old wonders. Your cruise to the Mediterranean may be a sophisticated jaunt to French Riviera and Italy’s Renaissance treasures. It may follow the fairytale Adriatic to Croatian gems and magical Venice. You could weave among Greek Islands filled with white-washed villages or even reach the imperial splendor of the Black Sea.

Acknowledged as The Pearl of the Adriatic Dubrovnik is truly an amazing destination to visit. Its history is as rich and intriguing as the first sight of it looming out of crystalline waters is breathtaking. The Old Town was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 and it is no wonder as you discover its morning market piled with fresh flowers, cheese and fish.

Noted for being the site of Napoleon's first brief exile, Elba is the largest island within the Tuscan Archipelago and lies a mere 20km from mainland Italy. Colourful houses, forts and a Martello tower all help create a charming scene around Portoferraio, its main harbour, while the island has also developed a reputation for its wines, well worth a tasting!

A great chance to brush up on your ancient history, explore the incredible 2,000 year old remains of Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis and the Library of Celsius. Tread over the marble pathways to gaze at the goddess Nike or discover the colourful mosaic flooring in the ancient Roman homes. The palm-lined boulevard is the centre of town life with thousands of merchants offering wares to rival the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul.

Tours are from Livorno. Allow yourself to be awed by one of Tuscany's Renaissance treasures, Florence. With red tiled roofs and magnificent architecture, this is the romantic capital of Italy. Marvel at the mosaic façade and stained glass of the Duomo and soak up the charming atmosphere of Santa Croce Square, with its colourful frescoes, shops, and quaint cafés, and stroll across the bustling 14th century Ponte Vecchio Bridge. Explore the splendours of charming Pisa, and witness the iconic Leaning Tower, the quirky star of the show! The Tower began tilting during the construction in the 12th century and each year leaned a bit more! Support was added in 1810 and the tower has been in the same position ever since.

Welcome to Genoa, the capital of Liguria, and the sixth largest city in Italy. It is used by many as a gateway to the Italian Riviera, but it has plenty else to offer besides. It is a place where history comes to life, its past evidenced most strongly by a complex and sprawling old city. The old architecture and winding alleys twist and turn, taking you on a journey back to the past. However, Genoa is a destination which is also looking toward the future. It was declared a 2004 City of Culture, and has therefore undergone some transformative makeovers recently.

Grab a cable car to carry you up the ancient Pillar of Hercules for views that will leave you breathless. For the wildlife enthusiast in you there's a stop to appreciate the diverse birdlife and to meet those famous Barbary Apes, of course! Beneath Gibraltar's white cliffs grow a profusion of palm, pine, and cypress. No fewer than 600 varieties of flowers grow here, some found nowhere else on Earth.

The scenic Spanish city of Gijon is capital of the Asturias region of northern Spain, and looks over the beautiful Bay of Biscay, with the grand Picos de Europa mountain range as its inland backdrop.

Haifa is a northern Israeli port city built in tiers extending from the Mediterranean up the north slope of Mount Carmel. The city’s most iconic sites are the immaculately landscaped terraces of the Bahá'í Gardens and, at their heart, the gold-domed Shrine of the Báb.

Wander among the squares and fountains here in the island's capital and largest city, or gaze out over the azure blue waters of the Cretan Sea, as you enjoy fresh seafood in a local taverna on the promenade. Most likely, you'll seek out the immense reconstructed Minoan palace at Knossos. The incredible complex houses a warren of rooms decorated with columns and frescoes.

Now known as the clubbing capital of the Med due to its legendary nightlife, the Balearic island of Ibiza has much more than simply that to offer.You are sure to enjoy exploring the Old Quarter of its charming capital, Ibiza Town, with its 16th century citadel and fortifications rising steeply from the harbour and the Gothic Catalan cathedral, which doubles as a museum, while contemporary art is on display at the Museu d'Art Contemporani.There are more stylish designs on display in the chic fashion boutiques in the lower town where you will also find numerous restaurants, cafés and bars.If you just want to flop, head for the nearby family-friendly beaches at La Salinas and Es Cavellet.

Layers of history, tradition merging with modernity, and awe-inspiring architecture – Istanbul is like no other city in the world. Split between two continents, Europe and Asia, Istanbul is truly unique. It boasts lavish Byzantine and imperial mosques with sky-high minarets that make up the city's skyline; your first sight from the Bosphorus Strait on your Istanbul cruise. There's an endless list of must-see sights to tick off, all conveniently packed into the Sultanahmet district.

Enter the blue azure-bay Bay of Izmir, watching the lively city approach with its distinctly Turkish skyline. The Pearl of the Aegean, Izmir has a rich heritage of multicultural influences, so the cuisine and communities are endlessly inviting.

Kavala city is a beautiful balance of urban spaces, beaches and lush green foothills. Layer upon layer of history, modern restored warehouses and some of the best seafood tavernas around - step into characterful Kavala. Modern neoclassical mansions, Byzantine monuments and Islamic architecture evoke its long and varied history. Home to a whole host of religious sites that you’ll find dotted around the city, the old town is filled with multihued buildings, a castle with commanding views over the horizon and an Acropolis built on the ruins of the old Byzantine castle. Alternatively, find time for yourself in one of the perfect, tranquil beaches surrounding the city.

Was Marco Polo born here? That's the disputed claim to fame here, and you can even call in at his supposed birthplace. True or not, Korcula's exquisite medieval streets - encircled by sparkling sea on three sides, dominated by St Mark's Cathedral and home to the colourful Moreska Sword Dance - will certainly bring out the explorer in you.

Kotor is a lesser-known gem on a beautiful fjord-like gulf of the same name in Montenegro. It's a fairy-tale setting, where medieval spires rise dreamily over orange rooftops beside mountainous scenery. The landscapes grow ever more dramatic inland, not least in the Durmitor National Park, draped around the majestic Balkan Mountains.

Gateway to one of Europe’s largest open-air archaeological museums; find ancient treasures in Kusadasi. Founded by the ancient Greeks, the City of Ephesus served as one of the key centers for Christianity and, due to its strategic location, was a significant trade center of the ancient world. It remains one of the most well-preserved sights in history and is a truly memorable highlight for visitors to Turkey. Kusadasi is a city full of immaculate beaches, lively nights and shopping heaven – a fun seaside city. A huge covered bazaar stretches out from the port and the buzz from trendy seaside bars and restaurants floats through the air. Lose track of time ambling from café to café and exploring its myriad of shops and historic sites.

Christened the Crystal City and home to the shrine of St. James the Apostle in Santiago de Compostela, La Coruna is a gem on Spain's north western coast. Tantalise your taste buds as you sample Galicia's mouth-watering seafood with octopus, oysters and scallops on the menu. If your taste is for history, feast on the vista from the world's only working Roman lighthouse.

The 14th century twin towers of St Nicolas Fort and the Tour de la Chaine (named after the chain once drawn across the harbour to keep out night intruders) ensure a dramatic entrance when you cruise between them into the French Atlantic cruise port La Rochelle-Pallice. The medieval city of La Rochelle is just 10 minutes away and offers an intriguing mix of well preserved and restored historic buildings and marketplaces within a lively modern city full of bars and restaurants and with an excellent aquarium. Tickle your taste buds with a visit to the small town of Cognac and its famous Courvoisier, Hennessy and Martell cellars. Along the way, you will pass through ancient towns like Saintes with Romanesque churches, arches and arenas.

Tucked into the Ligurian coastline between Genoa and Pisa, is the pretty town of La Spezia one of Italy's most important military and commercial harbours. But it's not this that attracts so many. La Spezia is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site called Cinque Terre a collection of five coastal villages perched on the coastline.

The second largest city in Cyprus, Limassol has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel, but visit the 12th century fort where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria - which now houses a fascinating medieval museum - and you'll discover a wealth of history. Unveil the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Pafos, and the legend of Aphrodite's Rock. Explore the traditional buzukias, Limassol's delightful taverns with entertaining live music, or acquaint your tastebuds with the popular local dish, moussaka.

Portugal's capital spreads its ancient sites on seven steep hillsides that overlook the Tagus River. Feast your eyes on St. George's Castle which overlooks the city atop the highest hill, or the countless balconies ablaze with geraniums and wrought iron lamps that light up the medieval Alfama quarter. Wonder up to the Bairro Alto where you may hear the sorrowful fado singers ring out from cafés.

Allow yourself to be awed by one of Tuscany’s Renaissance treasures, Florence. With red tiled roofs, tiny shops and magnificent architecture, this is the romantic capital of Italy. Marvel at the mosaic façade and stained glass of the Duomo, gaze up at the tilting bell tower of Pisa and soak up the sight of the beautiful gold and silver workshops huddled together over the River Arno.

The birthplace of Picasso and known as Málaga the Beautiful, Másaga's privileged location has attracted travellers, merchants, artists and explorers for centuries who have left their mark on this cosmopolitan city. It is the gateway to the beaches of Torremolinos, the exclusive clubs and marina of Marbella and Puerto Banus and its striking old quarter by the cathedral offers a relaxed atmosphere with spectacular views.

The fortifications at Malta's Grand Harbour speak volumes about her past, indeed her reputation for valour during the Second World war earned her the George Cross and there aren't too many islands you can say that of!Mosta and Medina (the silent city) will vie for your attention if you want to go wandering.

Only three miles from mainland Italy, Messina sits on Sicily's North-Eastern tip under Mt Etna's unerring gaze. Set your watches! One of Messina's undoubted attractions is the astronomical clock housed inside a soaring bell tower on the Piazza del Duomo. Its midday show of bronze mythological figures and roaring lions is a spectacle to behold.

Dreamlike volcanic landscapes, legendary beaches and quaint fishing villages – Milos island is dramatic in every sense.

With so many countries, three continents and thousands of years of history on the itinerary of our Mediterranean cruises, there are plenty of ways to discover this ancient sea. You can step into grand cities and laid-back harbours, discover lively resorts and sleepy islands, stand before vibrant modern architecture or age-old wonders.

A real vision of Greek island beauty, Mykonos is a sight to behold, with the cobalt blue Aegean waters that wash around its border onto gold sand beaches. Inland, white sugar-cube houses and red roofed churches add to the picturesque appeal. Meander through the jumble of tiny streets, where bougainvillea, clematis and geraniums cascade from balconies. No wonder it was such a favourite of Aristotle.

Sail into the beautiful Bay of Naples with its spectacular views of Capri and Ischia islands. This delightful city - Napoli to the Italians - has something for everyone, from ancient churches and universities, stunning parks, to scrumptious restaurants. A visit to the Museo Archeologico Nazionale to see an abundance of mosaics from the buried city of Pompeii is a must.

Step back in time almost 3,000 years ago, where ancient glory awaits at Olympia: the birthplace of the Olympic games. The marble starting blocks are still visible where 20,000 spectators once stood to watch the Olympians. The eternal flame of Attis casts its unwavering gaze over the site, and today sends off the torch on its journey.

Let your inner-photographer loose in Oporto, a city full of character, notably its exquisite blue and white tiles especially those that so beautifully grace the exteriors of the Carmo and Capela das Almas churches. Leave an afternoon to explore the medieval Ribiera district, snap cask-laden wooden boats and the iron Dom Luis Bridge that spans the River Douro.

Arriving in Mallorca's capital, Palma, you'll find a vibrant city of boutiques, cafés and markets in medieval lanes, all under the watchful gaze of its immense and photogenic gothic sandstone cathedral. Beyond Palma, the island's gorgeous coast shelters beautiful coves, calm harbours and the lavish villas of the rich and famous.

Renowned for its religious history, Patmos is a picturesque Greek island that boasts hidden beaches, untouched landscapes and an authentic atmosphere. A dreamlike aura, volcanic landscapes and sacred sites; fall in love with an idyllic off-the-beaten-track island. Situated in the Aegean Sea, Patmos is where Saint John had the visions that inspired the Book of Revelation. For this reason, the island has been famous since early Christian times and is still a major pilgrimage destination.

Row upon row of ferries, fishing boats and luxury yachts that stretch out as far as the eye can see – Piraeus welcomes you to the ancient city of Athens.

These cruises offer as much flexibility as you like, allowing you to create your own holiday. So, choose simply to cruise only leaving you to arrange travel to and from the ship. Perfect if you want to explore your country of embarkation or disembarkation a little more. Or, leave everything to us. For a competitive supplement, we'll arrange all your flights and transfers so you can relax and look forward to your holiday. If you are intending on travelling independently in order to visit relatives or explore a destination in more depth, we can still take care of your flight arrangements.

Propriano is the midpoint between Bonifacio, to the south, and Corsica’s capital Ajaccio, the north, which overlooks the Gulf of Valinco. Marvel at the imposing Church of Notre Dame de la Misericorde. From Propriano, you can explore the island’s wealth of lovely beaches, charming villages and rugged scenery. Corsicans lived under the rule of the Republic of Genoa for almost five hundred years up until a brief period of independence from 1755. France then conquered the island in 1769, and it remains one of France’s 18 regions, even if many strands of its culture are more Italian than French. You’ll notice this in its cuisine and language, which is closely related to Italian, especially in the north. For a glimpse into traditional Corsican life, head to one of Corsica’s most enchanting towns, Sartène. Its tall, grey granite houses seem to extend out of the high ridge it has occupied since mediaeval times. Orange rooftops and a backdrop of tooth-like peaks create a fairy-tale impression, and its narrow cobbled lanes invite discovery. This part of the island is also likely to intrigue wine connoisseurs, with 40 acres of vineyards spread across the countryside, and the opportunity to sample the local reds. Propriano itself dates mainly from the early 19th century, and has an attractive centre of sand-coloured buildings with terracotta roofs, all overlooked by the Church of Notre Dame de la Misericorde. The scenic harbour is a mixture of modest fishing boats and exclusive yachts, while there are some excellent beaches nearby. You could always visit the island’s capital, Ajaccio, where Napoleon was born in 1769. It’s even possible to step inside his family home, the Maison Bonaparte, now a museum. The photogenic clifftop towns of Bonifacio and Porto Vecchio are both also within reach along the coast. Should you decide to devote your day to Corsica’s scenery, there are plenty of highlights. The generous gifts nature has bestowed upon the island include the Vizzavona Forest, the Prunelli Gorges or the Calanches, a surreal landscape of dramatic red granite rock formations plunging towards sea that form a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Expect a warm welcome to Rhodes, with its magnificent scenery and flawless beaches, that legend has it was once blessed by Apollo with sunshine and beauty. With a rich medieval history there is plenty to explore at Rhodes, from the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to the Grand Master's Palace is famed for its superb mosaic floors.

Tours are from Civitavecchia. A visit to Rome is an unforgettable experience. Explore the legends of the ages: the Vatican and Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Catacombs. Stroll down the Via Veneto or sip cappuccino in the Piazza di Spagna. Italy's Eternal City is eternally fascinating. Throw a few coins in the Trevi Fountain and you may be back again!

Hugging the craggy cliff face along the Tyrrhenian Sea is the lively city of Salerno, its white-washed buildings piled higgledy-piggledy on top of each other, looking almost ready to topple into the sea. Yet this preserved Italian city has survived earthquakes, plagues and world war bombings. These knocks bring bags of character to the tiny passageways and hidden corners of the Historic Old Town, where trattorias serving fresh seafood and pasta e fagioli sit happily alongside trendy neon-lit bars.

When you arrive by sea, there is no confusing the island of Santorini. Few islands have the power to captivate the way Santorini does. Gorgeous and cosmopolitan, it’s famous for that classic Greek island look with white painted houses clustered along narrow winding lanes, perched atop reddish-black volcanic cliffs that tumble down more than a thousand feet to the wide caldera. It’s easy to see how this island, the pearl of the Cycladic archipelago, can lay claim to being the source of the legend of Atlantis, either. Santorini, or “Thera” in Greek, is most celebrated for the dramatic views of its volcanic caldera, formed during a massive eruption around 1646 B.C. That eruption shook up the island - making its centre actually collapse - but also created some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

You cruise right into the heart of historic Cadiz as immediately across the busy Avenida del Puerto from the Spanish port is the main square and shopping area. Cadiz dates back to the 12th century BC so is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the western world but sultry Seville has long since outgrown its neighbour. La Giralda (the bell-tower next to its Gothic cathedral), is in Sevilles historic Jewish quarter which also has the whitewashed houses and exquisitely coloured bougainvillea that everyone associates with this lovely city.

Sibenik is a historic city on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, and sits at the mouth of the River Krka. It is part of an Adriatic archipelago of 242 islands, islets and reefs lapped by crystal clear waters. Though lesser-known than some of the other cities along Croatia’s coast, Sibenik possesses much picturesque charm. Jutting into the deep natural harbour, it is a pleasing jumble of terracotta rooftops guarded by four imposing fortresses and mighty walls. Within these walls you will find lanes and passages winding up the hill and around the mediaeval centre.

A vast third-century compound, The Palace of Diocletianis is Split’s main attraction. Its fortresslike complex houses an arched entrance court, temples, mausoleums, statues and even Egyptian Sphinxes. Gorge on an emperor’s banquet of delicious local fish and cheeses on Dalmatia’s coast – it’s a fitting feast after exploring the white Roman palace.

St Nazaire is renowned for its ship building (Cunard's Queen Mary II was built here in 2003) after the port became the departure and arrival point for France's first transatlantic crossings in 1862. To compare the facilities of Oceana with those of early cruise ships, visit Escal'Atlantic (housed in the impenetrable German submarine base) and you'll step off one ship straight onto another - it's a life-size reconstruction of an early ocean liner. You can also explore L'Espadon, a real submarine used by the French navy from 1960-1985.

Tangiers is located just 20 miles from Spain across from the Strait of Gibraltar. A bustling city, filled with shops, beaches and historical landmarks. Take in the views along the beachfront Ave Mohamed VI, and sample the local mint tea. Or visit the Kasbah Museum, located in the former Sultan's palace. The Souk in the Medina is also worth a visit with brasswork, leather goods, carpets, clothing and spices on offer.

The thick Byzantine walls guarding Thessaloniki give way to an inviting mix of architectural landscapes with winding cobbled streets. Approaching the port, you will be captivated by a city that radiates culture and sophistication bathed in golden Greek sunshine. Palm-lined avenues house glamorous shops and gourmet restaurants. Beautiful churches appear from every corner, seasonal markets sell colourful local produce and shaded spots on Aristotelous Square are where you can sit back with a homemade ice cream and watch the world go by.

Better known as Frances main naval base than as a cruise port, Toulon has unexpected charm and is all the better for not being a major tourist destination as you can wander through the cobbled streets of its delightful old town untroubled by crowds. Look out for the superb maritime and art museums, the magnificent Romanesque cathedral and Le Marche, where fresh flowers, fruit and vegetables are bought to market every day. Ship buffs also have the bonus of watching the comings and goings of the French warships around the harbour. The best view of the old town and the harbour is from Mont Faron which overlooks both - take the funicular up from Boulevard Amiral Vence.

Trieste is the capital city of the Friuli Venezia Giulia region in northeast Italy. Founded by the Ancient Romans, it stands on the Adriatic coast below the Karst Plateau, a few kilometers from the border with Slovenia.

An ancient city, Valencia is an exhilarating mix of history, art and intellectual activity. Brave the 200 steps to the summit of the amphitheatre and you'll be rewarded with a scene of orange rooftops and blue-domed churches. Valencia's rich Hispanic culture is visible everywhere in art and architecture reflecting Roman, Visigoth, Moorish, and Aragonese traditions.

Can any city match up to the romance of Venice? As the warm sunset casts its balmy glow over the charming canals it's hard to imagine it possible. Explore the maze of markets and cafés by gondola before heading to Harry's Bar to sip its famous Bellini cocktail. It won't take long on one of Venice' peaceful canals, beneath a beautiful bridge, for you to fall for this extraordinary city's spell.

An important fishing and commercial port, Vigo's shaded squares and cobbled streets make for a delightful amble around this old fishing town. First settled by Celts circa 600 BC, the Celtic legacy lingers on in Galicia's old legends and in the bagpipes played on festive occasions. Seafood is definitely on the menu here in one of the plentiful restaurants in the harbour.

Summer retreat of ancient gods, Mt Pelion now provides a beautiful backdrop for Volos, with its waterfront promenade, lively bars and Archaeological Museum. Volos is also a handy excursion point for Meteora - which translates as suspended in the air - the dramatic, inaccessible cliffs topped with photogenic medieval monasteries.

Zadar is a historic town - explore Roman ruins and medieval churches, or enjoy a relaxed afternoon in one of its many cosmopolitan cafes.

Zakynthos is a true vision of Ionian beauty. Turquoise waters, whitewashed villages and green countryside combine to dazzling effect all over the island. Its soft sands include the emblematic Shipwreck Beach, while the surrounding sea is home to turtles and the stunning Blue Caves where reflected sunlight creates a magical scene.