Greek & Adriatic Cruise Ports

Athens (Piraeus), Greece

PORT OF DEPARTURE

Explore the harbors of Piraeus, which showcase the Golden Age of Greek history. Visit the Hellenic Maritime Museum and the ship sheds — here, you can see how ancient ships were crafted. In the charming Castella district, you'll find some small, quaint shops and cafes amid the elegant neoclassical buildings. Head to Sotiros Street to find brand name stores, alongside smaller local shops.

TAKE ME TO CHURCH

The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.

MEDITERRANEAN ROMANCE

Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.

BOATS AND THE BRONZE AGE

The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.

LOCAL CUISINE

Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.

SHOPPING

You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.

INSIDER'S TIPS

The yellow trolley bus (number 20) will take you from the port to Passalimani, going through Castella and ending at the Metro station.
Traffic can be chaotic, so be cautious at all times.

Mykonos, Greece

PORT OF CALL

Nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades archipelago, Mykonos pulses with irrepressible energy. With its powder white houses, sparkling blue waters, and red-hot nightlife, The Island of the Winds is as colorful as the people who call the island home. You can walk narrow marble pathways laced with purple bougainvillea blooms, or go cycling on two wheels past off-the-path Ano Mera village. Explore Greece’s maritime history at Armenistis Lighthouse, and check out the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join in the raucous beach party on Super Paradise’s shimmering sands, or watch the sun burn out beyond an Aegean horizon from an open-air seaside taverna.

COASTAL COSMOPOLITAN

Mykonos’ main town of Hora is a mixture of classic Cycladic architecture and buzzing street culture. Admire the stark-white Panagia Paraportiani chapel and meet the town’s famous pelican Pétros. See the island’s trademark 16th-century windmills spinning high above the port. Then explore the strip of medieval houses and waterfront cafés in Little Venice.

INTO THE BLUE

The multihued waters surrounding Mykonos are perfect for surfing and scuba diving, while prevailing winds invite sailing and windsurfing. Get your fill of aquatic thrills, then hit the beach— Psaroú for family fun, Agrari for seaside serenity, Paradise for epic beach parties, or Elia for a blend of all three.

DIG UP THE PAST

Enjoy a short boat trip to the island of Delos, a sacred Greek archeological site and the mythological birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Comb the crumbling ruins of its ancient theater, Doric temples, markets, and mosaic-laced houses— plus the Terrace of Lions statues and amphitheater.

LOCAL CUISINE

Some of the Mediterranean’s most delectable restaurants are found on Mykonos. Its trademark kopanisti (peppered cheese) is a must-try, while you can’t go wrong with classic kremmydopita (onion pie). Enjoy fresh seafood by the sea— or a glass of sweet Heliophilos wine in a beach bar. Then for dessert go for amygdalota (almond cookies) or melopita (honey cake).

SHOPPING

Hora is a hub for top designer fashions, including the world-famous Soho-Soho clothing boutique. Family-owned and operated Greek Light sells handmade jewelry with Greece’s traditional maiandros symbol. And don’t leave Mykonos without buying a pair of house-designed sandals or hand-loomed weavings— scarves, rugs or tablecloths.

INSIDER'S TIPS

Hop on one of the many seawater-taxi services around the island for transport to the beaches.
With frequent openings and closings, listen to locals and other travelers to find the island’s best restaurants.

Chania (Souda), Crete

PORT OF CALL

Chania is rich in remnants of the past. Start your adventure in Crete's second-largest city at Venetian Harbor, the entry to the old port. Soak in the vibe while wandering the narrow streets lined with shops and waterfront restaurants serving local fare like zucchini fritters and sardines stuffed with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes. Then head to Souda Bay, a strategic commercial and military harbor since ancient times, where you'll find the Aptera Fortress and the oldest Ottoman building in Crete. Cruise to Crete and stop into Archeological Museum of Chania, with artifacts from neolithic to Roman times. Or splash around in the translucent waters of Fallasarna, a beach surrounded by olive groves.

ACTIVE ARCHAEOLOGY

One of ancient Crete's most important city-states, Aptera sits on a hill just south of the bay, with two seaports at the entrance to Souda Bay. Check out this active archaeological site to learn about new discoveries that shed light on the most powerful city of western Crete during Minoan times.

MOUNTAIN MONASTERIES

Stroll the sandy beach at Stavros Bay, where Anthony Quinn danced in 1964's "Zorba the Greek." Explore the three monasteries — Agias Triada, Gouverneto and Katholika — set on this rocky peninsula. Discover Bear Cave on the footpath leading to Katholiko built into the cliff.

HIKE TO THE GORGE

At 18 kilometers, Samaria is the longest of the many deep gorges that cut into Crete's mountains. The entrance is 42 kilometers south of Chania, and you can hike independently or with a guide. On the way, you might run into some kri kri, the wild goats found only on Crete. The gorge opens out to the black-sand beach at Ayia Roumeli.

LOCAL CUISINE

Restaurants with fresh seafood abound at the Chania waterfront. Local signatures of savory lamb, mini cheese pies and fresh vegetables also bring something special to the plate. And don't miss the dacos, a traditional Cretan bread served with tomato, mizithra cheese and rivers of virgin Cretan olive oil.

SHOPPING

Chania's Old Town is packed with unique shops selling handmade ceramic kitchenware and decorations with classic geometric designs, one-of-a-kind jewelry made from pearl and coral — and of course, the local extra virgin olive oil, which is typically cold-pressed and retains distinctive flavors of green apple and fresh-cut grass. Take the time to explore the narrow, less-traveled streets to find both bargains and unique items during your Crete cruise.

INSIDER'S TIPS

Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.
With a history dating back to around 2,200 BC, the Archaeological Museum housed in the Church of San Francesco stores artifacts dating from Neolithic to Roman times.
Head to the Old Harbor, filled with wooden fishing boats and lined with cafes and restaurants, and to see remarkable changes of light throughout the day.

Argostoli, Greece

PORT OF CALL

The Ionian island of Cephalonia in postcards portrays idyllic beaches, forest-clad mountains and crystal clear waters. But adventure in its capital city of Argostoli is much more than meets the eye. This small town comes full of friendly locals— and visitors quickly fall for its traditional Greek lifestyle and spectacular natural attractions, like the Koutavos Lagoon’s nature preserve. Stroll along De Bosset Bridge, where endangered sea turtles swim out to sea. Admire Vallianos Square’s grand bell tower and taste Robola wine in a local vineyard. Rumble in a Jeep to the summit of Mount Ainos, or experience the thrill of coasteering down rock faces dangling over the Ionian Sea.

ADVENTURE NEST EGG

Explore Koutavos Lagoon, a shallow-water salt marsh and breeding site for loggerhead sea turtles. Take a stroll or a bicycle ride around the lagoon’s paved pathways. Rent an electric boat or splash along in a pedal boat. See the feeding grounds of aquatic birds— and keep your eyes peeled for swimming turtles.

NATURE ON DISPLAY

Get a first-hand look at Cephalonia’s swallow holes, where seawater flows under the island. Row a boat into underground Melissani Lake to see its magnificent shafts of sunlight. Then enter nearby Drogarati Cave, a large network of underground chambers known for its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites.

WISH YOU WERE HERE

Bask in the postcard-perfect beaches of Cephalonia, complete with warm, impossibly blue waters and shimmering golden sands. Sunbathe beside Myrtos’ sky-high limestone cliffs. Relax in the beach bars lining Makry Gialos. Enjoy thrilling watersports from Lassi’s popular shoreline— or dine on fresh Ionian seafood in a restaurant overlooking Avithos Beach.

LOCAL CUISINE

Many recipes in Argostoli have been passed down through generations via family cookbooks. The rich Cephalonian meat pie is a must-try— or savor classics like stifado (beef stew), moussaka (eggplant casserole) and exohiko (lamb-stuffed phyllo pockets). Fresh octopus and squid are abundant in the surrounding waters, while wineries outside of town are known for their dry white Robola and sweet Mavrodaphne dessert wine.

SHOPPING

Lithostroto, in the heart of Argostoli, is lined with stylish boutiques and kitschy souvenir shops. Garbis and Tzannatos are both family-owned jewelry stores, while several local retailers sell one-of-a-kind ceramics. For tasty souvenirs, buy local golden honey, olive oil, white Robola wine or red Calliga cava.

INSIDER'S TIPS

Be sure to settle your fare before riding in a taxi, as many drivers don’t use their meters.
The KTEL bus is a great option for traveling to the island’s most remote beaches and villages.

Kotor, Montenegro

PORT OF CALL

Looking at a map of Europe, you might be forgiven for missing Kotor — a tiny port in the already-tiny country of Montenegro. But from the moment your Kotor cruise docks, you'll enter a larger-than-life world of mighty forts and towering sea cliffs, the air filled with the refreshing smell of the ocean. With a Montenegro cruise, you can explore the attractions inside Kotor's fortified Old City, one of the Mediterranean's best-preserved medieval towns. Don't miss the Cathedral of St. Tryphon, an ornate church first consecrated in 1166. Then, scale St. John's Fortress — the hilltop fortifications, dating back to the 6th century, offer the best views of the city, the harbor and the surrounding mountains.

OLD-TOWN EXPLORATION

After entering through the Sea Gate, which dates back to 1555, discover all the attractions inside Kotor's compact Old Town. Say your prayers at the 11th-century St. Tryphon's Cathedral or in front of St. Nicolas Church, one of Kotor's best examples of Orthodox architecture. Alternatively, learn about the long history of seafaring in this important port at the Maritime Museum, which is housed within a Baroque-era palace.

FORT HIKE

Want to get your blood pumping? Hike up the Fortifications of Kotor, a serpentine wall and UNESCO World Heritage site that protected Kotor during its violent past. Reaching the top, which not only affords you a panorama of Kotor Bay but also the iconic Church of Our Lady of Health, takes about an hour if you hike at a moderate pace. Follow signs throughout the Old Town to find the trailhead, or simply ask a friendly local.

GAIN ANOTHER PERSPECTIVE

Want to enjoy a great view of Kotor and not get winded? Take a taxi or public bus across the bay to Prcanj, where you can see Kotor (and the fortifications rising above it) from across Kotor Bay with your Montenegro cruise. If the water is calm, you'll notice in its reflection that the Fortifications of Kotor form a heart shape — that should make for a worthy photo.

LOCAL CUISINE

Not surprisingly, seafood is the star of the culinary show in Kotor. Head to the Old Town to enjoy Montenegrin dishes like octopus salad or mussels stew. Or seek out the local favorite "black risotto," named for the color it takes from the ink of the cuttlefish that flavors the dish.

SHOPPING

Shop a quirkier take on traditional Kotor souvenirs with a visit to Cats of Kotor, which features cat-themed Montenegro keepsakes. Cruise to Montenegro and stop in at Efesya Souvenir, where you can explore handmade ceramics, jewelry, lighting fixtures and textiles made by artisans from in and around Kotor.

INSIDER'S TIPS

The stone paths of Kotor's Old Town are well-worn — and slick. If you're wearing flip-flops, walk slowly and firmly so that you don't fall.
Head to the side streets off the main square for more local, less tourist-driven spots to eat and shop.

Split, Croatia

PORT OF CALL

Lying on the Adriatic Sea's eastern shore, Split is known for its terracotta roofs, whitewash buildings, palm tree-lined promenade and azure waters. Split has a long history, as it's home to Diocletian's Palace and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, which were built for the Roman emperor in the 4th century. Always buzzing with tourists, Split balances its historic setting with a plethora of modern restaurants, bars and shops. Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, Split receives over 2,600 hours of sunshine every year. Jump onboard a Croatia cruise and take advantage of its sunny weather by exploring its beautiful beaches — most namely Bacvice and Kastelet Beaches — year-round.

DISCOVER DIOCLETIAN'S PALACE

One of the world's most dominant Roman ruins, Diocletian's Palace (and its nearby cathedral) was constructed over 10 years in the mid-4th century. There are 220 buildings within its boundaries, which include homes, bars, hotels and cafes. The palace's cellar was used in season four of Game of Thrones, as Daenerys' Throne Room.

AIM FOR THE ADRIATIC

Split is home to both sandy and pebbly beaches, which have calm turquoise waters. Radisson Blu Resort manages Trstenik Beach, which has umbrellas and sun lounges. Bacvice is the most popular and central beach option. About a 20-minute walk from Split is Kastelet Beach and its beachfront bars, too.

ISLAND HOP

Although Split is beautiful, make the most of your time on the Croatian coast and visit one of its neighbors. Island spot on your breezy catamaran ride from Split to Hvar, which only takes one hour. On the island, bike along the Stari Grad Plain and visit Stari Grad and its historic buildings, including Tvrdalj Castle. Meanwhile, Brac Island is only 50 minutes from Split and is home to beautiful beaches, such as Punta Rata and Zlatni Rat.

LOCAL CUISINE

Split's cuisine is a mix of Croatian and Italian specialties. Located in Diocletian Palace's western gate, Poseidon Restaurant serves fresh seafood such as octopus, fish and oysters, and black cuttlefish risotto, a traditional Croatian dish that's made with cuttlefish ink. Along the Riva visit Brasserie on 7, with its delicious platters of prawns, clams and tuna, as well as charcuterie and cheese.

SHOPPING

A traditional Croatian souvenir is a licitar heart — a unique way to show someone you loved them in the 16th century. They're bright red and edible, but most people use them today as Christmas decorations. To remember your cruise to Split, Croatia, visit Break Time for unique nautical-themed bracelets.

INSIDER'S TIPS

With Split's Mediterranean climate, always remember your sunscreen year-round.
A 10 percent gratuity is expected when dining out in Split.

Ravenna (Venice), Italy

PORT OF RETURN

A trip to Italy isn’t complete without time spent in Venice. The iconic city is everything you imagine and more. And it’s just over 2 hours from your cruise port in Ravenna — so extending your adventure to explore The Floating City is definitely worth your while. Discover stunning architecture views everywhere you turn. Wander through legendary sites like the Bridge of Sighs and Doge’s Palace. And indulge in cicchetti (Venetian appetizers) paired with a refreshing Bellini. It’s the perfect chance to take Venice off your bucket list.

A floating jewel among Italy’s dynamo cities, Venice captivates in unexpected ways. Spanning over 100 islands, its maze of canals winds around world-renowned sights like San Marco Campanile— and tucked-away adventures loom beyond every backstreet corner. With no roads, the City of Bridges is best explored by gondola or on foot. Admire Palazzo Ducale’s pink marble colonnades and explore the city’s political life in Doge’s Palace. View Venetian masterworks in Gallerie dell'Accademia or relish Italian opera in Teatro La Fenice. From sunning along the Adriatic to shopping in waterfront markets to engaging in a Venetian Carnevale mask-making workshop, Venice’s serene waterscape overflows with adventure.

IN GOOD CAMPANILE

Discover the heart of Venice in Piazza San Marco, home to outdoor cafés and flocks of hungry pigeons. Enter San Marco Basilica to admire its Byzantine architecture and golden mosaics. Then take an elevator to the top of the 320-foot-tall Campanile bell tower for rewarding views of Venice.

PADDLE THROUGH THE AGES

A boat cruise is a must-do when visiting the City of Canals. Relax in a gondola, as you’re rowed along the Grand Canal and under the stone-arch Rialto Bridge. Paddle your own kayak through the Venetian lagoon. Or take the motorized Vaporetto waterbus around neighboring islands.

SEE HOW IT’S MADE

Travel to the offshore island of Murano to go behind the scenes in a historical glass-blowing factory. Watch local artisans create one-of-a-kind glassworks, using techniques dating from the 13th century. You can even bring home your own masterpiece from one of the island’s glass showrooms.

LOCAL CUISINE

Fresh-off-the-boat seafood from the surrounding lagoon highlights many Venetian menus. Try fritto misto (lightly fried seafood) or risotto frutti di mare (fruit of the sea). Afternoon cicchetti (small plates) come in the form of meatballs and bruschetta, while baicoli (thin oval cookies) and fregolotta (almond cake) satisfy dessert lovers. Enjoy a bellini in Harry’s Bar, birthplace of the Italian cocktail.

SHOPPING

A string of souvenir kiosks borders the Grand Canal, but roam the backstreets to shop artisan studios. Pick up authentic Venetian pearl jewelry, marbled paper travel journals and long-nosed carnival masks. Burano is known for its handmade lace products, while hand-blown Murano glass comes in the form of vases, jewelry and housewares.

INSIDER'S TIPS

The Vaporetto water bus runs regular routes along the Grand Canal and between the city’s islands, offering a low-cost way to travel around town.
Keep an eye out for menus dotted with asterisks, noting their seafood is frozen, not fresh.