12 Night Greece, Egypt & Italy

As the capital of Greece and one of Europe’s most bustling cities, Athens is powered by 5,000 years of history. At night, the city of Athens glows from afar, light reflecting off the ancient ruins. Today travelers flock from around the world to experience its history while on cruises from Athens. After all, the art, theatre, architecture, and philosophy of Athens had ripple effects through the fabric of entire civilizations. Take in thousands of years of history through timeless excursions while on taking a cruise from Athens. The departure port of Piraeus is one of the busiest commercial ports in the world, servicing many Mediterranean cruises, and sits on a natural, sandy bay where local Athenians often relax on summer weekends. Piraeus offers travelers stopping through on their Greek island cruises from Athens opportunity to explore, shop, and eat traditional Greek dishes. A Greek island cruise from Athens wouldn’t be complete without seeing the metropolis’ major sites—the unforgettable Acropolis, the Parthenon, a hike up Mount Lycabettus, or tours of museums containing antiquity’s greatest treasures dating back to the 5th century BC. Though Athens is a city of ruins, it’s the very essence of modern Greece.

Here on the island of Santorini, you’ll find a classic Greek seascape—whitewashed houses accented by sea-blue roofs. This is a treasure trove for both professional and amateur archeology buffs, with sites that include tombs that date back to the 9th century and the sanctuary of Apollo.

Founded by its namesake, Alexander the Great, in 332 B.C., Alexandria has been home to many historical figures, including Cleopatra, Mark Antony, Julius Caesar and Euclid. Today the city has a distinctly Mediterranean feel, perhaps a leftover of its ancient Roman connection. The charming seaside promenade, colonial buildings and wide avenues make it an exotic, romantic destination.

Founded by its namesake, Alexander the Great, in 332 B.C., Alexandria has been home to many historical figures, including Cleopatra, Mark Antony, Julius Caesar and Euclid. Today the city has a distinctly Mediterranean feel, perhaps a leftover of its ancient Roman connection. The charming seaside promenade, colonial buildings and wide avenues make it an exotic, romantic destination.

Like many ports in this part of the world, archeological ruins dating back to antiquity are found everywhere. There are also hundreds of gorges around the island and over 1,500 land and sea caves, including Elefantos, noted for its remarkable white and red stalactites.

The Amalfi Coast is one of the jewels of Italy’s long, boot-shaped coastline. Located on the southwest side of the country, the Amalfi Coast is nestled against the teal blue of the Atlantic Ocean and is a favorite destination for Italy cruise passengers. The region is home to mesmerizing hilltop towns with colorful buildings and relaxing beaches with unforgettable views. On an Amalfi Coast cruise, you’ll dock in Salerno, the largest city along the coast. Spend your time in port visiting the top attractions of this beautiful coastline, strolling through the picturesque streets, and savoring local delicacies.

Civitavecchia, Rome's seaport, is the gateway for excursions into the Eternal City. Marvel at the Sistine Chapel and Michaelangelo's 'Pieta' in St. Peters Basillica, one of the largest churches ever built.Visit the centuries-old Pantheon and the Colosseum where gladiators fought.

Formerly a sleepy Spanish city, Barcelona has recently been reborn as an eclectic fusion of the modern and medieval. Seek inspiration from the creations of its modernist architect, Antonio Gaudí, or the Picasso Museum. Or, take in the breathtaking cathedrals in the Gothic Quarter.