10 Night Greece, Egypt & Sicily Cruise

Athens offers a looking glass back in time into Greece's powerful ancient civilization. Art lovers, epicureans and history buffs will be delighted by the ancient ruins, museums and tavernas of this picturesque town. Just 10 minutes from the port, you'll find the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, filled with sculptures from the Bronze Age to the Romans. Walk to the Zea Harbour to discover how the Hellenic Maritime Museum will bring to life the grandeur of ancient Greece's naval capacities. Jump onboard an Athens cruise and relax at the small harbor of Mikrolimano, enjoying a meal of grilled octopus and chilled white wine at a small restaurant overlooking the sea.

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.

Whether you visit Heraklion, Crete to admire the remains of an ancient civilisation or simply to soak in the rays on some of the best beaches in Europe, the city is guaranteed to delight and amaze you. Visiting the 3,000-year-old Palace of Knossos is like travelling back to the time of the Minoans, while exploring the Venetian-era Koules Fortress will allow you to learn about history while taking in sweeping coastal vistas. Crete's coast is also magnificent. You can sun yourself on Amoudara Beach during the day, then watch the sunset from horseback as you ride down Karteros Beach.

Extravagant and vibrant, Palermo invites you into an array of flavours, colours and bustling streets. Set in a peaceful bay surrounded by Sicily's fertile basin Conca d'Oro, named for the golden colour of the orange groves, the city bears traces of historic invasions by the Arabs, Greeks, Romans, Spanish and Normans. Head to La Vucciria market to sample almonds, marzipan, spices, peppercorns and candied fruits. Then, explore the historic centre – visit the Cathedral, which dates back to 600 AD and features Gothic, Moorish and Baroque architectural elements. Then, take the short drive to Mt Pellegrino, where you can trek up the granite cobbled hiking path and take in the refreshing greenery of the natural reserve.

It’s easy to see why Barcelona is the most-visited city in Spain. As the capital of the country’s Catalonia region, this cityscape’s cultural mosaic pieces together a 2,000-year-old hodge-podge of sun-drenched beaches, cutting edge architecture and a world-renowned dining and drinking scene. Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi left his modernist handprint all over the city, while medieval treasures linger in historic Gothic Quarter squares. Get lost in the whimsical gardens of Park Guell or savour a chef-led Catalan cooking class. Browse art collections dedicated to Picasso and Miro – or ride a cable car to the top of Montjuic Hill, relishing citywide views along the way.