Ancient Athens to Barcelona Cruise Itinerary
Day 01 – Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Athenians don’t live in the past. Ahead of its time, Athens exudes glamour and a sense of possibility – housing galleries, gelaterias, bijoux boutiques alongside a plethora of museums. And you can’t help but marvel at the archaeological wonders of the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Stroll through vibrant streets and markets, dance at buzzing bouzoukia, sing along in tavernas. At night, head to the harbour, where dimly lit bars serve the local ice cold beer. And, as you inhale the salty air and watch Greek fishing boats peacefully depart for their catch, reflect on this ancient city’s progressive attitude.
Day 02 – Santorini, Greece
Sail into Santorini as the crowds depart and experience its romantic charm at its finest. Wander between the cliffside villages of Oia and Fira, where whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches overlook the dramatic caldera. Discover volcanic landscapes, relax on black-sand beaches, and cruise the sapphire waters by catamaran. Savour local wines, fresh seafood and vibrant culture before ending the day with a moonlit dinner and Santorini’s world-famous sunset.
Day 03 – Day at Sea
Day 04 – La Valletta, Malta
Unearth the Med’s master of restoration and renovation behind honey-hued Valetta’s fortified walls. Strewn with a mass of well-preserved history – head back in time to hand-carved shelters, a maze of subterranean tombs and stone-age temples. Discover war secrets beneath the limestone streets, skim the Grand Harbour aboard a dghajsa, step into state history and get your fill of art and Fat Ladies in museums. But it’s not all ancient history – watch buzzing bars spill out onto limestone alleys, treat yourself to Michelin-starred Maltese cuisine, neighbourhood watch and dive over wrecks. Malta may be Europe’s tiniest capital, but she packs a might punch.
Day 05 – Messina (Sicily), Italy
A medieval hilltop town spilling across the slopes of Etna; an ancient Greco-Roman amphitheatre carved into the cliffs; the tiny paradisical Isola Bella rising out of the Ionian Sea. Any one of these treasures would cast a spell; Taormina holds them all. Explore the pretty bays, grottoes and beautiful pebble beaches below. Stoll amongst historic palazzi, churches and piazzas; shop ceramics and chic boutiques; eat Sicilian caponata, pasta alla norma or pasta alici paired with Sicilian white wine. Or head up the slopes of Mount Etna, through rolling hills of olive groves, vines and apricot trees until the landscape becomes barren, lunar-like, otherworldly.
Day 06 – Naples
Set between Mount Vesuvius and the Phlegraean Fields, Naples is steeped in history and culture. From Baroque churches to grand palazzi, highlights include a ride up to Castel Sant’Elmo for sweeping views over the Bay of Naples and towards the Amalfi Coast.Linger longer to visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, buried under the wrath of Mount Vesuvius, or hop over to the idyllic Island of Capri.
Day 07 – Rome, Italy
This Eternal City is home to a seemingly endless array of hidden gems. In Rome, art and culture are everywhere—from Vespa rides along the Appian Way to the masterpieces of Sistine Chapel in Vatican City. Discover iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, and Pantheon, while indulging in authentic Italian experiences.
Day 08 – Livorno, Italy
Overlooking the Ligurian Sea, Livorno is a charming coastal port with a relaxed, authentic feel. Wander through the historic Terrazza Mascagni for sweeping sea views, explore the canals of the Venezia Nuova district, and discover the impressive Fortezza Vecchia. Livorno also serves as a gateway to Tuscany’s treasures, including Pisa and Florence, making it the perfect base to explore the region.
Day 09 – Villefranche-sur-Mer (Nice), France
A jewel of the Côte d’Azur, Villefranche-sur-Mer enchants with colourful houses, flower-filled streets and a stunning harbour setting. Relax along Plage des Marinières or explore the historic Citadel of Saint-Elme for sweeping views towards Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Nearby, discover the medieval charm of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and Èze which is said to be a village that inspired Walt Disney for the kind of scenery seen in Disney classics .
Day 10 – Day at Sea
Day 11 – Barcelona, Spain
Breathe in the cultural heart of Catalan; an elegant blend of high energy and undisturbed tradition. Muse over the origins of captivating Gaudi architecture within the enchanting labyrinth that is the Gothic Quarter. Savour the flavours of fresh tapas and crisp cava in breezy plazas, tranquil terraces and coveted cafés, or glide down to a shimmering beach club to unwind. Imagine a visit to peaceful Passeig de Gracia, where modernist buildings merge to showcase iconic global labels. And, as dusk falls, prepare for urban action and swing by the lively bohemian bars to fiesta on the leafy stretch of La Rambla. If you’re serious about style, this colourful city provides plenty to celebrate.
Extend your stay in Athens or Barcelona. We have access to a wide variety of hotels & flight options. Talk to your JWT Cruise Team for more information on this Ancient Athens to Barcelona cruise.
