Journey to Antiquities

Resort:
Operator:	Viking Ocean Cruises
Destination:	Europe
Price From:	£1990.00

Explore the lands of ancient empires

Travel through waters once ruled by mighty empires and flourishing city-states during an insightful 8-day cruise from Rome to Athens. Visit Naples, gateway to Pompeii, and Messina, Sicilys cultural crossroads. Discover Crete, the former seat of the once flourishing Minoan kingdom, and see remarkably preserved ancient ruins in Ephesus. Immerse yourself in Athens, the birthplace of democracy, and admire the famous Acropolis and see the bustling Plaka District.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Rome, Italy

Step on board to begin your journey. The ship will be berthed in Civitavecchia, the closest port to the airport and Rome. Relax and settle in to your stateroom, perhaps also unwinding at our Infinity Pool.

Day 2 Naples, Italy

In Naples, your choice of excursions abounds. Take in magnificent examples of Greek and Roman architecture and the Piazza del Plebiscito, the grandest public square in the city, facing the former Royal Palace of the King of Naples. Optionally, also explore Herculaneum, Italys other Pompeii, drive along the stunning Amalfi Coast, or take a trip to the summit of Vesuvius. In your spare time, sample a hot espresso, a slice of pizza (the worlds first pizzeria opened here in 1830) or a locally madelimoncello.

Day 3 Sicily, Italy

Today you will call on the Sicilian city of Messina, celebrated as one of Europes ten greatest cities when it fell under Spains purview in the 17th century. Admire the surrounding mountains, picturesque orange and olive groves, and rolling vineyards. You will see the best of the city during a tour, including the expansive Piazza Municipio and the hillside Votive Temple of Christ the King. Or, choose to climb Mt. Etnas towering volcano, and marvel at the ancient temples and arenas of Taormina.

Day 4 Cruise the Ionian Sea

As you cruise to your next port, spend the day savoring the amenities of your elegant ship. Indulge in Nordic-inspired treatments at The Spa or find your inner calm with some yoga on the Sports Deck. Tonight, dine on thoughtfully prepared cuisine that connects you to the flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean and watch a movie beneath the stars at the Main Pool.

Day 5 Crete, Greece

Explore Souda Bay today, an important port since antiquity because of its natural harbor and location along Mediterranean trade routes. Visit the remnants of the once-grand Palace of Knossos, the center of the Minoan kingdom that ruled over the island of Crete from approximately 2600 to 1100 BC. Or, tour an olive oil factory and winery to learn how these ancient Cretan traditions have been influenced by modern production techniques. Alternately, see the influences of former rulers such as the Venetians and Ottomans during a walking tour of Chanias Old Town.

Day 6 Ephesus (Kuadasi), Turkey

Journey into the ancient world today with a visit to Ephesus, one of the best-preserved cities of antiquity in the world. Stroll the uneven streets of this once-powerful metropolis and pass sights such as the massive Great Theater and the magnificent Library of Celsus. Visit the remains of the Byzantine Basilica of St. John and see the modest home where, according to legend, the Virgin Mary lived out her final days. Or, take a scenic drive to the Oracle of Didyma and the Temple of Apollo, part of a once-elaborate Hellenic sanctuary.

Day 7 Athens, Greece

Today, you will have the opportunity to journey into ancient Athens via a panoramic drive, passing the promenade at Mikrolimano as you enter the citys heart. There, you will see the Hellenic Parliament, Constitution Square, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus and the iconic Acropolis. Explore the bustling Plaka District at the base of the Acropolis. Or as an option, explore the interior of this UNESCO Site; climb 80 steps to the entrance and glimpse an unforgettable view of the Parthenon at its peak.

Day 8 Athens, Greece

Awake in Athens, where you will disembark your ship. From here, you can easily take a few extra days to further explore this historic city with our post-cruise extension.