Athens to Monte Carlo on Oceania Cruises with Italy Extension

25 Days – Dates or Various Dates

from $15,999.00 per person based on 2 sharing

Trip Style: Cruise, Independent, Luxury, Nature

Included:

Return Economy Flights with Emirates
12 nights 4-5 star hotels
10 Night Oceania Cruise from Athens to Monte Carlo
Day Trips at the City Breaks included
Return Private Airport Transfers
All Italian Rail Tickets
All airport Taxes

Not Included:

Prices are subject to availability and may fluctuate depending on the season.

Operators:

This incredible itinerary begins with 3 nights in Athens before embarking on your voyage with Oceania Cruise Lines, where we invite you on a luxurious 10-night journey from Athens to Monte Carlo. Traverse the azure waters of the Mediterranean aboard an elegant ship, where every day promises new discoveries and unparalleled experiences.

As you set sail from the ancient city of Athens, rich with history and culture, prepare to be captivated by the charm of each port of call along the way. From the picturesque islands of Greece to the sun-drenched coastlines of Italy, this cruise offers a tantalizing glimpse into the treasures of the Mediterranean.

After bidding farewell to the cruise in Monte Carlo, your adventure continues with 8 days of independent travel through Italy. Explore the fashion capital of Milan, where haute couture meets historic architecture. Journey to the serene beauty of Lake Como, where shimmering waters are framed by majestic mountains. And finally, lose yourself in the romantic maze of canals and bridges in the timeless city of Venice.

Indulge in exquisite cuisine, luxurious accommodations, and personalized service throughout your journey with Oceania Cruise Lines. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a Mediterranean beach or wandering the cobblestone streets of an Italian village, every moment promises to be as enchanting as the last.

Join us as we embark on this unforgettable voyage through the Mediterranean and Italy, where ancient history, natural beauty, and modern elegance converge to create an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Day 1

Overnight Flight – Emirates

We have chosen Emirates for this itinerary which allows for one short connection into Athens and home from Venice. You can choose to add a stopover via Dubai if you want to extend your journey!

Day 2-5

Athens, Greece

Welcome to Athens! Here you will spend 3 nights before boarding your Oceania Cruise. Relax after your flight and enjoy this historical city.

Climb up the magnificent Acropolis and stand in awe of the Parthenon, the beautiful temples and the view over Athens stretched out before you. See city highlights including the new and old Olympic stadiums. Journey to Cape Sounion and the temple of Poseidon overlooking the sea, or visit ancient Corinth and the narrow Corinth Canal cut through miles of solid rock.

Day 6

Heraklion (Crete), Greece

Your first port of call after embarking on your Oceania Cruise is Heraklion. Visit the great Minoan ruins of the Palace of Knossos, famous as the home of the labyrinth where the Minotaur roamed, and the archaeological museum that houses many superb artifacts from the complex. Explore the stunning, mountain-fringed Lassithi plateau with its orchards, 7,000 windmills and ancient villages.

Day 7

Katakolon, Greece

Moving on from Heraklion you arrive into Katakolon which never disappoints! Visit ancient Olympia where the Olympic Games began in 776 B.C. and stroll around this deserted sanctuary, admiring the temples, altars and treasuries, and stand on the ground where ancient athletes practiced before competing. Or enjoy a pleasant drive through the countryside past quaint villages to a local vineyard and sample the wines, local cheeses and other foods.

Day 8

Igoumenitsa, Greece

An undiscovered gem on the northwest coast of Greece, Igoumenitsa stands on the site of a settlement dating to the 4th century BC, and several ancient sites are located nearby. Founded in 31 BC, the archaeological site Nikopolis was once a thriving capital built by the Roman emperor Octavian to commemorate his victory over Anthony and Cleopatra. You can also visit Meteora with its spectacular 15th century monasteries built into seemingly inaccessible sandstone peaks.

Day 9

Argostoli (Cephalonia), Greece

This capital of the island of Cephalonia resides in a sheltered bay along Koutavos Lagoon, where you might catch a glimpse of a loggerhead turtle. The stone obelisk of the Drapano Bridge and the Lighthouse of Saint Theodore are two of the island’s distinctive landmarks. Discover relics from the Mycenaean, Hellenistic and Roman periods in the city’s archaeological museum.

Day 10

Taormina (Sicily), Italy

Next we arrive into Sicily! Enjoy magnificent panoramic views on the way up to the town, where you can stroll down medieval lanes past stunning palaces. See the famed Greek theatre and its fantastic view of Mount Etna. Or take a trip to the volcano itself and get a first-hand look at cones, craters and lava streams from previous eruptions and a fantastic view over the Gulf of Catania. Venture into the countryside and its lovely hill towns, one with a Norman castle built of black lava, and visit beautiful old Catania.

Day 11

Amalfi/Positano, Italy

Our next stop is always a favourite! Visit enchanting Amalfi to admire the 12th century Capuchin monastery and see the beautiful 11th century cathedral and cloister. Then discover chic Positano with its relaxed, sophisticated air and white Moorish-style houses clinging to steep slopes around a sparkling bay filled with colourful fishing boats.

Day 12

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Travel to Rome and revel in the magnificent monuments, from the ancient Roman Forum and Coliseum to the splendour of St. Peter’s Basilica with Michelangelo’s Pietà and his breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Or enjoy a drive through the lush farmlands of the Roman countryside to lovely medieval Castelgandolfo.

Day 13

Propriano (Corsica), France

In southwest Corsica, trees cover nearly half the countryside that surrounds Propriano, and dramatic, rocky mountain peaks soar up to 8,900 feet. Nestled on the clear, tranquil waters of the Gulf of Valinco, Propriano is a tiny fishing village turned charming seaside retreat for travellers looking to enjoy the area’s spectacular beaches or explore the incredible sights beyond. Steep yourself in Corsican culture on a visit to Sartène, a mountain village with magnificent views, or Bonifacio, a charming medieval town perched on dramatic limestone cliffs. Or travel back in time as you explore nearby megalithic ruins dating back to 3300 BC.

Day 14

Portifino, Italy

Always one of our favourite places to visit! Stroll through picturesque Portofino and Santa Margherita. Be awed by the stunning scenery as you explore the beautiful coastal resorts of Ravello, Sestri Levante or San Fruttuoso by local boat and on foot.

Day 15-17

Monte Carlo, Monaco

Our Oceania Cruise journey comes to an end today, but your time in Monte Carlo still continues as you spend two nights here to further explore and enjoy this beautiful destination. Drive along the famous Grand Corniche with its stunning views of Monaco and the Old City; then stroll through this marvellous quarter and its pink Grimaldi Palace. And don’t forget the Casino. Explore the wonderful old villages along the Côte d’Azur from Nice to medieval Eze or Cannes, Grasse and lovely St. Paul de Vence – each one a fantastic sight to see.

Day 17-19

Milan, Italy

Today we make our way to Milan by train! A city where fashion meets history. Milan is the fashion and design capital of Italy, it is dynamic and sophisticated with contemporary style and rich historical heritage. This bustling city is renowned for its world-class shopping, iconic landmarks, and artistic treasures.

Visit the beautiful grandeur of Milan Cathedral, and the world-renowned art collections at Pinacoteca di Brera.

Day 19-21

Lake Como, Italy

After another short rail journey we arrive into Lake Como! Nestled in Lombardy, Lake Como is Italy’s tranquil gem, renowned for its stunning scenery. Shaped like an inverted Y, this glacial lake is fringed by verdant hills and grand villas. Quaint towns like Bellagio and Como offer a mix of historic charm and vibrant culture. It’s a haven for food lovers, with authentic Italian cuisine on offer. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, savouring the alpine views and opulent lakeside estates.

Day 21-24

Venice, Italy

After arriving by train spend your final 3 nights in Venice, renowned as the “City of Canals,” is a captivating marvel that floats on water, nestled in northeastern Italy’s Veneto region. This romantic city is an architectural masterpiece adorned with intricate bridges, palaces, and picturesque alleyways.

Explore Venice’s timeless allure by wandering through its labyrinthine streets and over its iconic bridges, like the Rialto and Bridge of Sighs. Admire the opulent St. Mark’s Basilica, an exquisite example of Byzantine architecture, and revel in the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square.

A gondola ride along the serene canals is a quintessential Venetian experience, offering a unique perspective of the city’s beauty. Discover hidden gems in the quieter districts of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro or visit the artistic hub of Murano Island, known for its glassblowing heritage.

Day 24-25

Flights home - Emirates

Departing from Venice you have one short connection via Dubai on your journey back to Australia. However, if you wish to extend further speak to us about adding a stopover via Dubai to break up your flights home and experience another destination.

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