7 Night Greece, Italy & Turkey Cruise on Brilliance of the Seas from Barcelona, Spain Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Celsus Library Close Up
The 7 Night Greece, Italy & Turkey Cruise from Barcelona, Spain visits Sicily (Palermo), Italy; Chania (Souda), Crete; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; Mykonos, Greece; Athens (Piraeus), Greece. Explore our cruise itineraries and choose from a variety of rooms depending on your needs and budget. Start planning your next cruise vacation by selecting a destination and departure port.
Royal Caribbean Cruises
Priced from: $1278.71 per person 1 sailing dates available
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7 Night Greece, Italy & Turkey Cruise
Itinerary Overview
Explore Brilliance of the Seas
Day 1 - Barcelona, Spain
Day 2 - Cruising
Day 3 - Sicily (Palermo), Italy
Day 4 - Cruising
Day 5 - Chania (Souda), Crete
Day 6 - Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
Day 7 - Mykonos, Greece
Day 8 - Athens (Piraeus), Greece
View Itinerary
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Celsus Library Close Up
Close up view of the Celsus Library pillars in Ephesus, Turkey
This is your

7 Night Greece, Italy & Turkey Cruise

Explore This Itinerary
Leaving from
Barcelona, Spain
Onboard
Brilliance of the Seas
Day Port
1
Barcelona, Spain
Departs at 5:00 PM
2
Cruising
Day at sea
3
Sicily (Palermo), Italy
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
4
Cruising
Day at sea
5
Chania (Souda), Crete
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
6
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
From 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
7
Mykonos, Greece
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
8
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Arrives at 5:00 AM
*Port sequence may vary by sailing date.
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Sailing from {{ overview.startDate }} (+ {{ additionalDatesCount }} Additional Dates)
Taxes & fees included.*

Your ship Brilliance of the Seas

Your ship
Brilliance of the Seas
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Brilliance of the Seas, Aerial View, Caribbean and European Destinations
Aerial View of Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Ship Visiting Amsterdam , Russia, and Germany
Get to know
Brilliance of the Seas
Calling all backroads ramblers and culture cruisers— your ship's come in. Whether you're catching a movie poolside or enjoying Tuscan dishes at Giovanni's Table, you're in for the ultimate adventure in between shores.

SEIZE THE SEA DAY

When you're not exploring onshore, conquer some bucket list firsts on deck. Catch a movie on the poolside screen, tee up for a game of mini golf, or scale the Rock Climbing Wall. Looking to unwind or break a sweat? Indulge in some "me time" at Vitality℠ at Sea Spa and Fitness Center.

WOAH-WORTHY EATS

In between brag worthy destinations and social feed filling adventures onboard, you'll discover flavors that raise the bar. Like prime cuts of steak at Chops Grille℠ and Italian favorites at Giovanni's Table. Not to mention a Far East feast at Izumi and wines from around the world at Vintages.

SHOWTIME AT SEA

Watch and listen as outstanding singers and dancers showcase their skills in the variety revue, Center Stage. And sing along to modern stage hits in Now and Forever. This is entertainment that hits all the high notes.

Day 1: Barcelona, Spain

Day 1
Barcelona
Spain
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Spain Barcelona La Sagrada Couple
La Sagrada Couple Walking
Things to do in
Barcelona
Departs at 5:00 PM
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 hodgepodge of sun-drenched beaches, cutting edge architecture, and a world-renowned dining and drinking scene. Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí 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 Güell or savor a chef-led Catalan cooking class. Browse art collections dedicated to Picasso and Miro— or ride a cable car to the top of Montjuïc Hill, relishing citywide views along the way.
Spain Barcelona La Sagrada Familia Interior
La Sagrada Familia Interior Colorful

SKY HIGH DELIGHTS

Get an up-close glimpse of La Sagrada Família, a cathedral masterwork designed by celebrated Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Marvel at its sky-piercing spires and then step inside to admire intricate mosaics, Montjuïc stone pillars and the Nativity façade. You can even climb to the tippy-top of the spires for panoramic city views.
Spain Barcelona Barceloneta Beach
Barceloneta Beach at Sunset

SEAS THE DAY

With seven beaches spanning more than two miles of Mediterranean coastline, Barcelona’s harborfront is known for some of the world’s best sun-seeking and on-the-sea adventures. Lounge along the shore, kayak deep blue waters— or charter a fishing trip for the chance to reel in tuna, swordfish or Mediterranean spearfish.
Barcelona, Spain La Rambla Shops
Street view of La Rambla in Barcelona, Spain, with shops lining the street

IN THE MIX

Take a stroll along La Rambla’s pedestrian boulevard to experience the city’s pure essence. Souvenir shops, street artists, flower stalls, sidewalk cafes and Catalan folk sardana dancers set a lively scene. Its marvelous centerpiece, La Catedral, dates from the 1200s— and its tower delivers sweeping views of medieval Barcelona.
Spain Barcelona Sparkling Cava Wine
Couple Enjoying the Local Sparkling Cava Wine

LOCAL CUISINE

Barcelona has mastered the art of eating. Many restaurants serve up creative nueva cocina española, while waterfront spots dish out seafood paella and multi-course lunch menus include a glass of sparkling cava wine. For a taste of Catalan cooking, try pa amb tomàquet (tomato-topped bread). Or nibble on Spanish tapas (bite-sized appetizers) around the bar like a local, with house-made vermouth in hand.
Spain Barcelona Local Fresh Market Shopping
Couple Strolling Through the Fresh Local Market

SHOPPING

You could spend hours checking out the markets of Barcelona for high-quality leatherwear, jewelry, old books and unique housewares. Passeig de Gràcia and Barcelona Shopping Line are two popular retail promenades— and the Gothic Quarter is home to dozens of family-owned shops that sell textiles, stationery, decorative ceramic tiles and earthenware kitchenware.

Day 2: Cruising

Day 2
Cruising
At Sea
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Brilliance of the Seas Pool Deck
Guests Enjoying a Sunny Day at the Pool
PLAY ANY WAY YOU LIKE
Man Climbing Rock Wall On Board Day Time
Man Climbing Rock Wall On Board Day Time

Rock Climbing Wall

Rise to the occasion and take on the signature Rock Climbing Wall. From beginners to speed climbers, everyone can enjoy an unparalleled view from 40 feet above deck. Included in your fare, no reservation required.
Navigator of the Seas Adventure Ocean
Girl Playing with Dolls at Adventure Ocean

Adventure Ocean®

“Are we there yet?” is a thing of the past. We keep every kid entertained with games, events, age-appropriate activities and more in our award-winning youth program.
Father and Son Playing Basketball On Board
Father and Son Playing Basketball in the Sports Court

Sports Court

Whether it's a game of one-on-one or an all-out tournament to fuel your competitive fire, our Sports Court is just the spot for basketball and volleyball action.
Whirlpool at Night
Beautiful Night on the Pool Deck

Whirlpools

It’s easy to let every thought melt away while relaxing in a whirlpool, especially when you’re soaking up ocean views, too.

Day 3: Sicily, Italy

Day 3
Sicily
Palermo, Italy
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Sicily (Palermo), Italy, Aerial view of coast
An aerial view of the coast of Palermo in Sicily
Things to do in
Sicily
From 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Extravagant and vibrant, Palermo invites you into an array of flavors, colors and bustling streets. Set in a peaceful bay surrounded by Sicily's fertile basin Conca d'Oro, named for the golden color 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 center — 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.
Sicily (Palermo), Italy, Fresh Vegetable Market
An assortment of vegetables for sale at a market in Palermo, Sicily

The Pulse of Palermo

Get a real feel for the character of the city strolling through the stands of the Vucciria market. Sample the fresh citrus and tomatoes, and take in the rich smells of oregano and porcini mushrooms. Stop at a food stall for arancini, fried spheres of saffron-infused rice with meat, tomato sauce and cheese.
Insider tip
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, as a visit to Teatro Massimo or Mt. Pellegrino will require some footwork.
Sicily (Palermo), Italy, Teatro Politeama Opera House
The Teatro Politeama Opera House in Palermo, Sicily

Drama at the Opera

The Teatro Massimo is the largest opera house in Italy and combines Neo-Classical, Greek and Renaissance architectural styles. It also appears in a few key scenes in "The Godfather." Take a guided tour to learn more about the theater's history and architecture.
Insider tip
If you visit La Vucciria or another market, feel free to haggle a bit and try to get the best deals.
Sicily (Palermo), Italy, Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia
The Sanctuary of Saint Rosalia in Parlermo, Sicily

Between Earth and Heaven

Take the half-hour drive to Mount Pellegrino, and hike the cobbled path to the top, where you'll meet breathtaking views or the Bay of Palermo, the mountains and the Tirrenean Sea. Visit the shrine to the Patron Saint Rosalia — the inner sanctuary is a unique mix of ornamental icons and roughly hewn rock.
Insider tip
Take a break at a local sidewalk cafe to enjoy a gelato or espresso.
Sicily (Palermo), Italy, Pasta with sardines
A bowl of pasta topped wit sardines

Local Cuisine

Sicilian cuisine is a delightful blend of Middle Eastern, Spanish and Italian flavors based on fresh vegetables, seafood, spices and nuts. Seek out local specialties like pasta con le sarde — pasta with fresh sardines, onion, fennel, raisins and pine nuts — or sfincione, Sicilian focaccia with tomatoes, onions and anchovies. For dessert, try cassata, an Arabic-influenced dish of pistachios, candied fruit and sweetened ricotta cheese.
Sicily (Palermo), Italy, Sicilian puppets
Various sicilian puppets at a market

Shopping

For hand-stiched leather goods, visit Via Volturno. Nearby on Via Maqueda, you'll find some fantastic deals on genuine pearl necklaces and traditional ceramics. The pulce market is a fun flea market. Browse the stands and find some unusual items from antique to vintage, including traditional Sicilian puppets.

Day 4: Cruising

Day 4
Cruising
At Sea
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Park Cafe A Woman Holding a Sandwich
A Woman Holding a Sandwich at Park Cafe on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship
LET THE FLAVOR FEST BEGIN
Giovannis Table Creamy Lasagna
Hot Lasagna

Giovanni's Table

Every meal at Giovanni’s Table is a family-style celebration of rustic Italian flavor. You’ll find all your favorite Old-World classics on the menu here, like house focaccia served with marinated artichokes, olives and pesto, fluffy gnocchi tossed in a thyme-scented sauce of lamb and root vegetables, traditional risotto finished with porcini and truffle mushroom tapenade, and veal osso buco paired with creamy cheese polenta, ripe tomatoes and sautéed green beans.
Lobster and Crab Dish at Chef's Table
Lobster & Alaska king crab main entree, served at the Elegant Chefs Table restaurant. One of the best cruise line fine dining

Chef's Table

Welcome to Chef’s Table, the most exclusive and elevated dining experience on our fleet. Join an intimate group of fellow foodies on a private epicurean journey led by the ship’s Chef de Cuisine. You’ll sit down to a white tablecloth dinner spotlighting five exquisite courses that range from scallop carpaccio with yuzu vinaigrette, to grilled filet mignon served with truffle potato puree — each expertly paired with the perfect wine to highlight every flavor on the menu.
Main Dining Room Mozzarella Salad
A mozzarella salad at the Main Dining Room

Main Dining Room

In the Main Dining Room, you can experience flavors that take you from Jamaica to Jaipur, a rotating menu of delicious dishes always offering something unexpected. A multi-level restaurant that in the morning is the perfect spot to enjoy a hearty brunch paired with refreshing mimosas, at dinnertime transforms into a world class dining experience with a menu that invites you to taste your way around the world course by course.
Room Service Bottle Glass
Room Service Bottle Glass Champagne and Strawberries

Room Service

Want to savor a meal in the comfort of your stateroom? Order delicious in-room dining any time — day or night. Tuck into breakfast in bed with a fresh omelet or a steaming stack of pancakes. Or enjoy an intimate date night in after a long day of adventure onboard and ashore. Room service makes it easy to treat your taste buds without having to set foot outside your door.

Day 5: Chania, Crete

Day 5
Chania
Souda, Crete
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Chania, Crete Boats Docked At A Pier
Boats docked at a pier in Chania, Crete
Things to do in
Chania
From 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Chania is rich in remnants of the past. Start your adventure in Crete's second-largest city at Venetian Harbor, the entry to the old port. Soak in the vibe while wandering the narrow streets lined with shops and waterfront restaurants serving local fare like zucchini fritters and sardines stuffed with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes. Then head to Souda Bay, a strategic commercial and military harbor since ancient times, where you'll find the Aptera Fortress and the oldest Ottoman building in Crete. Cruise to Crete and stop into Archeological Museum of Chania, with artifacts from neolithic to Roman times. Or splash around in the translucent waters of Fallasarna, a beach surrounded by olive groves.
Chania, Crete Ottoman Fortress
The exterior walls of the ottoman fortress in Crete

Active Archaeology

One of ancient Crete's most important city-states, Aptera sits on a hill just south of the bay, with two seaports at the entrance to Souda Bay. Check out this active archaeological site to learn about new discoveries that shed light on the most powerful city of western Crete during Minoan times.
Insider tip
Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.Known as the "temple of gastronomy," the architecturally distinctive Chania Municipal Market is the place to discover local delicacies.
Chania, Crete Katholiko Monastery Ruins
The ruins of the Katholiko Monastery in Crete

Mountain Monasteries

Stroll the sandy beach at Stavros Bay, where Anthony Quinn danced in 1964's "Zorba the Greek." Explore the three monasteries — Agias Triada, Gouverneto and Katholika — set on this rocky peninsula. Discover Bear Cave on the footpath leading to Katholiko built into the cliff.
Insider tip
With a history dating back to around 2,200 BC, the Archaeological Museum housed in the Church of San Francesco stores artifacts dating from Neolithic to Roman times.
Chania, Crete Samaria Gorge
View of the Samaria Gorge in Chania, Crete

Hike to the Gorge

At 18 kilometers, Samaria is the longest of the many deep gorges that cut into Crete's mountains. The entrance is 42 kilometers south of Chania, and you can hike independently or with a guide. On the way, you might run into some kri kri, the wild goats found only on Crete. The gorge opens out to the black-sand beach at Ayia Roumeli.
Insider tip
Head to the Old Harbor, filled with wooden fishing boats and lined with cafes and restaurants, and to see remarkable changes of light throughout the day.
Chania, Crete Lobster With Vegetables
A plate with lobster served with vegetables in Chania, Crete

Local Cuisine

Restaurants with fresh seafood abound at the Chania waterfront. Local signatures of savory lamb, mini cheese pies and fresh vegetables also bring something special to the plate. And don't miss the dacos, a traditional Cretan bread served with tomato, mizithra cheese and rivers of virgin Cretan olive oil.
Chania, Crete Traditional Ceramic Dishes
Traditional ceramic dishes in Crete

Shopping

Chania's Old Town is packed with unique shops selling handmade ceramic kitchenware and decorations with classic geometric designs, one-of-a-kind jewelry made from pearl and coral — and of course, the local extra virgin olive oil, which is typically cold-pressed and retains distinctive flavors of green apple and fresh-cut grass. Take the time to explore the narrow, less-traveled streets to find both bargains and unique items during your Crete cruise.

Day 6: Ephesus, Turkey

Day 6
Ephesus
Kusadasi, Turkey
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Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Ancient Celsus Library
The ruins of the ancient Celsus Library in Ephesus, Turkey
Things to do in
Ephesus
From 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
The UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ephesus impress even those familiar with the world's other ancient cities. Though excavations have been underway for 150 years, only 20 percent of the city has been uncovered. Check out the the Celsus Library — built in 117 A.D., the site is made up of towering columns highlighted by the statue of the goddess of wisdom. Cruises to Ephesus will give you a taste of Turkish life by strolling the seafront promenade and the bustling city center. Walk Marble Street, paved with actual marble slabs, which takes you from downtown to the Temple of Artemis — you can still see one lone remaining column from this wonder of the ancient world.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Library of Celsus
A close up view of the Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey

Window Into Ancient Life

Don't miss the Library of Celsus or the Scholastica Baths — their dozen ancient marble toilets are a unique sight from antiquity. Consider buying the extra ticket to see Ephesus' Terraced Houses. Not only are they shaded, but you get a sense of what ancient life was like and can see the restoration work in progress.
Insider tip
Ephesus' excavated section is in a 1.5-square-mile area; you'll need good walking shoes.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Home of the Virgin Mary
The home of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, Turkey

Set Your Sights on Selcuk

Walk from Ephesus' Lower Gate to the village of Selcuk, where you can visit what's said to be the burial site of John the Apostle at the Basilica of St. John. You'll also find the remains of the Temple of Artemis. About five miles from here lies the House of the Virgin Mary, which traditions holds as the last place she lived.
Insider tip
The sun reflects strongly both from above and off the white marble streets. Bring a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Homemade Carpets
Homemade carpets on a cart

Haggle for a Turkish Carpet

Stroll the seaside promenade in Kusadasi to catch a cooling breeze. Shop for souvenirs like carpets and spices in the bazaar near the port. Vendors will encourage you to sample their wares and will offer tea to serious carpet buyers. You can also visit Pigeon Island for views from the Byzantine castle once used by pirates during your Turkey cruise.
Insider tip
When negotiating in the market, make sure you're serious about buying — it's considered rude to bargain for items you're not going to buy.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Lamb Kebob
Two lamb kebobs on a black plate

Local Cuisine

Most visitors will have tried sis kebab (grilled meat on a skewer) and doner kebab (meat shaved from a vertical skewer) before arriving in Turkey. Lamb is popular for both. Be sure to try kofte, spiced lamb or beef meatballs served with yogurt dipping sauce. Have a few meze (appetizers) to get your vegetable fix — great options include grilled eggplant salad and cicek dolmasi, fried squash flowers stuffed with raisins and rice.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey, Colorful Pottery
An assortment of colorful pottery in Turkey

Shopping

The Kusadasi bazaar is naturally the place to go for shopping. A Turkish blue eye, meant to ward off the evil eye, makes a great souvenir. Also consider a traditional Turkish kilim (a woven carpet) or a more luxurious knotted carpet. Cruise to Ephesus and look for handmade tiles and pottery in the Iznik design, with floral-inspired geometric patterns. Prices are negotiable, and the first offer by the vendor will be at least double what you should pay.

Day 7: Mykonos, Greece

Day 7
Mykonos
Greece
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Mykonos, Greece Seaside Tavern
Chairs with tables in typical Greek tavern in Mykonos, Greece
Things to do in
Mykonos
Tendered from 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Nestled in the heart of Greece’s Cyclades archipelago, Mykonos pulses with irrepressible energy. With its powder white houses, sparkling blue waters, and red-hot nightlife, The Island of the Winds is as colorful as the people who call the island home. You can walk narrow marble pathways laced with purple bougainvillea blooms, or go cycling on two wheels past off-the-path Ano Mera village. Explore Greece’s maritime history at Armenistis Lighthouse, and check out the Folklore Museum’s Mykonian ship models. Join in the raucous beach party on Super Paradise’s shimmering sands, or watch the sun burn out beyond an Aegean horizon from an open-air seaside taverna.
Mykonos, Greece Panagia Paraportiani
A beautiful old white chapel, the Panagia Paraportiani Church, in Mykonos, Greece

COASTAL COSMOPOLITAN

Mykonos’ main town of Hora is a mixture of classic Cycladic architecture and buzzing street culture. Admire the stark-white Panagia Paraportiani chapel and meet the town’s famous pelican Pétros. See the island’s trademark 16th-century windmills spinning high above the port. Then explore the strip of medieval houses and waterfront cafés in Little Venice.
Insider tip
Hop on one of the many seawater-taxi services around the island for transport to the beaches.
Mykonos, Greece Agios Stefanos Beach
Agios Stefanos Beach in Mykonos, Greece

INTO THE BLUE

The multihued waters surrounding Mykonos are perfect for surfing and scuba diving, while prevailing winds invite sailing and windsurfing. Get your fill of aquatic thrills, then hit the beach— Psaroú for family fun, Agrari for seaside serenity, Paradise for epic beach parties, or Elia for a blend of all three.
Insider tip
With frequent openings and closings, listen to locals and other travelers to find the island’s best restaurants.
Mykonos, Greece Isis Temple Delos
The Temple of Isis in archaeological site of Delos island, Mykonos, Greece

DIG UP THE PAST

Enjoy a short boat trip to the island of Delos, a sacred Greek archeological site and the mythological birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis. Comb the crumbling ruins of its ancient theater, Doric temples, markets, and mosaic-laced houses— plus the Terrace of Lions statues and amphitheater.
Mykonos, Greece Greek Salad
Greek salad and olive oil on sunny seaside restaurant in Mykonos, Greece

LOCAL CUISINE

Some of the Mediterranean’s most delectable restaurants are found on Mykonos. Its trademark kopanisti (peppered cheese) is a must-try, while you can’t go wrong with classic kremmydopita (onion pie). Enjoy fresh seafood by the sea— or a glass of sweet Heliophilos wine in a beach bar. Then for dessert go for amygdalota (almond cookies) or melopita (honey cake).
Mykonos, Greece Souvenirs
Souvenirs hanging on a wall outside a shop, Mykonos, Greece

SHOPPING

Hora is a hub for top designer fashions, including the world-famous Soho-Soho clothing boutique. Family-owned and operated Greek Light sells handmade jewelry with Greece’s traditional maiandros symbol. And don’t leave Mykonos without buying a pair of house-designed sandals or hand-loomed weavings— scarves, rugs or tablecloths.

Day 8: Athens, Greece

Day 8
Athens
Piraeus, Greece
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Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Acropolis and Pathenon
View of the Parthenon atop the Acropolis in Athens, Greece
Things to do in
Athens
Arrives at 5:00 AM
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.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Agia Triada Church
The Agia Triada church in Greece

Take Me to Church

The Agia Triada is one of the finest examples of Byzantine-style churches in Greece. The Church of St. Nicholas, which overlooks the port, has a magnificent interior filled with orthodox icons, frescoes and sculptures.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Mikrolimano Harbour
Mikrolimano harbour in Greece

Mediterranean Romance

Part of the Castella district, Mikrolimano is the smallest and most picturesque port of Athens, making it perfect for a romantic afternoon. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade to take in the amazing views, then settle in a cafe or taverna for some fresh seafood or a refreshing drink with your cruise to Athens.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece. Decorative Vases
Various decorative Greek vases

Boats and the Bronze Age

The Naval Museum has exhibits that present ship building from ancient times to the present day. You will be fascinated by the Neosoikoi, the archaeological remains of the ship sheds where local craftsmen maintained and repaired the boats. Art lovers will have plenty to see at the Piraeus Archaeological Museum, from Bronze Age sculptures to classical Hellenistic pottery.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Grilled Octopus
Grilled octopus on a white plate with a lemon on the side

Local Cuisine

Try the local dishes prepared with sun-ripened tomatoes, eggplant, bell peppers and fresh seafood like mussels and grilled octopus. Look for trovolia, a typical fresh cheese to savor with marinated olives. Ask for recommendations on local wines — the most common white is lively, floral and aromatic Moschofilero, while the red of choice is Xinomavro, an indigenous grape with a bold, complex flavor.
Athens (Piraeus), Greece, Greek Souvenirs
An assortment of Greek souvenirs such as helmets and sculptures

Shopping

You may want to bring back home some of the typical liquors such as the anise-flavored Ouzo or the strong Tsipouro. Greek olives, spices and capers can be vacuumed-packed, making for convenient souvenirs. Look for locally made leather sandals, pottery and hand-painted ceramics. You'll find most shops in the Psyri district, not far from the Acropolis during your Athens cruise.

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