Day 1 – Arrive Athens

Arrive in Athens, Greece’s capital city, where you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to settle in before meeting your fellow guests at this evening’s Welcome Reception.

Day 2 – Athens

Today, discover the highlights of Athens on a guided city tour, taking in some of the world’s most iconic ancient landmarks, including the Acropolis and Parthenon. Wander through the heart of this historic city and uncover the stories behind its remarkable past. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a special dinner at a traditional local taverna, where you can savour authentic Greek cuisine.

Day 3 – Athens

Today, spend time at leisure exploring more of Athens. Perhaps revisit a landmark you discovered yesterday, or immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, wandering through Athens’ charming laneways where hidden courtyards, local boutiques and bustling squares reveal the city’s everyday character. Relax with a drink at one of the many cafes scattered throughout the historic centre. Alternatively, seek out a traditional taverna and linger over a long Greek lunch.

Day 4 – Athens, Embark Ship

This morning, enjoy time at leisure in Athens before transferring to your Holland America Line ship, Nieuw Amsterdam. Settle into your stateroom and explore the ship’s facilities before heading to a warm Welcome Reception this evening. Meet your Tour Leader and fellow travellers as you begin your journey together.

Day 5 – At Sea

Spend today relaxing on board as you sail towards your next destination. Take advantage of the ship’s many amenities, savour a variety of flavours across the onboard dining venues, browse the library for a good book, or enjoy the diverse entertainment and leisure facilities available throughout the day.

Day 6 – Kotor

Cruise into Montenegro’s spectacular Bay of Kotor, one of the Mediterranean’s most dramatic natural harbours. Set out on a scenic boat cruise to Perast and soak up the stunning views of this small baroque town. Join a guided walking tour through Perast’s pedestrian-only streets, admiring St Nicholas Church at the heart of town. Other sites include the Parish Church and the 12th-century Sveti Djordje Church. After a refreshment stop, board a boat to Gospa od Skrpjela, a baroque-style church built in 1632 on one of the Bay of Kotor’s islets. Be captivated by 68 intricate paintings by Tripo Kokolja at Our Lady of the Rocks Church, celebrating 17th-century baroque artistry. After the tour, cruise back to Kotor for an in-depth guided city tour through the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Spend time at leisure in Kotor before returning to the ship.

Day 7 – Corfu

Explore the captivating island of Corfu, a melting pot of influences shaped by its Venetian, French and British heritage. Discover elegant architecture and vibrant culture as you wander through the charming streets of Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed destination. Colourful buildings, historic squares and bustling cafes create an unmistakably Mediterranean atmosphere. Stroll along the elegant Liston Promenade, browse local boutiques and admire landmarks such as the Old Fortress overlooking the sparkling Ionian Sea. Enjoy time at leisure to experience the island at your own pace, or choose from a range of optional sightseeing tours (additional expense).

Day 8 – Messina

Spend the day exploring Messina at your leisure. Explore the gateway to the wonders of eastern Sicily including the city’s historic centre, impressive cathedral and local shops. Perhaps you’ll choose to simply immerse yourself in the relaxed atmosphere of your surroundings. Alternatively, choose from a range of optional excursions (additional expense).

Optional excursions include an expedition to Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, or a visit to the hilltop town of Taormina, renowned for its ancient Greek theatre, elegant boutiques and sweeping coastal views. The surrounding region is also famous for its rich winemaking traditions, colourful Sicilian ceramics and handcrafted volcanic stone and glass creations, offering plenty of opportunities to discover the unique character and culture of Sicily.

Day 9 – Naples

Today, cruise to Naples, one of Italy’s most vibrant and historic locations. Admire incredible views of this city, set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Then, embark on a special Insider Experience at the ancient site of Pompeii. Enjoy the remainder of the day to explore Naples at leisure. Discover the city’s lively atmosphere after the crowds have dispersed as the ship docks here overnight. Peruse the historic streets, indulge in an authentic Neapolitan pizza, or savour regional cuisine accompanied by a glass of Campanian wine in an authentic local tavern.

Insider Experience – Pompeii Guided Tour

Take a memorable visit to Pompeii, the remarkable UNESCO World Heritage-listed city marked by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79. On a guided tour, explore its ancient streets, well-preserved villas, temples, bathhouses and public squares. Learn about daily life in ancient Rome through carefully restored archaeological remains.

Day 10 – Naples

Today, enjoy time to explore Naples at leisure. Learn more about local life as you stroll through the historic heart of one of southern Italy’s most captivating cities. Discover the Mediterranean charm of lively piazzas and elegant shopping streets, or soak up views of the Bay of Naples while enjoying a cappuccino at a local cafe. Taste authentic Neapolitan cuisine, browse local markets and be captivated by the city’s bustling atmosphere and rich heritage. Alternatively, choose from a range of optional excursions (additional expense).

Day 11 – Disembark Ship, Depart Rome

After breakfast, your cruise comes to an end. Disembark your Holland America Line ship in Rome and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.