Athens & 7 Day Greece and Adriatic Cruise
Ancient Athens, then a 7-day cruise to Kefalonia, Greece; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Bari, Italy; & Corfu and Katakolo, Greece; independent adventure with exciting optional excursions
Overview
Style | Independent PackageThese un-escorted packages have no set schedule or guides, so you have the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own from your centrally-located hotel. More of these packages
Freedom to explore at your own pace; unescorted |
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Departures | April – November 2025 | ||
Themes | History & Culture, Small Ship Cruises | ||
Activity Level | Recreational | ||
What to Expect | This is a moderately-paced, independent package. Excursions with local tour guides include a reasonable amount of walking and requires and average level of physical fitness. | ||
Already booked? | Find everything you need to know before you go, including information about passport & visa requirements, flights, luggage, and more. |
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Embark on a captivating 12-day journey of discovery to some of the most historic and iconic destinations aboard the Celestyal Journey. Immerse yourself in ancient civilizations, follow in the footsteps of significant figures from history, live and breathe the myths and legends of Ancient Greece and the Mediterranean, and journey to places where some of the Seven Wonders of the World once stood, without ever having to pack and unpack as you sail from port to port. Begin in the ancient city of Athens and sail through some of the Mediterranean’s most stunning destinations. Explore the scenic beauty of Kefalonia, Greece; the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, Croatia; the dramatic landscapes of Kotor, Montenegro; the rich history of Bari, Italy; and the vibrant culture of Corfu and Katakolo, Greece. Whether you prefer to discover these incredible locations at your own pace or join daily optional excursions—from winery visits and city tours to Game of Thrones-themed adventures and olive oil tastings—each day promises a new and unforgettable experience.
Package includes
- Flights
- Cruise
- Transfers
- Hotel
- Meals
- Round trip flights from New York via Scheduled carries, including taxes & fees, with other gateways available on request.
- All group transfers
- 3 nights Deluxe accommodations at the Royal Olympic Hotel in Athens
- 7 nights standard inside cabin (cat IA) aboard the Celestyal Journey
- 23 Meals: 10 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners
- Port Charges and Cruise Tips
- On-board drink package during dining hours
- Shore excursion discount of $85
Optional add-ons
- Flights from other cities are available. Request pricing when making your reservation.
- Upgrade to Celestyal Plus Experience, which includes an additional $85 shore excursion discount, premium drinks package, 1 free hour of WIFI access daily, discounted specialty dining.
- Optional shore excursions
Why you'll love it
- Explore ancient Athens on a guided tour, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum, and more.
- Wander through the beautiful island of Kefalonia at your leisure, or join optional shore excursions, including a guided tour or a wine tasting.
- Discover the timeless allure of Dubrovnik independently, or join one of several exciting optional tours, including a walking tour or a behind-the-scenes Game of Thrones tour.
- Uncover the hidden gem of Kotor, or enjoy an optional shore excursion, including a scenic drive through Montenegro or a tour of Kotor and the coastal town of Budva.
- Delve into Bari's rich culture and history during your independent exploration, or join optional excursions, including a tour of Alberobello, the caves of Castellana, or a visit of the Basilica of San Nicola.
- Roam the ancient fortresses and pristine beaches of Corfu, or enjoy one of several optional tours, including visits to the Achilleion Palace, Kanoni, and Corfu Town.
- Explore Katakolo independently or join in on one of several excursions, including a tour of Olympia or an olive oil tasting.
Itinerary at a Glance
Dates & Prices
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Depart USA
- Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Greece
Day 2 Arrive in Athens, Greece
- Arrive in Athens and transfer to your hotel
Royal Olympic Hotel or similar
Day 3 Athens
- Enjoy a tour of Athens
- Spend the afternoon exploring the city independently
Royal Olympic Hotel or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryWitness the striking contrast between astounding monuments of a glorious past and elegant modern structures during your tour of Athens. Visit the Acropolis, the crowning beauty and glory of Ancient Athens, with its many monuments atop its rocky base, including the Parthenon, the Propylea, the temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion, with its Porch of Maidens. Drive to the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Panathinaikon Stadium (site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896), and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament House on Constitution Square. See views of government buildings and elegant structures of the 19th century. Drive along Panepistimiou Avenue and view the Catholic Cathedral, the Academy, the University, and the National Library. Conclude your tour with a visit to the new Acropolis Museum, a marvel of architecture with an entire exhibition of the glory of Athens.
After the tour, spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure, exploring the city independently.
Full Day ItineraryEnjoy the morning at leisure, soaking in the sights and sounds of Athens before transferring to the port to board your cruise ship and start your exciting adventure, embarking on a journey that promises to be both inspiring and unforgettable.
Day 5 Kefalonia
- Journey to Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands
- Explore the island independently
- Or, choose from several excursions, including winery visits or an island tour
- Enjoy the evening at leisure
Celestyal Journey Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryExplore the stunning island of Kefalonia, where lush fir forests blanket the rolling hills, and picturesque villages dot the landscape. Known for its unspoiled natural beauty, this Ionian gem offers a serene atmosphere that feels like a step back in time. With its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and shoreline towns, Kefalonia invites you to relax and discover its rich past and breathtaking views.
Enjoy the day at leisure or join one of several optional shore excursions: Discover Kefalonia's storied heritage with a visit to local wineries, where you can indulge your passion for wine tasting. Or, join a guided tour showcasing Kefalonia's best, including its remarkable beaches, scenic villages, and quaint countryside.
Day 6 Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Cruise to Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Explore Dubrovnik independently, walking the city walls and wandering the streets
- Or, join an optional walking tour or a panoramic drive through the city
- For fans of Game of Thrones, have the chance to experience an optional behind-the-scenes tour of iconic filming spots
Celestyal Journey Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryDiscover the timeless allure of Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic." This UNESCO World Heritage city enchants with its well-preserved medieval architecture, towering stone walls, and labyrinth of cobblestone streets. Overlooking the shimmering Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik offers a captivating blend of history and culture, from the grand palaces and churches to the bustling Stradun promenade. Whether you're exploring the timeless city walls or soaking in the coastline views, Dubrovnik promises an unforgettable experience steeped in beauty.
Enjoy the day at leisure or join one of several optional shore excursions: Unveil Dubrovnik's storied past with a walking tour through its medieval streets, or take a panoramic drive through the city and surrounding countryside, visiting enchanting villages and local wineries. Fans of the hit series can also embark on the Game of Thrones locations tour for a behind-the-scenes look at iconic filming spots.
Day 7 Kotor, Montenegro
- Spend the day independently exploring medieval Kotor
- Or, join an optional tour of Kotor or a scenic drive to view the Bay of Kotor and the Adriatic coastline
Celestyal Journey or similar Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryNestled between towering mountains and the sparkling waters of the Adriatic, Kotor is a hidden gem in Montenegro, renowned for its dramatic landscapes and medieval allure. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famed for its fortified Old Town, where narrow, winding streets lead to centuries-old churches, palaces, and squares. Surrounded by one of the most stunning natural harbors in Europe, Kotor offers visitors a mix of tradition and impressive views. From climbing the ancient city walls to discovering its maritime culture, Kotor provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Adriatic.
Enjoy the day at leisure or join one of several optional shore excursions: Journey through Montenegro’s narrative with a tour of the walled town of Kotor and the winsome town of Budva. Alternatively, explore the highlights of Montenegro with a scenic drive that offers spectacular views of the Bay of Kotor and the Adriatic coastline.
Day 8 Bari, Italy
- Journey to Bari, Italy
- Independently explore the city
- Or, join an optional excursion to the fairytale town of Alberobello
- Or, visit the Basilica of San Nicola in Bari
- For the more adventurous, discover the caves of Castellana and the clifftop town of Polignano a Mare
Celestyal Journey Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryBari, a vibrant city on Italy’s Adriatic shore, teems with history, culture, and seaside charm. Known for its idyllic old town, Bari Vecchia, where narrow alleyways lead to historic churches and bustling piazzas, the city blends historic traditions with modern flair. Its waterfront promenade, lively markets, and stunning views of the Adriatic make Bari a delightful destination to explore. Whether enjoying fresh seafood, visiting the impressive Basilica of Saint Nicholas, or strolling the charming streets, Bari offers an authentic taste of southern Italy.
Enjoy the day at leisure or join one of several optional shore excursions: Explore the enchanting town of Alberobello, known for its fairytale-like trulli houses, or visit the Basilica of San Nicola in Bari to see the relics of Santa Claus. For an adventure, discover the stunning caves of Castellana and the clifftop town of Polignano a Mare.
Day 9 Corfu, Greece
- Independently explore the highlights of Corfu, Greece
- Or, choose from several optional excursions, including visits to the Achilleion Palace, Kanoni, and Paleokastritsa
Celestyal Journey Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryCorfu, a lush and scenic island in the Ionian Sea, captivates visitors with its natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. Known for its verdant landscapes, olive groves, and sparkling turquoise waters, Corfu offers a serene escape with a cosmopolitan flair. The island's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is filled with Venetian, French, and British influences, visible in its elegant architecture and narrow, winding streets. From exploring primitive fortresses to relaxing on pristine beaches, Corfu is a perfect blend of history, culture, and awe-inspiring scenery.
Enjoy the day at leisure or join one of several optional shore excursions: Enjoy Corfu’s natural beauty with visits to the Achilleion Palace, Kanoni, and Corfu Town. Take in the picture-perfect landscapes of Paleokastritsa, or explore the island’s green hills, traditional villages, and Corfu Town on a scenic drive.
Day 10 Katakolo
- Dock in the fishing village of Katakolo
- Explore Katakolo at leisure
- Or, join an optional tour of Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games, and the Archaeological Museum
- For a more indulgent experience, combine your visit to Olympia with an olive oil-tasting session or a wine-tasting tour
Celestyal Journey Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Full Day ItineraryKatakolo, a seaside town on Greece's western coast, serves as the gateway to the ancient wonders of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. While small, Katakolo boasts a scenic harbor, vibrant waterfront cafes, and stunning views of the Ionian Sea. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along its quaint streets, explore local shops, or savor fresh seafood. Whether you're drawn to its relaxed atmosphere or the nearby historical treasures, Katakolo offers a delightful blend of coastal appeal and cultural discovery.
Enjoy the day at leisure or join one of several optional shore excursions: Visit the archaic site of Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games, and tour the Archaeological Museum to explore the region's history. For a more indulgent experience, combine your visit to Olympia with an olive oil-tasting session or a wine-tasting tour at local estates.
Day 11 Athens
- Disembark the ship and transfer to your hotel
- Spend the remainder of the day at leisure to explore Athens
Royal Olympic Hotel or similar Breakfast
Full Day ItineraryWhile your cruise may be ending, the irresistible city of Athens still lies ahead. Dive into the busy side streets, each bursting with life and tradition. Climb the iconic Acropolis for a remarkable view of this thriving, cosmopolitan city, where ancient history meets modern energy. As the sun sets, marvel at the Athens skyline by night, with the Aegean Sea dancing in the background.
Day 12 Athens/Arrive USA
- Transfer to the airport to board your return flight to the USA
Breakfast
Hotel & Ship
Hotel
In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.
Cruise Ship
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Trip Details
- What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
- Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Please review the visa & entry requirements.
- Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
- Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
- Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
- What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
- What should I know about Greece? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
- What should I know about Croatia? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
- What should I know about Italy? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.
- What should I know about Montenegro? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.