Venice (Fusina) to Athens (Piraeus)

Venice rests three miles off the coast of mainland Italy and is considered one of the worlds most enchanting cities. Known as the “Queen of the Adriatic,” it actually comprises more than 100 separate islands. Laced together by a string of 400 intricate bridges, Venice is legendary for its labyrinthine network of canals. A whimsical stroll through the city can lead one to a hidden world of ornately decorated piazzas and shops. As you explore colorful marketplaces and busy town squares, marvel at a priceless legacy of Baroque architecture. Admire the richness of St. Marks Basilica and the lavishness of the Palazzo Ducale. Getting lost in Venice can be a truly delightful experience. The place of dreams, this romantic city will live long in your memory.

Venice rests three miles off the coast of mainland Italy and is considered one of the worlds most enchanting cities. Known as the “Queen of the Adriatic,” it actually comprises more than 100 separate islands. Laced together by a string of 400 intricate bridges, Venice is legendary for its labyrinthine network of canals. A whimsical stroll through the city can lead one to a hidden world of ornately decorated piazzas and shops. As you explore colorful marketplaces and busy town squares, marvel at a priceless legacy of Baroque architecture. Admire the richness of St. Marks Basilica and the lavishness of the Palazzo Ducale. Getting lost in Venice can be a truly delightful experience. The place of dreams, this romantic city will live long in your memory.

Celebrated as one of the best sailing areas in the world, Zadar is blessed with beautiful natural surroundings, mild winters and warm summers. Bordered by four national parks – the untouched Kornati Islands, the breathtaking Velebit mountains, the winding Krka River and the peaceful Plitvice Lakes – all ideal for hiking, boating, climbing and even skiing.

Though it has only recently re-emerged as an independent nation, Croatia is by no means a new country. There were settlements along the Dalmatian Coast before recorded time. When Slavic people migrated here in the 6th century, they converted to Catholicism and adopted the local Latin alphabet. The region eventually became part of the powerful Kingdom of Croatia. Medieval Dubrovnik, formerly the Republic of Ragusa, was one of several walled cities established in the 7th century to guard the coastal approaches. Its fortification was completed in the 13th century and has remained relatively unchanged. The city walls are in excellent condition and today prevent invasion by automobiles. Within the walls, the lovely sleek lines of Venetian-style buildings complement a wealth of ancient stone architecture. Nearby islands feature beautiful beaches as well as intriguing ancient ruins.

Tethered to southern Greeces mainland village of Gefyra by a causeway, Monemvasia rises above the sapphire-blue waters of the Aegean Sea looking like a giant slab of rock, and is often called the Gibraltar of the East. Its medieval Lower Town, encircled by ancient fortress walls, boasts an array of shops and restaurants. Crowning the islet is the Upper Town, offering stunning views of the surrounding area. It is also home to the 12th-century St. Sophia Church.

Venture through Greece’s largest port city, Piraeus, as you make your way to the cradle of Western culture and the birthplace of democracy. Athens, among the worlds oldest cities with a history spanning 3,400 years, has long been the location of myth and muse, and its ancient heritage is still an incredible source of inspiration. Here, the Acropolis crowns the city as home to the Parthenon and other legendary temples and monuments.

Venture through Greece’s largest port city, Piraeus, as you make your way to the cradle of Western culture and the birthplace of democracy. Athens, among the worlds oldest cities with a history spanning 3,400 years, has long been the location of myth and muse, and its ancient heritage is still an incredible source of inspiration. Here, the Acropolis crowns the city as home to the Parthenon and other legendary temples and monuments.