On our journey across the sea from Istanbul to Venice, we witness the fascinating interplay of cultural influences set against the glorious backdrop of the sun-splashed Mediterranean. Empire after empire rose and fell over the centuries, bequeathing a magnificent heritage of art, architecture, cultures, and cuisine, from Minoan ruins to Byzantine churches and beautifully preserved medieval walled towns. As we voyage aboard the regal 114-guest Corinthian II, we discover enduring legacies of the past as we call at Crete, home of the ancient Minoans, who built elaborate multi-storied palaces; and Malta, rich in prehistoric and Roman remains; and we see the influences of Venetian, Slavic, and Islamic cultures in the seaside towns of Kotor and Dubrovnik.

Itinerary at a Glance

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Days 1-3
Istanbul, Turkey / Embark

The battle for supremacy of the Mediterranean between the Ottoman Empire and Christian Europe was one of the epic struggles of antiquity. In Istanbul, theformer Constantinople and one of the centers of the Ottoman Empire, we explore the basilica of Hagia Sophia, the wondrous Topkapi Palace, seat of Ottoman sultans, and the Blue Mosque. On Day 3 we embark on the Corinthian II and begin our voyage on the Mediterranean.

Days 4-5
Chios, Greece / Rhodes

Our island visits include rugged Chios, reputed birthplace of Homer, where we explore its 11th century Nea Moni monastery, adorned with mosaics created by artists from Constantinople. In Rhodes, a major naval power of antiquity, we tour the Old Town, encircled by medieval walls, and the whitewashed village of ancient Lindos, whose lofty acropolis overlooks the sea.

Days 6-7
Heraklion, Crete / Knossos

Crete is the home of the Minoans, Europe’s oldest civilization, and the exquisite Palace of Knossos was the seat of legendary King Minos. At the Heraklion Museum, we view the most magnificent collection of Minoan art in the world, including elaborate frescoes, gold and bronze figures, and pottery with graceful designs. Alternately, we explore Rethymnon, one of Crete’s prettiest towns, with its strong Venetian and Turkish character. Day 7 is at sea en route to Malta.

Days 8-9
Valletta, Malta / Gerace, Italy

Malta is rich in prehistoric remains, including the Tartien Temples, Malta’s most important megalithic structures. Valletta, the capital and a World Heritage Site, is filled with exuberant architecture built by the Knights of St. John to celebrate their victory over the Turks. Heading to Italy, we explore the medieval hill village of Gerace, with its castle ruins and 11th century duomo.

Days 10-11
Nafpaktos (Lepanto), Greece / Otranto, Italy

Nafpaktos’ medieval appearance is well preserved, with enclosed walls facing the sea and a striking castle above the town. It is here that the Turks were overwhelmingly defeated by an allied fleet in the 1571 Battle of Lepanto. In Otranto, the embarkation port of the Crusades and the leading trade center between Venice, the cities of Dalmatia, and the Eastern Mediterranean, we explore its ancient cathedral, which has the largest floor mosaics in Italy, and the Byzantine church of San Pietro.

Days 12-14
Kotor, Montenegro / Dubrovnik, Croatia

Kotor, scenically located on a fjord-like bay and surrounded by soaring mountains, has an Old Town full of stately palaces, churches, and squares. In Dubrovnik, a lovely old medieval stronghold that once rivaled Venice for control of maritime trade in the Adriatic, we roam the cobbled streets on foot. We arrive in Venice on Day 13. Disembark and fly home on Day 14.

For a more complete description, Download Full Trip Brochure

What the Trip is Like

The trip is rated Level 1, Easiest. It is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active.  There are daily shore excursions featuring walks and sightseeing.

Explanation of Trip Levels