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For thousands of years, the Mediterranean Sea has inspired countless explorers and travel aficionados.
Way back, the sea was used mostly for commerce and trade, but with its beautiful port cities and natural attractions, it undoubtedly would have captured the imagination of our ancient ancestors too.
Even then, long before the advent of the modern ocean liner, the waters stretching from the Iberian Peninsula in the west, to Turkey, Egypt and Palestine in the east, would have elicited many a travel dream.
Today, we only need to recount the list of exotic destinations on this vast waterway. Places like Valencia and Barcelona, with their Arab and Moroccan influences, Monte Carlo, Rome and Naples, and Athens, Venice and Dubrovnik, all are places that wonderfully capture the diverse cultural essence of the Mediterranean.
You can see it all on Viking’s Mediterranean Odyssey cruise, a 13-day excursion that takes in 10 ports in 6 countries. Best of all, Viking includes a shore excursion in each port.
Enjoy the ornate architecture and beautiful fountains and squares in Barcelona before continuing on to Toulon in the South of France, and nearby Monte Carlo. A stop at Livorno, Italy allows for a day-trip visit to Pisa, as well as Florence, where Michelangelo’s David and many other famous works of art stand.
The trip through time continues with a visit to Rome, where ancient ruins are as much a part of the city’s landscape as any modern addition.
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As the gateway to the beautiful Amalfi coast, a visit to Naples is a must on any Mediterranean cruise. Explore the summit of Mount Vesuvius, from Pompeii lore, or admire the many Greek and Roman examples of architecture and other city landmarks.
Just over midway through this fascinating cruise, a full day of rest and relaxation on board as the Viking ship makes its way to the Ionian Sea, towards the romantic island of Corfu, in Greece. The picture-perfect Greek islands offer some of the most beautiful settings anywhere.
The gorgeous walled city of Dubrovnik is next, where an entire day can be spent enjoying the city and countryside. So too, the city of Split, in Croatia comes alive through its Gothic architecture and slow walks along the Dalmatian Coast.
Perhaps the most iconic destination of them all, Venice, marks the end of the journey, with an overnight stop at the famous port. Enjoy a gondola ride on the grand canal, tour St. Mark’s Square and indulge in the delicious Italian cuisine.
Mediterranean Odyssey itinerary
*For the most up-to-date itinerary, inclusions and pricing, visit Viking here.
Day 1 & 2 – Barcelona, Spain
Visit Barcelona’s cultural gems and explore the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter. Stroll Las Ramblas, admire Gaudí’s architecture, see the Arc de Triomf and sample tapas.
Day 3 – Marseille, France
Absorb the pleasures of Marseille’s historic treasures; see the scenic Old Port and 17th-century fortresses.
Day 4 – Monte Carlo, Monaco
Discover Monaco’s medieval quarter and Prince’s Palace, or visit the Casino de Monte-Carlo.
Day 5 – Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Visit Pisa’s famed Leaning Tower or venture to Florence to revel in its art and architecture.
Day 6 – Rome, Italy
Marvel at antiquities, such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and the Sistine Chapel.
Day 7 – Naples, Italy
Naples has long been a major centre of Italian culture and was the seat of a powerful independent kingdom for 500 years.
Day 8 – Cruise the Ionian Sea
Gateway to the Adriatic, the Ionian Sea offers picturesque and historic shores.
Day 9 – Corfu, Greece
Explore Corfu’s Venetian-styled Old Town and the island’s breathtaking coasts.
Day 10 – Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik’s stunning Old Town is filled with medieval streets.
Day 11 – Splît, Croatia
The old quarter of Splît is simply stunning.
Day 12 & 13 – Venice, Italy
Explore Venice’s rich tapestry of graceful piazzas, tranquil canals and artful footbridges.
PRICED FROM: $8,195
DURATION: 13-days
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