Compare Classical Greece & Southern Italy by Titan Travel vs Dalmatian Elegance - Lower Deck Deluxe Cabin, Classic Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1 UK - Athens
Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home, for your flight to Athens. On arrival, you are met by Voyages to Antiquity representatives and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2 Athens
Athens has been influenced by many, and has itself influenced the world. Choose to visit the Acropolis, the 5th century BC site dominated by the Parthenon; or visit Illissia Mansion, home to the Byzantine and Christian Museum which holds the world’s largest collection of icons, and then the Byzantine Monastery of Kaisariani with its fine frescoes and elegant gardens.

Day 3 Athens - Piraeus
Today we explore the scenic Argolis Peninsula in the eastern Peloponnesus and visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Epidaurus, a pure masterpiece of Greek architecture and Mycenae, one of the great cities of the Mycenaean civilisation. This full-day excursion also features a cruise of the Corinth Canal and a traditional lunch in a Greek restaurant. This afternoon we embark Aegean Odyssey (4T) in Piraeus.

Day 4 Gythion
We spend the morning in Gythion with a choice of two excursions; on the first you’ll discover a glorious array of Byzantine monuments in the UNESCO World Heritage town of Mystras, then a drive to the peak of the city for views of Sparta, before descending to explore the lower town on foot. Or, sail into Diros Cave on a small fishing boat and explore the narrow passageways of this prehistoric dwelling place. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 5 Katakolon
Katakolon is a small fishing village approximately an hour for the mystical site of Ancient Olympia, sacred ground to the people of the Peloponnese Peninsula as early as the 10th century BC. After your exploration of the famous grounds, visit the archaeological museum - among the great finds of the area that are displayed here, are the Head of Hera and ornaments from the Temple of Zeus, and the helmet of Miltiades, the Athenian general during Athens' 'Golden Age'.

Day 6 Itea
Choose to explore Ancient Delphi, responsible for founding one of the earliest rivals of the Olympics - the Pythian Games. Today the stadium is the best preserved ancient arena in the world, but some other buildings have had to be restored, including the Treasury of Athens and the Altar of the Chians. Alternatively you can opt to take a short journey from Itea to the monastery of Osios Loukas, on the slopes of Mount Helicon.

Day 7 Corfu
We spend this morning in Corfu with a choice of two excursions; on the first you’ll discover the very essence of Byzantine Corfu beginning with time in the historic Campielo quarter’s Byzantine Museum, then a short walk through Corfu Town. Your second choice is a visit to the Achilleion Palace; built in 1890 by the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, to be her summer palace.

Day 8 Dubrovnik, Croatia
Arrive in the UNESCO-protected walled city of Dubrovnik, where many bell towers, copper domes and the 10th century wall dominate the landscape. Join a sightseeing walking tour of this powerful city founded in the 7th century; despite a disastrous earthquake in 1667, many of the city’s stunning Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance churches, palaces, monasteries and exquisite fountains still remain in good shape. Following the tour there will be free time to explore the nooks and crannies of the Old Town. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 9 Brindisi (Lecce), Italy
Lecce is a city of ancient ruins, grand Baroque churches and elegant palaces. Today, we join a guided tour including the grand Santa Croce Basilica; the city’s magnificent amphitheatre dating back to the 1st century and the Piazza Duomo or visit Alberobello a small town in Puglia known for its trulli houses.

Day 10 Catania, Sicily
Join a walking tour of Taormina featuring the Palazzo Corvaia and a visit to the Ancient Greek Theatre, the second largest of its kind in Sicily. There will be time to stroll along the Corso Umberto, the main street of Taormina, into some of the smaller lanes and alleyways, before a short sightseeing drive through Via Etnea, Villa Bellini, Piazza Stesicoro and Piazza Duomo. Or, choose to explore the ancient ruins of Syracuse, which will also allow you to have time to stroll the Corso Umberto. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 11-12 Sorrento (overnight)
On day 11, you have a choice of two tours: Pompeii or Herculaneum. Choose to be guided expertly through the spectacular site of Pompeii and visit the aristocratic mansions, temples, theatres, markets and large forum. At every turn, inscriptions bring the hustle and bustle of this ancient city to life. Or, a scenic drive takes you to Herculaneum which was engulfed by volcanic mud in the same eruption that claimed Pompeii. Fortunately for us, this mud sealed and protected entire buildings and today inlaid marble floors, paintings, mosaics and carbonised woods can all be seen. Both tours allow you to have free time in central Sorrento, where the ship will be docked overnight and day 12 is at leisure to explore further. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 13 Civitavecchia - Rome
This morning we disembark in Civitavecchia and make our way to our hotel in Rome, where we stay for two nights.

Day 14 Rome
Italy’s vibrant capital is one of the world’s most inspiring cities with historic art, endless ruins, and outstanding monuments; and is a perfect way to end your trip. Choose from a selection of excursions including a visit to the stunning archaeological site of Ostia Antica. Or, discover one of the most iconic representations of the ancient Roman world, the extraordinary Colosseum, which at its peak was capable of holding 65,000 viewers. An optional afternoon visit to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel is also available.

Day 15 Rome - UK
We transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.

Day 1: Welcome to the Dalmatian Coast

Your private transfer will collect you from Split airport and take you to Cornaro Hotel, located in the heart of the city. Your Local Host will greet you and be on hand to help you decide how to spend your time. Perhaps wander through the Old Town, situated minutes away from your hotel? Maybe enjoy a wine tasting at your hotel, or take in the views from the rooftop bar?

Cornaro Hotel, Split.

Day 2: Your Elegant Cruise Ship Relaxed Start

After a free morning, your Local Host will accompany you to Split harbour, where your deluxe cruiser awaits. After a warm welcome by your Cruise Manager, settle into your cabin. Join your Local Expert for a stroll through the ancient walkways of Diocletian's Palace, which now forms the historic centre of Split. Walk through labyrinthine streets to see St. Duje's, originally Diocletian's Mausoleum, and the Temple of Jupiter, which today is a baptistery, as well as the Golden Gate. Continue your venture underground to explore the cellars. Return to your cruiser to enjoy a cocktail and Welcome Dinner with wine at your meet-and-greet party.

Avangard/Futura

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 3: Cruise to Korčula Relaxed Start

Early this morning, depart from Split and journey along the picturesque coast. From the comfort of your cabin window or the breakfast table upstairs, enjoy views of sun-dappled islands during your leisurely start to the day. Stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays before arriving in Korčula, on the island of the same name. The locals claim the celebrated globetrotter, Marco Polo was born here. Embark on a fascinating  photography walk with Andrea, a passionate Local Expert who takes you through the herringbone maze of streets and flagstone plazas. Spend time looking for the cultural and natural treasures of the city. Then you are at leisure to indulge your taste buds in the evening at one of Korčula’s many appealing restaurants and bars.

Avangard/Futura

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine

Day 4: Mljet and Dubrovnik Relaxed Start

Voyage south to the Island of Mljet and join your Cruise Manager for a stroll to Veliko Jezero, the Big Lake of Mljet National Park. A gentle ferry ride brings you to the Benedictine Monastery of St. Mary, which rises out of the saline waters on its own small island. After time to explore, return to your cruise ship for a traditional Croatian lunch. Next, set sail for the mighty bastions of Dubrovnik. As the receding sun casts autumnal hues across the endless sky, drift alongside the monumental city walls and enjoy a delicious buffet dinner served on deck.

Avangard/Futura

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine, Dinner with Wine

Day 5: Dubrovnik, a ‘Paradise on Earth’ Relaxed Start

Transfer to the medieval Old Town of Dubrovnik, where the footsteps of endless travellers have buffed the marbled streets and squares to a smooth patina. After your guided walking exploration, take the cable car to Srđ Mountain for scenic views over the famous fortifications and the Elaphiti Islands. Enjoy a free afternoon in the Pearl of the Adriatic - explore at your own pace, shop in the markets or stroll with friends along the ancient ramparts.

Avangard/Futura

Breakfast

Day 6: The Pelješac Peninsula Relaxed Start

Start off your day cruising past the beautiful Elaphiti Islands, a summer playground for Dubrovnik's aristocracy during the 16th century. Continue to the Pelješac Peninsula, renowned for its excellent wines, where you will have the chance to take a dip in the beautiful blue waters. Enjoy time to explore before returning to your cruise ship for an included four-course buffet lunch. After mooring at a small port on the peninsula, transfer to the village of Kuna to see the local church and monastery, followed by a visit to a nearby farm. Meet the locals and treat your taste buds to a typical village feast with a Farm-to-Table dinner of Croatian delicacies, freshly made with their own produce. Late in the evening, return to your ship.

Avangard/Futura

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine, Dinner with Wine

Day 7: A Venetian Dream on Hvar Relaxed Start

Drop anchor at the small island of Šćedro, with quiet coves and pristine beauty offering the most irresistible backdrop for lunch. Cruise west for a chance to swim in the crystal clear waters of the emerald Pakleni Islands. Continue to disembark at Hvar – the island of sunshine, lavender, sage and wine. Follow the gorgeous white stone, laid down by the Venetians to the town’s magnificent main square with your Local Expert, considered one of the country’s most beautiful. Lined with chic cafes, it unfurls onto the yacht-filled harbour, with the photogenic Renaissance cathedral forming a stunning backdrop. Spend time exploring the secluded beaches and tiny seafood restaurants, or visit the crowning fortress for superb views over the town and island-studded bay.

Avangard/Futura

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine

Day 8: Bol’s famous beach on the Island of Brač Relaxed Start

Set sail for Bol in the morning, the oldest town on the island of Brač and one of Croatia’s most famous seaside resorts. Walk along the promenade and swim at the picture-perfect Zlatni Rat, or Golden Cape, a shifting triangle of sandy beaches, protruding into the cobalt waters of the Adriatic. At a local winery, relax with some appetisers and taste some of the revered wines of the island. The evening is reserved for the Captain’s Celebration Dinner with live entertainment.

Avangard/Futura

Breakfast, Lunch with Wine, Dinner

Day 9: Depart Split

Early morning, cruise to Split port, where your trip comes to an end. Transfers are available to Split airport. Please do not schedule flights prior to 12:00.

Breakfast