Cruise EXPLORA I: Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Malta departing from Valetta

The port :

The port of Valletta, located in the heart of the Mediterranean, is a real gem for cruisers. Iconic and steeped in history, the port is just a stone's throw from Valletta's historic center. Its immediate proximity to the city, less than a kilometer away, offers visitors quick and easy access to the treasures of the Maltese capital.

What to visit in Valletta

Valletta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a city of art and history. Start your visit with St. John's Co-Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque art, and don't miss the Palace of the Grand Masters, bearing witness to the island's chivalric history. Stroll through the gardens of Upper Barrakka for a breathtaking view of the Grand Port. Valletta also offers a rich cultural scene, with museums such as the National Museum of Archaeology and the Maison de la Valette, dedicated to the city's history.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The island of Malta around Valletta is full of sites to explore. Mdina, the ancient capital, with its medieval streets, is around 14 kilometers away. Don't miss the megalithic temples of Ħaġar Qim and Mnajdra, fascinating testimonies to the island's ancient history. For a more natural experience, the blue cave and cliffs of Dingli offer a striking natural spectacle. Finally, for beach lovers, Mellieħa Bay offers crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches less than 25 kilometers from Valletta.

Port:

The port of Syracuse, located on Sicily's eastern Mediterranean coast, is directly adjacent to the city's historic center, offering exceptional ease of access for exploring the historical and architectural riches of Syracuse, a city thousands of years old.

What to visit in Syracuse

Syracuse is a city with an exceptional cultural and historical heritage. The island of Ortygia, the heart of the old town, is a labyrinth of charming alleyways and lively squares. Don't miss Syracuse Cathedral, a unique edifice that incorporates the columns of an ancient Greek temple. The Neapolis archaeological park, about 3 kilometers from the port, is home to an impressive Greek theater and the Roman amphitheater. For history buffs, the Paolo Orsi Archaeological Museum, one of the most important in Sicily, is a must.

What to see in the surrounding area

There are many sites to discover around Syracuse. The Cavagrande del Cassibile nature reserve, around 15 kilometers away, is famous for its lakes and canyons, offering spectacular scenery and hiking opportunities. Noto, around 30 kilometers away, is a jewel of Sicilian Baroque, with its sumptuous churches and palaces. For a coastal experience, Fontane Bianche beach, around 15 kilometers away, offers crystal-clear waters and fine sand. These destinations around Syracuse allow you to immerse yourself in the diversity and beauty of Sicily.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Port:

The port of Corfu, located on the Greek island of the same name in the Ionian Sea, is only about 2 kilometers from Corfu town center. Visitors can easily reach the center by local bus or even on foot, offering a great opportunity to discover the cityscape and local culture along the way.

What to visit in Corfu

Corfu, an island rich in history and natural beauty, is packed with sites to explore. Discover Corfu's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets and Venetian buildings. Visit the Corfu Fortress for a breathtaking view of the town and the sea. The Achilleion Palace, built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, is a must-see for its lush gardens and neoclassical architecture. For a touch of nature, the Mon Repos garden offers a peaceful setting for a stroll.

What to visit in the area

Corfu's surroundings offer a wealth of excursion possibilities. Beaches such as Paleokastritsa and Glyfada are famous for their crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery. For history buffs, a visit to the ancient city of Paleopolis reveals ancient ruins and artifacts. Mountain villages such as Pelekas and Sinarades offer a charming glimpse of traditional island life. For a maritime experience, consider a boat trip to nearby small islands such as Paxos and Antipaxos, known for their secluded beaches and sea caves.

The port:

The port of Kotor, located in one of the most beautiful bays in the Mediterranean, is a picturesque port of call in Montenegro. Just 500 meters from the historic city center, this port offers remarkable accessibility on foot, allowing visitors to immediately immerse themselves in Kotor's medieval charm. Surrounded by towering mountains and crystal-clear waters, the port is a gateway to the region's natural and architectural treasures.

What to visit in Kotor

Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a jewel of the Adriatic. Its historic center, surrounded by impressive fortifications, is home to a maze of cobbled streets and numerous ancient churches and Venetian palaces. The Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, an emblematic monument, is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. For breathtaking views, a climb to the ramparts of St. John's fortress reveals a spectacular panorama of the bay. Don't miss the local market, with its fresh produce and Montenegrin specialities.

What to visit in the surrounding area

The area around Kotor is a showcase for Montenegro's natural beauty. Perast, just 12 kilometers away, is a charming coastal village known for its Baroque churches and two picturesque islands. The Bay of Kotor, with its small villages and calm waters, is ideal for cruises and water sports. For nature lovers, the Lovćen National Park, around 50 kilometers away, offers hiking and breathtaking views of the region. Finally, Budva, around 23 kilometers away, is famous for its beaches, lively nightlife and walled old town.

The port:

The port of Brindisi, in Italy's picturesque Puglia region, offers a majestic opening onto the Adriatic Sea. Just 500 meters from the historic center, the port is easily accessible on foot or by public transport. This immediate proximity to the heart of Brindisi makes the port an ideal starting point for discovering the city and its surroundings.

What to visit in Brindisi

Brindisi, a historic port city, is rich in heritage. Discover the Roman Column, symbolizing the end of the Via Appia. The Castello Svevo, a medieval fortress, offers a plunge into history. Visit Brindisi Cathedral to admire its remarkable architecture and artistic treasures. For a cultural experience, the Museo Archeologico Provinciale Francesco Ribezzo presents fascinating archaeological finds from the region. Finally, stroll along the Lungomare Regina Margherita, a lively waterfront ideal for a relaxing stroll.

What to visit in the surrounding area

Around Brindisi, Puglia offers a wide range of sites to explore. Lecce, nicknamed the Florence of the South, is famous for its Baroque architecture and is just a 40-minute drive away. You can also discover the charming white towns of Ostuni and Cisternino, pearls of the Itria Valley. For nature lovers, the Torre Guaceto nature reserve offers unspoilt beaches and hiking trails, a true haven of peace to discover.

Split, on Croatia's Dalmatian coast, is a vibrant city rich in history. Its Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see. Stroll along the Riva, the lively waterfront, and explore the narrow streets of the old town. Split's beaches, such as Bačvice, are perfect for relaxing. The city is also a departure point for the Dalmatian islands. Local Croatian cuisine is a treat for the taste buds.