Cruise Oceania Allura: Italy, Malta, Greece, Turkey departing from Istanbul

The port:

Istanbul's port, a vibrant crossroads between Europe and Asia, is ideally located just 2 kilometers from the city's historic center. Easily accessible by streetcar, cab or even on foot, the port is the perfect starting point for exploring Istanbul's cultural and historical treasures, offering immediate immersion in its unique atmosphere.

What to visit in Istanbul

In this fascinating metropolis, discover architectural wonders such as the Blue Mosque and the majestic Hagia Sophia, reflections of the city's Byzantine and Ottoman history. The Topkapi Palace, residence of the Ottoman sultans, is a must-see museum brimming with works of art and historical treasures. Stroll through the Grand Bazaar for a shopping experience in a maze of boutiques. For a breathtaking view of Istanbul, a walk or cruise along the Bosphorus is a must.

What to visit in the surrounding area

On the outskirts of Istanbul, the Princes' Islands, a short ferry ride away, offer a tranquil getaway with their charming wooden houses and peaceful beaches. The Belgrade Forest, on the outskirts of Istanbul, offers a natural area for relaxation, with hiking trails and rich biodiversity.

The port:

Istanbul's port, a vibrant crossroads between Europe and Asia, is ideally located just 2 kilometers from the city's historic center. Easily accessible by streetcar, cab or even on foot, the port is the perfect starting point for exploring Istanbul's cultural and historical treasures, offering immediate immersion in its unique atmosphere.

What to visit in Istanbul

In this fascinating metropolis, discover architectural wonders such as the Blue Mosque and the majestic Hagia Sophia, reflections of the city's Byzantine and Ottoman history. The Topkapi Palace, residence of the Ottoman sultans, is a must-see museum brimming with works of art and historical treasures. Stroll through the Grand Bazaar for a shopping experience in a maze of boutiques. For a breathtaking view of Istanbul, a walk or cruise along the Bosphorus is a must.

What to visit in the surrounding area

On the outskirts of Istanbul, the Princes' Islands, a short ferry ride away, offer a tranquil getaway with their charming wooden houses and peaceful beaches. The Belgrade Forest, on the outskirts of Istanbul, offers a natural area for relaxation, with hiking trails and rich biodiversity.

The port :

The port of Volos, located in the Thessaly region of Greece, is directly adjacent to the, allowing passengers to easily discover the charms of Volos on foot. Surrounded by sea and mountains, the port of Volos is a gateway to exploring the mythical region of Mount Pelion and the Sporades.

What to visit in Volos

Volos is a city of myths and legends. Be sure to visit the Volos Archaeological Museum, home to treasures from the ancient Thessalian civilization. The promenade along the waterfront, lined with cafés and tavernas, is a popular place to live. For a culinary experience, discover the tsipouradika, local taverns serving tsipouro, a traditional drink, accompanied by delicious mezzés. The ancient theater of Dimitrias, testimony to the city's ancient history, is also well worth a visit.

What to see in the surrounding area

Around Volos, you can visit Mount Pelion, with its picturesque villages, lush forests and magnificent beaches, a destination of choice for nature lovers and hikers. The Sporades islands, especially Skiathos and Skopelos, accessible by boat, offer picture-postcard scenery, with sandy beaches and turquoise waters. For a cultural experience, a visit to the ancient site of Delphi, one of the most important sites of Greek antiquity, is a must, just a few hours' drive from Volos.

Port :

The port of Piraeus, one of the largest and busiest in the Mediterranean, serves as the maritime gateway to Athens. Just 10 kilometers from the historic center of Athens, it's easily accessible by metro, bus or cab. This proximity allows travelers to quickly immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of the Greek capital.

What to visit in Athens

Athens is a city where every stone tells a story. Don't miss the Acropolis, the emblematic ancient site overlooking the city, and its dedicated museum. Stroll through the narrow streets of the Pláka district, where you can sample local specialties in a typically Greek atmosphere. For history buffs, the National Archaeological Museum offers a fascinating immersion in Greece's glorious past. Last but not least, Syntagma Square and the Monastiráki district are perfect for discovering the hustle and bustle of modern Athenian life.

What to visit in the area?

The area around Athens offers a variety of escapades. Cape Sounion, with its majestic Temple of Poseidon, offers a breathtaking panorama of the Aegean Sea, especially at sunset. For a unique experience, a visit to Delphi, mythical site and center of the ancient world, is a must. Finally, the island of Aegina, accessible by ferry from Piraeus, is a charming escape with its peaceful beaches, the temple of Aphaia and traditional markets.

The port:

The port of Heraklion, located on the north coast of Crete in Greece, is an important port of call in the Eastern Mediterranean. Thanks to its privileged location just a few steps from the city center, the port is the ideal starting point for exploring Greece's largest island and its splendors.

What to visit in Heraklion

Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is rich in cultural and historical heritage. Knossos Palace, just a few kilometers from the city, is a major archaeological site, bearing witness to the Minoan civilization. In the town center, the Venetian fortress of Koules dominates the harbour. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the most important in Greece, houses treasures from the Minoan civilization. For an authentic experience, stroll through the bustling streets of the central market, where Cretan flavors and aromas will enchant you.

What to visit in the area

Around Heraklion, Crete offers a variety of landscapes and historic sites. The Lasithi region, with its picturesque plateau and the mythical Dikteon Andron, the cave where Zeus was born, is just a short drive away. For beach lovers, Matala, with its sandstone cliffs and ancient caves, offers a unique getaway. The town of Rethymnon, with its Venetian fortress and charming port, is another must-see destination for lovers of architecture and history.

Port:

The port of Katakolon, a charming fishing village on the west coast of Greece, is a popular stopover for Mediterranean cruises. Located just 500 meters from the village center, the port is within easy walking distance, offering visitors immediate access to Katakolon's picturesque and relaxing atmosphere. It's also the ideal starting point for exploring the region's ancient sites, such as Olympia.

What to visit in Katakolon

Katakolon, with its streets lined with souvenir stores and tavernas, offers an authentic Greek experience. The Katakolon Sea Museum, displaying maritime artifacts, is an interesting place to learn about the region's naval history. Wine lovers will appreciate a visit to the Mercouri winery, a few kilometers away, where they can taste local wines and learn about the history of winemaking in the region.

What to visit in the area

Around 35 kilometers from Katakolon, the ancient site of Olympia, birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, is a must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to beautifully preserved ruins, including the stadium, the Temple of Zeus and the Olympia Archaeological Museum. For those wishing to explore nature, Agios Andreas beach, just a few kilometers away, offers an idyllic setting for relaxing by the sea. Finally, for an immersion in rural Greece, an excursion to the surrounding mountain villages, such as Kourouta, offers breathtaking views of the Greek countryside and an authentic cultural experience.

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 Messina in Sicily, located on the eponymous strait separating the island from the Italian mainland, is a key passageway in the Mediterranean. Just 1.5 kilometers from Messina's historic center, it's easily accessible by bus or streetcar, allowing visitors to quickly immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of this historic city.

What to visit in Messina

Messina, a city steeped in history, offers many treasures to discover. Messina Cathedral, with its astronomical clock, is a must-see for lovers of art and architecture. The Montalto Sanctuary and Christ the King offer breathtaking views of the city and the Strait. For painting enthusiasts, the Regional Museum boasts a remarkable collection of works of art, notably by Caravaggio. The Fountain of Neptune, in the center of town, is a masterpiece of Sicilian Baroque not to be missed.

What to see and do in the area

The area around Messina is rich in natural and historical sites. Taormina, with its ancient theater and spectacular views of Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea, is just a short train or bus ride away. The hilltop village of Castelmola offers breathtaking panoramic views and picturesque streets. For nature lovers, an excursion to Etna Park, Europe's largest active volcano, is an unforgettable experience.

The Mediterranean port of Salerno, in Italy's picturesque Campania region, is just 2 kilometers from the city center. Transportation options such as buses and cabs offer quick and convenient access to the historic heart of Salerno and its charming Mediterranean streets.

What to visit in Salerno

Salerno, a city rich in history and culture, offers an authentic experience of Italian life. Salerno's Duomo, with its blend of Norman and Arab architecture, is a must-see. Stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center to discover the city's unique atmosphere. The Minerva botanical garden, one of the oldest in Europe, is a haven of peace and greenery. For art and history lovers, the Diocesan Museum and Castello di Arechi offer a fascinating glimpse into Salerno's past.

What to visit in the surrounding area

Salerno's surroundings are rich in discoveries. The famous Amalfi Coast, with its picturesque villages such as Amalfi and Positano, is within easy reach and offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. The ancient ruins of Paestum, with their well-preserved Greek temples, are a major archaeological site not to be missed. For a natural experience, the Cilento National Park offers magnificent scenery and hiking trails. Finally, the island of Capri, accessible by ferry, is the perfect getaway for discovering its famous caves and crystal-clear waters.

Port :

The port of Civitavecchia, the main cruise port for Rome, is around 80 kilometers from the Italian capital. To get to Rome, options include the train, with a journey time of around 1h20, and shuttle services from the port of Civitavecchia to the main Termini and Vatican stations. To explore downtown Civitavecchia, local shuttles are available, providing easy access to attractions close to the port. This Mediterranean stopover is an ideal starting point for discovering the treasures of the Eternal City.

What to visit in Civitavecchia?

Civitavecchia, a historic port city, offers many interesting sites close to the port. Explore the Michelangelo Fortress, a Renaissance bastion with panoramic sea views. Stroll along the Lungomare, the lively waterfront, for an authentic local experience. Civitavecchia's National Archaeological Museum, housed in a former spa building, showcases local archaeological finds, reflecting the region's rich history.

What to visit in the area?

Rome, within easy reach of Civitavecchia, is a must, with its historic monuments and artistic treasures. Visit the Colosseum, symbol of the Roman Empire, and the Vatican, with St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums, home to the famous Sistine Chapel. Stroll through the picturesque alleys of Trastevere and explore the ruins of the Roman Forum. In addition to Rome, Civitavecchia's surroundings offer other attractive destinations. Tarquinia, famous for its Etruscan tombs and archaeological museum, is a fascinating cultural getaway. The gardens of Villa Farnese in Caprarola, a Renaissance masterpiece, offer a glimpse of Italian garden art.