Cruise EXPLORA II: Saudi Arabia, Egypt, 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 :

Thessaloniki's port, one of the largest in the Aegean, is ideally located just 1 kilometer from the city center. Easily accessible on foot or by public transport, it offers the perfect opportunity for visitors to effortlessly explore this historic and culturally rich city. The port, anchored in the Macedonia region of Greece, is an ideal starting point for immersing yourself in the history and beauty of Thessaloniki.

What to visit in Thessalonica

Thessalonica, a city steeped in history, offers a multitude of fascinating sites. The White Tower, the city's landmark, offers a panoramic view of the waterfront. Discover the city's Byzantine churches, including the Church of St. Demetrius, patron saint of Thessaloniki. Stroll along the lively waterfront to feel the atmosphere of the city. The Thessaloniki Archaeological Museum, renowned for its Hellenistic and Roman collections, is a must-see for history buffs.

What to visit in the area

In the area surrounding Thessaloniki, there's plenty to discover. Vergina, some 70 kilometers away, is famous for the tomb of Philip II of Macedonia, an exceptional archaeological site. The Chalkidiki peninsula, with its magnificent beaches and crystal-clear waters, is perfect for a day of relaxation. Mount Olympus, around 100 kilometers away, is a mythical site and a popular hiking destination.

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 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.

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.

The port :

The port of Port Said is located at the northern end of Egypt's Suez Canal. Just 3 kilometers from the city center, the port is easily accessible by cab or local public transport, offering a direct immersion in the Egyptian atmosphere as soon as you step off the ship.

What to visit in Port Said

Port Said is a city rich in history and culture. Visit the National Museum of Port Said, home to ancient Egyptian artifacts and a fascinating collection on the history of the Suez Canal. Stroll the bustling streets to discover Ottoman architecture and charming colonial buildings. Don't miss the El Nasr Mosque, an architectural gem, and the famous Port Said Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the world still in operation. For an authentic local experience, the Souk El Tawfikeya market is a must.

What to visit in the area

A number of excursions are possible in the vicinity of Port Said. Ismailia, another city on the Suez Canal, is famous for its gardens and peaceful atmosphere. Discover the Ras El Bar National Park, a magnificent natural area offering a wealth of flora and fauna, as well as a breathtaking view of the junction of the Suez Canal and the Mediterranean. Finally, the beaches of Port Fouad, on the other side of the canal, are perfect for a relaxing day on the Mediterranean.

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.

Jeddah, the gateway to Mecca, will amaze you with its blend of ancient and modern. Stroll along the Corniche, with its breathtaking views of the Red Sea. Don't miss the old town of Al-Balad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can admire traditional Saudi architecture. The Al-Alawi market offers an immersion in local commerce. For diving enthusiasts, the coral reefs of the Red Sea are a must. Enjoy local cuisine, especially fresh seafood.