Alexandria
(Cairo) Egypt.
Founded by Alexander the Great in 331 B.C., Alexandria is Egypt’s center
of culture, learning and science. It’s lighthouse, the world’s first,
was one the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Amsterdam, Holland.
One of Europe’s learning cities, Amsterdam’s rings of canals and
traditional Dutch architecture are unmistakable. Rich in art, history and
culture, Amsterdam is home to the Van Gogh museum, Anne Frank’s house, and
the Rijksmuseum, which house many works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Antalya,
Turkey.
Vast archaeological sites, such as Termessos, a Psidian cite built at height
of 1050, are among this city’s treasures. The picturesque cite stretches
along a beautiful harbor that bears its name.
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Barcelona,
Spain.
Fabulous architecture, word class museums, fine foods and wines, fashionable
shopping – Barcelona has it all. Take a walk along Ramblas to feel the
essence of the city.
Bergen,
Norway.
In the heart of Norway’s fjord country, the city of Bergen is perched
between the mountains and the sea. Brightly – painted wooden houses with
steeply pitched roofs line the streets of this scenic port and there are
several fine examples of typical Norwegian architecture. An open – air
museum recreates the lifestyles of Bergen’s earlier days.
Brunsbuttel,
Germany.
Located at the west and of the Kiel Canala 99 – km masterpiece of
engineering that connects the North and Baltic seats – and well above the
lever of the surrounding land.
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Cadiz,
Spain.
This picturesque seaport, founded circa 1000 BC by the Phoenicians, is
distinguished by the many Moorish style buildings and lovely promenades. It
is also your gateway to Seville.
Capri,
Italy.
The history of Capri dates from the Ancient Greeks. In addition to the
famous Blue Grotto, you’ll want to visit the Gardens of Augustus and the
Villa San Michele.
Civitavecchia
(Rome), Italy.
Civitavecchia is the port of the Eternal City of Rome. Take a tour and see
the Colosseum and Forum, visit the Vatican or shop for Italian leather
goods. Be sure to toss a coin into Trevi Fountain which, according to
legend, will guarantee you will return to Rome one day.
Copenhagen,
Demark.
The capital of Demark and the center of Danish commerce and government, was
founded by the famous Bishop Abaslon. The most renowned attraction is
Tivoli, the city’s nonstop amusement center. At the Rosenborg Castle, the
Danish crown jewels are on display.
Corfu,
Greece.
Homer’s island has enchanted visitors for ages, with its picturesque
landscape and delightful climate. For many years the island fell under
Venetian rule and later became a British protectorate. These influences can
be seen in the Renaissance and Georgian style architecture of the main town,
with its arcaded shopping plaza and a cricket pitch in the main square.
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Dover
(London), England.
The white cliffs of Dover are famous in song and story. From Dover you can
visit nearby Canterbury or take a full-day excursion to see the sights of
London – Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace
and more.
Dubrovnik,
Croatia.
This lovely city fully deserves its traditional nickname of "The jewel of Adriatic."
George Bernard Shaw once said "those who seek paradise should come to
Dubrovnik" Surrounded by its 1,000 - year old protective wall, it is
truly an architectural marvel.
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Esbjerg,
Denmark.
One of Denmark’s largest cities, it is located on the south – central
coastline of the main
land portion of Denmark. This charming “city by sea” enjoys access to
the rest of Scandinavia and Europe.
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Flam,
Norway.
This small and charming town, conveniently lies between Oslo and Bergen.
Located in the innermost corner of the Aurlandsfjord it offers some of
Norway’s most spectacular scenery.
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Gdansk,
Poland.
A Baltic fort for over a thousand years, it relishes northern European
traditions. Member of the Hanseatic League, it was coveted by the Teutonic
Knights, Prussians and Slavs. Today it is a major shipbuilding center and
member of the growing “Three Cities” – neighboring Sopot and Gdynia
– area extending along the Bay of Gdansk.
Genoa
(Portofino), Italy.
Birthplace of Christopher Columbus, Genoa has a long and proud history as
one of the most important ports on the Mediterranean. The rejuvenated
waterfront is home to an outstanding maritime museum and aquarium. The city
has the second largest medieval quarter in Europe with superb examples of
gothic architecture, prefer for an afternoon stroll. Tours to the nearby
villages of Portofino and Santa Margherita are also available.
Geiranger,
Norway.
It is hard to imagine that this peaceful little village was a major port for
the Vikings. It lies at the head of Geirangerfjord and is one of the most
picturesque of all Norwegian settlements.
Gibraltar,
British Crown Colon.
The "Rock" guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean sea, offers
a fascinating blend of English and Spanish culture. A ride to the 1400 foot
high summit affords a breathtaking view.
Gudvangen,
Norway.
The small village of Gudvangen, on Norway’s Sognefjord, is 80 nautical
miles from the sea. A winding mountain road leads visitors to spectacular
waterfalls, lush green hills and pastoral landscapes.
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Hellesylt,
Norway.
Enjoy the fresh air spellbinding scenery of this small village nestled at
the end of the breathtaking Synnylvsfjord. A magnificent waterfall is one of
its natural treasures.
Helsinki,
Finland.
The "White City of the North" is a tribute to modern Finnish
design. From its extraordinary harbor market to the stunning examples of the
world’s most beautiful architecture, Helsinki is a feast for the eyes.
Finland’s capital is built on a peninsula and is skirted by islands that
dot the harbor.
Heraklion
(Crete), Greece.
Heraklion, the capital of Crete and its principal commercial port is just
three miles away from the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos.
Discovered in 1899 by Sir Arthur Evans and partially reconstructed, the
elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of Kind Minos and
the seat of ancient Minoan culture. The Archaeological Museum in Heraklion
displays many of the treasures found during the excavations.
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Ibiza,
Spain.
This
pulsating isle is the third largest of the Balearic Island. It is popular
for its excellent beaches, secluded bays, lively nightlife and rising
terrain speckled with fig and olive trees.
Istanbul,
Turkey.
As you approach Istanbul from the sea, the graceful minarets of countless
mosques appear on the horizon and the Islamic call to prayer carries over
the water. Istanbul’s blend of East and west has resulted in some of the
most magnificent architecture in the world, including Agia Sofia and the
Blue Mosque. At the Topkapi Museum, formerly Sultan’s Palace, the
treasures of the Ottoman empire are on view. Bargain for your own treasures
in the Grand Bazaar.
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Katakolon
(Olympia), Greece.
Olympia was a sacred precinct build for the quadrennial games dedicated to
Zeus during which all hostilities were ceased in the name of athletic
competition. Much was destroyed when the games were outlawed as a pagan
festival in 393 AD, but visitors can still see the Temple of Zeus and the
stadium. The Archaeological Museum houses some exquisite sculptures,
including the famous Niki “Winged Victory” by Paionios, “Hermes” by
Praxiteles and “Apollo” from the Temple of Zeus.
Kiel
Canal, Denmark.
A 99-km masterpiece of engineering that connects the North and Baltic seats.
Kos,
Greece.
Kos is known as the home of Hippocrates, father of medical science. The town
is an archeological repository of Archair, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman
ruins. Take a tour to the ancient Asklepeion and the island’s
archaeological museum.
Kusadasi
(Ephessos), Turkey.
A tour to nearby Ephessos should not be missed, for here history truly comes
to life. Walking towards the ancient harbor, down a marble road rutted by
the wheels of countless chariots, you pass architectural masterpieces like
Library of Celsus before arriving at Greet Amphitheater where St.Paul was
arrested and cast out of the city.
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La
Coruna, Spain.
La Coruna is the capital of the rugged province of Galicia. In 1588 the
Spanish Armada assemble in this port to launch their ill – fated attack on
England. Today the area is known for its gentle climate, warm hospitality
and its proximity to the holy of Santiago de Compostela.
Le Harve
(Paris) France.
Le Harve is the gateway for optional tours to Paris, the “City of
Light.” In Le Harve itself, cruise visitors can explore at leisure and
learn something of the French “art de vivre.” Visit fish and vegetable
markets, public parks, modern architecture, long seaside promenade and a
vast beach.
Lisbon,
Portugal.
Portugal’s charming and history capital is also one of the busiest ports
in Europe. Explore the old town’s winding streets on foot, or take an
excursion to visit nearby Cabo de Roca and Estoril.
Limassol,
Cyprus.
Cyprus reflects both Greek and Ottoman influences as well a century of
British occupation. See the historic ruins of Paphos, and also the Kolossi
castle of the Knights and the Graecoroman archaeological side of Curium.
Livorno
(Florence/Pisa), Italy.
The port city of Livorno in Tuscany, is your gateway to Florence. The glory
of Florence lies in the eminence of its past. Its buildings are masterpieces
guarding within more works of art. Some of Florence’s illustrious citizens
were Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli, Dante, Leonardo da Vinci and its
renowned rulers, the Medici family.
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Malaga,
Spain.
Malaga is perfectly situated in the hear of Spain’s famous Costa del Sol.
The Moors occupied this area of Spain for eight centuries and their
influence is seen in the architecture, folklore and native costumers.
Marseille,
France.
Part of region of Provence, this ancient sea - port the oldest city in
France is now the second largest city after Paris. You will enjoy a walk
though the picturesque old port of this cosmopolitan city rich in history,
culture and folklore.
Messina
(Taormina), Italy.
From Messina, Sicily’s most important city, you can take a tour to
Taormina, a beautiful city overlooking Mount Etna. Visit the Palazzo Corvaia
which dates from the 15th Century
and the acoustically perfect Greek Theatre offers outstanding views of the
Sicilian countryside.
Mykonos,
Greece.
On Mykonos you will find beautiful beaches, chic boutiques, and elegant
nightclubs.
Beneath its sophisticated surface, lies a quite essential Greek island.
Hundreds of tiny chapels dot this blue and White – washed island with its
beautiful windmills.
Fide a table on the waterfront and bask in the serenity of sunset over its
picturesque harbor.
Mytilini
(Lesvos), Greece.
The birthplace of Sappho, a famous poet in ancient Greece, Lesvos is a
charming island of picturesque villages like Agiassos. The Monastery of
Leimonos and beautiful frescoes are of special interest.
Mortil
(Granada), Spain.
The largest town in Andalucia’s “Costa Tropical” is your portal to
Granada. Unique in its magnificient beauty and architecture, the entire city
of Granada has been declared a national monument. Founded before the 8th
century, it has become a rich center for literature, art science and
trading.
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Naples,
Italy.
A bustling port city in southern Italy, Naples is famous for its robust
cuisine and for its inhabitant’s zest for life. Nearby you will find the
extensive ruins of Pompei, an ancient Roman city destroyed by a volcanic
eruption of Mt. Vesuvius.
Nessebur,
Bulgaria.
Nessebur is one of the oldest and most picturesque towns existing in the
Balkans.
It was founded by Thracians and colonized by Greek settlers from Megara in
the 6th century to which they gave the name of Messemvria.
Nessebur today has a rich cultural heritage seen either in numerous
Byzantine churches, beautiful old houses or Roman ruins.
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Odessa,
Ukraine.
Odessa is a thriving seaport with a rich history as an industrial,
educational and touristic center. In the city stands a monument to the great
Russian poet Pushkin who was exiled here from1820 to 1824. Also of interest
are Prince Voronstov’s palace, the Uspensky Cathedral, the Potemkin Steps
and the opera house where Caruso and Chaliapin sang.
Olden,
Norway.
This resort village is spread out between the fjord and its significant
lake, it is the portal for excursions to Norway’s (and Europe’s) biggest
glacier, jostedalsbreen.
Oporto,
Portugal.
This urban city is built along the hillsides overlooking the mouth of the
Douro river. Its thousand – year history, always linked to the sea, is
echoed in its many and varied monuments.
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Patmos,
Greece.
This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic Revelations of St. John
the Divine, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave
where he lived is near the Monastery of the Apocalypse. The monastery of St.
John, built on one of the island’s highest points, houses priceless icons
and manuscripts in its Treasury.
Piraeus
(Athens), Greece.
Capital of Greece, cradle of democracy, birthplace of Western Civilization
Athens is a vibrant city where old and new co-exist. The majestic Parthenon
rises above the city, its ancient glory still visible in the time - worn
stone, and the National Archeological Museum holds countless treasures from
Athens’s Golden Age.
Port Said
(Cairo), Egypt.
At the entrance to the Suez Canal, Port Said is a busting city and a free
port. To the south, Cairo and the ancient monuments of the Egyptian empire
have fascinated visitors throughout the centuries. The mystifying Sphinx and
the pyramids of Giza, over four thousand years old, stand majestically on
the outskirts of the city at the edge of the desert. Cairo’s Museum of
Antiquities holds one of the finest collections of artifacts in the world,
including the astounding treasures of King Tutankhamen’s tomb.
Pythagorion
(Samos), Greece.
One of Samos major ports, it is the portal to a host of chapels, churches
and monasteries, wonderful scenery, archeological sites and many beaches.
Tradition maintains that cave of Pythagoras, the great philosopher –
mathematician, lies here.
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Rhodes,
Greece.
The beautiful “island of Roses” has a rich and varied history. On a hill
above the charming town of Lindos rises an ancient acropolis dedicated to
the goddess Athena.
Below lies the bay of St. Paul, where the apostle landed during his voyages.
The crusading Knights of St. John left the medieval city of Rhodes behind
when they were defeated by Sultan Suleyman
the Magnificent. The Ottoman Turks then occupied Rhodes for almost
400 years leaving mosques, minarets and a Turkish bath to mark their
presence.
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Salerno,
Italy.
Reach Pompeii via motorway to visit the excavations of this world – wide
famous Roman city, destroyed by the eruption of the nearby Vesuvius in 79
AD, whose remains have been preserved in the course of ages by a thick layer
of ash. Among other places you will visit the House of Vettii, also named
the House of Faunus.
Santorini,
Greece.
The island of Santorini is perhaps the most breathtaking of the Greek
islands. The town of Fira white – washed houses, narrow streets, open –
air cafes and glittering boutiques cling to steep cliffs, accessible by
cable – car or mule. To the south is Akrotiri where recent Minoan
excavations support the theories that Santorini might be the fabled lost
continent of Atlantis.
Stavanger,
Norway.
The ship docks in the center of town, next to a busting market selling fresh
fish, fruits and vegetables. Just a short walk away is the old section of
town with white – painted wooden houses and cobbled streets leading to
shops selling hand – knit sweaters, ceramics and jewelry.
St.
Helier, Channel Island, U.K.
Vivid capital of Jersey, Channel Island. Due to its proximity to the French
coast it offers an interesting blend of English and French cultures.
St.
Petersburg (Moscow), Russia.
An overnight in St. Petersburg allows ample time to explore the “City of
Czars,” who built magnificent palaces and monuments for their pleasure.
The Winter Palace is now the Hermitage museum, home to an astounding
collection of paintings and sculpture. You can also visit the Yusupov
Palace, where Rasputin was murdered, or Catherine’s Palace in Pushkin, 25
kilometers south of St. Petersburg.
Stockholm,
Sweden.
The capital of Sweden, is a city build on 14 islands separated by wide bays,
broad channels and narrow waterways. Its many museums depict Stockholm’s
Viking heritage and artistic soul. The contrast between old and new is
striking in the heart of the capital.
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Tangier,
Morocco.
Located in the Kingdom of Morocco, at the western tip of North Africa,
Tangier will give you a chance to bargain for treasures at the Grand Socco
– especially brass, silver, amber, leather and rugs.
Thessaloniki,
Greece.
The second largest city in Greece and the capital of Macedonia, Thessaloniki
was named after Alexander the Great’s sister. Tour the modern city to see
numerous Byzantine Churches, the old walls and the famous archeological
museum housing priceless collections from all over Macedonia. Recently the
intact tomb of Alexander’s farther Philip ll was discovered in nearby
Vergina. Its treasures, along with many others, are on display at the
exceptional archeological museum of Vergina.
Tilbury
(London), England.
The majesty of London is just a short drive from the port of Tilbury.
Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St.
Paul’s Cathedral, The Tower of London and countless monuments and museums
await the visitor.
Trondheim,
Norway.
At the first capital of Norway, it holds a special place in Norwegian
history and culture. Neighboring the Trondheim fjord, it is a popular
destination for many expeditions. Visit the impressive Nidaros Cathedral or
see the statue of Viking King Olav Tryggvason as you stroll through the
marketplace.
Tunis,
Tunisia.
The commercial and financial center for northern Tunisia is divided into
three parts, the old city medina; the French or the center; and the modern
regions of the south and the north. It features diverse landmarks, such as
the Zitouna mosque and the leftovers of ancient Cartage. Stroll along the
streets of the old town – through vegetable stands, the meat and fish
market and numerous cafes and live the oriental culture which brings
memories of a civilization which contributed a great deal to modern culture.
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Valencia,
Spain.
One of the largest and liveliest cities in Spain, it is blessed with fertile
land, the shores of the Mediterranean and mouth of the Turia river. It is
cosmopolitan, but by keeping its heritage and traditions it offers many
historical and cultural riches. The “luminous city of Valencia” is where
“El Cid” fought against the Moors and the birthplace of the famous
"paella".
Valletta,
Malta.
Valletta’s magnificient fortifications, cut from the same golden stone,
appear on the horizon like an elaborate sand castle. Within its walls are
the riches of the crusading Knights of St. John, who fled here from Rhodes
in 1530 and amassed great treasures of art architecture before they were
expelled by Napoleon.
Venice,
Italy.
This
incomparable city never fails to exceed expectations. The majesty of St.
Mark’s Square. The romance of gondolas gliding along the canals. The
beauty of the famed Murano glassware. Venice is possibly the world’s most
romantic city.
Vigo,
Spain.
The bustling commercial port of Vigo, on Spain’s Atlantic coast just north
of the Portuguese border, is the point of entry for Santiago de Compostela,
Spain’s holiest of cities and a place of pilgrimage since the middle ages.
Villefranche
(Monte Carlo/Nice), France.
The charming village of Villefranche is just a short ride from glittering
Monte Carlo. Try your luck in the casino or stroll through the tidy streets
lined with glamorous boutiques. On the fabled French Riviera, the vibrant
city of Nice is also nearby.
Volos
(Meteora), Greece.
Its privileged location between the country’s two main urban centers,
Athens and Thessaloniki and by the slopes of Mt. Pelion, makes this a lively
and modern city offering varied cultural life and entertainment. Its scenic
waterfront is ideal for a stroll. It is the gateway to amazing Meteora, home
of the impressive monasteries perched on top of giant rocks.
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Yalta,
Ukraine.
A veritable paradise washed by the warm waters of the Black Sea, Yalta is a
first – class resort located on the southern coast of the Crimea. The
famous 1945 conference between Stalin, Churchill and Roosevelt was held at
Yalta’s white Livadia Palace.
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Zeedrugge,
Belgium.
Nearby Bruges is a jewel – like city of canals and gabled town houses –
a living museum of medieval art and architecture. |
