Enchantment In Mediterranean – Valletta to Venice - NAV231009 Seven Seas Navigator departing 9 Oct 2023

Malta’s major port and capital, the entire city of Valletta was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. The centerpiece is the impressive 19th century Mosta Dome, visible from anywhere on the island, with its inlaid marble floor and the gilded, carved stone flowers set around the interior dome. For a tranquil afternoon, stroll the San Anton Palace Gardens, artistically laid out in Three Villages – Attard, Lija and Balzan. Or, for spectacular vistas, take a day tour to Dingli Cliffs, which offer striking views of the sea and rugged coastline. Valetta is also a portal to day trips to nearby Mdina, with its landmark Baroque Cathedral of St. John; and Rabat, the provincial township that was once part of the Roman city of Melita, where you can explore several fascinating archaeological digs.

Visit the great Minoan ruins of the Palace of Knossos, famous as the home of the labyrinth where the Minotaur roamed, and the Archaeological Museum housing many superb artifacts from the complex. Explore the stunning mountain-fringed Lassithi plateau with its orchards, 7000 windmills and ancient villages. Take home fine reproduction Minoan pottery, a traditional Cretan knife, local embroidery, hand-woven rugs, gold and silver jewelry. Relax over a dish of hearty moussaka or delicious souvlaki in a taverna, washed down with local wine or beer.

Soak up the scenery in Turkey’s third largest city, Izmir. Meander along the relaxing Kordonboyu oceanfront promenade. Enjoy fresh, perfectly grilled sea bass as you look out over the beautiful harbor. Try one of Izmir’s delicious shish kebabs or a traditional kumru sandwich as you head off to explore its beautiful beaches. Visit the historic Kemeralti Market or the Kizlaragasi Bazaar, which happens to be one of the oldest bazaars in the city, dating from the 18th century Ottoman period.

Volos is a city situated at the center of the Greek mainland, north of Athens. It is the capital of Magnesia prefecture. Modern Volos is built on the ancient cities of Demetrias, Pagasae and Iolkos. To the west of Volos there are the Neolithic settlements of Dimini with a ruined acropolis, walls and two beehive tombs dated between 4000-1200 BC, and Sesklo with the remains of the oldest acropolis in Greece (6000 BC), as well as examples of Neolithic civilizations.

Piraeus is the gateway to the ancient city of Athens, known as the “Cradle of Western Civilization” because of its immense impact on cultural and political achievements throughout the world. Due mainly to tourism and the 2004 Olympics, Greece has redeveloped many sites in Athens. A historian’s delight, Athens is home to such magnificent wonders as: the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the atmospheric winding streets of the Plaka, Temple of Olympian Zeus and Temple of Athena Nike, and the Archaeological Museum with the world’s finest collection of ancient artifacts.

Discover ancient Durres with its modern new resort coastline. Visit the Archaeological Museum on the waterfront for an impressive historical overview. Then explore the remains of the public baths, the aqueduct and the largest Roman amphitheater in the Balkans dating back to the 7th Century. Ahmet Zogu’s Villa, perched atop the Durres hill, offers splendid views of the Adriatic. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a snack of fresh figs and olives, or a coffee at one of the seaside cafés. Browse the palm tree lined shopping district for handcrafted wooden boxes, fanciful woolen socks and the fine local Skenderbeu Brandy in this emerging Albanian port.

Croatia’s island coast stretches for 110 miles and boasts a thousand islands, of which Korçula is said to be one of the most beautiful and the largest. Known in ancient time as Korkyra Melaina, it was founded by Greek colonists, followed by Illyrians, Romans and finally the Croats. Korçula is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the Mediterranean. Travelers flock to the area to appreciate its stunning location, natural beauty and the impressive medieval ambiance.

Located in northeastern Italy, Trieste’s geographic location and storied past contributed to its modern standing as one of the country’s richest regions. A shopper’s paradise, Trieste is full of designer boutiques catering to both men and women in search of the latest clothing fashion. There are also several outdoor markets where you can purchase anything from fruit to antiques. Enjoy a sumptuous plate of pasta in an old-style osteria, cozy little establishments with half a dozen tables filled with cheerful locals.

Located in northeastern Italy, Trieste’s geographic location and storied past contributed to its modern standing as one of the country’s richest regions. A shopper’s paradise, Trieste is full of designer boutiques catering to both men and women in search of the latest clothing fashion. There are also several outdoor markets where you can purchase anything from fruit to antiques. Enjoy a sumptuous plate of pasta in an old-style osteria, cozy little establishments with half a dozen tables filled with cheerful locals.