New York, Ponta Delgada, Lisbon, Cartagena-, Valencia, Barcelona, Portofino, Civitavecchia (Rome), Naples, Heraklion/Crete, Alexandria, Santorini, Kusadasi (Ephesus), Istanbul, Piraeus/Athens, La Valletta, La goulette, Cagliari, Gibraltar, Cadiz, Funchal (Madeira)

The "Big Apple", the bustling metropolis and worldwide centrre of commerce, finance, culture, fashion and entertainment, is a wonderland for Museum hunters -, shoppacholics and show-holics... Take a walk through Times Square, catch a Broadway show, visit some of the 150 museums,- Metropolitan Museum, MoMA (Μuseum of Modern Art), Guggenheim, American Museum of Natural History- and see its different facets through an intricate patchwork of neighborhoods. Walk along Lower Manhattan, Chinatown, trendy SoHo, Greenwich Village, Little Italy... See the Statue of Liberty, climb up the Empire State Building and Ground Zero and then, relax at Central Park, one of the most famous sightseeing spots in New York, which covers 341 hectares of paths, ponds, artificial lakes and green space within the asphalt jungle.

Ponta Delgada is the largest municipality and administrative capital of the Autonomous Region of the Azores in Portugal, lying around a natural bay on São Miguel Island, the largest and most populous in the archipelago. Identified by its three arches known as the Portas da Cidade, it stands out for the large number of churches and other buildings, among which the baroque São Sebastião Church and the Todos os Santos Church. White-washed houses and buildings, 17th and 18th Century convents and churches decorate its rolling hills. Cobbled streets and small squares are found around the centre, where there is also a large boulevard, which is perfect for evening seaside walks. Visit Museu Carlos Machado (Carlos Machado Museum), the beautiful Praça 5 de Outubro (5th of October Square) which is dominated by a marvellous Renaissance Fortress, the Fortaleza de São Brás, the most romantic garden and most lush area in the city, Jardim António Borges (António Borges Gardens) or tour to the natural wonders of the island, such as the Lagoa das Sete Cidades (Seven Cities Lake), which is formed by two large lakes that fill the massive crater of a dormant volcano. From the Pico do Carvão one can enjoy fabulous panoramic views over the Lagoa das Sete Cidades.

Lisbon, the capital of Portugal, on the southwest of the country, has been the main gateway for the rest of the planet for more than 19 centuries. Ships captained by Portuguese explorers like Bartolomeu Dias, Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan, skittered across the globe, hauling treasure home and making Lisbon a global capital. Draped across seven hills, Lisbon was once the center of a vast maritime empire that stretched from the west coast of Africa to the Spice Islands of the East Indies, until 1755, when a violent earthquake destroyed two-thirds of the city, leaving intact only the Alfama, the old Moorish quarter. Today, Lisbon is a stately city of Neoclassical buildings and wide plazas. Eternally linked to the sea, Lisbon's magnificent harbor is spanned by the longest suspension bridge in Europe. Among the city's landmarks are the iconic Castelo de São Jorge, the World Heritage Sites of Belém Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, both built in Lisbon's native Manueline architectural style.

Cartagena is major naval station located in south-eastern Spain, in the autonomus Region of Murcia. Since its foundation in 229 B.C, it has been inhabited by several cultures which have left their mark on its artistic heritage as one of the most important defensive ports in the country. The highlights of the city include the Muralla del Mar ('Sea Wall'), built by Charles III (18th century), the Old Cathedral located on the Camino del Parque Torres (behind the Muralla del Mar wall), the recently restored Roman Theatre (among its numerous other Roman remains, built between the 5th and 1st centuries BC), the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology ARQUA (at Paseo Alfonso XII, 22), the Town Hall, a gem of modernist architecture dating from the early 20th century and a number of modernist buildings made for its military fortifications. The best way to learn more about the Modernist architecture of Cartagena is to take a walk along the Calle Mayor, which leads off the Plaza del Ayuntamiento square. Here visitors will find the houses of Cervantes and Llagostera, by the Cartagena architect Victor Beltrí. Time given, don't miss Concepción Castle, built on one of the five hills of the old Carthagena and today home of the Centre for the Interpretation of Cartagena's History.

Since its founding as a Roman colony in 138 B.C., the Visigoths, the Moors, the Catalan and Aragonese and the modern tomato-throwers have thrived on the shores of the Mediterranean at the Gulf of Valencia. Valencia is a mix of the old and the new. The historic past is depicted in the stone geometry of the Valencia Cathedral,  the mediaeval gates of the Serrano and Quart towers, or the Tribunal de las Aguas (Water Court) and one of the most iconic examples of Gothic architecture in Europe, the Lonja de la Seda, declared an Intangible Cultural Heritage site by UNESCO. The new facet is embodied in the arching white steel of the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, designed by Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava.

Barcelona is one of the world's greatest treasures, a global capital of commerce, fashion, culture and sunshine. Cruise visitors should start with a walk down Las Ramblas, the glorious tree-shaded thoroughfare at the heart of the city, enjoy a dive in the wonderful beaches nearby, but, most of all, see what visionary architect Antoni Gaudi wrought. Seven of his creations have been honored as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including La Sagrada Familia, the Park Guell and Casa Mila. Time provided, you can also visit the former Olympic Ring on the hill of Montjuic, home to world-class parks, fountains and museums. Barcelona, which nurtured such artistic giants as Picasso, Dali, Miro and Casals, is definitely a traveler's paradise.

Portofino is an Italian resort, located on the Italian Riviera, famous for its picturesque harbor with the colourfully painted buildings. It is the favorite destination of many celebrities and artists.

Our gateway to the Eternal City, Civitavecchia has served as Rome's seaport since the 13th century, boasting a long and venerable history. Its location near the modern city, made it a perfect vacation resort for emperor Trajan, who built a pleasure villa. while Bernini and Michelangelo designed the harbor fortifications. Yet the Eternal City, the ancient capital of the Western World and the center of Christianity for nearly 2.000 years, is our main reason to be here. YYou can visit the ruins of the Forum and the Colosseum, throw a coin in Fontana di Trevi to make sure you return to Rome one day, take a photo in front of the Vatican, view the splendors of the Sistine Chapel or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter and enjoy a delicious gelato, in the glamorous area.

Naples is the third-largest municipality in Italy, after Rome and Milan and one of the chief commercial cities of Europe. The city center has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the surrounding areas are dotted with cultural and historical treasures, with most notable, the restored ruins of Pompeii. Naples itself is mere enduring greatness. Highlights include Castel dell' Ovo, Castelnuovo, Castel Sant'Elmo, a medieval fortress located on a hilltop and national museums dedicated to art and archaeology. There is also a docile bay; the peaceful cypress-tufted islands of Ischia, Procida and Capri and over the city, Mount Vesuvius, volcano and national park. Take the opportunity to see the only active volcano on the European mainland, which blew in A.D. 79 and buried the city of Pompeii, or visit the magnificent Amalfi and Sorrento coasts.

Ηere in the island’s capital and largest city, you can wander among the squares and fountains or gaze out over the azure blue waters of the Cretan Sea, as you enjoy fresh seafood in a local taverna on the promenade. Don't miss the Palace of Knossos, the largest of the preserved Minoan palatial centres, situated not more than 5 kms from Heraklion. It is the most visited archaeological site in Crete. The palace was the seat of the legendary King Minos and has been associated with famous Greek myths, like that of Daedalus and Icarus, the Labyrinth and the Minotaur. The incredible complex houses a warren of rooms decorated with columns and frescoes

Founded in c. 331 BC by Alexander the Great, Alexandria became an important center of the Hellenistic civilization and remained the capital of Hellenistic and Roman & Byzantine Egypt for almost one thousand years. Alexandria flourished as the most important harbor and capital of Egypt and today is the second biggest city in the country. The Royal Library or Ancient Library of Alexandria, was one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world. The impressive city wad built on the delta of the river Nile and often is characterized as the "bright pearl of the Mediterranean". It is filled with museums and provides access to the Pyramids and the Sphinx.

Founded in c. 331 BC by Alexander the Great, Alexandria became an important center of the Hellenistic civilization and remained the capital of Hellenistic and Roman & Byzantine Egypt for almost one thousand years. Alexandria flourished as the most important harbor and capital of Egypt and today is the second biggest city in the country. The Royal Library or Ancient Library of Alexandria, was one of the largest and most significant libraries of the ancient world. The impressive city wad built on the delta of the river Nile and often is characterized as the "bright pearl of the Mediterranean". It is filled with museums and provides access to the Pyramids and the Sphinx.

Santorini is essentially what remains of an enormous volcanic explosion dated back 3,600 years (between 1627- 1600 BC) and which created the current geological caldera: a giant central lagoon, more or less rectangular, measuring about 12 by 7 km. The effect is still explosive: 300-m-high steep cliffs on three sides rise from sea level, cubic white houses surrounded by pink bougainvilleas glow in the Aegean sun. The wild beauty, the fascinating Caldera, the gold sunset, of the Number 1 destination in Greece will steal your heart away! 

Kusadasi is a popular resort along the coasts of Asia Minor, our base of the exploration of nearby ancient town of Ephesus, which has one of the largest collections of ruins in the eastern Mediterranean. In the first century B.C., it was one of the largest cities in the world, boasting the Great Theater which 24.000 people, the Temple of Artemis, which was one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, the Library of Celsus, which was considered the finest in creation. Today, we can see only parts of the ancient glory but still, you will definitely be enchanted. Don't miss the chance to visit the local bazaar in Kusadasi.

A cruise to Istanbul (nee Constantinople nee Byzantium) takes you to the world's only two-continent metropolis, steeped with nearly 10 millennia of history. We will cross Galata Bridge to the old city, go past the Süleymaniye Mosque, whose 174-foot dome was once the highest in the Ottoman Empire, pass from the ancient city walls, built by Constantine, and beneath the epic Roman aqueduct. Don't miss the visit to the Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque, Agia Sophia, the Ecumenical Patriarchate and enjoy the views to Bosphorus and Galata Tower. The aromas and scents of curry, saffron, and myrrh fill the air. A unique city of unparalleled beauty that will enchant you.

A cruise to Istanbul (nee Constantinople nee Byzantium) takes you to the world's only two-continent metropolis, steeped with nearly 10 millennia of history. We will cross Galata Bridge to the old city, go past the Süleymaniye Mosque, whose 174-foot dome was once the highest in the Ottoman Empire, pass from the ancient city walls, built by Constantine, and beneath the epic Roman aqueduct. Don't miss the visit to the Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque, Agia Sophia, the Ecumenical Patriarchate and enjoy the views to Bosphorus and Galata Tower. The aromas and scents of curry, saffron, and myrrh fill the air. A unique city of unparalleled beauty that will enchant you.

Piraeus port is the gateway to Athens center. Don't miss the Parthenon, the temple to Athena which looms over Athens from its perch atop the Acropolis, an eternal icon of art and civilization. Completed in 438 B.C., the temple still astounds as the flowering of Greek art and architecture. When you come down off the hill, don't miss a visit to the Ancient Agora, Syntagma Square, the Acropolis Museum and the city's historic centre, around Plaka. Ideally, sit and relax at a cafe on the foot of the hill, sample some Greek souvlaki or a frappe, take a glance back up the hill from time to time and give the goddess her due.

Valletta, The Fortress City, Citta' Umilissima, "a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen" is Malta's capital city: a living, working city, the administrative and commercial heart of the Islands. The city is busy by day, yet retains a timeless atmosphere. The grid of narrow streets boasts some of Europe's finest art works, churches and palaces, among which St. John's Co-Cathedral, with its elaborate inlaid marble tombstones and Caravaggios and the Grand Master's Palace. Enjoy visiting the famous Three Cities across the Grand Harbour and if you have time, Sliema/ St. Julian's/ Paceville area, renowned for its cosmopolitan feel and lively nightlife.

Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia, spreads on a hillside overlooking the aptly named Gulf of Angels. Visit the old Castello Quarter, with the narrow and shaded streets and the old buildings, or enjoy the wide and expansive beaches of Sardinia, basking in the Mediterranean sun. All over the island, there are traces of ancient settlements, such as neolithic ruins at Nora; Phoenician, Cathaginian and Roman relics near Cagliari; and Arab, Genoese and Iberian heritage evident in architecture dating back to the Middle Ages.

Gibraltar is an amazing co-mingling of past, present and future.The Rock of Gibraltar was considerred by the Ancient Greeks as the pillars of Hercules, marking the end of the world. It is at the Top of the Rock where you begin to understand and appreciate Gibraltar’s strategic geographical location and the important role it has played throughout history. The journey to the top of the Rock rewards you with a truly breathtaking view. From a height of 426m you will see the African coastline, where the waters of the Atlantic meet the Mediterranean, Spain’s Costa del Sol and a panoramic view of the City far below, the quays, marinas and bays. Stand on top of the Rock of Gibraltar and you feel as if you were on top of the world.

Cadiz is a city and port in southwestern Spain, the oldest continuously-inhabited city in Spain and one of the oldest in southwestern Europe. During the Age of Exploration, the city experienced a renaissance. Christopher Columbus sailed from Cádiz on his second and fourth voyages and the city later became the home port of the Spanish treasure fleet. 

Cadiz is the gateway to Seville, capital of Andalucia, which lies on the mighty Guadalquivir at a distance of 120 kms. Taking a tour to Seville, will give you a change to marvel the Alcazar, a grand 14th Century Moorish palace, the Seville Cathedral and the Archivo de Indias, all UNESCO World Heritage sites, built in the Mudejar style, and also, to walk the narrow lanes of the Jewish 
Quarter, the expanse of the Plaza de Espana, or the halls of the Museo de Bellas Artes.

Madeira is located in the north Atlantic Ocean, 520 km from the African coast and 1.000 km from the European continent. Today, it is a popular year-round resort, noted for its wine, flowers, landscapes and embroidery artisans. Madeira's capital Funchal, on the island's south coast, rises straight up from the sea and enchants visitors, with its red roofs and hibiscus easing gently down the lower slopes of Pico do Arieiro to the ocean. Time given, take the cable car toMonte Palace, in a 15-minute ride up and over the old town of Funchal and the Ribeira de Joao Gomes valley. When in town, wander along the Old centre, with its port and promenade, quaint and narrow winding streets, shops, cafés, bars and restaurants and view "Worker's Market", the 15th-century cathedral, the Theatre, the Town Hall and the waterfront.

The "Big Apple", the bustling metropolis and worldwide centrre of commerce, finance, culture, fashion and entertainment, is a wonderland for Museum hunters -, shoppacholics and show-holics... Take a walk through Times Square, catch a Broadway show, visit some of the 150 museums,- Metropolitan Museum, MoMA (Μuseum of Modern Art), Guggenheim, American Museum of Natural History- and see its different facets through an intricate patchwork of neighborhoods. Walk along Lower Manhattan, Chinatown, trendy SoHo, Greenwich Village, Little Italy... See the Statue of Liberty, climb up the Empire State Building and Ground Zero and then, relax at Central Park, one of the most famous sightseeing spots in New York, which covers 341 hectares of paths, ponds, artificial lakes and green space within the asphalt jungle.