Greece Cruise from Piraeus to Valletta — 12 Days

Piraeus-Athens, Greece

Piraeus is Athens’ working harbour, not a resort port—and that is its appeal. From here, the capital’s ancient landmarks are within reach, while the waterfront keeps its own busy, distinctly Greek character. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, then linger over grilled fish in Mikrolimano, a small harbour lined with tavernas. Metro connections make central Athens straightforward. Or stay near the water and watch ferries depart for the islands.

Kusadasi, Turkey

Kuşadası puts the Aegean within reach, with a lively waterfront and one of Turkey’s most celebrated ancient cities nearby. Ephesus lies about 20 kilometres inland, where marble avenues lead to the Library of Celsus and Great Theatre. Back in town, browse the bazaar, then follow the causeway to Pigeon Island and its historic fortress. The harbour-facing promenade offers an easy place to linger over the Aegean light.

Santorini Island, Greece

Few Greek islands make an entrance like Santorini, where whitewashed villages crown a volcanic caldera above the Aegean. Most cruise ships anchor offshore, and tenders land at the old port below Fira. Ride the cable car, or climb the steps, to reach the island’s capital and its celebrated views. Beyond Fira, Oia’s blue domes, the archaeological site of Akrotiri, and volcanic wines reward a longer day ashore.

At Sea (At Sea)

Alexandria, Egypt

Alexandria rewards travellers who look beyond its famous name. Founded by Alexander the Great, Egypt’s Mediterranean city brings Greek, Roman and modern histories to a lively waterfront. The Bibliotheca Alexandrina recalls the ancient library, while Roman catacombs reveal a city shaped by many cultures. Leave time for seafood beside the harbour and a walk along the Corniche. Here, the past remains part of daily life.

Agios Nikolaos, Greece

Agios Nikolaos gives eastern Crete a cosmopolitan face, set around the deep blue waters of Mirabello Bay. At its heart, Lake Voulismeni connects to the harbor, bordered by cafés and a lively waterfront. Beyond town, the Minoan site at Gournia and the Venetian fortress of Spinalonga reveal layers of history. Come ashore for a swim, a lakeside lunch, or a drive through Crete’s olive-covered hills.

• At Sea (At Sea)

Kythira Island, Greece

Kythira lies between the Peloponnese and Crete, where the Aegean meets the Ionian seas. Quiet harbours and uncrowded roads lead to Venetian castles, hilltop villages and coves of clear water. In Chora, white houses gather beneath a fortress built by the Venetians, with wide views over the coast. Allow time for Mylopotamos, where stone bridges and waterfalls reveal the island’s greener side. Kythira rewards travellers who value discovery over spectacle.

At Sea (At Sea)

Giardini Naxos-Taormina, Italy

Giardini Naxos sits on Sicily’s Ionian coast, beneath Mount Etna and a short drive from Taormina. Its waterfront pairs pebble beaches with cafés, gelaterie and views across the bay. Sicily’s first Greek colony was founded here in 734 BC. A nearby archaeological park preserves traces of its ancient streets and walls. Come for a seaside day, or use the port as a gateway to Taormina. There, the Greek Theatre commands sweeping views of Etna and the coast.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta makes a powerful first impression, its honey-coloured walls rising above Grand Harbour. Founded by the Knights of St John in 1566, Malta’s compact capital rewards exploration on foot. Enter St John’s Co-Cathedral for Caravaggio’s monumental paintings, then follow Republic Street to cafés, palaces and the Upper Barrakka Gardens. From the terraces, watch ferries cross the harbour and look towards the Three Cities. Allow time for steep lanes and quiet side streets.