Nordic Explorer
| Resort: | Nordic Explorer |
| Operator: | Viking Ocean Cruises |
| Destination: | Croatia |
| Price From: | £9945.00 |
OverviewJoin us on a 36-day cruise that takes us from the Viking waters of Athens to Bergen. Explore the must-see landmarks of Europe with a 36-day cruise combining the Empires of the Mediterranean, Mediterranean Odyssey and Passage Through Western Europe cruises. Features 23 ports and overnights in Bergen, London, Paris, Barcelona, Venice and Athens. All This Is Included
Itinerary Details Day 1 Athens (Piraeus), GreeceStep aboard in Athens, where you will have an entire day to explore this ancient city. Perhaps you will see the Hellenic Parliament, Constitution Square, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus or the iconic Acropolis. Explore the bustling Plaka District at the base of the Acropolis. As we remain in port overnight, you’ll have time to enjoy dinner in town. Day 2 Athens (Piraeus), GreeceToday, you will have the whole day to journey into ancient Athens via a panoramic drive, passing the promenade at Mikrolimano as you enter the city’s heart. There, you will see the Hellenic Parliament, Constitution Square, the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus and the iconic Acropolis. Explore the bustling Plaka District at the base of the Acropolis. Or as an option, explore the interior of this UNESCO Site; climb 80 steps to the entrance and glimpse an unforgettable view of the Parthenon at its peak. Day 3 Santorini (Th�ra), GreeceGliding toward a full day in Santorini, prepare for its spectacular caldera and looming cliffs. Once anchored, embark a local boat for the island’s main port of Athinios. On your included excursion, drive with a local guide to the top of Mt. Profitis, where you’ll have spectacular views of the island, the Aegean Sea and the summit’s monastery. En route to clifftop Oia take in the beauty and charm of the countryside and traditional villages. Then enjoy free time in the capital of Fira. Alternatively, visit the hot thermal springs of Palea Kameni island, and enjoy the most remarkable swim of your life. Or, choose to visit a Greek vineyard for a tour and tasting. Day 4 Olympia (Katakolon), GreeceVisit the quaint Greek port of Katakolon, huddled around a pretty little harbor dotted with colorful fishing boats. During your visit, venture into the fertile valleys of the western Peloponnese to the legendary city of Olympia, classical birthplace of the modern-day Olympic Games on the slopes of Mt. Kronos. Walk among the ancient city’s stunning ruins with an expert guide and historian, admiring the remains of temples, the Palaestra, or wrestling school, and the Gymnasium. You’ll gain insight into the very first Olympic Games at the fascinating museum. Day 5 Corfu (K�rkyra), GreeceSpend the entire day on the romantic island of Corfu, resplendent with charming pastel townhouses and pristine white beaches. Our well-crafted included tour takes us on a drive to Kanoni, where we will make a photo stop to view tiny Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery. Following the coastline through Garitsa Bay, you will reach the UNESCO Site of the Old Town. See the fabled Esplanade, one of Europe’s largest public squares, and the Liston Promenade, once the exclusive preserve of the local aristocracy. Day 6 Kotor, MontenegroSpend the day traversing the medieval streets of this historic Montenegro town with a walking tour. Pass by Venetian walls constructed in 1420, en route to the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, built in 1166. Notice its mismatched towers, the result of an earthquake and a budget too small to rebuild properly. Included on this tour is a visit to the Maritime Museum, which documents Kotor’s heritage. As an option, venture to the small towns of Budva and Sveti Stefan, the latter once a hideaway for the rich and famous. Day 7 Dubrovnik, CroatiaWhere city meets coastline, you will sail to this beautiful 12th-century walled city in Croatia. And as it happens, George Bernard Shaw declared, “Those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik.” We think he has a point. Enjoy an entire day to take an inclusive tour with a drive high up to catch the magnificent views of the city and countryside. Or descend to the coast and enter the city on foot through the historic Pile Gate, passing by the Sponza Palace, the 15th-century Onofrio’s Fountain and stop inside the Dominican Monastery to see Renaissance paintings. You may also wish to consider exploring the famed Dubrovnik Riviera with a cruise along the Lapad Peninsula. Day 8 Zadar, CroatiaExplore remarkable Zadar, once an island separated from the mainland by a deep moat. The capital of independent Dalmatia for a millennium, Zadar’s impressive city walls attest to its might. A walking tour leads you along a maze of cobblestone streets through its magnificent Old Town, a remarkable repository of red-roofed, medieval stone houses. During your tour, stop to admire its three stunning churches in bold Romanesque. Perhaps you’ll also stroll the Riva, the picturesque seafront promenade where acoustical tubes embedded beneath large marble steps sing the song of the city with every lashing wave. Day 9 Koper, SloveniaCall on the Slovenian port of Koper, gateway to the unspoiled Istrian region. Your tour of this historic city reveals the rich architectural legacy of the Venetian Republic. In Tito Square, admire the Venetian-Gothic Praetorian Palace with its crenellated facade and the elegant Loggia where lively town debates once took place. Take the time to ascend the tower of the Cathedral of the Assumption for splendid views of the city and the Gulf of Trieste. Day 10 Venice, ItalyStep aboard in Venice; the magical city renowned for its art, architecture and culture is the ultimate destination on your epic voyage. Watch the sunlight dapple on the water as we ease our way through the archipelago. As we will remain in port overnight, enjoy a fine restaurant, the vibrant nightlife and perhaps even a romantic evening gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Day 11 Venice, ItalyAwake and further explore central Venice on your own this morning, as you investigate the out-of-the-way passages that reveal beautiful, hidden piazzas, or cross the lagoon to Murano and Burano to view the world-renowned glassblowing craftsmen. If you didn’t take yesterday’s included guided tour you can do so today. Or opt for one of the many optional tours. Your ship sets sail just after lunch so you can enjoy a spectacular view of the lagoon as we head out to the Adriatic Sea. Day 12 Spl�t, CroatiaExperience the age of antiquity as you wander through the center of the city that is built around the Diocletian Palace, walking through the well-preserved cellars before continuing to the Ethnographic Museum. In this historic quarter, you’ll notice the results of over 17 centuries of construction, passing pre-Romanesque churches and Gothic chapels. You may also choose more natural pursuits, from a rafting trip on the Cetina River or a journey through the Croatian hinterland to the famous waterfalls of the Krka National Park. Or spend the entire day discovering the small, more intimate destinations along the Dalmatian Coast. Day 13 Dubrovnik, CroatiaWhere city meets coastline, you will sail to this beautiful 12th-century walled city in Croatia. And as it happens, George Bernard Shaw declared, “Those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik.” We think he has a point. Enjoy an entire day to take an inclusive tour with a drive high up to catch the magnificent views of the city and countryside. Or descend to the coast and enter the city on foot through the historic Pile Gate, passing by the Sponza Palace, the 15th-century Onofrio’s Fountain and stop inside the Dominican Monastery to see Renaissance paintings. You may also wish to consider exploring the famed Dubrovnik Riviera with a cruise along the Lapad Peninsula. Day 14 Corfu (K�rkyra), GreeceSpend the entire day on the romantic island of Corfu, resplendent with charming pastel townhouses and pristine white beaches. Our well-crafted included tour takes us on a drive to Kanoni, where we will make a photo stop to view tiny Mouse Island and the Vlacherna Monastery. Following the coastline through Garitsa Bay, you will reach the UNESCO Site of the Old Town. See the fabled Esplanade, one of Europe’s largest public squares, and the Liston Promenade, once the exclusive preserve of the local aristocracy. Day 15 Cruise the Ionian SeaBask in the endless comforts of your ship. Swim in the infinity pool, which offers dramatic sea views. Relax with a massage or nurturing skin treatment at our Scandinavian-inspired spa or learn to make the perfect risotto during a cooking class at The Kitchen Table. Or, simply take refuge on your stateroom veranda while passing the “Lighthouse of the Mediterranean,” the active volcano of Stromboli. Day 16 Naples, ItalyIn Naples, your choice of excursions abounds. Take in magnificent examples of Greek and Roman architecture and the Piazza del Plebiscito, the grandest public square in the city, facing the former Royal Palace of the King of Naples. Optionally, also explore Herculaneum, Italy’s “other” Pompeii, drive along the stunning Amalfi Coast, or take a trip to the summit of Vesuvius. In your spare time, sample a hot espresso, a slice of pizza (the world’s first pizzeria opened here in 1830) or a locally made limoncello. Day 17 Rome (Civitavecchia), ItalyStep aboard to begin your journey. The ship will be berthed in Civitavecchia, the closest port to the airport and Rome. Relax and settle in to your well-appointed stateroom, perhaps also unwinding at our Infinity Pool. We remain in port overnight, giving you the opportunity to dine ashore should you wish. Day 18 Florence/Pisa (Livorno), ItalyImmerse yourself in the beauty of Tuscany with an included, well-curated tour of Pisa. Alternatively, enjoy a full-day tour that combines Pisa and Florence. Begin with a scenic drive through the countryside to Florence, where you will stroll by the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. Then on to the medieval Ponte Vecchio, and the attractive Basilica of Santa Croce, resting place of Michelangelo. In Pisa, you will have time to explore the Square of Miracles, including the famous Leaning Tower, the Cathedral and Baptistery. Day 19 Monte Carlo, MonacoEnjoy a full day in Monaco, the playground for the rich and famous, as well as the gateway to the beautiful South of France. Visit medieval Monaco, stopping at the Prince’s Palace and St. Nicholas Cathedral, the burial site of the royal family, including American actress Grace Kelly. As we stay late in port, you will have time to step inside the Casino de Monte-Carlo, the most prestigious and celebrated gambling mecca on earth. As an option, venture out of town to the legendary perfumeries in Grasse, or stroll along the English promenade in glamorous Nice. Day 20 Toulon, FranceToday, enjoy a full day to walk through the small streets and lovely squares of Toulon’s Old Quarter. Pass through the Place de la Liberté and the Place Puget with its curious 18th-century fountain, stroll by the Gothic cathedral and walk through the colorful market of Cours Lafayette. Consider a visit to the coastal town of Aix-en-Provence or Cassis, famed for its dramatic vistas of the sea cliffs of Cap Canaille. Originally known as a royal port of call through the Napoleonic wars, Toulon is regarded as the gateway to Provence, the fabled countryside of wine, cheese, olive oil and lavender. Catch a whiff of lavender or the scent of bouillabaisse coming from a nearby café, where you may have to stop and indulge in those aromatics. Day 21 Barcelona, SpainGet familiar with this proud Catalonian capital of food, flamenco and fun on an included tour that features the Columbus Monument, Port Vell and the Arc de Triomf. You will also see the Olympic Port, built for the 1992 Summer Games, and the renowned architecture along Passeig de Gràcia, including whimsical works by Antoni Gaudí. Celebrate the end of your journey with an optional evening flamenco performance. Day 22 Barcelona, SpainSoak up the charm of sunny Barcelona, the Catalonian capital of culture. Stroll along Las Ramblas, take in the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí or explore the myriad side streets of the ancient Gothic Quarter. If you didn’t take yesterday’s included guided tour you can do so today. Or opt for one of the many optional tours. Day 23 Barcelona, SpainAwake in Barcelona and further explore the Catalonian capital. Start on Las Ramblas, the mile-long leafy pedestrian boulevard. Or take a turn through the myriad side streets of the Gothic Quarter, where the ancient and the modern sit side by side, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Or head to the Passeig de Gràcia, a boulevard renowned for its architecture, including works by Antoni Gaudí. Or opt for one of the many optional tours. Day 24 Cruise the Balearic SeaSavor another day of relaxation on board. Melt into a Swedish massage at The Spa or find your inner calm with yoga on the Sports Deck. This evening, watch a film al fresco at our Main Pool as we skim Atlantic waters under the glimmering stars. Day 25 Granada (M�laga), SpainToday you can experience firsthand the stuff of Andalucian dreams. Birthplace of Pablo Picasso, Málaga is the gateway to Andalucia, the seductive province of rolling hills and endless olive groves. An included tour features the 11th-century Alcazaba Palace, residence of Arabian caliphs, the ancient Moorish Gibralfaro Castle, the Renaissance Cathedral and Picasso’s birthplace. Or, choose to explore the mighty Alhambra Palace in Granada, one of Spain’s most treasured sites. Day 26 Seville (C�diz), SpainAt today’s port, you’ll have a rare chance to explore what many considered the gateway to the New World for all the voyages that left here for unknown shores. The port of Cádiz offers a wealth of treasures. On an included tour, you’ll follow passageways into elaborate plazas. Stop at the Torre Tavira, once a lookout for merchants, and marvel at the city’s baroque, gold-domed cathedral. Alternately, explore the colorful city of Seville, where a grand Cathedral, Giralda Tower and the Alcázar Palace were built by the wealth of Spanish kings. Spend free time sipping sherry at a bodega or shopping for local wares. Day 27 Lisbon, PortugalToday, explore the labyrinthine streets of Lisbon’s Alfama District and the 12th-century Sé Cathedral (Lisbon Cathedral). On an included panoramic tour of this seafaring capital, you’ll also trace the Tagus River to the Elevador da Gloria, a funicular train that takes you to the hilltop suburb of Bairro Alto. Soak up magical views and shop the lively Chiado Quarter. Or, consider an excursion through the countryside to Sintra, renowned for its multi-hued palaces and stalwart castles. You can also choose an excursion to see Lisbon’s architectural masterpieces, including the ornate Jerónimos Monastery and the adjacent Belém Tower, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Day 28 Porto (Leixes), PortugalLeixões, the coastal city where we dock for the day, boasts a history that spans 1,600 years. It’s a port of call that is sure to inspire you to raise a glass to port wine and to the town for which it was named, Porto. On an included tour, you can soak in the charm and atmosphere of the celebrated wine town. You’ll see its Clérigos Tower, the historic quarter surrounding Santa Catarina Street, the neoclassical wonders along Avenida dos Aliados and the São Bento Railway Station, adorned with magnificent tile work. Naturally, you will pause along the way for a taste of the port wine for which this city is famous. As an option, you can delve more deeply with a Porto walking tour. Day 29 A Coru�a, SpainExplore an undiscovered gem on Spain’s northwestern coast. A Coruña is Galicia province’s richest city and a favorite among local beachgoers. On an included tour, you’ll admire the San Antón Castle and the Hercules Tower, an ancient lighthouse in operation since the 2nd century. From atop Mount San Pedro, take in spectacular views. Or perhaps you’ll opt for an excursion to Santiago de Compostela, the important pilgrimage site. Day 30 Cruise the Celtic SeaRelax today aboard your ship. Learn more about your upcoming destinations during an intriguing port talk, and explore your ship, perhaps unwinding in the spa’s snow room and sauna, or by taking a dip in the infinity pool. Tonight, try a regional specialty in The Restaurant, or take in a recent movie in one of our three theaters—two indoors and one under the stars at the main pool. Day 31 Cherbourg, FranceToday you will cruise into Cherbourg on Normandy’s coast. First developed by Vikings and later pivotal to the Napoleonic Wars, Cherbourg’s maritime might has been softened into a lovely port city. An included tour highlights its 12th-century abbey, stunning 30-acre gardens of the Château des Ravalets and narrow byways of the old city. See more gorgeous gardens of Normandy on an optional excursion. Day 32 Paris (Le Havre), FranceAwake in Rouen and enjoy a day trip to Paris or perhaps the Normandy beaches. Late this afternoon, indulge in an alfresco coffee while watching the world sail by as we ease our way through the twisting River Seine toward the sea. You will be rewarded with some delightful views of châteaux and villages. Give a wave to the locals, as a cruise ship is a rare sight in this river. Day 33 London (Southampton), EnglandOne of England’s most celebrated maritime cities, Southampton is a gateway to the south of England and only 80 miles from the capital, London. While in Southampton, you can admire the country’s longest surviving stretch of medieval walls. On an included tour, discover the city’s more recent history at the SeaCity Museum, where an interactive model of the Titanic provides an unforgettable glimpse into the fated vessel. Alternatively, take an optional tour to London. Here, in one of Europe’s great cultural centers, you can see the Tower of London, Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral. Or, opt to explore the famous Standing Stones of Stonehenge. Day 34 Cruise the North SeaSpend the day exploring your ship. Take in breathtaking views as you enjoy a leisurely swim in the Infinity Pool or luxuriate in The Spa’s sauna and Snow Grotto. Enroll in a hands-on cooking class or listen to an enlightening onboard lecture about your next destination. In the evening, sample regional fare in The Restaurant, then toast to your special voyage with a nightcap in the Explorers’ Lounge. Day 35 Haugesund, NorwayCall on Haugesund today, an important power center for the Vikings. On an included tour, you’ll see the town’s typical timber houses; the neoclassical City Hall, a confectionary vision in pink; the Haraldshaugen monument honoring the unification of Norway in 872; and the stunning vistas from Steinsfjellet viewpoint. If you’d like, you can join our excursion to meet a local family and truly experience Norwegian life during this home-hosted visit. Day 36 Bergen, NorwayWhen you arrive in Bergen, encircled by majestic mountains, fjords and glaciers, you’ll quickly understand how its setting inspired the Viking sagas. With your ship berthed next to Bryggen wharf, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can easily stroll along its waterfront once you’ve settled in to your veranda stateroom. This evening mingle with the locals and dine ashore, as we will be spending the night in port. |
