Your adventure in Athens begins five miles southwest in Greece’s largest seaport, known as Piraeus. While here, be sure to take notice of what is considered to be one of the greatest contributions from the ancient Age of Pericles, the city’s infrastructure, which today we know as a city block.

Mykonos is known for its whitewashed villages sprinkled with blue and jade green. It’s also famous for its sophisticated nightlife. The most popular island in the Cyclades is bustling with activity, awash in beautiful alleyways, and home to alluring sandy beaches.

Rhodes, the friendliest city in the Mediterranean, is situated at the island’s northernmost point. This sunny retreat is also home to many historic sites, such as the ruins of the Temple of Venus and the medieval Street of Knights.

Here on the island of Santorini, you’ll find a classic Greek seascape—whitewashed houses accented by sea-blue roofs. This is a treasure trove for both professional and amateur archeology buffs, with sites that include tombs that date back to the 9th century and the sanctuary of Apollo.

Like many ports in this part of the world, archeological ruins dating back to antiquity are found everywhere. There are also hundreds of gorges around the island and over 1,500 land and sea caves, including Elefantos, noted for its remarkable white and red stalactites.

In addition to a number of significant works of art, this town is known for the many fortifications built by the Knights of Malta, who for years helped care for European pilgrims and crusaders en reoute to and from the Holy Land.

Located in northeastern Sicily, on the slopes of the Peloritani Mountains, Messina is an ancient place with a fascinating history. Walk by the ruins of the Santa Maria Alemanna church, built in 1220 by the Teutonic Knights. You’ll also want to see the Duomo, a Romanesque and Norman cathedral that includes a display of artifacts in its treasury

The Amalfi Coast is one of the jewels of Italy’s long, boot-shaped coastline. Located on the southwest side of the country, the Amalfi Coast is nestled against the teal blue of the Atlantic Ocean and is a favorite destination for Italy cruise passengers. The region is home to mesmerizing hilltop towns with colorful buildings and relaxing beaches with unforgettable views.

On an Amalfi Coast cruise, you’ll dock in Salerno, the largest city along the coast. Spend your time in port visiting the top attractions of this beautiful coastline, strolling through the picturesque streets, and savoring local delicacies.

Civitavecchia was settled in 108 A.D. by the Emperor Trajan and has since served faithfully as a gateway to the capital of the Empire—Rome. Once the center of the Ancient World from which emperors ruled over nearly all of western civilization, Rome is still a cultural mecca. Stroll the ancient halls of the Colosseum or gaze upon the ceilings of the Sistine Chapel.

Formerly a sleepy Spanish city, Barcelona has recently been reborn as an eclectic fusion of the modern and medieval. Seek inspiration from the creations of its modernist architect, Antonio Gaudí, or the Picasso Museum. Or, take in the breathtaking cathedrals in the Gothic Quarter.