Costa Fascinosa: ATH - ATH - ATH07A2V

Valletta, the capital of the island of Malta and a UNESCO-protected port, is one of the must-see stops on a Mediterranean cruise. With over 300 monuments rising within just over half a square kilometer, along with its beaches, coastal venues, and restaurants, Valletta is a city truly worth visiting.

Visitors are captivated by the famous Maltese balconies that adorn the facades of houses in the old town, the multitude of churches that locals claim are as many as the days of the year, and the St. John’s Co-Cathedral, one of Malta’s greatest tourist attractions. On the other hand, the National Museum of Archaeology preserves prehistoric artifacts found on the island. Near the Grand Harbour, you can explore the underground passages of Auberge de Castille and the beautiful Baracca Gardens overlooking the harbor.

To experience the life of Malta’s old nobility, visit Casa Rocca Piccola. This 16th-century palace is furnished with period pieces and includes a bomb shelter built for protection during World War II.

Today, Malta is a center of fishing, craftsmanship, and tourism, with the bustling, walled city of Valletta serving as its administrative, commercial, and political capital.

Catania is a vibrant Sicilian city located on the island’s eastern coast, nestled between the Ionian Sea and the majestic Mount Etna, which dominates both the skyline and the daily life of its inhabitants. The city is known for its distinctive architecture, where the black-and-white contrasts of lava stone and limestone merge into a unique Baroque style, particularly visible in the historic city center. Catania is a blend of its lively present rich history and a strong Sicilian identity.

The city’s historic center is home to numerous landmarks, among which Piazza del Duomo stands out. This main square hosts the Cathedral of Saint Agatha and the Fontana dell’Elefante – a lava stone elephant statue that has become the symbol of Catania. The city’s main street, Via Etnea, follows the path of ancient lava flows and offers spectacular views of Mount Etna. Catania also boasts ancient Roman remains – the Roman theatre and amphitheater testify to the city's significance during the Roman Empire, while the Teatro Massimo Bellini, an opera house, embodies the spirit of musical and cultural heritage.

Catanian cuisine is a true delight for the senses. Local specialties such as arancini (fried rice balls), pasta alla Norma with eggplant and ricotta, as well as the ever-present cannoli and granita with brioche, offer a unique culinary experience that is both simple and rich – like the city itself. Throughout the year, Catania hosts numerous festivals and events, the most notable being the Festa di Sant’Agata – a magnificent three-day celebration in February dedicated to the city’s patron saint, considered one of the most important religious events in Italy.

Beyond its own attractions, Catania is also a perfect base for exploring eastern Sicily. Nearby are picturesque towns like Taormina, the historic city of Syracuse, the coastal villages of Aci Castello and Aci Trezza, and of course, the peak of Mount Etna, which can be reached through guided tours, cable car rides, or even hiking.

Catania offers an authentic Sicilian experience – a city full of contrasts, life, scents, history, and warm-hearted people. Its energy, the presence of the volcano, and the fusion of ancient and modern make it an irresistible destination for those seeking more than just an ordinary tourist trip.

Located on the Mediterranean coast southwest of Barcelona, Tarragona is a city rich in history and fascinating Roman ruins. Once known as Tarraco, it was one of the most important cities of the Roman Empire on the Iberian Peninsula.

Today, visitors can explore impressive Roman monuments, including the seaside amphitheatre, the Roman forum, aqueduct, and city walls, many of which are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The charming old town, a 12th-century cathedral, and narrow streets lined with cafés and shops offer an authentic Catalan experience.

Tarragona also boasts beautiful sandy beaches, lively festivals such as Tarraco Viva (a Roman-themed festival), and excellent Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh fish and seafood.

The perfect combination of history, sea, and culture makes Tarragona an ideal destination for all lovers of antiquity and the Mediterranean.

Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands, located in the Aegean Sea and part of the Cyclades island group. Known for its whitewashed houses with blue shutters, narrow cobbled streets, and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos is a symbol of Mediterranean glamour, while also offering a relaxed island atmosphere.

The island’s main town, Chora (also known as Mykonos Town), charms visitors with its picturesque architecture, small boutiques, restaurants, art galleries, and the iconic windmills overlooking the sea. The town is lively both day and night, with numerous cafés, tavernas, and clubs that attract travelers from all over the world. The island also boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece – such as Psarou, Paradise, Super Paradise, and Elia – which offer crystal-clear waters, beach bars, and a variety of water sports.

Culture lovers can visit the nearby island of Delos, an important archaeological site and one of the most significant sacred places of ancient Greece, easily accessible by boat from Mykonos. In addition, Mykonos offers museums, churches, and traditional neighborhoods that provide insight into the island’s history and way of life.

Despite its global fame, Mykonos manages to retain its authenticity, especially outside the peak tourist season, when the island becomes quieter and reveals its more traditional character. Mykonos is an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of luxury, natural beauty, entertainment, and Greek culture.

Athens – the Cradle of Democracy, Philosophy, and Ancient Civilization. Located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Athens is one of the most important cities of the ancient world. Named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom, the city has long been a center of democracy, philosophy, and the arts. Athens played a key role in the development of democracy and was home to great philosophers such as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

Athens boasts numerous historical monuments and archaeological sites, the most significant being the Acropolis – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the pinnacle of ancient Greek architecture and art. The Acropolis includes the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike.

Today, Athens is a vibrant city with over 3 million residents, blending its rich history with modern life, a dynamic cultural scene, and exceptional cuisine. Traditional dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, gyros, and spanakopita offer an authentic taste of Greek gastronomy.

Athens remains a destination that captivates visitors with its history, culture, and unique blend of the ancient and contemporary worlds.