Costa Pacifica: SVN - IST - SVN07ABJ

Civitavecchia is a charming port city located on the western coast of Italy, along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Often called the "gateway to Rome," it serves as a major hub for cruise ships and ferries, welcoming millions of travelers each year who come to explore Rome and the surrounding region.

Founded in ancient times, Civitavecchia has a rich history dating back to the Roman era. The city was an important naval base and trading port, with many historical sites bearing witness to this maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the impressive Forte Michelangelo, a Renaissance fortress that overlooks the harbor and was built to defend the city. Besides being a port, Civitavecchia also offers a charming old town center with narrow streets, squares, and local markets where you can experience authentic Italian culture. The seaside promenade is perfect for enjoying a nice walk while tasting fresh seafood at traditional restaurants.

Civitavecchia is also a convenient starting point for exploring some of Italy’s most famous destinations. Rome, the Eternal City, is just about an hour away by train, where history, art, and culture await you at every corner. The surrounding area features beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, and picturesque towns like Tarquinia and Tuscania.

Whether arriving by cruise ship or ferry, Civitavecchia is much more than just a port – it is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and Italian charm, making it an excellent gateway to discovering the treasures of central Italy.

Located in the northeast of Sicily, Messina is known as the "gateway to the island" because it is the first city to welcome visitors arriving from mainland Italy. The city is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking views. Over the centuries, it has been influenced by the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards, and today it offers a fascinating blend of ancient heritage and modern life. Despite earthquakes and destruction throughout its history, Messina has preserved many valuable landmarks.

Among the must-see attractions are the Duomo di Messina, featuring the oldest astronomical clock in the world, with mechanical figures that come to life every day at noon, and the Fontana di Orione. Don’t miss the panoramic views of the Strait of Messina from the city’s scenic viewpoints and from the nearby Santuario di Montalto.

The city also offers beautiful beaches, a Mediterranean atmosphere, and a rich gastronomic scene – including fresh seafood, arancini, focaccia Messinese, cannoli, and pignolata glassata (fried dough balls glazed with lemon and chocolate icing).

Messina is the perfect starting point for exploring Sicily, including day trips to Mount Etna, Taormina, and the Aeolian Islands. It's a city that blends the sea, history, and Sicilian hospitality – an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Sicilian experience.

Heraklion is the capital and largest city of Crete, located on the northeastern coast of Greece’s largest island. This dynamic city is a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and modern urban life, making it an essential destination for anyone wanting to experience the authentic Cretan atmosphere.

Heraklion is best known for its archaeological sites, especially the Palace of Knossos — one of the most significant historical landmarks in Crete, which served as the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization and culture. In addition to its historical attractions, the city offers narrow streets in the old town, colorful markets such as the Morosini Market, traditional tavernas, and museums that tell the story of Crete’s rich past and heritage.

The port of Heraklion is lively and busy, surrounded by restaurants, cafés, and shops, while the seaside promenade provides an ideal setting for relaxing walks with views of the Aegean Sea. The city boasts an excellent culinary scene — from fresh seafood and local specialties to contemporary restaurants offering innovative dishes. Traditional music nights and local customs add a special charm to the experience.

Heraklion is also a great base for exploring the rest of Crete, whether you're interested in beaches, hiking, or visiting picturesque villages. The city successfully combines urban life with traditional charm, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the best of Crete — its history, nature, culture, and hospitality.

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.

Istanbul – one city, two continents. Known throughout history as Byzantium and Constantinople, Istanbul has served as the capital of great empires over the centuries, leaving behind a rich legacy visible at every turn. Today, Istanbul is a modern metropolis with over six million residents, yet it continues to preserve its traditions and deep connection to its roots.

The city is filled with iconic landmarks such as Hagia Sophia, an awe-inspiring structure now serving as a museum, offering visitors a stunning blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture; Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans; and the magnificent Blue Mosque, famous for its striking blue ceramic tiles. The Galata Bridge connects the two continents and buzzes with life, while the Grand Bazaar—one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world—offers a unique shopping experience and a meeting point of cultures. A special part of Istanbul’s heritage are its mysterious cisterns, such as the Basilica Cistern, an underground water reservoir from the 6th century.

Istanbul is also a paradise for food lovers. Traditional Turkish cuisine here blends with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors. Must-try dishes include kebabs, meze, baklava, lahmacun, pide, Turkish tea (çay) and raki, the local anise-flavored spirit. Food is not just about nourishment here—it’s a central part of the culture, social life, and enjoyment.

As the only city in the world that spans two continents, Istanbul offers a truly unique experience where history and modern life meet at every corner. It’s a city that captivates with its contrasts, richness, and spirit that has lasted for millennia.