MSC FANTASIA: Istanbul, Turkey - Istanbul, Turkey - 02.09.2026. - 10 days

     Corfu is the northernmost of the Ionian Islands, located in the heart of the Mediterranean. The Greek place name Kerkira was renamed Corfu by the Venetians, who paraphrased the word "Korifi" which was used to indicate the towers of St. Mark's fortress.
     Corfu is covered in lush vegetation, thriving in a climate that is tempered by the wind without being too dry. Its coastline is very long, seemingly never-ending: over 200 kilometres. The terrain is quite varied, at times sandy and at others rocky and broken up by Mediterranean bush, olive, cypress and citrus trees.
     Corfu has suffered a long and bloody history. Corfu embarked on a long period of being colonised by others from 700 B.C. onwards, first by the Corinthians, then the Illyrians and the Athenians. Corfu suffered attacks from pirates while under Byzantine rule forcing the relocation of the city northward. This did little to halt the invasions of the Vandals and Visigoths, who repeatedly massacred the populations and razed their villages to the ground. The Venetians gave Corfu back its status as an important centre of trade and with it a very wealthy market. Venetian rule lasted for more than 400 years, during which time the island was governed by a system of aristocratic rule. The Venetians began the cultivation of olives and to this day, Corfu is one of the main olive oil producing centres in the region. Once the Venetian reign had come to an end, it was the Turks' turn, then the French and the English, and on 21st May 1864 it was annexed to the Kingdom of Greece.
     During the Second World War, Corfu was again bombarded and suffered heavy damage. Most of its buildings were destroyed, such as the public theatre and the Ionian Academy. Just a few outstanding buildings remain, scattered along the coastline and in the main town and jealously guarded by the local population.
     Kerkira is the capital, and accommodates around 60,000 of the 110,000 people who live on the island. The city has a splendid city centre with numerous Venetian fortresses and the English Royal Palace. The rest of the island is made up of small settlements, roads that stretch out high above the sea and splendid views of small bays and magnificent cliffs.

The Italian port city of Bari is located on the coast of the archaeologically rich Apulia region. This ancient city offers an extraordinary blend of old and new – historic churches, castles, and squares stand close to modern galleries, shops, and museums. The surrounding area is home to numerous natural wonders, including caves protected by UNESCO. If you want to combine the sea, culture, and gastronomy, Bari is the ideal destination for you.

Must-see attractions include the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which houses the saint’s relics; the Old Town (Bari Vecchia), full of narrow streets, traditional houses, and small squares; the Norman-Swabian Castle; and the Lungomare – a beautiful seaside promenade.

Bari is also an excellent starting point for excursions to nearby towns such as Alberobello – a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its white houses with characteristic conical roofs – or Matera, the magical canyon city protected by UNESCO, known for its “Sassi” district, a network of caves carved into the rock.

The city’s gastronomy reflects a fusion of the sea and southern Italy – simple yet full of flavor and tradition. One of the most famous dishes is orecchiette – small ear-shaped pasta often served with broccoli, garlic, and anchovies or in a rich tomato sauce. In the streets of the old town, you will often see local women making it by hand in front of their homes. Another must-try is focaccia barese, a golden-baked bread topped with olive oil, tomatoes, and olives, crispy on the outside and soft inside. Seafood lovers will delight in fresh squid, shellfish, and raw shrimp, usually served simply with a few drops of lemon and olive oil. To finish the meal, enjoy a glass of local Primitivo or Negroamaro, powerful red wines from the sunny vineyards of Apulia.

Welcome to the beautiful city of Trieste! Located on the Adriatic coast, it is one of Italy’s most important port cities, rich in history and unique in culture. Over the centuries, it was under the rule of the Roman Empire, the Venetian Republic, the Habsburg Monarchy, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire — all of which left a strong mark on the city’s architecture and identity.

The city boasts a vibrant artistic and cultural scene — from the Revoltella Museum, to the Teatro Romano, a 1st-century Roman amphitheatre, and a literary heritage shaped by authors such as Italo Svevo and James Joyce.

Among the must-see landmarks are Piazza Unità d’Italia, one of the largest sea-facing squares in the world, the Miramare Castle, and the charming Canal Grande.

Trieste’s gastronomy reflects a blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian influences. Don’t miss local specialties such as jota (a hearty soup of beans and sauerkraut), scampi alla busara (langoustines in a tomato and wine sauce), and, of course, authentic Italian coffee served in buffet style.

Trieste is a city where culture, history, hospitality, and fine cuisine come together — an ideal destination for curious travelers and lovers of the Mediterranean lifestyle.

On the western coast of the Peloponnese, along the blue shores of the Ionian Sea, lies Katakolon – a small but charming port town that serves as an ideal starting point for visiting ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games and one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites.

Although Katakolon is known as a cruise port, the town retains an authentic, relaxed atmosphere typical of Greek seaside villages. Narrow streets, small tavernas serving homemade food, and a mild Mediterranean climate make it a perfect place to rest before or after exploring the historic landmarks.

Nearby, ancient Olympia delights visitors with its impressive ruins, including the remains of the Temple of Zeus, the original stadium, and an archaeological museum housing valuable exhibits. It is a place where history is felt in every stone and where the spirit of ancient Greece truly comes alive. Katakolon also offers relaxing seaside walks, small beaches suitable for swimming, and opportunities to explore the surrounding landscapes—from olive groves to hills with views over the Ionian Sea. The town is popular among those seeking peace as well as easy access to major attractions.

Katakolon is not a typical tourist hotspot; its appeal lies in the combination of history, nature, and authentic Greek charm that leaves a lasting impression.

Kusadasi is a charming coastal town located on the Aegean coast of Turkey, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant marina, and rich historical surroundings. A popular tourist destination, Kusadasi offers the perfect blend of seaside relaxation, cultural heritage, and a dynamic nightlife. The town has a bustling harbor filled with yachts, shops, and cafes, creating a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer months.

The long sandy beaches, such as Ladies Beach and Long Beach, attract visitors seeking sun, sea, and water sports. Kusadasi is also an ideal starting point for visits to important archaeological and historical sites, particularly the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Mediterranean, located just a few kilometers away.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical landmarks, Kusadasi offers a diverse culinary scene – from traditional Turkish cuisine to international dishes – as well as a vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and various entertainment options. The seaside promenade is perfect for evening walks with stunning views of the Aegean Sea and nearby islands.

Kusadasi is an ideal destination for travelers who want to combine beach relaxation with cultural exploration and a lively urban atmosphere, making it one of the most beloved destinations on Turkey’s western coast.

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.