MSC LIRICA: Ancona (Urbino), Italy - Ancona (Urbino), Italy - 23.04.2027. - 8 days

Venice, situated on a lagoon north of the Adriatic Sea, has a rich history dating back to the 5th century, when its first inhabitants fled barbarian invasions and settled on the islands. Due to the challenging living conditions, they developed a unique system of canals and bridges, which over time became the city’s most iconic feature.
During the Middle Ages, Venice grew into a powerful state that controlled key trade routes between the East and the West, and it was during this period that many of the city’s most impressive landmarks were built.

The most famous symbol of Venice is St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), home to magnificent buildings such as St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, the former seat of Venetian authority. The Grand Canal, the city’s main "street," is lined with palaces, churches, and bridges that bear witness to the former grandeur of the Republic. Rialto Bridge, the oldest of the four bridges crossing the Grand Canal, was once a vital commercial hub and is today one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, built in the 17th century in gratitude for surviving the plague, further enriches the Venetian skyline with its lavish Baroque architecture.

Despite modern challenges such as rising sea levels, overtourism, and environmental threats, Venice remains a unique city that preserves its heritage and continues to attract millions of visitors every year.

A particularly special part of Venetian culture is the Carnival, which dates back to the 11th century. This multi-day festival, held in the weeks leading up to Lent, is renowned for its elaborate masks that symbolize freedom of expression and the erasing of social differences. The highlight of the carnival is the “Volo dell’Angelo” (Flight of the Angel), during which a costumed performer descends on a cable into St. Mark’s Square. The event is accompanied by parades, masquerade balls, concerts, and fireworks, transforming the city into a magical stage.

Venice remains a symbol of the fusion of history, art, spirituality, and celebration — a city that enchants with its beauty and unforgettable charm.

Kotor, located at the very end of one of the most spectacular bays in the Mediterranean, is a true gem of Montenegro – a town where history, architecture, and nature come together in perfect harmony. Surrounded by steep mountains that plunge into the turquoise waters of the Bay of Kotor, the town captivates visitors at first sight.

Beneath the massive stone walls that have protected the Old Town for centuries lies a remarkably well-preserved urban maze of narrow cobbled streets, small squares, churches, and buildings that tell stories of sailors, merchants, and artists who helped shape Kotor’s unique character over the ages. Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is rightfully considered one of the finest examples of medieval architecture on the Adriatic.

Throughout the year, the town hosts numerous cultural and musical events, festivals, exhibitions, and regattas. Kotor is equally charming during the lively summer months and in the off-season, when its quiet streets and misty mountains create an almost mystical atmosphere.

The surroundings of Kotor offer countless opportunities for exploration – whether you choose to hike up to the San Giovanni fortress for an unforgettable panoramic view of the bay, take a boat trip to the island of Our Lady of the Rocks, or stroll through nearby villages that preserve the authentic spirit of Boka.

Kotor is not a place to simply visit – it is a place to experience. A town where stone, sea, and time come together to create a space where every visit becomes a story worth remembering.

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.

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.

In the heart of the Cyclades lies Syros – an island that blends rich history, vibrant culture, and an authentic Mediterranean atmosphere. Unlike some of the more popular islands in the archipelago, Syros offers an experience that is both elegant and genuine, where modern life intertwines with tradition, and the lively city vibe is balanced by the quiet of villages and the calm of the coastline.

The capital, Hermoupolis, is known for its impressive neoclassical architecture, spacious squares, and the magnificent Church of Saint Nicholas dominating the skyline. The town’s port has been a significant maritime hub for the Ionian and Aegean seas for centuries. Hermoupolis is a meeting place of art, culture, and leisurely strolls, filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops offering local products.

The island’s interior hides peaceful villages like Ano Syros, with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional houses, where time seems to have stood still. This area is a center of Orthodox tradition and spirituality, and the view from the hilltop offers a breathtaking panorama.

Syros is also known for its rich musical and theatrical heritage, with festivals that attract artists and visitors from around the world throughout the year. The island offers both sandy and pebbly beaches, ideal for relaxation and enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

Syros is not a mass tourism destination. Its strength lies in its authenticity and charm – a harmonious blend of history, culture, and natural beauty inviting you to explore at your own pace.

Ancona, the capital of the picturesque Italian region of Marche, is a lively port city overlooking the sparkling Adriatic Sea, rich in historical landmarks such as Roman ruins, the Cathedral of Saint Ciriacus, and Trajan’s Arch. Inland lies Urbino – a true gem of the Italian Renaissance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Italy, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.

The Marche region is renowned for its rich cuisine that blends the flavors of the sea and the land: from fresh seafood and brodetto in Ancona, to handmade pasta, truffles, and aged cheeses in the countryside around Urbino. To complete the experience, local wines like Verdicchio and Rosso Conero pair beautifully with the region’s dishes.

Together, Ancona and Urbino offer a perfect blend of coastal beauty and cultural richness – an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic Italian experience, far from mass tourism. Whether you're exploring ancient monuments along the coast or strolling through Renaissance streets inland, the Marche region promises an unforgettable journey filled with history, art, and natural beauty.