MSC ORCHESTRA: Piraeus (Athens), Greece - Piraeus (Athens), Greece - 25.05.2027. - 8 days

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.

Embraced by the Ionian Sea, Kefalonia is the largest island in the archipelago and one of those places that captivate with their tranquility, striking contrasts in nature, and a sense of authenticity felt in every corner. At the heart of it all lies Argostoli, the island’s vibrant capital, where island charm meets a modern urban spirit.

Argostoli stretches along a calm bay, where Caretta caretta sea turtles glide through the water, and a scenic seaside promenade leads to the Drapano Bridge – a symbolic link between the town and the surrounding natural landscape. The main square is full of life, lined with cafés, restaurants, and shops, while the Folklore Museum and Archaeological Museum offer a glimpse into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Just a short distance away are some of Greece’s most stunning beaches – Makris Gialos, with its soft sand and clear waters, and the wild, scenic Myrtos, framed by white cliffs and turquoise sea that take your breath away. The island is also known for unique natural wonders like the underground lake of Melissani and the Drogarati cave, where nature reveals its most impressive side.

Although Argostoli is a modern hub, life on Kefalonia still flows slowly – in harmony with the sea, the scent of pine trees, and the sounds of local music echoing from seaside tavernas. It’s an ideal place for those seeking a balance between discovery and relaxation, culture and nature.

     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.

Santorini is one of the most recognizable and romantic Greek islands, located in the southern part of the Aegean Sea, within the Cyclades island group. Known for its spectacular sunsets, white houses with blue domes, and dramatic volcanic landscape, Santorini offers a unique experience that combines natural beauty, rich history, and an elegant atmosphere.

The island’s capital, Fira, takes your breath away with its views over the sea and surrounding islands. Its narrow streets are filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and museums, while nearby Oia, world-famous for its fairy-tale sunsets, enchants visitors with its charm. Traditional villages like Pyrgos, Emporeia, and Megalochori offer a glimpse into the island’s quieter and more authentic side.

Santorini is also an island of wine – thanks to its volcanic soil, local wines, especially Assyrtiko, are considered among the best in Greece. Visitors can tour many wineries and taste local varieties while enjoying views of the sea and vineyards. For history lovers, a visit to the archaeological site of Akrotiri is a must – an ancient Minoan city buried by a volcanic eruption.

The island also features unique beaches such as the Red Beach, Black Beach (Perissa), and White Beach, each showcasing the volcanic origins of Santorini through their color and texture. The island is equally known for its luxury hotels with infinity pools, private terraces, and panoramic views, offering the perfect setting for relaxation.

Whether you're looking for a romantic escape, cultural discovery, or simply a seaside holiday, Santorini delivers an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful settings in the Mediterranean.