Mediterranean Delights - Norwegian Epic

Day 1: Malta

Embarkation on Norwegian Epic at Malta port. The ship departs at 22:00

Day 2: Messina, Italy

The ship arrives at Messina port at 08:00 and departs at 18:00

The third largest city on the island of Sicily, Messina welcomes cruise ship visitors with its lovely harbor, extraordinary architecture (much of which miraculously survived a horrendous earthquake and tidal wave in 1908) and wonderful food. Stroll through Messina's Piazza Cairoli taking in magnificent fountains and cathedrals, or sip Marsala wine at a sidewalk cafe. 

Messina, the third biggest city in Sicily, includes sights such as the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, Fontana di Nettuno and the Fort of San Salvatore.

The city was recently ranked by Forbes amongst the top five cities in the world with great street food. It was also elected the European Capital of Street Food.

Day 3: Naples, Italy

The ship arrives at Naples port at 06:30 and departs at 16:30

Cruise to Naples, located on Italy's stunning Amalfi coast, a city rich in history. A tour around Naples' grand piazzas, cathedrals and castles in the old centre will take you back centuries.

Pompeii is not too far either, a dashing city which boasts diverse cultural offerings and charming streets. Buildings, churches, streets, ancient fortresses and castles in the sea, as well as natural caves make Naples unforgettable. Pizza was invented in Naples, Italy. The margherita pizza, topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella, was named after Queen Margherita. The Funicular in Naples is one of the longest funicular lines in the world. 

Day 4: Livorno, Florence, Italy

The ship arrives at Livorno port at 09:00 and departs at 20:30

How lucky to visit the Tuscan region, Florence & Pisa, resplendent in art and history. What's even more fortunate is that all the main attractions in Florence are centrally located for the perfect walking tour. See Santa Croce, Piazza del Duomo and Michelangelo's David.

Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, symbolizes the wealth and power of Italy's golden age more than any other city in Italy. It offers much more than the famous leaning tower.
The Leaning Tower was designed many centuries ago as a Campanile - a free-standing bell tower of Pisa Cathedral. Although designed to be standing vertically, the tower started to lean the southeast direction shortly after its construction began.
Cathedral of Santa Marla Del Flore is the second largest cathedral in the world, capable of holding 3,000 people. Begun in 1296, it took 140 years to complete.

Day 5: Rome, Civitavecchia port

The ship arrives at Civitavecchia port at 06:00 and departs at 17:00

Civitavecchia, a former Etruscan port, is the seaport for Rome. And what about it? Everything here reflects the glorious power of a people who ruled the world. Located in cove, protected to the north by Mignone and south by the Marangone, the Civitavecchia port was built on the Tyrrhenian coast in Etruscan times and still preserves traces of this history. In particular, the Michelangelo fort and the old town with its 9th-century walls bear witness to the splendour of a medieval past. We have to take advantage of this stop to visit Rome, the grandiose capital with its world-famous monuments: the Forum, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Trajan's column, St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona, Piazza Venezia, the Spanish Steps and so much more.

Not to be missed: The majestic Cathedral of St Francis of Assisi, The Fort Michelangelo and the Rocca, an impenetrable fortress

Day 6: At sea

Day at your leisure to enjoy the facilities and entertainment of Norwegian Epic. 

Day 7: Santorini

The ship arrives at Santorini port at 13.00 and departs at 22.00

The cliffs of Santorini island shine with the bright white of the houses that dominate the Mediterranean from the top of their summit.
Upon arrival at the port of Santorini, you will be enchanted by the charm of the lagoon that surrounds this beautiful volcanic island. The harmony between the crystal blue water and the white villages located at the top of the cliffs is truly exceptional. Make the most of your trip to Santorini by visiting the lava beaches. Their black colour makes them truly spectacular. Archaeology lovers should not miss the chance to visit Akotiri. Excavations have unearthed Minoan ruins and a city that dates back to the Cycladic civilisation.

Not to be missed: The magical village of Oia, Excursions to the slopes of the volcano of Santorini, The ruins of Akrotiri

Day 8: Piraeus

The ship arrives at Piraeus port at 07:00 and departs at 18:00

This is the cradle of civilization, the oldest city in Europe. Not only is this city home to the Acropolis and some of the most important architectural structures and archaeological finds in the Western world, It is also a very modern city, an urban amalgam of extraordinary art, culture, cuisine and shopping. 

The majestic Parthenon stands proud among the remains of the ancient Acropolis, a citadel perched on a rocky cliff, rising 150-metres above the city of Athens. Don’t miss the opportunity to see this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site on an extraordinary excursion. Begin with a climb to the top of Acropolis Hill to admire the magnificent Parthenon, the Temples of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. Then, visit the modern Acropolis Museum with its outstanding display of archaeological finds, before heading to the Corinth Canal.
 
After visiting the Parthenon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll journey to Pláka, the historical quarter of Athens. Affectionately known as the ‘Neighbourhood of the Gods’, its maze of old streets is nestled around the northern and eastern foothills of the Acropolis. This excursion will see you admiring a number of sites including archaeological remains and restored Neoclassical buildings. Immerse yourself in the area’s classical atmosphere before indulging in a spot of souvenir shopping.

Day 9: Mykonos

The ship arrives at Mykonos port at 07.00 and departs at 14.00

Discover the glamorous and cosmopolitan town. A gem of the Cyclades archipelago, Mykonos draws visitors from all over the world. Explore whitewashed houses on narrow streets, a labyrinth built to thwart pirate attacks! Then, visit the world-famous Venetian windmills which date back to the 16th century. Used to grind wheat, these rustic structures were a fundamental part of the island’s former economy. Today, they provide a great photo opportunity, so remember to bring your camera!
 
Visit the gorgeous Greek island of Delos. This archaeological site overlooks the beautiful Aegean Sea and is considered the mythological birthplace of the sun god Apollo. Soak up the glory of this ancient Greek civilisation and discover the Avenue of Lions, an incredible row of 7th-century marble-sculptures. Then, wander the trail to Mount Cynthus to marvel at the views of the ocean.
 
Discover Mykonos the exciting way. Experience the sights of this gorgeous Greek Island in the comfort of a four-wheel-drive! Visit Kalo Livadi beach where you can take a swim in the Mediterranean Sea or stretch out on the sand. Then, visit the monastery and church of Panagia Tourliani in the village of Ano Mera. Before returning to port, experience warm island hospitality in a traditional Greek tavern.  Sip Ouzo, the anise-flavoured spirt, before tucking into a plate of tasty appetisers.

Day 10: Corfu

The ship arrives at Corfu port at 12.00 and departs at 19.00

One of the lushest of the Greek Isles, Corfu is rimmed in dramatic blue waters and topped with tranquil hillside villages. A collection of quaint cafes in the town of Corfu feels very continental, but the island's secluded coves and sandy beaches could only be found in the Greek Isles.

Famous For: Quite rich in history, Corfu is known for its green landscape and ties to Greek mythology. The town's aesthetic was heavily influenced by the Venetians.

Fun Fact: The longest influence in Corfu was the Venetians, which left their mark making it feel more like an Italian town.

Day 11: Malta

The ship arrives at Malta port at 13:30