Discover Greece, Corinth Canal & the Adriatic: 18 days Athens (Piraeus) to Venice

Your journey begins in Greece in its dynamic capital, Athens. Rich in history, this ancient city is renowned as the birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation. From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald luxury yacht to embark on a memorable voyage exploring fascinating towns and extraordinary coastlines. 

Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 02:00 PM.

A small rocky island in the heart of the Cyclades archipelago, Delos is regarded as one of the most important mythological and archaeological sites in Greece. In the afternoon, you’ll continue to the world-famous island of Mykonos, which captivates visitors with its blend of traditional Greek culture and cosmopolitan flair. Take a stroll through the winding, narrow streets of atmospheric Mykonos town to admire the trademark whitewashed dwellings fronted by distinctive blue doors. Be sure to also visit the historic windmills, another iconic sight on this popular island.  

On board your luxury yacht, you’ll pass through the 19th-century Corinth Canal, a slender waterway and feat of engineering that crosses the Isthmus of Corinth in Greece. This is a rare sailing experience, as few cruise vessels can navigate through this man-made canal. 

Cruise on to the small port of Itea, before embarking on a journey to Delphi, a World Heritage-listed archaeological site, regarded by the Ancient Greeks as the centre of the world. 

Known as the ‘Caribbean of Greece’, Lefkada is connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge, making it one of the few islands accessible by car. One of the most fascinating places on this beautiful island is the Castle of Agia Mavra, dating back to the 14th century and built to protect Lefkada from invaders. As well as soaking up the island’s natural beauty and centuries-old history, enjoy sampling the delicious local wines produced here.   

On mainland Greece, the resort town of Parga radiates a carefree holiday atmosphere. Enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine on one of the many lovely beaches, wander through traditional Greek villages and marvel at the hilltop Venetian castle, with origins in the 11th century, which reveals an incredible bird’s-eye view of this popular town and sparkling Ionian coastline. From Parga, you’ll cruise Corfu, known for its sandy coves and rugged, verdant hills studded with olive, cypress, and citrus trees. 

Explore Corfu today, one of Greece’s largest and greenest islands. Explore authentic Greek villages and take a refreshing dip in the inviting, clear waters. Don’t miss a visit to the picturesque UNESCO-listed Old Town, which harbours a rich history and magnificent heritage architecture displaying Renaissance and Baroque influences. Here, stroll through the largest square in Greece, the impressive Spianada and soak up the local ambience and history. 

Today you’ll cruise the Straits of Corfu to Albania and Sarandë, a popular coastal town perched on a crescent-shaped bay. This once sleepy fishing village welcomes you with a bustling seaside promenade and pebbled beaches. Its relaxed atmosphere makes it a perfect base for exploring the nearby ancient ruins of Butrint, a World Heritage-listed Site renowned for its archaeological significance. 

Encircled by medieval walls, the fortified city of Kotor on Montenegro’s beautiful coastline is a fascinating port that seamlessly combines ancient history and vibrant modern culture. Nestled between imposing mountains and the Adriatic Sea, the Old Town of Kotor, a World Heritage-listed site, is sure to charm with its elegant Venetian palaces, cobblestone narrow lanes and café-hemmed squares.  

Set off the Croatian mainland, the charming Island of Vis was closed to visitors until 1989. Today, this historical background has given Vis a rare sense of tranquillity and authenticity. Its rocky coastline, azure waters and well-preserved Venetian architecture made Vis the ideal backdrop for the popular film, Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again in 2018.

Welcome to the dazzling city of Dubrovnik on Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coast. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, this World Heritage-listed city is renowned for its breathtaking architecture with red terracotta-tiled roofs and white stone walls contrasting against the turquoise waters that lap below.

Welcome to Dubrovnik, the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ and a compelling city nestled along Croatia's rugged Dalmatian Coast. Dubrovnik’s magnificent walled Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls completed in the 16th century, presents one of the finest examples of a medieval citadel in Europe. With its storied history and breathtaking views of iconic terracotta rooftops and the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik offers the ideal blend of cultural exploration and a relaxing beach holiday.    

Spend another fascinating day exploring the city of Dubrovnik. Be awed by the impressive Rector's Palace, a 15th-century Gothic Renaissance palace that was once the administrative centre of the city. Enjoy a drink on the Stradun, the main thoroughfare through the city, and take a walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views over the rooftops and Adriatic Sea. 

Split is a stunning city laden with culture, history and striking architecture. Take a stroll along the Riva, a palm-lined promenade that is the beating heart of the city, passing beautiful terraces and bustling eateries with harbour views. Built from the fourth century and added to over 1,700 years, the ruins of Diocletian's Palace dominate the city centre. This incredible World Heritage site comprises an imperial residence, military fortress and fortified town with gates and walls. Today, its remnants house a myriad of bars and cafés. 

Zadar is something of a hidden Croatian gem, a captivating blend of ancient history and modern charm. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, encounter spectacular Roman ruins, including the well-preserved Roman Forum constructed between the first century BC and third century AD, and the majestic St. Donatus Church, a symbol of the city's rich heritage. 

You’ll be mesmerised by the Sea Organ, stone carvings along the promenade designed so the lapping waves create natural and hauntingly beautiful melodies. As the sun disappears, be captivated by Sun Salutation, a dazzling solar-powered installation that lights up at night. 

On the western peninsula of Croatia, southwest of the large city of Rijeka, Opatija has alluring views across the Adriatic towards the Kvarner Islands and the distant Istrian Mountains. Known as the ‘Nice of Croatia’, Opatija was a seaside resort for the upper classes during the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and it retains its lovely seaside promenades, handsome villas and manicured parks and gardens. 

Piran is a pretty town of red-tiled and whitewashed buildings clustered on the tip of Slovenia’s Piran Peninsula. Part of the Venetian Empire from the late 13th century to the end of the 18th century, Piran is known for its grand Gothic architecture. The town has a history of salt panning, and its landscape is dotted with olive groves and pebbly beaches. Restaurants line the waterfront and serve seafood direct from the Adriatic, as well as drawing inspiration from its Italian heritage with excellent gelaterias and pizzerias.

Today, you will arrive in Venice, a 1,600-year-old city that is one of the world’s most iconic destinations. Built across 118 small islands in the Venetian Lagoon, it’s a place shaped by water, from its quiet canals to St Mark’s Basilica and the grand piazza in front. It’s a spectacular city to get lost in, with its maze-like alleyways and vibrant squares. With your luxury yacht docked here overnight, you can choose to linger over a drink at a tiny bar or glide along the canals by gondola as the city lights illuminate the water. 

Your Emerald Cruises voyage concludes here. From your luxury yacht, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your journey home or to continue your travels. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Venice after 11:00 AM.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.