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    Owing to recent flight price increases this package is scheduled for repricing. Submit a booking enquiry to receive up-to-date pricing for your travel plan without obligation.
    18-Day Mediterranean Cruise package from $7,691pp $5,999pp after Getaway Cash travel credits:
    • Return flights to/from Sydney
    • 1-night Gold standard accommodation in Genoa
    • Luxurious 15-day Mediterranean cruise onboard the MSC World Europa and MSC Sinfonia
    • Stops in Naples, Barcelona, Marseilles, Split and much more with lots of sightseeing opportunities
    • 2-nights Silver standard accommodation in Venice
    • Guided Venetian Islands boat tour of Murano and Burano
    Save up to 22% off standard retail.
    Cruise along the Mediterranean Sea
    Cruise along the Mediterranean Sea
    Ancient ruins, awe-inspiring art, legendary cities and sun-kissed beaches - Mediterranean Europe is a visual and sensual feast. Visit once and you'll be hooked for life.
    • Santorini, Greece
    • Cruise along the Mediterranean Sea
      Ancient ruins, awe-inspiring art, legendary cities and sun-kissed beaches - Mediterranean Europe is a visual and sensual feast. Visit once and you'll be hooked for life.
    • Split, Croatia
    • Mykonos, Greece
    • MSC World Europa
    • Brindisi, Italy
    • Genoa, Italy
    • Katakolon, Greece
      Katakolon is a quiet seaside Greek village in western Ilia, Pyrgos municipality.
    • Barcelona, Spain
      Barcelona is an enchanting seaside city with boundless culture, fabled architecture and a world-class drinking and dining scene.
    • Valletta, Malta
      When Unesco named Valletta a World Heritage site, it described it as 'one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world'.
    • Venice, Italy
      Venice with its historic attractions and gorgeous canals is one of Italy's most famous attractions.
    • Naples, Italy
    • Olympia, Greece
      Visit Olympia, where the ancient Greeks flocked every four years for more than a millennium to celebrate the sacred games in honour of the god Zeus.
    • Streets of Santorini
      Experience lively Santorini as you stroll through its picturesque, winding streets.
    • Murano & Burano Islands
    • Piraeus, Greece
      Ten kilometres southwest of central Athens, Piraeus is dazzling in its scale; its seemingly endless quays filled with ferries, ships and hydrofoils.
    • Corfu's 'Old Fortress'
      The Old Fortress of Corfu is a Venetian fortress in the city of Corfu.
    • Messina province
    • Streets of Genoa
    • Kotor, Montenegro
      Kotor is living history in a spectacular bay.

    FULL RETAIL VALUE: $7,691pp. YOU PAY FROM $5,899, SAVE UP TO $1,692pp.

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Trip Highlights

    13 destinations in 18 days! Set sail on a dream vacation to many of the best places to visit in the Mediterranean. This region offers some of Europe's most classic cultural landmarks alongside some of its best weather to top it off. Onboard two luxurious cruise ships, you'll enjoy superior service and quality-everything as you discover culture, cuisine and history unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Taste wood-fired pizza in Naples, the city where it was created, or visit the historic grounds of a famous Greek god. Whether you sip, savour or stroll your way through these places, you won’t just learn about history, you’ll relive it.

    Trip highlights*:

    • 15-day luxurious cruise onboard the MSC World Europa and MSC Sinfonia
    • Enjoy free time in some of the Mediterranean’s most amazing locations
    • Experience Genoa at your own pace
    • Visit Naples and see Mount Vesuvius
    • Immerse yourself in culture and art in Barcelona
    • Uncover the history of Marseille
    • Stroll through the gorgeous Split streets
    • Explore ancient Olympian monuments in Athens and Mykonos
    • Tour Diocletian’s Palace
    • Unforgettable sightseeing experiences in Venice including St Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal
    • Guided Venetian Islands boat tour of Murano and Burano

    * See full itinerary for details. Package price varies according to season and departure city.

    Global Escapes Travel

    In the style of most Global Escapes Independent Traveler itineraries, this is a perfect blend of self-guided adventure and forward-planning to ensure that the main elements are organised in advance allowing for plenty of time to relax and take in each place you visit.

    Package Pricing

    FULL RETAIL VALUE

    $7,691pp

    SAVINGS APPLIED

    -$1,692

    YOU PAY FROM*

    $5,999

    SAVING OFF FULL RETAIL VALUE (UP TO): 22%

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    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. The final price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available HERE...

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    Inclusions

    "From ancient ruins and atmospheric old quarters to thriving food scenes and sun-drenched beaches, Mediterranean Europe offers the perfect combination of old world beauty and modern charisma. "

    Explore the sights, sounds and flavours of the Mediterranean all on your own terms. Experience lively Santorini as you stroll through its picturesque, winding streets. Travel through the coast of Italy while indulging in traditional flavours and admiring iconic landmarks. Discover Barcelona's unique Catalan identity while taking in its stunning architecture and delectable dining. Do all of this and more while enjoying a luxurious cruising experience onboard the MSC World Europa and MSC Sinfonia. Enjoy extra time in the gorgeous city of Venice after your cruise. Whether it's your first or fifth time in the Mediterranean, there is always something new and beautiful to discover in this stunning part of the world.

    This is a first-class travel itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

    Package inclusions:

    • Return flights to/from Sydney
    • 1-night Gold standard accommodation in Genoa
    • Luxurious 15-day Mediterranean cruise onboard the MSC World Europa and MSC Sinfonia
    • Stops in Naples, Barcelona, Marseilles, Split and much more with lots of sightseeing opportunities
    • 2-nights Silver standard accommodation in Venice
    • Guided Venetian Islands boat tour of Murano and Burano

    All packages include:

    • Lonely Planet guide for Cruise Ports of Mediterranean Europe
    • No fees to alter the itinerary (you just pay for the adjusted itinerary)
    • Extra nights at industry wholesale price (using GCash travel credits)
    • Google Drive folder with soft copies of all travel documents
    • Comprehensive, printed itinerary
    • Personal travel consultant to help plan and customize your holiday
    • Option for best-in-class travel insurance at member price

    Carefully selected accommodation:

    Hotel standards

    Read about our accommodation rating standards and the methods used to assess quality.

    Fully customisable:

    This itinerary is fully customisable to suit your requirements. Your personal travel consultant is available to discuss changes and additions that will enhance your travel experience.

    Special value:

    Lonely Planet Logo

    Lonely Planet is renowned for its first-hand approach, up-to-date maps and commitment to providing the best information for travelers. Lonely Planet authors are experienced, insightful travel experts. They personally research the places they write about - both in the first and in subsequent editions - and provide essential travel details along with a wealth of insider information and first-hand tips.

    Mediterranean Europe

    You will receive this guide to help you gain the most out of your holiday. Recommendation: Take the time to read suggestions for things to see and do before you leave home. Take your Lonely Planet guide with you in your luggage.


    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash travel credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard price and full retail value comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what we estimate would be payable by a non-member for the same or similar package and may include a value we define for specialty travel agency services. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Valid for 2024 travel subject to availability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

    Your Itinerary

    Whether you love art, history, natural wonders, fine cuisine, or all of the above, this Mediterranean journey lets you experience something amazing at every stop. Starting in the bustling port city of Genoa, embark on a 15-day luxurious cruise, taking you to all the top destinations in Mediterranean Europe. Your first stop: Naples, the city of volcanic drama, where you will be able to witness Mount Vesuvius. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Valletta, wander the streets of Barcelona and bask in the architectural glory of Brindisi. Relive history as you journey through Mykonos and Piraeus, visiting ancient Greek monuments such as Olympia and the Acropolis of Athens. Finish your already perfect holiday with 2 full days in Venice.

    "Because in the end, you won't remember the time you spent working in the office or mowing your lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain." - Jack Kerouac

    DAY 1: GENOA


    Genoa, Italy

    Say Buongiorno! (good morning!) to Italy today with a morning flight into beautiful Genoa, gateway to the Italian Rivier. Genoa’s port area now hosts museums and dining options and the old town is well worth a visit. After checking into your accommodation, spend the rest of your day exploring all this charming city has to offer…

    DAY 2: GENOA & NAPLES


    MSC World Europa
        

    Enjoy your morning in Genoa before embarking on your 15-day Mediterranean cruise aboard the luxurious MSC World Europa. First stop, Naples!

    DAY 3: NAPLES


    Naples, Italy

    Naples is gritty yet charrming in its own way, a place of soul-stirring art and panoramas, spontaneous conversations and unexpected, inimitable elegance. Welcome to Italy's most unlikely masterpiece. Disembark the cruise ship in the early afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day exploring this historic city. Make sure you sample the world's best pizza. Return to the ship in the evening and begin the journey to Messina.

    DAY 4: MESSINA


    Messina, Italy

    You'll arrive in Messina in the early morning so the entire day is yours to enjoy at leisure. With wide boulevards and lower-rise, turn-of-the-century buildings, Messina exudes a sense of space and calm missing from the other major Sicilian cities. Tourist attractions like Messina Bell Tower, Piazza del Duomo, Messina Regional Museum, Camposanto and many more provide you with an insight into the city’s rich culture and history. Make your way back to the cruise ship in the evening and continue along to Valletta, the capital city of Malta.

    DAY 5: VALLETTA


    Valletta, Malta

    Valletta is Malta's lilliputian capital, built by the Knights of St John on a peninsula that's only 1km by 600m. Its founder decreed that it should be "a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen", and it retains its 16th-century elegance. Named a World Heritage site in 1980, Unesco described Valletta as "one of the most concentrated historic areas in the world". Return to the cruise ship in the evening. Your next destination is Barcelona!

    DAY 6: AT SEA

    Today will be spent at the sea. Relax, take in the fresh breeze of the sea and spend your time enjoying onboard entertainment with new-found friends.

    DAY 7: BARCELONA


    Barcelona, Spain

    Barcelona is an enchanting seaside city with boundless culture, fabled architecture and a world-class drinking and dining scene. With beautiful places like Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and mesmerizing beaches, the city is truly a visual treat.

    Arriving in Barcelona in the morning, you have the whole day to spend indulging in rich Spanish culture. The cruise will depart on the same day at 6.00pm and will head towards Marseilles, France.

    DAY 8: MARSEILLE


    Marseille, France

    Bonjour Marseille! Today you have the opportunity to immerse yourself in French history and culture with a full day to explore the port city of Marseille. Founded more than 2,500 years ago, this black sheep of the Provencal coastline has blossomed in cultural confidence since its 2013 stint as the European Capital of Culture. During your visit, it is highly recommended that you visit the Vieux Port, Notre Dame de la Garde, MuCEM and Le Panier neighbourhood. After a day of exploring, return to the ship to begin the journey back to Genoa.

    DAY 9: GENOA

    Today your cruise will dock back in Genoa, Italy. After departing the ship, you will be transferred to Venice to begin the second leg of your Mediterranean cruise. Your next destination: Brindisi, Italy.

    DAY 10: BRINDISI


    Brindisi, Italy

    Your cruise ship will reach Brindisi in the early afternoon. Depart the ship and discover this gorgeous harbour city, taking in its gorgeous views, historic structures and religious monuments. Being a commercial port city, Brindisi has absorbed a lot of foreign culture which you can see reflected throughout the city. In the evening, after enjoying a delicious dinner seaside, return to the cruise ship and start for Katakolon, Greece.

    DAY 11: DAY AT SEA

    Make the most of a day at sea by indulging in a variety of ship amenities. Enjoy a spa day, catch a show, dine at fine restaurants, stay active with gym or yoga sessions, and shop for fashionable items. Relax at the pool, with attentive staff catering to your needs. Savor a world of flavors with diverse dining options. Test your luck at the casino with slots and table games, offering excitement for all skill levels. It's a day filled with endless activities and entertainment options on the high seas.

    DAY 12: MYKONOS


    Mykonos, Greece

    Today discover the enchanting city of Mykonos, Greece, celebrated for its Cycladic architecture, pristine beaches, and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy the sun at Psarou Beach and explore the Folklore Museum, located next to the iconic Paraportianí church. Stroll through Little Venice and Alefkándhra for art galleries, trendy bars, shops, and clubs, making Mykonos a perfect destination for memorable experiences and luxurious landscapes.

    DAY 13: PIRAEUS


    Piraeus, Greece

    Ten kilometres southwest of central Athens, Piraeus is dazzling in its scale; its seemingly endless quays filled with ferries, ships and hydrofoils. Docking in the morning, the day is yours to immerse yourself in ancient Greek history dating back more than 1,000 years. Travel into Athens to spend some discovering Greece’s famous capital city. Return to the cruise ship in the evening.

    DAY 14: DAY AT SEA

    Maximize your day at sea by indulging in spa treatments, attending shows, dining at exquisite restaurants, staying active with fitness choices, shopping, and partaking in a variety of activities. Seize the opportunity to rejuvenate and relish the ship's amenities for a truly memorable day at sea.

    DAY 15: SPLIT, CROATIOA


    Split, Croatia
     

    Visit Split, Croatia, a charming city with seafront cafés, ancient alleyways, and a vibrant atmosphere. It boasts coastal views and eclectic architecture, steeped in unique historical heritage. Explore the bustling Riva with its shops, cafés, and restaurants. Tour Diocletian's Palace, transformed over time into a maze of houses, churches, and chapels. Don't miss the Saint Domnius Cathedral, renowned for its remarkable architecture and towering bell tower. Split offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning sights.

    DAY 16: VENICE


    Venice, Italy

    Ciao Venezia! In the early morning, your ship will dock in Venice, the last destination of your Mediterranean cruise. Say goodbye to your newfound friends before journeying along the city’s ancient canals to your Venice accommodation.

    After checking in, spend the rest of your day exploring all this gorgeous city has to offer. Your Lonely Planet guide will be invaluable here, giving you insider tips and restaurant suggestions.

    DAY 17: VENICE, MURANO & BURANO


    Murano & Burano Islands

    You have the entire day today to explore Venice and discover the pleasures of la dolce vita (the beautiful life) that only locals know. Experience the gondoliers' call "Ooooeeeee!", a morning spritz in a sunny campo (square), lunch in a lively bacaro (bar) and a fuschia-pink sunset that has sent centuries of artists mad.

    After a delicious Venetian breakfast, head to St Mark’s Square where you will embark on a tour to the nearby islands of Murano and Burano. An expert guide will join you on your discovery of the famous landmarks, exquisite crafts, and relaxed way of life to be found there.

    Your journey begins with a boat ride to the cluster of small islands that make up Murano. Here, you will pay a visit to the ancient church of Santa Maria e Donato, home to a grand 12th-century Byzantine mosaic, and then walk to the nearby workshop to see the island's venerable glass-blowing techniques in action.

    After some free time to visit the shops that fill the island's markets, your boat will carry you over to the peaceful community of Burano Island. Take a stroll along the streets lined with vividly coloured houses and get lost in this little gem. The tour ends with a return boat ride to Venice, where you can relax with a glass of prosecco wine before you set out on your own.

    To finish off your perfect day, we recommend taking a relaxing evening cruise down the aptly named Grand Canal.

    DAY 18: RETURN TO AUSTRALIA

    Spend your morning soaking up last-minute experiences before heading to the airport for your return flight home.

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