7 nights. Italy, Greece

Day 1

marghera - italy

Departure: 17:00

Mestre, located just across the lagoon from Venice, is a convenient and often overlooked base for exploring the region. Well-connected by train, tram, and bus, it offers quick access to Venice’s historic center—usually in 10–15 minutes—while providing a calmer, more residential atmosphere. Accommodation and dining are generally more affordable than on the islands, making Mestre a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a less touristy experience. The heart of Mestre is Piazza Ferretto, a lively pedestrian square lined with cafés, gelaterias, and shops. This is where locals meet for an evening aperitivo, stroll with families, or attend open-air events in summer. Nearby, the Toniolo Theatre and modern shopping streets add a contemporary touch, while side alleys reveal small bakeries, traditional trattorias, and local markets where you can sample regional specialties like cicchetti and freshly baked focaccia. Beyond the urban center, Mestre offers plenty of green spaces and cycling routes. The sprawling San Giuliano Park, overlooking the Venice lagoon, is perfect for jogging, picnics, and panoramic views of Venice’s skyline across the water. Cyclists will appreciate the network of bike paths connecting Mestre with neighboring towns and the park, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace and escape the crowds without going far from the city. Mestre is also a useful hub for exploring the wider Veneto region. Trains and buses link you quickly to Padua, Treviso, and Verona, as well as to the beaches of the Adriatic coast. With its strategic location, practical transport connections, and authentic local feel, Mestre is not just a gateway to Venice—it’s a destination worth discovering in its own right.

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Day 1

venice, italy

Arrival: 17:30 - Departure: 19:00

Venice is a city like no other: a labyrinth of canals, marble palaces, and hidden courtyards floating on the Adriatic. Built on more than 100 small islands, it has no roads—only waterways and narrow alleys that suddenly open onto breathtaking piazzas. At its heart lies St. Mark’s Square, framed by the dazzling Basilica di San Marco, the Doge’s Palace, and the iconic Campanile. From here, you can wander under arcades lined with cafés and listen to live orchestras as the sun sets over the lagoon. The Grand Canal is Venice’s main thoroughfare, curving through the city like a glittering highway of water. Riding a vaporetto (water bus) offers a front-row view of Gothic and Renaissance palaces, their facades reflected in the rippling surface. For a more intimate experience, slip into one of the smaller canals on a gondola and glide beneath low stone bridges, passing quiet neighborhoods where laundry hangs over the water and church bells echo between the walls. Beyond the famous sights, Venice rewards slow exploration. Lose yourself in the districts of Cannaregio and Dorsoduro, where local bacari (wine bars) serve cicchetti—small Venetian tapas—alongside spritz and local wines. Cross the Rialto Bridge to visit its bustling market, where fishmongers and fruit vendors supply the city’s kitchens, and artisans sell Murano glass and traditional masks. Each sestiere (district) has its own character, from elegant San Marco to the more bohemian, artsy feel of Dorsoduro. Venice also makes an ideal base for exploring the lagoon islands. Take a short boat ride to Murano, famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, where you can watch master glassblowers at work. Continue to Burano, a photographer’s dream with its brightly painted houses and lace workshops, and then on to Torcello, a peaceful island with ancient churches and a rare sense of quiet. Whether you come for art, history, or romance, Venice offers a dreamlike atmosphere that lingers long after you leave.

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Day 2

bari, italy

Arrival: 14:00 - Departure: 20:00

Despite being a large, modern city, Bari has managed to maintain the unique ambiance of a small town. This city blends ancient structures and stern gothic castles with new shopping centers and restaurants, enhancing Bari's attractiveness and elegance. Take a stroll through the city center's narrow streets to reach the Bari Cathedral. Constructed in the 12th century, its crypt is a masterpiece of Baroque art. In these winding streets, another excellent example of Baroque architecture stands - the beautiful San Nicola church, built a thousand years ago. The Castello Normanno Svevo, constructed in 1132, is one of the city's most notable landmarks. The Archaeology Museum is another point of interest in Bari, as excavations in the old city continue to this day, providing the museum with a steady stream of new exhibits. While the daytime is typically reserved for leisurely walks in shaded valleys, Bari transforms into a bustling discotheque at night. Trendy bars, pubs, and clubs are ready to entertain guests until the break of dawn.

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Day 3-4

Calypso's Trench - Onboard Experience

Arrival: 23:00 - Departure: 01:30

The Calypso Trench (also called Calypso's Abyss) is an abyssal trench located in the southeast of the Ionian Sea, in Greek waters. It is the deepest point of the Mediterranean Sea (5270 m). It is located approximately 60 km off the southern coast of the Peloponnese, southwest of Pylos. It is the deepest ocean trench in a long depression of the seafloor called the Hellenic Trench, which formed as a result of the subduction of the African plate under the Aegean plate. The name derives from the nymph Calypso from Greek mythology.

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Day 4

santorini, greece

Arrival: 06:00 - Departure: 20:00

Created by a massive volcanic eruption that is believed to have inspired the legend of Atlantis, Santorini is the most visually stunning island in the Aegean Sea. The island is essentially the outer edge of a submerged volcano, with its entire eastern coast consisting of a series of small towns situated on tall hills. Fira, the island's dramatically located capital, is perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea. Fira, along with the Parthenon, is one of the most recognized images of Greece. Its narrow streets are filled with souvenir shops, charming boutiques, and numerous jewelry stores. It is home to two beautiful churches, the Greek Orthodox and the Catholic Cathedral of St John the Baptist, as well as a small local museum. Fira also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with excellent restaurants and bars, and a few nightclubs. The city itself is a spectacle, especially at sunset. Another great spot to watch the sunset is the town of Ia, a small village perched on the rocky point of land at the northern tip of the island, 300m above the sea. The beaches in Santorini are unique compared to other Greek beaches due to their distinctive geographical features. Red and black volcanic pebbles cover the shores of Santorini's beaches, and steep cliffs create a scenic atmosphere. The most famous of these beaches is the Red beach, while Perissa, Kamari, and Perivolos are also very popular. Santorini is a truly magnificent destination. The placement of some of its main towns along the cliff-top edge of the caldera is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful sights in the world. The buildings seem to defy gravity as they cling to the cliffs and are stacked one on top of the other like a pile of sugar cubes. The sandy, multicolored beaches are just the cherry on top.

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Day 5

mykonos, greece

Arrival: 08:00 - Departure: 18:00

Mykonos is a favored vacation spot located in the Cyclades group of Greek islands, nestled in the heart of the Aegean Sea. In the 1960s, Mykonos emerged as a bohemian hotspot and has since evolved into one of the most glamorous holiday resorts in the country, proudly showcasing its vibrant style and reputation. For many years, this central Cyclade was the top Mediterranean destination for gay travelers, although recently Mykonos has been working to attract a more diverse crowd. Despite this, the nightlife remains very gay-friendly and the island is a haven for any party-goer with its loud and lengthy nights. The main town on the island is Chora, or Mykonos town, which is filled with narrow, winding streets, buildings painted white with blue accents, delightful restaurants, clothing and jewelry stores, a fish market, and a vegetable market. It is one of the most cosmopolitan and bustling towns in the Aegean. Apart from Chora, there is only one other town on the island, Ano Mera, which is quieter and less frequented by tourists. While visiting, be sure to see the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani, a traditional Greek Orthodox Church featuring a beautiful iconostasis. The island itself is arid and barren, but it boasts some excellent sandy beaches, the most famous of which are Paradise and Super Paradise. However, there are many other beaches to explore around the island. From the quaint port, you can take a boat to the beaches or to Delos, transitioning from the present to the ancient past, from one set of myths to another.

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Day 6

argostoli, greece

Arrival: 13:30 - Departure: 20:00

Welcome to Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands in Greece, where the azure waters of the Mediterranean meet lush green landscapes and a rich tapestry of Greek history. This enchanting island offers an unforgettable journey through charming villages, beautiful beaches, and breathtaking natural wonders. Start your Kefalonia adventure at Myrtos Beach, often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. With its long stretch of white pebbles and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s perfect for both relaxing and taking photos. Nestled between towering cliffs, Myrtos provides panoramic views of the Ionian Sea that are truly mesmerizing. At sunset, the shifting colors of the sky and sea create a spectacular backdrop for a peaceful evening. Head inland to discover the charm of Kefalonia’s villages, such as Fiscardo and Assos. Fiscardo, with its colorful harbor and Venetian architecture, feels like a step back in time, with boutique shops, waterfront cafés, and cozy restaurants lining the marina. Assos, a small and tranquil village, is known for its picture-perfect setting and its impressive 16th-century Venetian castle perched on a nearby hill. A hike up to the castle ruins rewards you with sweeping views of the surrounding coastline. Kefalonia is also home to remarkable natural wonders. The underground lake of Melissani Cave is a must-see, where a boat ride takes you through a hidden world of stalactites and shimmering blue waters lit by an opening in the cave ceiling. The Drogarati Cave, with its vast chambers and impressive acoustics, is another geological highlight that attracts visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re looking for time in the sun, cultural discoveries, or outdoor adventure, Kefalonia is a Greek island paradise with something for every traveler.

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Ionian Sea: "Sea of Stars" - Onboard Experience

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Day 6-7

Ionian Sea: "Sea of Stars" - Onboard Experience

Arrival: 23:30 - Departure: 00:30

Uncover the secrets of the universe as the ship delves into the deepest darkness of the Ionian Sea. Guided by an officer, you'll travel looking upwards towards planets and constellations. The timetable is indicative and may vary. In the event of adverse weather conditions, the experience may be modified or suspended. Once on board, we recommend that you check our Costa App to stay up to date.

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Day 8

marghera - italy

Arrival: 08:00

Mestre, located just across the lagoon from Venice, is a convenient and often overlooked base for exploring the region. Well-connected by train, tram, and bus, it offers quick access to Venice’s historic center—usually in 10–15 minutes—while providing a calmer, more residential atmosphere. Accommodation and dining are generally more affordable than on the islands, making Mestre a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a less touristy experience. The heart of Mestre is Piazza Ferretto, a lively pedestrian square lined with cafés, gelaterias, and shops. This is where locals meet for an evening aperitivo, stroll with families, or attend open-air events in summer. Nearby, the Toniolo Theatre and modern shopping streets add a contemporary touch, while side alleys reveal small bakeries, traditional trattorias, and local markets where you can sample regional specialties like cicchetti and freshly baked focaccia. Beyond the urban center, Mestre offers plenty of green spaces and cycling routes. The sprawling San Giuliano Park, overlooking the Venice lagoon, is perfect for jogging, picnics, and panoramic views of Venice’s skyline across the water. Cyclists will appreciate the network of bike paths connecting Mestre with neighboring towns and the park, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace and escape the crowds without going far from the city. Mestre is also a useful hub for exploring the wider Veneto region. Trains and buses link you quickly to Padua, Treviso, and Verona, as well as to the beaches of the Adriatic coast. With its strategic location, practical transport connections, and authentic local feel, Mestre is not just a gateway to Venice—it’s a destination worth discovering in its own right.

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