Viking Ocean Cruises
Mediterranean Odyssey
Mediterranean Odyssey
Set course for unforgettable exploration to some of the Mediterranean’s most historic ports: the fabled towns of Tuscany, ancient Rome and canal-laced Venice. Enjoy ample time to savor Barcelona’s easygoing spirit with an overnight stay. Discover the French Riviera’s seaside pleasures in Marseille and Monte Carlo. And visit Dubrovnik, a hidden medieval jewel. Along the way, gracious hosts and fine regional cuisine connect you to this remarkable region.
| Day 1 |
Roads? Where you're going you don't need roads... but don't rule out a romantic gondola ride or a water taxi. Welcome to Venice, with its network of canals, rich history and composition of over 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea.
One of the most popular features of this Northern Italy capital is the Grand Canal, once a major center of the Renaissance. Be sure to see the central square Piazza San Marco, where all can marvel at Byzantine mosaics, the Campanile bell and St. Mark’s Basilica. Fine art, stunning architecture, white limestone bridges, moving about via watercraft... Venice is a singular experience and an astonishing masterpiece of civilization. Summer is the busiest time to visit, so plan accordingly. If you're looking for an unforgettable costume party, visit during Venice Carnival from the end of February to the beginning of March. |
| Day 2 |
Roads? Where you're going you don't need roads... but don't rule out a romantic gondola ride or a water taxi. Welcome to Venice, with its network of canals, rich history and composition of over 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea.
One of the most popular features of this Northern Italy capital is the Grand Canal, once a major center of the Renaissance. Be sure to see the central square Piazza San Marco, where all can marvel at Byzantine mosaics, the Campanile bell and St. Mark’s Basilica. Fine art, stunning architecture, white limestone bridges, moving about via watercraft... Venice is a singular experience and an astonishing masterpiece of civilization. Summer is the busiest time to visit, so plan accordingly. If you're looking for an unforgettable costume party, visit during Venice Carnival from the end of February to the beginning of March. |
| Day 3 |
Split, Croatia, is a city where ancient history and modern vibrancy blend seamlessly, creating an alluring destination for travelers. At the heart of Split is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian's Palace, a remarkably well-preserved Roman complex built by Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD. This sprawling palace complex, with its labyrinthine streets, ancient walls, and grand Peristyle courtyard, is not just a historical site but a bustling part of the city’s daily life. Explore the cellars, the Temple of Jupiter, and the cathedral of St. Domnius, which stands as one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use. Split’s allure extends beyond its Roman heritage. The city’s Riva waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants, offers a vibrant spot to relax and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. Stroll along the palm-lined promenade, enjoy local Dalmatian cuisine, and take in views of the harbor and the nearby Marjan Hill. This lush, forested area provides excellent hiking and panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. Cultural enthusiasts will find much to admire in Split’s numerous museums and galleries. The Mestrovic Gallery, dedicated to the works of Croatia’s most famous sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic, showcases an impressive collection of sculptures, drawings, and architectural designs. Additionally, the Croatian Maritime Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's nautical history and seafaring heritage. Fun fact: Split's historic Diocletian’s Palace was famously used as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones. The palace’s ancient architecture served as the backdrop for many scenes set in the city of Meereen, making it a must-see for fans of the show. |
| Day 4 |
Dubrovnik, often hailed as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a city where history and stunning natural beauty converge. Enclosed within its ancient city walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll find a captivating blend of medieval architecture and vibrant culture. The city's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets, lined with baroque churches, Renaissance buildings, and charming squares. A stroll along the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past and lively present. A must-see for visitors is the City Walls, which stretch over 2 kilometers and provide panoramic views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea and terracotta rooftops below. Walking the walls is an unforgettable experience, allowing you to marvel at the impressive fortifications and catch glimpses of Dubrovnik’s scenic coastline source. The walls also featured prominently in the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," further boosting Dubrovnik’s allure as a filming location for fans of the show. Dubrovnik’s natural beauty extends beyond its historic walls. The city is known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. Banje Beach, located just a short walk from the Old Town, offers stunning views of the city walls and is perfect for a refreshing swim or sunbathing. For a more secluded experience, take a boat trip to the nearby Lokrum Island, a serene retreat with botanical gardens, rocky coves, and a historic monastery. Fun fact: Dubrovnik's Old Town was used as a stand-in for King’s Landing in "Game of Thrones," making it a popular destination for fans of the series. The city's well-preserved medieval ambiance and striking scenery have earned it accolades as one of the most photogenic locations in the world. |
| Day 5 |
Eluding Ottoman oppression sure makes you beautiful! Besides breathtaking beaches and lovely pools, this Greek island in the Ionian Sea offers many charms, from its Old Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to Venetian fortresses to cypresses waving in the ocean breeze. Corfu's Byzantine castle, Angelokastro, is located on a dramatic hilltop and offers stunning views. In Greek mythology, Odysseus was washed ashore on Corfu but soon left the island... we recommend staying awhile in this cobalt paradise. |
| Day 6 |
The Ionian Sea, a stretch of the Mediterranean nestled between Italy and Greece, offers a captivating blend of azure waters, picturesque islands, and rich history. The sea is framed by Italy's western coast and Greece's western islands, including Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. These islands provide a gateway to some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, from the rugged cliffs of Zakynthos to the lush greenery of Kefalonia. A visit to the Ionian Sea promises an array of experiences. On the Greek island of Corfu, explore the Old Fortress that offers sweeping views of the surrounding sea and cityscape, reflecting the island's Venetian, French, and British influences. The island also boasts the Achilleion Palace, an opulent estate built by Empress of Austria Elisabeth of Bavaria, which offers a glimpse into regal elegance surrounded by gardens and statues. The Italian side of the Ionian is equally enchanting. The Calabrian coast is renowned for its charming coastal towns and clear waters perfect for diving and snorkeling. Visit Tropea, known for its stunning cliffside views and historic center, or the Sila National Park for hiking amidst lush landscapes. Fun Fact: The Ionian Sea is famous for its unique blue color, attributed to its deep waters and the absence of large rivers that dilute the sea's natural hues. |
| Day 7 |
Situated between magnificent Mount Vesuvius and the glittering Tyrrhenian Sea, Naples is the perfect destination for history and archaeology aficionados and lovers of savory Italian eats. Marvel at the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, explore the San Gennaro Catacombs, and end your day with authentic Neapolitan pizza. |
| Day 8 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 9 |
Florence (Firenze) is a compact city, but densely packed with spectacular art and architecture everywhere you look. The city center itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Birthplace of the Renaissance as well as Italy's fashion industry, Florence is imbued with an air of history and sophistication. Visitors are sure to be enchanted with the Florentine way of life, from the sensational Tuscan cuisine to the Michelangelo masterpieces. Art and food lovers will find much to embrace here. Looming over Florence is the Duomo, a red terracotta dome that is part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Bellissima! |
| Day 10 |
Surround yourself with luxury in beautiful Monte Carlo, one of Monaco’s four quartiers and a jewel on the Mediterranean. Located just off the southern coast of France, Monte Carlo beckons you with glittering pebble beaches, old-world charm, and stunning architecture. Visit the iconic Casino de Monte Carlo, a paragon of the beaux-arts architectural style, to try your hand at blackjack, craps, or roulette, or tour the Palais Princier de Monaco, the twelfth-century palace where Monaco’s royal family resides. If you visit in May, be sure to attend an exhilarating Formula One race during the Monaco Grand Prix. From lavish French cuisine, to designer shopping along the Boulevard des Moulins, to exquisite botanical gardens, Monte Carlo has plenty of extravagant activities to capture your attention! |
| Day 11 |
Marseilles is an enticing port city known for its delectable seafood, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and diverse melting pot of cultures. Less travelled by tourists than its other Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur counterparts, including Cannes and Nice, this seaside city is a vibrant, artistic, and historically significant stop worth exploring! Believed to have been established in the seventh century by the Phoenicians or Greeks, Marseille is now the second largest French city after Paris and was named the European Capital of Culture in 2013. Marseille is a city of and for immigrants, with a blend of cultures and religions from North Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and more, reflected in the gastronomic and architectural diversity of Marseille itself. Visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, constructed in an Arabic architectural style, for an immersive experience with exhibits showcasing the artifacts of Marseille’s extensive history. The city’s most frequented attraction, the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, is a stunning display of Roman and Byzantine design and provides spectacular views of the city below. A trip to Marseille wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through Le Vieux Port and Le Panier, popular neighborhoods for tourism and lined with markets boasting fresh and authentic cuisine. Bouillabaisse, a delicious stew filled with local and fresh-caught seafood, is well-known as a Marseillaise specialty, but don’t pass up the chance to eat other scrumptious eats, including squid, sardines, and mussels, piping-hot pizzas, and a sip of anise-flavored Pastis. There’s a reason why the city was one of Anthony Bourdain’s favorite gastronomic destinations! Be sure to take advantage of Marseille’s natural beauty. The variety of sandy and rocky beaches are perfect spots to revel in striking ocean scenes. Just south of Marseille, the Parc national des Calanques offers great hiking, biking, and boating excursions for any nature-lover. With so much to see and do, Marseille, France, will delight and astonish you. |
| Day 12 |
To visit Barcelona is to embrace both the past and the future. There is much to do and see in this cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, from medieval structures to beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites by Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Doménech i Montaner. FC Barcelona, the professional football club, is also a huge draw here.
Gaudí is responsible for many of Barcelona's must-see attractions, including iconic church La Sagrada Familia, the arts center Casa Mila, and public park system Park Güell. Culture, economics, architecture, and gastronomy all combine to make Barcelona a magical and unparalleled experience. Stroll pedestrian walkways in the old quarter, soak in the green spaces, and gaze at the Mediterranean, gelato in hand! |
| Day 13 |
To visit Barcelona is to embrace both the past and the future. There is much to do and see in this cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, from medieval structures to beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites by Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Doménech i Montaner. FC Barcelona, the professional football club, is also a huge draw here.
Gaudí is responsible for many of Barcelona's must-see attractions, including iconic church La Sagrada Familia, the arts center Casa Mila, and public park system Park Güell. Culture, economics, architecture, and gastronomy all combine to make Barcelona a magical and unparalleled experience. Stroll pedestrian walkways in the old quarter, soak in the green spaces, and gaze at the Mediterranean, gelato in hand! |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
07/02/25 - 07/14/25 |
Starting At $6,999 |
Get A Quote | |
|
07/02/25 - 07/14/25 |
Starting At $10,499 |
Get A Quote |