Experience premium luxury cruising to The Med’s most beautiful locations, featuring Venice, the Greek Islands of Santorini and Mykonos plus fairy-tale Kotor (Montenegro), Italy’s charming Urbino & mountaintop San Marino (Ancona). These 4 incredible ports-of-call and an enchanting stay in the historic heart of Venice will leave you in awe. From the ancient sites of the birthplace of western civilisation to the sun-drenched perfect beaches, stylish Mediterranean living and incredible local flavours, you’ll treasure this experience. Experience the floating masterpiece of Venice in true style. Sail through the sparkling Greek Islands to discover the dramatic whitewashed villages and blue domes of iconic Santorini and experience glamorous Mykonos. Wander the medieval streets of remarkable Kotor, shimmering in its dramatic mountain framed fjord-like bay. Revel in the Renaissance splendour of Urbino or the medieval mountaintop majesty of San Marino and Ancona’s genuine Italian charm. Experience authentic Mediterranean hospitality onboard this luxury ship. Everything is included in this amazing value package, premium luxury cruise, flights, Venice hotel, Venice tour and personalised speedboat transfers Themes include: Europe, Europe Cruise, Mediterranean, Greek Islands, Veneto, Departs from Venice, Ocean Cruise, Returns from Santorini. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights to Venice (premium airline)
Premium modern ship (stylish Italian design)
8 Day East Mediterranean Cruise (4 ports of call)
3 Nights Venice hotel (superior 4 Star, on historic canals)
Venice walking tour & gondola ride
Speedboat water transfers in Venice (port, hotel and airport)
Luxurious boutique-sized ship, perfect for Greek Islands (MSC Lirica, 988 cabins)
All meals onboard the MSC Lirica
Includes daytime activities, evening entertainment, Broadway style big shows, unlimited snacks

Highlights

Venice (Italy) Santorini (Greek Islands) Mykonos (Greek Islands) Kotor (Montenegro) Urbino & San Marino (Ancona, Italy)

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Stay in historic heart of Venice, walking tour, gondola ride

• Sail through the sparkling Greek Islands

• Dramatic whitewashed villages and blue domes of iconic Santorini

• Full day and evening in glamorous Mykonos

• Medieval Kotor on dramatic fjord-like bay (Montenegro)

• Renaissance Urbino & medieval San Marino (Ancona)

DAY 1 Depart Australia for Italy

Today we depart for Venice, Italy. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in Venice, Speedboat Transfer

You’re staying in the heart of historic Venice right on the central canals. Experience an incredible water transfer by a classic speedboat from Venice’s Marco Polo International Airport to your magnificent Venice hotel. Admire the vibrant canal life and grand Venetian buildings on this truly memorable cruise through the centre of Venice’s historic canal system. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city admiring the canals and bridges.

Venice is built on more than 100 small islands that are lined with splendid Renaissance and Gothic palaces. It has no roads, just canals like the famous Grand Canal. The central square, St. Mark’s Square (Piazza San Marco), contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s famous red roofs. The Islands are interconnected with splendid ornate bridges.

Speedboat arrival transfer, overnight Venice hotel

DAY 3 Venice Walking Tour & Gondola

Relax into Venetian time with plenty of free time this morning to wander around Venice before joining our local guide on an enchanting walking tour of this unique city, setting off from famous St. Mark's Square. Experience stately Gothic palaces, whitewashed churches, remarkable art and of course the instantly recognisable Rialto Bridge. See La Fenice Opera House, St. Luca Square, Campo San Beneto, Palazzo Fortuny, Campo San Fantin, Manin Square, Palazzo Contarini del Bovolo, Mariano Fortuny art and the historic Rialto district.

Then board a historic gondola, gliding gently through the narrow canals for a water tour.

Guided tour, gondola ride, overnight Venice Hotel

DAY 4 Explore Venice

Venice is a truly magical city, a fairy-tail patchwork of beautiful canals and laneways that are thoroughly joyful to explore. You’re staying in the heart of Venice, right amongst all of the grand historic buildings, marble palaces, bustling canals and the things that make Venice such a rewarding place to spend time.

Today enjoy a free day to experience Venetian life at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. The main city is small and compact, so you can easily wander from end to end. Explore the canals, sit and relax in the vibrant small squares, browse the chic shops and high-end boutiques, go cafe-hopping, indulge in a gastronomic extravagance or spend time immersing yourself into the fascinating Venetian history, art and culture. With over 400 bridges and endless laneways, one of the best things to do is to just wander… and get lost in Venice.

Perhaps spend the day discovering somewhere in detail, like Gallerie dell’Accademia, Tintoretto's Heaven on Earth, Basilica di San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Opera at Teatro La Fenice, La Biennale di Venezia, Punta della Dogana or Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Maybe explore one of the other Venetian islands, like Murano, Lido, San Giorgio Maggiore or Torcello, each with their own character but distinctly Venice. Try to find Venice’s best Tiramisu (the decadent Italian cake dessert). It was invented in Venice in the 1960s and its secret recipe has been preserved by local restaurants and bakeries, with over 25 different kinds.

Discover the Venetian pleasures of la bea vita (the beautiful life): the wake-up call of the gondoliers' ‘Ooooeeeee!’, a morning spritz in a sunny campo (square), lunch in a vibrant bacaro (bar) and the fuchsia-pink sunsets that have inspired centuries of artists.

Overnight Venice Hotel

DAY 5 Board the MSC Lirica

This morning experience another incredible water transfer onboard a classic speedboat from your central Venice hotel to the port to board the beautiful cruise liner MSC Lirica. Experience premium cruising on this laid-back luxurious boutique-sized ship perfectly designed for cruising amongst the spectacular Greek Islands.

Relax into the sophisticated Mediterranean vibe surrounded by stylish Italian design, savouring the indulgent European hospitality. Enjoy fine food prepared by highly acclaimed Michelin star chefs. Experience world-class entertainment and Broadway style shows. This magnificent vessel has incredible features that marry traditional craftsmanship with modern design. MSC Lirica impresses with relaxed spaciousness, including magnificent internal vistas from the foyer and unimpeded ocean views from the lounges’ floor-to-ceiling picture windows, with a thoroughly modern reinterpretation of the classic cruise experience. MSC Lirica boasts a cosmopolitan, warm and friendly laid-back atmosphere that perfectly complements her incredible eastern Mediterranean ports of call.

Later today we set sail from Venice south along the Italian coast through the intoxicatingly blue Adriatic Sea.

Meet and greet personalised port transfer, dinner, overnight MSC Lirica

DAY 6 Explore Kotor (Montenegro)

Cruise through a dramatic fjord-like mountain fringed bay to our first port-of-call; and an incredible day in the fairy-tale medieval town of Kotor. Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Kotor, one of the most perfectly preserved walled medieval towns in Europe… it’s like being in an episode of Game of Thrones.

Montenegro is alive with beauty, from its majestic mountaintops carpeted in alpine greenery to its tantalising azure coastline dotted with delightful Venetian-era fortified towns. Nestled beside a fjord-like harbour and crowned by a heroic hilltop fortress, you can easily lose yourself in the medieval magic of Kotor’s atmospheric old town; a seductive labyrinth of winding cobbled laneways and secluded piazzas, awash with Romanesque churches and historic Venetian palaces.

Today wander the atmospheric maze of narrow cobbled lanes, vibrant squares and hidden courtyards of Kotor’s fortified old town, with its ancient orange-roofed stone houses and spectacularly lit-up fortification walls glowing as serenely as a halo in the evening – all set against a backdrop of towering mountains. Perhaps visit the 12th-century Cathedral of St. Tryphon with its Baroque bell towers, Romanesque interior, and Byzantine-style frescoes. One of Kotor’s highlights is the Kotor Fortress walk. Maybe visit the Kotor food market or Kotor beach on the spectacular Adriatic Sea. Indulge in delicious Montenegrin cuisine, and the local seafood delicacies in the vibrant food scene.

Perhaps visit more of remarkable Montenegro, like glorious Grbalj Valley to sample its famous organic produce, wine or brandy. The beautiful town of Perast boasts marvellous historical churches and Baroque palaces. The magnificent Blue Cave is renowned for its mysterious ‘Blue Grotto’ — a natural wonder filled with sunlight. Maybe take a leisurely boat ride across Boka Bay to see Our Lady of the Rocks, a tiny island imbued with myths.

Arrive into Kotor at 2:30pm before setting sail again at 8:30pm. You can spend an idyllic day exploring this fairy-tail ancient town or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Montenegro Coastal Tour ($100), Kotor & the Maritime Tradition of Perast ($109), Speed Boat to the Blue Cave & Zanjice Beach ($172), Protectours: Sea Kayaking in Kotor ($109), Boat Trip Along the Bay of Kotor ($91), Kotor Bay Tuk-Tuk Explorer ($125), or Kotor Old Town and the Amazing Lovcen Cablecar Ride ($180).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Lirica

DAY 7 Mediterranean Sea

Enjoy a memorable day relaxing aboard this premium cruise-liner. Take advantage of MSC Lirica’s delicious dining options, great facilities, comprehensive activities and exciting entertainment as we sail through the Ionian Sea on to the Greek Islands and the Aegean Sea.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Lirica

DAY 8 Mykonos (Greek Islands)

The Greek islands ignite the imagination and satisfy the soul with picture-perfect hillside villages that hug glistening azure waters and are laced in history and mythical tales. Today will be a highlight of your incredible trip, as you explore the most glamourous of the Greek Islands adorned with incredible beauty. Mykonos boasts brilliant beaches, dazzling whitewashed villages and its instantly recognisable 16th century Venetian windmills. Its chic bars and fashionable restaurants in the south attract an upscale, stylish, globe-trotting crowd. Discover the quieter charm of this iconic and historic Greek Island, with its myriad of breathtakingly photogenic towns and coastal landscapes where sparkling cerulean waters lap at the island’s secluded coves and striking white beaches.

Make the most of your time on Mykonos. Explore classic whitewashed houses built on a labyrinth of narrow streets (designed to thwart pirate attacks). Wander through Matoyianni Street - where it all happens, Alefkandra (little Venice) with its gorgeous web of little alleys, experience the colours of the Old Harbour, see the brilliant white Church of Panagia Paraportiani, check-out the more contemporary art at Rarity Gallery and Dio Horia. The world-famous Venetian windmills keep watch over the village from the hills above, built to mill wheat. Check-out the Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folklore Museum. Relax at one of the quiet beaches, like picture-perfect Agios Sostis. Treat yourself to souvlaki or gyro, maybe relax in one of the many traditional tavernas sipping ouzo (anise-flavoured spirt) or indulge in some of the most cosmopolitan and sophisticated restaurants and bars.

Perhaps visit the nearby Greek island of Delos - the mythological birthplace of the sun god Apollo. This remarkable archaeological adventure will leave you in awe. Soak up the glory of this ancient Greek civilisation, discover the Avenue of Lions (incredible row of 7th-century marble-sculptures), the Doric Temple of the Delians, the Minoan Fountain, a series of market squares, the Theatre Quarter (with splendid mosaics) – then wander the trail to Mount Cynthus to marvel at the views of the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Arrive into Mykonos at 9am before setting sail again at 2am the next day, enabling a relaxing full evening on this sophisticated island. You can spend a wonderful day exploring this famous Greek Island or perhaps take one of the optional tours like the Mykonos Island Tour ($97), Delos: The Island of Greek Mythology ($122), A Night Out In Mykonos ($134), Sailing Trip Around Mykonos' Famous Beaches ($183), Island Tour and Time at the Beach ($129) or Sea & Sun at Elia Beach ($129).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Lirica

DAY 9 Explore Santorini (Greek Islands)

Today will be another highlight of your incredible trip, starting early in the morning, it's hard not to be awed by the sheer cliffs that soar above a turquoise sea as you sail into the spectacular caldera of Santoríni. Famous the world over for its staggering beauty, witness the iconic whitewashed houses and alleyways of Santori. Clinging to the islands multicoloured cliffs, these striking white and blue labyrinths overlook the underwater volcanic crater that shaped Santori’s trademark landscape. Renowned for its dazzling ocean panoramas, fine wine served in tavernas hugging the cliffs and striking volcanic-sand beaches - Santorini's views will stop you in your tracks and you'll get great glimpses into how A-listers travel.

Santorini will also surprise you. Perhaps visit a cool microbrewery or a wine cavern adorned with artworks or experience a cooking demonstration that celebrates Santorini’s growing foodie culture. Maybe admire the panorama from one of the traditional tavernas enjoying local delicacies or just relax amongst the breathtaking beauty while lounging under a parasol next to the clear blue Aegean.

You could explore the island’s 4,000 years of visible history and incredible natural wonders. Maybe see red beach, a black beach, traditional local settlements, experience the 360-degree view of the island from Profitis Ilias mountain, visit the picturesque village of Oia, the Minoan Bronze-Age settlement archaeological site of Akrotiri or Perivolos Beach.

Arrive into Santorini at 7:30am before setting sail again at 6pm. You can spend an idyllic day exploring this picture-perfect Greek Island or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Oia Village ($147), Best of Santorini ($163), 4X4 Adventure in Santorini ($190), Santorini Caldera, Volcano & Hot Springs ($124), Relax at Perivolos Beach ($71), Oia Village & Beach ($167), Discover The Wonders of Santorini ($71) or Enchanting Views and Hot Springs on a Catamaran Cruise ($332).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Lirica

Day 10 Mediterranean Sea

As we sail towards Italy, enjoy a day relaxing aboard this premium cruise-liner where options are endless. Take advantage of MSC Lirica’s delicious and varied dining venues, great facilities, comprehensive activities and exciting entertainment as we sail through the eastern Mediterranean Sea.

Take time-out to reflect on your remarkable journey and unforgettable experiences so far - whilst enjoying the attentive Mediterranean hospitality, as you gaze out across the sparkling azure sea.

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Lirica

DAY 11 Explore Urbino & San Marino (Ancona, Italy)

Our final port-of-call is Ancona, gateway to Italy’s bucolic Marche region, historic Urbano and the medieval microstate of San Marino. Founded by Greek settlers around 387 BC, the historic port city of Ancona on Italy’s Adriatic coast is home to an unassuming collection of 19th-century shopping boulevards, hilltop parks and cafe-lined piazzas; dine on pasta, cheese, bread and meat complemented by exquisite local wine as you admire an eclectic collection of street art. The hilltop cathedral of San Ciriaco overlooks the old town, adorned with ancient Roman arches, quaint churches and Renaissance palazzi.

Nearby Urbino enchants visitors with its timeless charm and rich history. This World Heritage protected site boasts elegant Renaissance architecture, winding cobblestone streets and picture-perfect piazzas, evoking a sense of romance and intrigue. From the majestic Palazzo Ducale to the intimate alleys lined with artisan workshops, Urbino exudes an air of artistic inspiration and cultural heritage. Nestled amidst the rolling hillsides of the spellbinding Marche region, the city offers a glimpse into Italy's illustrious past and enduring beauty.

To the north, the majestic microstate of San Marino beckons. A nation of clifftop castles and narrowly winding cobbled stone laneways, San Marino is the world’s eldest surviving sovereign state. Dating back to around 300AD, this mountainous microstate is surrounded entirely by northern Italy. Its capital, also called San Marino, with its medieval walled historic town is home to three ancient clifftop citadels, perched high above the countryside and offering stunning vistas towards the Adriatic Sea from their 3300 plus foot precipices.

Today explore Italy’s Marche region with expanses of billowing green slopes cloaked by olive groves and sun-ripened wheat fields, castle-topped medieval towns and snow-capped Apennine peaks. Maybe venture inland to discover the enchanting walled city of Urbino, (masterpiece of the Italian Renaissance), where you can marvel at well-preserved medieval architecture and panoramic vistas. You could visit the Imperial Town of Jesi, immerse yourself in the mystical depths of the Frasassi Caves or sample some delectable local Italian wines in the Marche Hills. Perhaps you could hop the border into the world’s eldest surviving sovereign state of San Marino, wander through the charming streets of its medieval old town, ascend to the iconic Guaita Tower (panoramic views) or visit the Basilica of San Marino (enchanting architectural treasure). Alternatively, wander through Ancona's historical streetscapes, from the awe-inspiring Roman ruins to the majestic Cathedral of Saint Ciriaco and the iconic Trajan Arch or a little further afield - discover the Osimo Palaces and Museums.

Arrive into Ancona at 1pm before setting sail again at 8pm. You can spend a full afternoon taking in the historical sites of Ancona and Urbino or perhaps take one of the optional tours like Urbino & Its Historical Centre ($182), Protectours: Walking Tour ($92), Ancona Sightseeing Tour ($84), Beach Tour in Senigallia ($102), The "Frasassi" Caves ($119), Riviera del Conero ($102), Corinaldo: A Plunge into History, Nature, and Gastronomy ($157), The Conero Riviera from the Sea and the Beach of the Two Sisters ($182) or Wine Tasting in the Marche Hills ($198).

Breakfast, lunch, dinner, overnight MSC Lirica

DAY 12 Arrive in Venice, depart for Australia

Time to say goodbye to your fellow voyagers and friendly cruise hosts as your amazing journey cruising the East Mediterranean draws to an end. You will be personally met at the port by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to Marco Polo International Airport for your flight home.

Breakfast, meet and greet personalised return airport transfer

DAY 13 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

MSC Cruises in detail

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Overview

Experience premium luxury cruising aboard one of the youngest fleets afloat. Relax into the sophisticated Mediterranean vibe surrounded by stylish Italian design, savouring the indulgent European hospitality.

- Premium Modern Ships (stylish Italian design)

- Sophisticated Cosmopolitan Cruising

- Elegant Mediterranean Vibe

- Contemporary Stylish Cabins

- Incredible Facilities

- Comprehensive Daytime Activities

- All Meals Included (restaurants plus 20 Hour Buffet)

- Optional Speciality Restaurants

- Mediterranean Hospitality (Michelin Star chefs)

- Cutting-edge Leisure Facilities & Gym

- Indulgent Spa & Wellness Options

- World Class Entertainment (including Big Shows)

Fine food prepared by highly acclaimed Michelin star chefs is at the heart of every MSC voyage, with an incredible choice of cuisines across various restaurants. Meet fellow voyagers in the many lounges and bars featuring breathtaking views.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with incredible night-time entertainment from world-class Broadway style big shows and themed parties to team games and contests. Engage in a comprehensive range of indoor and outdoor daytime activities, from sports tournaments and waterslides to arts workshops and ballroom dancing classes. MSC boasts several generations of ship, from brand new upscale ships to classical boutique sized, check the ship tabs here.

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Greek Islands, Italy & Montenegro Mediterranean Cruise with Venice Stay

13 Day Cruise Package

Limited Availability at these prices. Deal ends soon. Questions? Call 1300 887 469 or Click to Ask Us

$ 4749 *

Typically $6696

* AUD starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp456