Splendid Mediterranean – Athens & Istanbul

About this cruise

You board in Bari on July 4, 2026 for 9 nights visiting Trieste, Katakolon, Piraeus (Athens), Kusadasi, Istanbul and Corfu, and you come back from this kind of trip wondering why you don't do it more often. A few ports come in quick succession, which is great for sightseeing but means you'll appreciate the sea days when they arrive. It's a proper Eastern Mediterranean tour: 3 countries, from Italy to Türkiye. People come back from this cruise talking about Trieste: Habsburg grandeur at Italy's eastern edge. Around 10 hours per port on average, which is generous enough to go beyond the obvious. From casual buffets to proper sit-down restaurants, MSC Fantasia has 5 dining spots on board, most of them included. The timing works well too: warm evenings on deck, late sunsets, and a lively atmosphere. 6 ports, 3 countries, one suitcase. That's the appeal.