Sea cruises from Turkey have become very popular among Russians. You probably already guessed why. There are two reasons: direct flight and visa-free country. Although it is quite possible to obtain Schengen at visa centers in Italy or Spain, and sea cruises as a basis for travel are acceptable.
In this article I will offer for consideration a cruise, which was given the name “Panorama of the Mediterranean”. It passes through three countries (Turkey, Greece, Italy) and makes eight stops. Duration in my opinion is optimal 9 nights/10 days.
I would like to immediately draw your attention to the fact that the promotion for cruises at the best prices is valid until March 31 of this year.
“Panorama of the Mediterranean”
Departure from Istanbul (Turkey), but also from two more cities in Italy:
- Trieste,
- Bari.
A flight from the Russian Federation to Istanbul will of course be cheaper, but I would start the voyage from the city of Trieste. Why? Because it is 145 km away. from Venice, where we couldn’t get there due to the pandemic.
As part of the cruise option from Turkey, the stop in Trieste is only 10 hours. Theoretically, it is possible to drive, but the question is what can be done in this time. And so, fly through Turkey to Italy, live 2-3 days in Venice, and then take a 2-3 hour train to Trieste. Not a bad option. Decide for yourself.
Nowadays, very few cruises depart from Venice. During the pandemic, the city was completely closed; at the moment, entry to the port is strictly limited and limited. Keep this in mind if you think that booking a cruise from Venice is easy and simple.
Cruise route from Turkey
We arrive in Turkey. Excursions around Istanbul, sightseeing, in a word, free time.
On the day of departure we arrive at the port. Boarding until 19.00.
We spend the next day at sea and devote time to getting to know the MSC Splendida cruise ship. You’ll have plenty to do after your flight and exploring Istanbul.
Corfu Island (Greece), stay 8 hours. It is also called the island — garden. Surrounded by the turquoise sea, literally surrounded by greenery. It is distinguished by its historical and cultural heritage.
What to watch:
- Achillion Palace
- Makrades Village
- Paleokastritsa Monastery
- Kumquat plant
Port of Bari. One of the centers of trade, tourism and culture in Italy. Literally everything in the city is imbued with the history of centuries. For a quick tour of the historical part of Bari alone, you will need the allotted 7 hours for parking. Must visit:
- Basilica of St. Nicholas
- Cathedral of San Sabino
- Fortress walls around the old city
- Mansions of nobles of past centuries
But if you suddenly have time, you can visit in the suburbs:
- Castel del Monte
- Alberobello town
- Karst caves of Castellana Grotte
Port of Trieste in northeastern Italy. An ancient city that at different times belonged to Austria-Hungary and Slovenia. The interweaving of several cultures gives a special charm to this area. For example, the beach is divided by a fence into two parts: men’s and women’s. You won’t find anything like this anywhere else in Europe.
- Miramare Castle
- Castle of San Giusto
- Italian Union Square
- Cathedral of San Giusto
A day at sea and the opportunity to enjoy all the delights of a cruise ship.
Katakolon, we are back in Greece. This is a small village with a population of about 600 people. Katakolon is notable for its proximity to the birthplace of the Olympic Games — ancient Olympia. Only 35 km. which can be overcome both by train and by bus. The cost of the trip is about 10 euros, entrance to ancient Olympia is 6 euros.
Port of Piraeus. The city is only 10 km away. from Athens, the capital of Greece. You definitely won’t get bored there. Parking 10 hours. You will be greeted by the most famous temples of ancient times. Experienced tourists or ship employees will tell you how to get there. Or perhaps you can immediately take an excursion from the port.
Kusadasi, Türkiye. Kusadasi is close to world famous attractions included in the UNESCO list:
- House of the Blessed Virgin Mary;
- The ancient city of Ephesus
I really liked these places. If you haven’t been, I recommend it.
Completion of the “Mediterranean Panorama” cruise in the Turkish capital, Istanbul.
Cost of a sea cruise from Turkey
A ten-day cruise will cost you from $1,787 for an inside cabin for two. Service fees are extra.
Visa information
For Turkey, the validity period of the OPP is at least 120 days from the date of entry. For other countries you will need a multiple-entry Schengen visa (Italy).
Great route, good airliner — everything you need for an unforgettable cruise.
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