Departure by RIVIERA TOUR coach to the port. On the way, our delegate will introduce you to life on board MSC Cruises ships, organisational instructions and the tour programme. During the journey, we have a cold dinner, hot breakfast and refreshments ready for you.
Boarding points: Vsetín, Nový Jičín, Frýdek-Místek, Ostrava, Hranice, Olomouc, Prostějov, Vyškov, Brno, Bratislava. Shuttle transfer (surcharge 990 CZK): Praha, Humpolec, Jihlava, Velké Meziříčí.
Check-in and boarding. In the afternoon, a tour of the ship, accommodation and a safety drill before departure. Don't miss the first departure from the port. Also, don't miss the first served dinner to enjoy the superb Italian cuisine. In the evening, we will visit the ship's theatre and finish the night with a drink at the bar.
The Port of Trieste, situated in the northernmost part of the Adriatic Sea, has a rich history dating back to antiquity. Originally established by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, it served as a vital commercial hub due to its strategic location. Over the centuries, it was ruled by various powers, including the Byzantine Empire, the Republic of Venice, and the Habsburg Monarchy.
Trieste port's golden age began in the 18th century when it was declared a free port within the Habsburg Empire. This led to a significant increase in maritime trade and the growth of the city. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the port was modernized and expanded under Austrian rule, becoming one of the largest and busiest ports in Europe. Despite experiencing decline and damage during the World Wars, the port has managed to maintain its importance in the international maritime industry.
This Croatian resort is known to almost everyone. With our delegate, you will explore the heart of Croatia's second-largest city – Diocletian's Palace (UNESCO), the Cathedral of St Domnius, the Peristyle and a maze of stone alleyways that seamlessly blend into lively cafés and shops, while the nearby Riva promenade, the harbour and surrounding beaches complete the typical Mediterranean atmosphere. You will also have plenty of free time, as communication in Split is easy for virtually everyone, with no need for foreign languages.
The history of the Port of Split in Croatia dates back to the Roman times when it was known as the port of Aspalathos. Its strategic location on the Adriatic Sea made it a crucial naval and trading point. However, it was in the Middle Ages that the port gained significant importance due to the growth of the Republic of Venice, which used Split as a critical point for its sea routes.
In the modern era, the Port of Split has become one of the busiest ports in the Mediterranean. Its central location and deep water make it ideal for both cargo and passenger ships. The port was significantly expanded in the 20th century, especially after World War II, to accommodate the growing maritime traffic. Today, it is not only a vital hub for Croatia's economy but also a significant tourist attraction, thanks to its rich history and the stunning beauty of the surrounding area.
In the early morning, we dock at the port of Piraeus. We leave the ship and head by coach to the centre of Athens, learning about its history along the way. Upon arrival, we will admire the famous Acropolis, museums, the Arch of Constantine, walk past the Temple of Zeus to the Olympic Stadium, and watch the changing of the guard at the Presidential Palace and Parliament. We will also visit Plaka, where you can buy souvenirs and enjoy refreshments at a café. If interested, you can visit the Acropolis individually (admission approx. €25) – excursion price approx. 990 CZK.
The port of Piraeus has a rich history that dates back to ancient Greece. Established in the early 5th century BC, it became the chief port of the powerful city-state of Athens. Its strategic location made it a crucial hub for maritime trade and naval warfare, playing a key role in Athens' economic and military strength.
Over the centuries, Piraeus has undergone numerous transformations. It was destroyed during the invasion of the Romans and later rebuilt, only to be devastated again by the invasions of Slavs and Saracens in the middle ages. In the modern era, it has been revitalized and is currently the largest port in Greece, and one of the largest in the Mediterranean Sea.
The "Bird Island" enchants visitors with its charming panorama of a typical coastal resort with a yacht marina, turquoise waters and the Greek island of Samos on the horizon. It is a renowned Turkish tourist centre, attracting a large number of visitors each year. It is also ideal for exploring the western part of Turkey. Most tourist attractions in Kusadasi are located around the port area. You can see, among other things, some fine examples of 19th-century half-timbered houses. The gate to the old town also survives. The bazaar quarter, overflowing with Turkish souvenirs, begins right at the dock. About half an hour from the port, you will find the famous archaeological site of Ephesus.
The Port of Kusadasi in Turkey has a rich historical background dating back to the ancient times. It was first founded by the Leleges and later by the Ionians in the 11th century BC. The port city flourished during the Roman era, becoming a prominent trade and cultural hub.
In medieval times, Kusadasi was conquered by the Byzantine Empire and later by the Ottoman Empire. The port was used as a strategic naval base and a gateway to the Aegean Sea. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey, attracting millions of tourists with its beautiful beaches and historical sites.
Very few cities in the world, perhaps none at all, can boast a history as rich as Istanbul's. A city on two continents, by two seas, an eternal crossroads of trade routes between Europe and Asia. A city from which a world power was ruled for 1,600 years, whether it was the Eastern Roman and later Byzantine Empire, or the Ottoman Empire. Today, Istanbul is a vibrant metropolis with a population of around 15 million, including its suburbs. Yet the city centre is relatively compact and most major landmarks can be explored on foot. The most famous monuments include the Column of Constantine, the Süleymaniye Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahçe Palace and, of course, Hagia Sophia.
Founded as Byzantium by Greek colonists around 660 BC, the city's strategic location made it a coveted prize throughout history. Roman Emperor Constantine the Great transformed it into Constantinople in 330 AD, establishing it as the glorious capital of the Byzantine Empire for over a millennium. The magnificent Hagia Sophia, built by Emperor Justinian I in 537, stood as Christianity's greatest cathedral and an architectural wonder of the ancient world.
In 1453, Sultan Mehmed II (Mehmed the Conqueror) led Ottoman forces in a historic siege that ended Byzantine rule, renaming the city Istanbul and transforming it into the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Under sultans like Suleiman the Magnificent, Istanbul flourished as a cosmopolitan capital bridging continents and cultures. After the empire's collapse and Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's founding of modern Turkey in 1923, the capital moved to Ankara, yet Istanbul remains Turkey's cultural and economic powerhouse—a living testament to empires risen and fallen.
The island of Corfu is home to the capital city of the same name, also known as Kerkyra. The most visited part of the city is the historic centre, or "Corfu Old Town". The monumental Esplanade promenade beautifully contrasts with the surrounding narrow alleyways and is lined with a number of interesting buildings. Beyond this promenade lies the city centre, covering an area of 0.5 × 0.5 km. At the opposite end of the square, a cliff drops into the Ionian Sea, upon which the Venetian fortress of Palaio Frourio – the Old Fortress – was built. MSC Cruises transfer from the port is required, price approx. €9.
The port of Corfu, also known as Kerkira, has a rich and varied history that dates back to ancient times. It has been a pivotal maritime hub in the Mediterranean due to its strategic location, serving as a gateway between the east and the west. The port has been under the rule of various powers including the Byzantine Empire, the Venetians, the French, and the British.
During the Venetian rule (1386–1797), the port of Corfu was significantly fortified and its infrastructure was greatly enhanced. The Old Fortress, one of the most notable landmarks in Corfu, was built around the port during this period. In the 19th century, under British rule, the port was further developed and modernized. Today, the port of Corfu continues to be a major hub for trade, tourism, and transportation in the Ionian Sea.
The port city of Bari, the capital of the Apulia region, lies on the Adriatic coast in southern Italy. It is home to a university and an important centre of industry and commerce. A bishopric was established here in 465, later elevated to an archbishopric in the 10th century. Following the Byzantine conquest of Italy in the 6th century, Bari remained under Byzantine rule until 1071, when it was captured by the Normans under Robert Guiscard as the last stronghold of the Eastern Empire. In 1130, it became part of the Kingdom of Sicily, and from 1282 part of the Kingdom of Naples. Bari declined during the 16th–18th centuries, but experienced a revival in the following century. The local basilica houses the tomb of St Nicholas.
Bari, the capital of the Apulia (Puglia) region in southern Italy, has a history that dates back over 2,000 years. Originally a settlement of the Peucetians, an ancient Italic tribe, it later became a key Roman port and trading hub due to its strategic location on the Adriatic Sea. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Bari was ruled by the Byzantines, Lombards, and Arabs, who all left their mark on the city. During the Middle Ages, Bari flourished under Norman and then Swabian rule, with landmarks such as the Basilica of Saint Nicholas—built to house the relics of Saint Nicholas—becoming a major pilgrimage destination for both Roman Catholic and Orthodox Christians.
In the 19th century, Bari experienced significant growth and modernization, particularly under the Kingdom of Italy. Its port was expanded, and the city became a major center for trade and commerce in southern Italy. During World War II, Bari suffered heavy bombing but was rebuilt in the postwar years. Today, Bari is a vibrant city that blends its rich history with modern life. Its picturesque old town (Bari Vecchia), historic churches, bustling port, and lively cultural scene make it a key destination in the Mediterranean.
We rise early, as you won't want to miss the ship's arrival in port. Breakfast in the morning, then disembarkation and departure from the port back to the Czech Republic. Before departure, a tour of the city centre. The return transport includes two hot snacks, coffee, tea, cappuccino and hot chocolate.
The Port of Trieste, situated in the northernmost part of the Adriatic Sea, has a rich history dating back to antiquity. Originally established by the Romans in the 2nd century BC, it served as a vital commercial hub due to its strategic location. Over the centuries, it was ruled by various powers, including the Byzantine Empire, the Republic of Venice, and the Habsburg Monarchy.
Trieste port's golden age began in the 18th century when it was declared a free port within the Habsburg Empire. This led to a significant increase in maritime trade and the growth of the city. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the port was modernized and expanded under Austrian rule, becoming one of the largest and busiest ports in Europe. Despite experiencing decline and damage during the World Wars, the port has managed to maintain its importance in the international maritime industry.
Join us on a fascinating May cruise through the Eastern Mediterranean all the way to distant Istanbul with a Riviera Tour delegate on board the elegant cruise ship MSC Fantasia. Our journey begins with comfortable coach transport to the Italian port of Trieste, from where we set sail towards ancient monuments and oriental charm. During the cruise, we will visit Croatian Split, Athens with an optional city centre tour, enchanting Istanbul, ancient Ephesus via the port of Kusadasi, the green island of Corfu and Italian Bari. The tour price includes coach transport to and from the port and the services of a delegate, who will take care of you throughout the entire cruise.
Your cruise with Riviera Tour begins in the Czech Republic. Our modern, spacious coaches depart from major cities towards ports in the Mediterranean and the North Sea.
On board the coach, an experienced Czech delegate will take care of you, providing all the information you need about life on board and the places you will visit. Hot drinks, breakfast and snacks are included in the price of transport. Additional drinks can be purchased from our drivers at attractive prices.
Our aim is for you to enjoy your holiday from the very first moment. That is why we create a pleasant, family atmosphere already during the coach journey. Our delegate will make the trip more enjoyable with interesting stories from previous cruises and practical tips for your stay on board.
And as a bonus, a special "surprise" awaits you during the journey, one of the favourite hallmarks of Riviera Tour trips.