Day-by-day on our Explora Journey

Days One and Two: Istanbul:
Embark on a European and Asian adventure packed with charm and cultural diversity. Roam the ‘blue’ mosque of Sultan Ahmet, the Grand Bazaar, the opulent Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, or sink into a serene Turkish Bath experience. An eclectic fusion of East and West, this city is conservative at heart with a truly modern soul.

Day Three: At sea
Relax and get into Explora's "ocean state of mind." So many things to do and enjoy. Or, do nothing at all.

Day Four: Mykonos in Greece
Stroll narrow streets famous for Cycladic architecture and getting lost; white-washed cubed buildings, alluring boutiques, orthodox churches, and traditional windmills. Sink into saltwater pools, tour vineyards, and dance at bars where beats evolve in tempo (and volume). Drop into the sacred isle of Delos to explore remarkable ruins, amphitheaters, temples, public squares, marketplaces, and shrines to Greek Gods. When the sun sets, head for a signature sundowner with views across the ocean. After dark, follow the fun to legendary bars and clubs. 

Day Five: Iconic Santorini, Greece, done differently
Dreamily sail into Santorini.  Romantic, exuberant, and pure, roam one of the world’s most enchanting islands as you enjoy breathtaking scenery, rock-set whitewashed houses, paved paths, sugar white sand, black beaches, and terracotta cliffs. Experience the many geological and architectural delights: blue-domed churches and an active volcano; cover the caldera between cliff-hanging Oia and Fira. Glide through sapphire seas in a catamaran, taste local wine, eat freshly caught seafood, break plates, and shop at elegant boutiques. Then settle in for a slow moonlit dinner on a hilltop, just in time for the world-famous sunset.

Day Six: At sea
By now, you will surely be in the "ocean frame of mind," and another sea day will be welcome with all the Explora brings.

Day Seven: Pulia's pretty port of Gallipoli
Flock to Gallipoli like young Italians do to sip fizzy prosecco and rich local Salentine wine. Gallipoli may be best known for its wartime history, but its island-like fortress retains a southern Italian charm all its own. Colorful fishing boats dart around the old city walls while resilient stone churches peer across a medieval bridge to the mainland port.

Day Eight: Distinctive Dubrovnik
Marvel at this chic walled city paved with a wealth of aristocratic palazzi, ancient forts, and epic Adriatic views. Enter Grand Pile Gate to lose yourself in intricate alleys, stage-set squares, museums, and baroque churches. It’s no wonder the glitterati flock to the strength of this charming and inspiring medieval Dalmatian marvel. 

Day Nine:  Hurrah for Hyar, Croatia
Receive a warm welcome in carefree Hvar, with its historical monuments and Venetian-era stone houses that cling to hills above a palm and superyacht-lined harbor. Call into the Grand Piazza, which is complete with a baroque cathedral and Venetian castle. Beyond the fortified capital, view an ocean-backdrop monastery and the legendary ‘Last Supper’ painting. Reach tiny pine-coated Pakleni islets for some secluded well-being, grasp glamour at sea-lapping Carpe Diem, and set off through wafts of lavender to isolated Humac or Stari Grad. 

Day Ten: Croatia, Pula's ancient elegance
Promenade through a compelling combination of small-town Mediterranean charm and magnificent Roman architecture. Step inside the extraordinary amphitheater, the ancient world’s only remaining unbroken elliptical arena, and explore its underground chambers where fierce beasts were held for gladiatorial fights. Wander the waterfront Roman Forum, weave the four Corinthian columns of the Temple of Augustus, and climb to the hilltop Venetian fortress at the heart of the old town, where beneath the narrow cobblestone streets lies a network of WWI-era tunnels. Further afield, explore Istria’s idyllic sandy coves, vineyards, and truffle-rich countryside, or take a ferry across to the beautiful Brijuni archipelago.

Day Eleven: A finale in Venice
Delve into ancient palaces, century-old galleries, and modern-day exhibits as you whirl through Venice. Walk through masterpieces, catch an opera, gaze at medieval buildings, blow Murano glass, and drift down the Grand Canal.  Cross hump-backed bridges and reach teeming Piazza San Marco’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. Our Explora cruise ends here, but you might consider spending a day or two more in this captivating city.