Deluxe Stateroom
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
- New
Mediterranean heritage and archaeological sites
Athens - Valencia
Dates:
23/4/2025
to
4/5/2025
days
nights on board
With a departure from Athens, PONANT invites you to discover archaeological and historical sites – most of them UNESCO World Heritage sites – on a new 12-day cruise to Greece, Italy, Malta, Tunisia, Algeria and Spain. You will be captivated by an unforgettable voyage aboard Le Lapérouse in the Mediterranean.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, you will discover the theatre of Epidaurus, considered one of the masterpieces of Greek architecture, during a stopover in Nafplio; marvel at Greek, Norman and Baroque influences during a walk on the island of Ortygia in Syracuse, and explore the ruins of Hippo Regius in Annaba. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
Your cruise begins with trips from Nafplio to two of Greece's major sites: the ruins of Mycenae and the theatre at Epidaurus. Then Le Lapérouse sets sail for Syracuse, a truly impressive ancient city, whose historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ship then heads for Valletta, the capital of Malta, which is entirely listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a number of historic sites: St John's Cathedral, the Grand Master's Palace and the churches of Our Lady of Victory, St Catherine and the Jesuits. From here, you head for Porto Empedocle, gateway to the legendary Greek temples of Agrigento: some of the most fascinating ruins in the Mediterranean.
Le Lapérouse resumes its journey to head for the Tunisian shores and capital, Tunis. Rome’s great rival, Ancient Carthage, is yours to discover as you visit its ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Your journey then continues along the coast of nearby Algeria to Annaba, where you visit the archaeological site of Hippo, one of Roman Africa’s main cities.
After a stopover in Palma de Mallorca, the jewel of the Balearic archipelago with its famous cathedral, you head for Tarragona, an ancient Roman city and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your cruise ends in Valencia, a city with a remarkable architectural heritage.
Ref : ER230425
Your itinerary
A cruise taking in Europe and the Maghreb to discover six countries: Greece, Italy, Malta, Tunisia, Algeria and Spain. UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Acropolis of Athens (port of embarkation); the ruins of...
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Your trip in detail
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Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Shore Excursions, Overlands & Pre/Post Programmes
To complete your voyage, PONANT can organise a range of shore excursions, pre & post cruise activities and packages, plus transfers.
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- New
LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
6/3/2025 to the 21/3/2025
LE LYRIAL
3/3/2025 to the 21/3/2025
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
LE BORÉAL
L'AUSTRAL
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Discover all destinations
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise taking in Europe and the Maghreb to discover six countries: Greece, Italy, Malta, Tunisia, Algeria and Spain.
- UNESCO World Heritage sites: the Acropolis of Athens (port of embarkation); the ruins of Mycenae and the theatre of Epidaurus from Nafplio; the historic centre of Syracuse; Valletta; the ruins of Agrigento at Porto Empedocles; the ruins of Carthage in Tunis, the site of Tarraco in Tarragona; the Silk Exchange in Valencia (port of disembarkation).
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- A new stopover in Annaba, a former Tyrian and subsequently Roman colony.
- Exploring major archaeological sites in warm spring weather.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
23 April 2025 - Athens
Embarkation 23/4/2025 From 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Departure 23/4/2025 at 8:00 pm
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
24 April 2025 - Nafplion
Arrival 24/4/2025 midday
Departure 24/4/2025 early evening
The engaging town of Nafplion is staggered up green hillsides of the Argolic Gulf, to the east of the Peloponnese. Do not be surprised by its extremely varied cultural heritage. Some of the must-see visits are the ancient agora on the plateau of Akronafplia, Italianate arcades in Syntagma square as well as the baroque fortress of Palamidi on a hillside of the same name. At the top of the hill, views of the gulf and the surrounding mountains are simply awesome. If you want to chill out by the water’s edge, walk along the Arvanitia promenade to a beautiful creek in the shade of cedars and cypresses.
25 April 2025 - At sea
Arrival 25/4/2025
Departure 25/4/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
26 April 2025 - Syracuse, Sicily
Arrival 26/4/2025 midday
Departure 26/4/2025 late evening
Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.
27 April 2025 - Valletta
Arrival 27/4/2025 early morning
Departure 27/4/2025 late afternoon
The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.
28 April 2025 - Porto Empedocle, Sicily
Arrival 28/4/2025 early morning
Departure 28/4/2025 early afternoon
Huddled on the south-western coast of Sicily, Porto Empedocles bears the name of the philosopher Empedocles, who lived in the region in the 5th century BC. An age-old city offered up to sun and sea, this is your doorway to the exceptional archaeological site of Temple Valley, a high place of Greek civilisation listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can admire the remains of many temples dedicated to Zeus, his wife Hera and Hephaestus. Make sure you take in the magnificent Italian countryside, with its olive orchards that cover the hillsides.
29 April 2025 - Tunis
Arrival 29/4/2025 early morning
Departure 29/4/2025 early evening
At the crossroads of civilisations, the capital of Tunisia is rich in cultural discoveries. The ruins of Ancient Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and particularly well preserved, testify to the splendour of this city that was once Rome’s great rival. The hill of Byrsa, the former fortified citadel of the Phoenician port and one of the presumed burial places of Saint Louis who died there during the Eighth Crusade, offers spectacular views over the Gulf of Tunis. In the Bardo National Museum, you will be able to admire one of the world’s finest Roman mosaic collections, including the magnificent portrait of the poet Virgil.
30 April 2025 - Annaba
Arrival 30/4/2025 late morning
Departure 30/4/2025 early evening
Annaba, a coastal town in eastern Algeria, is the country's fourth largest city. It contains many heritage treasures, including the ancient site of Hippo, the largest Roman forum in Africa. From the Cap de Garde lighthouse, you get a splendid and varied panoramic view with mountains and sea, while the basilica of Saint Augustine, the bishop of Hippo in the 4th century, overlooks the city with its majestic white dome. A stroll along the Corniche and the Cours de la Révolution will introduce you to the lively, elegant town that inspired numerous artists and writers.
1 May 2025 - At sea
Arrival 1/5/2025
Departure 1/5/2025
During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness centre. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call will also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they will be able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest and entertainment.
2 May 2025 - Palma de Mallorca, Balearic Islands
Arrival 2/5/2025 early morning
Departure 2/5/2025 late afternoon
Palma de Mallorca will reveal its many treasures: idyllic coves, majestic limestone cliffs that plunge into the clear sapphire- and turquoise-coloured waters of the Mediterranean, and vast plains planted with almond trees, olive trees and vineyards. When your ship calls at the capital of the Balearic Islands, take a walk to discover its emblematic monuments, such as its famous cathedral, and amble through its old streets. Here, like a painting, the island’s historical heritage forms a backdrop to the lively and warm cosmopolitan atmosphere of the Mediterranean.
3 May 2025 - Tarragona
Arrival 3/5/2025 early morning
Departure 3/5/2025 late afternoon
Tarragona is situated on the Costa Dorada, in the south of Spain’s Catalonia region. Known as Tarraco in Roman times, the city boasts very important archaeological and architectural vestiges that are magnificently well preserved. These earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2000. Do not miss this opportunity to visit the Roman amphitheatre, which is located on a beautiful natural site by the sea and is exceptionally well preserved. A stroll through the streets of the old medieval town to the cathedral, which was completed in the 14th century, is a wonderful way to end your visit to this welcoming city.
4 May 2025 - Valencia
Arrival 4/5/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 4/5/2025 at 7:00 am
Valencia - the city of Art and Sciences. Two hearts beat in this Spanish city: one is modern, avantgarde and almost futuristic; the other is more provincial, more traditional and nostalgic. Valencia has the temperament of a great Mediterranean city whose wide avenues form a border around the old town. The city has an abundance of architectural styles that coexist harmoniously, but above all it resolutely embraces the 21st Century with the futuristic structures of its Agora congress centre and City of Arts and Sciences, emerging from a crystal blue pool.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
-
This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Miro Foundation & Palma City
A short drive from the pier, you will find the Fundació Miró Mallorca, a museum dedicated to the work of Joan Miró. In 1981, two years before the artist's death, he and his wife, Pilar, established the foundation to showcase Miró's work and to promote contemporary art in general. It is their gift to the city that served as their home after Miró's self-imposed exile from the mainland of Franco's Spain. The museum includes a main building that houses thousands of the artist's works, a library, a sculpture garden and Miró's studio, in accordance with his wish that everything be left "as it is the moment I disappear." Your visit will allow you to view works spanning the entire length of Miró's career, from 1908 to 1983.
After visiting the foundation, embark on a panoramic tour of the city of Palma, stopping briefly at the 14th-century Bellver Castle, which has towered over the city for more than 700 years, serving various roles as a royal residence, a Mint, and a prison. It is the only circular castle in Spain complete with round towers. It was built in the 14th century for King Jaume II of Mallorca.
Continue the panoramic tour with a stop at the Cathedral for a picture and an opportunity to learn a bit of Majorcan history. La Seu, a 14th century gothic cathedral, stands in the heart of the city of Palma as the most emblematic building in Mallorca's capital. Continue your walking tour in the heart of the old town and immerse yourself in the city's beautiful atmosphere!
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to the ship.
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This excursion involves approximately a mile (1.6 km) of walking, sometimes on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. The cathedral is closed to visitors on Sundays; it will be an exterior visit only.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Valldemossa
You will depart for a visit to the picture-postcard village of Valldemossa and its Carthusian Monastery. Valldemossa is one of the most beautiful and typical villages on the Island, nestled in a valley of the northern mountain range.
Enjoy all the beauty that Mallorca has to offer, with picturesque mountains and coastline your constant companion. You will drive along the rugged northern coast, seeing landscapes of pine forest and groves of almond and olive trees. A photo stop will be made at "Son Marroig", which offers beautiful views of Mallorca's northern coastline.
Visit the Carthusian Monastery, including the small neo-classical church which is known for its lovely frescoes painted by Goya's brother-in-law, intricately carver choir stall, and rich tapestries, as well as an 18th century pharmacy set up almost exactly as it would have been by the monks in 1723.
The Cartuja is known to have housed the famous musician and composer Frederic Chopin, as week as the writer George Sand, in winter of 1838, where they added their own touches to the romanticism of Majorcan history (on Sundays, only exterior visits will be allowed).
Before returning to the ship, enjoy some free time in the beautiful village of Valldemossa to browse the souvenir shops.
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This excursion involves approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) of walking on cobblestoned streets with some steps at Valldemossa. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to visit religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Le Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance.
The Blue Eye, an underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Decks
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
23/4/2025 - PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS
AU$80
Find out more
PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Athens
Meet at Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos - Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach for a scenic tour of Athens en route to the port of Piraeus.
When you will reach Athens, you will make your first stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, a 19th-century reconstruction on Roman foundations, in which the first modern Olympic Games took place. This stadium is also known as the Kallimármaro which means “the beautiful marbled” because it is the only major stadium in the world built entirely of white marble. It was also restored to host some competitions during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
You will enjoy a photo stop at the bottom of the Acropolis Hill with its spectacular view of the Parthenon before being transferred to the port of Piraeus where you will embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer by air-conditioned coach.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Note:
- Optional photo stops depending on embarkation time and traffic conditions.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$80
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Athens
Meet at Athens Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5*, perfectly located at Syntagma Square in the heart of Athens.
Official check-in at 15 :00.
Afternoon at leisure.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Athens
After breakfast, your walking guided visit will be first focus on Anafiotika district.
This picturesque old quarter is located under the Acropolis. This very typical architecture looks like to the Cycladic islands, with narrow streets and white-washed houses with colorful shutters.
You will learn more about its history with your guide. And you will have the perfect opportunity to take the most beautiful photos, through the lens of a professional photograph at your disposal to give you tips and help you..
Later, you will walk until a local tavern in the Plaka district and you will enjoy a traditional Greek lunch followed by a short time at leisure in Plaka.
During the afternoon, you will visit the Acropolis Museum, which is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. The museum was built in order to house every artifact found on the rock and at its foot, covering a large period of time from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. Nearly 4,000 objects are exhibited over an area of 14,000 square metres.
After the Museum visit, time at leisure to strool around the Museum area (about 1 hour), or to visit on your own, the Acropolis site (this visit is not accessible to disabled people). Then short drive back to your hotel (about 15 minutes).
Evening and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Athens
Breakfast followed by hotel check-out procedures.
You will walk with your guide until Benaki Museum located in Kolonaki Square (about 10 minutes).
The Benaki Museum ranks among the great benefactions which have enriched the material assets of the Greek State. It is also the oldest museum in Greece. The Museum houses a set of collections comprising many distinct categories and totalling more than 30,000 items that illustrate the Greek world through a spectacular historical panorama: from Antiquity and the age of Roman domination to the medieval Byzantine period, from the fall of Constantinople (1453) and the centuries of Frankish and Ottoman occupation to the outbreak of the struggle for independence in 1821, and from the formation of the modern state of Greece (1830) to 1922, the year in which the Asia Minor disaster took place. Board your vehicle again for a short drive to your hotel.
Following your visit, board your vehicle for a short drive to the meeting point where your local chef will await for you.
Combine the best flavors of Athens has to offer, in a master class that involves putting together a menu, shopping for the ingredients in the vibrant central markets of Athens, and actually preparing it, all under the care of a professional chef and expert on Mediterranean cuisine.
After collecting everything, you will head to a venue with all the necessary equipment to turn the fresh ingredients into delicious delicacies. With the guidance of the chef, you will enjoy the best meal prepared by yourselves.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Athens to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery Collection is a boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of Athens, in the upscale Kolonaki neighbourhood, two minutes from Syntagma Square. Its contemporary interior houses works of art celebrating Greek culture. The fully-appointed Deluxe rooms offer a tranquil haven with an elegant atmosphere. From the rooftop terrace with swimming pool, the view of the Acropolis is uninterrupted and cloaked in magic at nightfall. Greek and Mediterranean specialities are served at MFlavours, the first of the hotel’s restaurants, while creative cuisine awaits guests at the second, Mappemonde.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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2-nights accommodation in Deluxe room at Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
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Welcome drink voucher of 20 € to enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop Mappemonde during open hours (non refundable)
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking escort on the day of arrival.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide during visits.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on days 1 & 2.
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Entry fees and guided visit of the Acropolis.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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On day 2, the photo tour of the Anafiotika district requires about 2 hours of walking on flat and uneven ground with uneven level.
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The visit of the Acropolis Museum (day 2), the Benaki Museum and the walk at Central Market (day 3) require moderate walking on flat or uneven ground (paved terrain and a few steps).
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The Acropolis visit site is not included to the program and is not recomanded for disabled people.You can visit it on your own during leisure time.
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The Benaki Museum is closed on Tuesday.
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The Central Market is closed on Sunday.
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The official check-in in room at 15:00.
Contact of your hotel:
Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery
4 Eleftheriou Venizelou Avenue and 2 Kriezotou street Syntagma Square,
Athens 105 64,
Greece
Telephone number: +30 21 4444 2000
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : AU$3,080
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
-
This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Miro Foundation & Palma City
A short drive from the pier, you will find the Fundació Miró Mallorca, a museum dedicated to the work of Joan Miró. In 1981, two years before the artist's death, he and his wife, Pilar, established the foundation to showcase Miró's work and to promote contemporary art in general. It is their gift to the city that served as their home after Miró's self-imposed exile from the mainland of Franco's Spain. The museum includes a main building that houses thousands of the artist's works, a library, a sculpture garden and Miró's studio, in accordance with his wish that everything be left "as it is the moment I disappear." Your visit will allow you to view works spanning the entire length of Miró's career, from 1908 to 1983.
After visiting the foundation, embark on a panoramic tour of the city of Palma, stopping briefly at the 14th-century Bellver Castle, which has towered over the city for more than 700 years, serving various roles as a royal residence, a Mint, and a prison. It is the only circular castle in Spain complete with round towers. It was built in the 14th century for King Jaume II of Mallorca.
Continue the panoramic tour with a stop at the Cathedral for a picture and an opportunity to learn a bit of Majorcan history. La Seu, a 14th century gothic cathedral, stands in the heart of the city of Palma as the most emblematic building in Mallorca's capital. Continue your walking tour in the heart of the old town and immerse yourself in the city's beautiful atmosphere!
At the end of the tour, you will be transferred back to the ship.
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This excursion involves approximately a mile (1.6 km) of walking, sometimes on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. The cathedral is closed to visitors on Sundays; it will be an exterior visit only.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Valldemossa
You will depart for a visit to the picture-postcard village of Valldemossa and its Carthusian Monastery. Valldemossa is one of the most beautiful and typical villages on the Island, nestled in a valley of the northern mountain range.
Enjoy all the beauty that Mallorca has to offer, with picturesque mountains and coastline your constant companion. You will drive along the rugged northern coast, seeing landscapes of pine forest and groves of almond and olive trees. A photo stop will be made at "Son Marroig", which offers beautiful views of Mallorca's northern coastline.
Visit the Carthusian Monastery, including the small neo-classical church which is known for its lovely frescoes painted by Goya's brother-in-law, intricately carver choir stall, and rich tapestries, as well as an 18th century pharmacy set up almost exactly as it would have been by the monks in 1723.
The Cartuja is known to have housed the famous musician and composer Frederic Chopin, as week as the writer George Sand, in winter of 1838, where they added their own touches to the romanticism of Majorcan history (on Sundays, only exterior visits will be allowed).
Before returning to the ship, enjoy some free time in the beautiful village of Valldemossa to browse the souvenir shops.
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This excursion involves approximately 1 mile (1.6 km) of walking on cobblestoned streets with some steps at Valldemossa. We recommend you to wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate dress is recommended to visit religious sites (shoulders and knees should be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.
Ponant/ Paul Gauguin cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 2 months up to 7 days prior to departure through your travel advisor or by calling your cruise specialist.
Smithsonian cruises: Excursions will be available to book approximately 4 months prior to departure through your Guest Services Specialist. Excursions are subject to availability on a first-come, first-serve basis.