Gems of the Greek Islands & Adriatic Coast

Known as the birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens is a vibrant tapestry of history and modernity. Standing sentinel above the city is the famous Acropolis, a fortified hill dominated by the Parthenon, atmospheric ruins of a white marble temple built during the height of the ancient Greek Empire. 

This afternoon, step on board your next-generation Discovery Yacht, Scenic Ikon. Your journey into wonder begins with a warm greeting from the Captain and crew. Meet your butler and settle into your spacious suite with a glass of champagne. Then join your fellow guests on deck to toast the start of an unforgettable voyage.

Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 02:00 PM.

Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Athens has been called the “birthplace of democracy.” Its legacy looms large from atop Acropolis Hill, the pinnacle of ancient Greece. This open air museum is an astonishing repository of once-mighty structures. From its colonnaded Parthenon—built more than 2,600 years ago—revered Greek philosophers like Plato and Aristotle formulated new ideas of government and debated its role in civic life to captivated audiences. Remnants of spiritual life are also here in the several temples to Athena and Zeus.

Discover the rich tapestry of history as you wander through Nafplion’s charming streets adorned with neoclassical architecture, Venetian fortresses and Turkish mosques. Explore the winding alleys of the Old Town, where traditional tavernas and quaint cafes beckon you to indulge in local delicacies. Climb the steps to Palamidi Fortress for breathtaking views of the town and sea below or relax on the shores of Arvanitia Beach. See the World Heritage-listed Epidaurus Theatre and archaeological site of Mycenae, dating back to the second century BC.

Oraia (beautiful) is the word Greeks use to describe Nafplion. The town's old section, on a peninsula jutting into the gulf of Argos, mixes Greek, Venetian, and Turkish architecture; narrow streets, often just broad flights of stone stairs, climb the slopes beneath the walls of Acronafplia. Tree-shaded plazas surround neoclassic buildings. The Palamidi fortress—an elegant display of Venetian might from the early 1700s—guards the town. Nafplion deserves at least a leisurely day of your undivided attention, and you may want to spend several days or a week here and use the city as the base from which to explore the many surrounding ancient sights.

Nestled along the lush coastline of Lefkada, Nydri is a laid-back seaside village that invites you to slow down and soak in the Ionian charm. Stroll the palm-lined promenade dotted with tavernas, cafés, and sailboats bobbing in the harbor, or venture inland to discover the island’s natural beauty at the nearby Dimosari Waterfalls—an idyllic spot tucked within olive groves and pine-covered hills. With its welcoming spirit, scenic landscapes, and easygoing atmosphere, Nydri offers a refreshing slice of authentic Greece where time seems to drift as gently as the sea breeze.

The ruggedly beautiful island of Corfu is dotted with whitewashed houses and olive groves, creating an enchanting Mediterranean allure. The World Heritage-listed Old Town boasts a rich history and stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Wander the vibrant Spianada, Greece’s largest square, and immerse yourself in Corfu’s timeless charm and cultural treasures.

Corfu town today is a vivid tapestry of cultures—a sophisticated weave, where charm, history, and natural beauty blend. Located about midway along the island's east coast, this spectacularly lively capital is the cultural heart of Corfu and has a remarkable historic center that UNESCO designated as a World Heritage Site in 2007. All ships and planes dock or land near Corfu town, which occupies a small peninsula jutting into the Ionian Sea.Whether arriving by ferry from mainland Greece or Italy, from another island, or directly by plane, catch your breath by first relaxing with a coffee or a gelato in Corfu town's shaded Liston Arcade, then stroll the narrow lanes of its pedestrians-only quarter. For an overview of the immediate area, and a quick tour of Mon Repos palace, hop on the little tourist train that runs from May to September. Corfu town has a different feel at night, so book a table at one of its famed tavernas to savor the island's unique cuisine.The best way to get around Corfu town is on foot. The town is small enough so that you can easily walk to every sight. There are local buses, but they do not thread their way into the streets (many now car-free) of the historic center. If you are arriving by ferry or plane, it's best to take a taxi to your hotel. Expect to pay about €10 from the airport or ferry terminal to a hotel in Corfu town. If there are no taxis waiting, you can call for one.

A true gem of the Adriatic, Monopoli charms with its whitewashed buildings, vibrant fishing port and maze of narrow streets. Wander the historic old town, explore magnificent churches, or unwind by the sea with a gelato in hand. This coastal town captures the heart of Puglia in every detail.

Located in the heel of Italy's boot, Monopoli is a Puglia port town that knows how to make a splash. In fact, the Greek words Monos and Polis mean ‘uniquely singular’ - and Monopoli's special blend of part historical, part functional is most definitely that. The city might lack some of the more aesthetic elements of its neighbors, but that only means good things for those who do discover it: far from the tourist route you'll be greeted with medieval churches and castles, white stone buildings (contrasting perfectly with the azure of the sea and sky) and authenticity in buckets. Founded by the Greeks in 500 BC, then taken over by the Romans (and beset by various invaders), Monopoli was - and still is - a thriving port town. Its position in Puglia between the seas made it strategic, while its placement on the Via Traiana (which led all the way to Rome) made it prosperous. The city came under Venetian control in 1484 and much of Monopoli's architecture can be attributed to this period. The charming Old Town is dominated by Castello Carlo V, built in 1552, while the still solid Baroque-Romanesque cathedral, built in 1693, is considered positively modern. Like most of Italy, the food here is as important as religion. As a port town, fish and seafood are deliciously fresh. Do not miss tasting scapece (small fish covered in flour, deep-fried, put in layers with breadcrumbs and saffron, then soaked with vinegar) for a tasty treat that you will find nowhere else in the country.

Today, arrive in Kotor, a fortified city nestled between towering mountains and the shimmering Adriatic. This World Heritage-listed town is brimming with Venetian palaces, cobblestone lanes and café-hemmed squares. Guarded by medieval walls, Kotor is a place of ancient stories and modern culture.

As your next-generation Discovery Yacht departs, enjoy the breathtaking sail away through the Bay of Kotor, Europe’s southernmost fjord-like bay, with its rugged mountain backdrop and charming, red-roofed villages lining the shores.

In the evening, you’ll sail on to Dubrovnik, where your ship will stay overnight, giving you ample time to soak in the city's medieval charm and vibrant evening atmosphere.

Backed by imposing mountains, tiny Kotor lies hidden from the open sea, tucked into the deepest channel of the Bokor Kotorska (Kotor Bay), which is Europe's most southerly fjord. To many, this town is more charming than its sister UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dubrovnik, retaining more authenticity, but with fewer tourists and spared the war damage and subsequent rebuilding which has given Dubrovnik something of a Disney feel.Kotor's medieval Stari Grad (Old Town) is enclosed within well-preserved defensive walls built between the 9th and 18th centuries and is presided over by a proud hilltop fortress. Within the walls, a labyrinth of winding cobbled streets leads through a series of splendid paved piazzas, rimmed by centuries-old stone buildings. The squares are now haunted by strains from buskers but although many now house trendy cafés and chic boutiques, directions are still given medieval-style by reference to the town’s landmark churches.In the Middle Ages, as Serbia's chief port, Kotor was an important economic and cultural center with its own highly regarded schools of stonemasonry and iconography. From 1391 to 1420 it was an independent city-republic and later, it spent periods under Venetian, Austrian, and French rule, though it was undoubtedly the Venetians who left the strongest impression on the city's architecture. Since the breakup of Yugoslavia, some 70% of the stone buildings in the romantic Old Town have been snapped up by foreigners, mostly Brits and Russians. Porto Montenegro, a new marina designed to accommodate some of the world’s largest super yachts, opened in nearby Tivat in 2011, and along the bay are other charming seaside villages, all with better views of the bay than the vista from Kotor itself where the waterside is congested with cruise ships and yachts. Try sleepy Muo or the settlement of Prčanj in one direction around the bay, or Perast and the Roman mosaics of Risan in the other direction.

Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik is a compelling historic city along Croatia's Dalmatian Coast. Its walled Old Town is one of the finest examples of medieval citadel architecture in Europe. With its storied history and breathtaking views of iconic terracotta rooftops and the alluring Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik offers the perfect blend of cultural exploration and serene seaside strolls.

Nothing can prepare you for your first sight of Dubrovnik. Lying 216 km (135 miles) southeast of Split and commanding a jaw-dropping coastal location, it is one of the world's most beautiful fortified cities. Its massive stone ramparts and fortress towers curve around a tiny harbor, enclosing graduated ridges of sun-bleached orange-tiled roofs, copper domes, and elegant bell towers. Your imagination will run wild picturing what it looked like seven centuries ago when the walls were built, without any suburbs or highways around it, just this magnificent stone city rising out of the sea.In the 7th century AD, residents of the Roman city Epidaurum (now Cavtat) fled the Avars and Slavs of the north and founded a new settlement on a small rocky island, which they named Laus, and later Ragusa. On the mainland hillside opposite the island, the Slav settlement called Dubrovnik grew up. In the 12th century the narrow channel separating the two settlements was filled in (now the main street through the Old Town, called Stradun), and Ragusa and Dubrovnik became one. The city was surrounded by defensive walls during the 13th century, and these were reinforced with towers and bastions in the late 15th century.From 1358 to 1808 the city thrived as a powerful and remarkably sophisticated independent republic, reaching its golden age during the 16th century. In 1667 many of its splendid Gothic and Renaissance buildings were destroyed by an earthquake. The defensive walls survived the disaster, and the city was rebuilt in baroque style.Dubrovnik lost its independence to Napoléon in 1808, and in 1815 passed to Austria-Hungary. During the 20th century, as part of Yugoslavia, the city became a popular tourist destination, and in 1979 it was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the war for independence, it came under heavy siege. Thanks to careful restoration, few traces of damage remain; however, there are maps inside the Pile and Ploče Gates illustrating the points around the city where damage was done. It’s only when you experience Dubrovnik yourself that you can understand what a treasure the world nearly lost

Korcula, Croatia, is the Adriatic’s sixth-largest island and has been dubbed the ‘Emerald Isle’ for its lush, green landscape. It is renowned for its medieval Old Town, often called ‘Little Dubrovnik’. Famed as Marco Polo’s birthplace, it boasts Gothic-Renaissance architecture and quaint squares, whilst vineyards grace nearby Cara and Smokvica, yielding the prized Croatian wine, Pošip.

Off the coast of Croatia in the southern Adriatic Sea lie some thousand islands and the largest of them, Korçula, is considered the most beautiful. With an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per annum, which guarantees a wide assortment of Mediterranean vegetation, it is not difficult to understand why seasoned travelers compare Korçula to a latter-day Eden. Separated from the mainland by a channel of only one mile, Korçula's main town, named the same as the island, ranks among the best preserved medieval towns in the Mediterranean. It is the island's main tourist, economic and cultural center. Thanks to its strategic location along the sea trade routes, Korçula has always attracted travelers and settlers. Korcula was founded by Greek colonists, who were followed by Illyrians, Romans and finally the Croats. The Korçula Statute of 1214 is one of the oldest legal documents to have been adopted in this part of Europe. The same century saw the birth of the famous world traveler, Marco Polo. The house said to be his birthplace can be seen in town. Korçulans have always been known as keen seafarers, excellent shipbuilders, stonemasons and artists. From their many voyages, sailors brought back new ideas, which eventually mixed with local customs. To this day, Korçula has maintained the tradition of performing knightly games such as the chivalrous Moreska dance, which has been in existence for more than 400 years. Visitors to Korçula enjoy its stunning location, natural beauty and medieval ambiance. And if that's not enough, the town offers numerous attractions that are within walking distance from the pier, including the City Museum and the Bishop's Treasury.

Šibenik, a Dalmatian treasure, was founded in the ninth century and is one of the oldest Croatian cities on the Adriatic. It’s famous for the World Heritage-listed Cathedral of St. James, a Renaissance masterpiece as well as medieval fortresses like St. Michael’s and the winding cobblestone alleys of its car-free Old Town. It also neighbours Krka National Park, home to a series of seven stunning waterfalls.

Šibenik's main monument, its Gothic-Renaissance cathedral, built of pale-gray Dalmatian stone and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stands on a raised piazza close to the seafront promenade. From here a network of narrow, cobbled streets leads through the medieval quarter of tightly packed, terra-cotta–roof houses, and up to the ruins of a 16th-century hilltop fortress. The city has never been a real tourist destination. Before the Croatian war for independence, it was a relatively prosperous industrial center, but when the factories closed, Šibenik sank into an economic depression. However, the cathedral more than warrants a look, and it makes a decent base for visiting the waterfalls of Krka National Park.

Piran, a lesser-known coastal gem on Slovenia’s Adriatic shore, enchants with its medieval charm. Clustered on the Piran peninsula, its red-tiled, white-washed buildings reflect a vibrant Venetian heritage, shaped by the Venetian empire from the late 13th to late 18th century. Elegant gothic-style architecture and narrow cobblestone streets invite exploration.

Slovenia might not immediately spring to mind when it comes to coastal countries - in fact, with just 46 km of coastline, you would be forgiven for overlooking it altogether. Yet, within that small distance lives some of the Adriatic's finest treasures. One such place is Piran. At just over 120 km from Ljubljana, you'll find the small but perfectly formed town is perched on a rocky peninsula and surrounded by pristine waters. Oozing Mediterranean charm, Piran's rich Venetian heritage is everywhere. Unsurprising really, as the city was governed by the Republic of Venice from 1283 to 1797 (and until the mid-20th century, Italian was the dominant language, although this has been overtaken by Slovenia in recent years). The Italian touch is visible from the city's architecture (the main square is named after the famous Italian composer Giuseppe Tartini) to the local Istrian cuisine. The oval-shaped square is the ideal spot to start your exploration of Piran, which is best done on foot. Wander into the labyrinthine streets of the old town - think narrow streets and compact houses topped with the picture-perfect terracotta tiles so typical of the region - and take a few hours just drinking in the atmosphere. Pop into one of the little Catholic churches or hike up to St. George's on the top of the hill for an example of grandiose Venetian Renaissance architecture. Alternatively, head for the seaside walk - which incidentally serves as a beach for many - for a taste of everyday local life.

Your Signature Yacht Cruise concludes this morning in Venice, where you’ll disembark after breakfast, taking with you unforgettable memories of your journey through the Mediterranean. Founded in the fifth century and known as the ‘City of Canals’, Venice captivates visitors with its romantic waterways and Byzantine artistry.

Please book your flight to depart out of Venice after 12:00 PM.

#Spa treatments and services at additional cost. Daily activities may be subject to change; please consult your Daily Wonder for updates. +All drinks on board, including those stocked in your mini bar, are included, except for a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Specialty restaurants require a reservation, enquire on board.
^Experiences on board our helicopters and submersible are at additional cost, subject to regulatory approval, availability, weight restrictions, medical approval and weather conditions.

Submersible not operational in Europe.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the voyage will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Venice is a city unlike any other. No matter how often you've seen it in photos and films, the real thing is more dreamlike than you could imagine. With canals where streets should be, water shimmers everywhere. The fabulous palaces and churches reflect centuries of history in what was a wealthy trading center between Europe and the Orient. Getting lost in the narrow alleyways is a quintessential part of exploring Venice, but at some point you'll almost surely end up in Piazza San Marco, where tourists and locals congregate for a coffee or an aperitif.