A Dream Journey Through Athens and Venice
They were two European cities long on my travel “hit list”: Athens and Venice. Little did I know that my dream vacation would take me to both in the same adventure, creating a rich tapestry of culture, history, and culinary delights.
Anticipation of the Itinerary
The excitement was palpable as I contemplated our journey, traveling by sea to stunning new destinations. Our itinerary boasted two stops in Greece, two in Croatia, and a day in charming Montenegro. First up was a two-day pre-cruise stay in Athens, allowing us extra time to explore before sailing from the port city of Piraeus. This presented a unique opportunity—a chance to savor “dessert” before the seven-night main course on our Viking Adriatic cruise.
Two Days in Athens
Our adventure began just minutes away from the bustling Monastiraki and Psirri neighborhoods, where we found a quaint boutique hotel, the Apollo Palm. Recently opened, this 48-room haven included various room options, and we scored a two-level, two-bedroom, two-bath suite with a private patio. An included breakfast and a breathtaking view of the Acropolis from the rooftop bar set the stage for a splendid stay.
On our second day, we embarked on a four-hour guided tour of the Parthenon—an iconic temple dedicated to the goddess Athena—and the Acropolis Museum. This immersive experience offered an engaging glimpse into ancient Athenian life. I was enthralled by Athens, despite its many apartment blocks, which seemed to have more urban flair than green spaces. The outdoor cafes were a highlight, serving the best Greek salads I’ve ever tasted, complemented by the warmth of the locals. Our evening concluded with a delightful dinner at a cozy café called Στου Κορρέ, where live music added to the ambiance.
Sailing Away
The following morning, a quick taxi ride transported us to our waiting ship, the Viking Sea. Launched in 2016, this ocean liner is one of more than 10 in Viking’s fleet. As we set sail, the promise of new adventures stirred excitement. With no days at sea, we knew our journey would be packed with exploration.
The Viking Sea is classified as a “small” ship, accommodating 930 passengers while feeling airy and spacious, thanks to its modern Scandinavian design. We loved lounging in the expansive two-level Explorer’s Lounge, which offered panoramic views, and attending engaging lectures in the Star Theatre, all while enjoying the unique dining options on board.
Dining and Entertainment Aboard
On the Viking Sea, dining options were plentiful—seven in total, including two specialty restaurants. The World Café became our breakfast favorite, serving everything from omelets to pastries. The elegant Restaurant offered formal dining with regional cuisine that truly delighted our palates. We also enjoyed the two specialty restaurants, each requiring reservations for an elevated dining experience.
What sets Viking apart is its focus on cultural enrichment. With no passengers under 18 and no additional charges for wine during meals, the onboard atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. The spa facilities were complimentary, making it easy to unwind whenever we pleased.
Our First Stop: Greece
Over half our nine-day vacation was spent in Greece. Our first cruise stop took us to Olympia in the Peloponnese, the historic birthplace of the Olympic Games. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is steeped in history, where we marveled at the ruins, including the original Olympic running track. My travel companion, a seasoned runner, couldn’t resist racing down this ancient field, reliving the glory of a bygone era.
Shortly after, we docked at Corfu, an island that attracts over a million visitors annually. Its old city, a UNESCO site, charmed us with narrow streets teeming with cafes. We relished lemon crepes in the sun and visited the Patounis Soap Factory, which has been family-run since 1850. The complexity of soap-making opened our eyes to the craft, and we even collected pieces of clay pots left from a local Easter tradition, hoping they would bring us good luck.
Montenegrin Marvels
Next, we ventured into the gem of Montenegro, nestled along the Adriatic coast. Kotor, with its dramatic mountains, welcomed us. Arriving early for our scheduled tour, we had a chance to wander, discovering quaint sites like the whimsical Cats Museum and the stunning Romanesque Cathedral of St. Tryphon. The Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, teemed with breathtaking vistas, with the soaring cliffs framing the serene waters.
Exploring Croatia
Croatia greeted us with stunning landscapes as we spent two days exploring cities like Split and Dubrovnik. Each destination showcased breathtaking coastal views and rich historical narratives. In Trogir, a resplendent walled Medieval city, we interacted with locals on a family-run farm tour, enjoying the flavors of traditional Croatian cuisine.
The Grand Finale in Venice
We ended our adventure in Venice, a city unlike any other, with its enchanting canals and winding streets. The sights were mesmerizing, especially St. Mark’s Square, which felt electric with energy. Our visit, though brief, captivated us fully, embodying the essence of our unforgettable journey.
Nicole Pensiero is a New Jersey resident and a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association (NATJA).