Greece, Türkiye & Italy Rail & Sail

Today, fly from Australia (or New Zealand) to Milan, Italy.

Please note: The Milan and Florence pre-cruise itinerary is self-guided (days 1-10). This means that you will not have a tour leader or guide accompanying you. You will be required to make your own way to and from your accommodation and pre-arranged transport.

Meals included: In-Flight

Welcome to Milan!

Celebrated as the Italian capital of fashion and design, Milan is a city rich in art, history and culture. Upon arrival in Milan, please make your own way to your hotel and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Optional Activity: Private Vehicle Airport Transfer
Add a private vehicle transfer from Milan airport to your hotel (approximately 60km). After clearing customs & collecting your luggage, meet your driver in the arrivals terminal and transfer to your hotel. See online Important Information for current pricing.

Overnight: Hotel Cavour or similar, Milan, Italy

Meals included: None

Enjoy a day in Milan at your own pace.

Start by soaking up the city's elegant charm as you stroll down two of its most iconic streets, Via Dante and Via dei Mercanti. Admire the grandeur of the architectural marvels lining these historic thoroughfares. Make your way to the beating heart of Milan, Piazza del Duomo, where the majestic Duomo stands tall. This Gothic masterpiece, adorned with intricate details crafted by Italian artists, showcases a blend of German influences and Italian finesse. Pay a visit to the vibrant Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, Italy's oldest active shopping mall, where you can indulge in some retail therapy amidst stunning architecture. However you choose to spend your day, you’re sure to enjoy an unforgettable journey through Milan's rich history, culture and style!

Please note: The activities mentioned above are suggestions and are not included. Additional charges may apply.

Overnight: Hotel Cavour or similar, Milan, Italy

Meals included: None

Today, make your own way to the Milano Centrale train station for your rail journey from Milan to Florence.

Duration: 1 hour 55 minutes (approx.)
Ticket: Economy Class

Upon arrival in Florence, please make your own way to your hotel from the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station. Once checked in, enjoy the afternoon at leisure in the city centre.

Overnight: Hotel Albani Firenze or similar, Florence, Italy

Meals included: None

Enjoy a day at leisure in Florence, Italy.

Take your time to wander through the charming streets and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. You could start your day at the picturesque Piazzale Michelangelo, where breathtaking views of Florence's skyline await. Then, venture to the bustling Piazza del Duomo and marvel at the grandeur of the Cathedral of Santa Maria.

Don't forget to stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, admiring its historic beauty and the shimmering waters of the Arno River below. Along the way, indulge in some local gelato, savouring the delicious flavours that Italy is renowned for (not included). Embrace every moment of this enchanting experience and relish in the magic of Florence, a true slice of heaven in the heart of Italy.

Please note: The activities mentioned above are suggestions and are not included. Additional charges may apply.

Overnight: Hotel Albani Firenze or similar, Florence, Italy

Meals included: None

Enjoy a day at leisure in Florence, Italy, or join an optional activity to discover the best of Tuscany.

Optional Activity: The Best of Tuscany
Make your own way to the meeting point, then travel from Florence to view Siena through the eyes of a local as you join a guided walking tour through the medieval city, featuring yellow-ochre buildings, terracotta rooftops, and green shutters. Learn about the world’s oldest bank, see Piazza del Campo, the site of the 600-year-old Palio horse race, and admire the interior of the Duomo, a treasure chest of artworks. Afterwards, explore Siena at your own pace with free time to browse the shops or relax in one of the many open-air cafes. Next, visit an organic family-run wine estate in the most gorgeous location overlooking stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Here, you will enjoy an informal wine-tasting lesson and an organic traditional Tuscan lunch. Take the opportunity to mingle with fellow travellers, as you feast on homemade pasta, cured meats (homemade prosciutto and salami), local cheeses, a real garden salad and Tuscan biscotti.

This experience will no doubt be the highlight of the day! After lunch, head over to the enchanting hilltop town of San Gimignano, where you have free time to roam the picturesque streets and squares, go shopping, try an award-winning gelato and walk among the town’s famous medieval towers. A scenic drive through the classic Tuscan countryside will take you to your final stop, Pisa. Here, take a closer look at the iconic Leaning Tower, the Cathedral and the Baptistery. Appreciate another side of the city with a brief tour of the historic heart of Pisa.

Inclusions: Guided walking tour of Siena, cathedral entrance ticket, lunch and wine tasting tour, Leaning Tower entrance ticket

Duration: 12 Hours

Meeting Point: Santa Maria Novella train station - Outside the train station, by the taxi stand, which is located at the front of the station.

Overnight: Hotel Albani Firenze or similar, Florence, Italy

Meals included: None

Today, make your own way to the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station for your rail journey from Florence to Rome.

Duration: 1 hour 35 minutes (approx.)
Ticket: Economy Class

This legendary city beckons with iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City, each steeped in stories of emperors and popes. Upon arrival, please make your own way from the Roma Termini train station to your centrally located hotel, then enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Wander cobblestone streets to find cozy trattorias offering mouthwatering Roman dishes, and discover the ancient wonders of the Eternal City. Rome's charm extends from the timeless Pantheon to lively squares like Piazza Navona and Campo de' Fiori. Rome awaits with its rich history and vibrant culture.

Overnight: Marcella Royal Hotel - Rooftop Garden or similar, Rome, Italy

Meals included: None

Enjoy a day at leisure in Rome.

A day filled with iconic sights and delightful experiences awaits you in Rome. Pay a visit to the Trevi Fountain and marvel at its grandeur. Toss a coin to ensure your return to the Eternal City. Immerse yourself in ancient history as you wander the cobblestone streets. See the majestic Colosseum, where gladiators once battled, and admire the view from the top of the Spanish Steps, taking in the lively atmosphere of Piazza di Spagna. No visit to Rome is complete without indulging in the creamy goodness of authentic gelato and savouring the delectable flavours while strolling through the charming streets. Let Rome captivate your senses and create lasting memories.

Please note: The activities mentioned above are suggestions and are not included. Additional charges may apply.

Optional Activity: Big Bus Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tour 48 Hours
Discover the secrets of Ancient Rome as you explore the Eternal City on a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour that endeavours to show you the most famous landmarks in the city.

Optional Activity: Big Bus Rome Hop-on Hop-off Tour 48 Hours
Take advantage of the opportunity to hop off the bus and experience the ancient streets of Rome at your own pace. You can hop on our Red Tour from 8 different stops, including Termini Station, the Colosseum and Piazza Venezia.

Overnight: Marcella Royal Hotel - Rooftop Garden or similar, Rome, Italy

Meals included: None

Continue discovering Rome at your own pace. You could begin by exploring the Vatican City (entrance not included), where art and spirituality intertwine. Marvel at the grandeur of St Peter's Basilica and gaze upon Michelangelo's awe-inspiring masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel.

Make your way to the Pantheon (entrance not included), a testament to Roman engineering marvels. Stand in awe of its magnificent dome and soak in the ambience of this ancient temple. In your free time, you could savour a plate of perfectly cooked pasta, expertly prepared with rich sauces and fresh ingredients. Alternatively, treat your taste buds to an authentic Roman pizza with its thin, crispy crust and flavourful toppings (not included).

Enjoy Rome from a different perspective with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets as the sun sets, savouring the beauty of Rome's architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Let the city's timeless charm and culinary wonders create lasting memories of your Roman adventure.

Please note: The activities mentioned above are suggestions and are not included. Additional charges may apply.

Overnight: Marcella Royal Hotel - Rooftop Garden or similar, Rome, Italy

Meals included: None

Depart: 17:00

Today, embark on your 11-night voyage of the Mediterranean aboard Celebrity Cruises' spectacular Edge-class ship, Celebrity Ascent

At the appropriate time, make your own way from your hotel to the Civitavecchia port for check-in. Once checked in and onboard, the ship is yours to explore.

Optional Activity: Private Vehicle Port Transfer
Add a private vehicle transfer from your hotel to Civitavecchia Port (approximately 90 kilometres ). See online Important Information for pricing.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent or similar,

Meals included: Dinner

While at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa (charges may apply), savour exquisite cuisine, or discover the unique venues on board.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 11:59 - Depart: 20:00

Like many ports in this part of the world, archeological ruins dating back to antiquity are found everywhere. There are also hundreds of gorges around the island and over 1,500 land and sea caves, including Elefantos, noted for its remarkable white and red stalactites. Over the millennia, this harbour city was conquered many times over by the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians, and the Turks. Chania remains crisscrossed with Ottoman architecture and historic Venetian mansions, many of which have been transformed into quaint shops, inviting cafes, and boutique hotels. Experience Cretan hospitality and history on your cruise to Chania with a tour to the traditional Village of Vamos, the Karidi Monastery, the Braoudakis winery, and the Folklore Museum (optional shore excursion, charges apply).

Admire the local flora, the ancient homes, and the time-worn old mill, with its 12 arches built in 1862. A stroll through Chania’s breathtaking Botanical Park, featuring 50 acres of exotic fruit trees, plants, and herbs. A historic Venetian lighthouse still watches over the harbour, and local artisans can still be seen crafting their wares in the older streets. However, beyond its rich history, Chania is a beachcomber’s paradise, with some of the finest sands and most inviting waters in all of Crete.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 07:00 - Depart: 22:00

Here on the island of Santorini, you’ll find a classic Greek seascape—whitewashed houses accented by sea-blue roofs. This is a treasure trove for both professional and amateur archaeology buffs, with sites that include tombs dating back to the 9th century and the sanctuary of Apollo. In many ways, Santorini could be considered an explosive place, being that its terraced collection of homes and windmills lie on a caldera-- a huge basin formed by an erupting volcano. The island’s volcanic past has also produced delicious grapes for excellent wines that are well worth investigating while on your Santorini cruise. Some of the best on the island can be found in Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Oia. Oia’s hilltop not only has the ancient, Minoan site of Akrotiri, but is quite possibly the best vantage point from which to witness the spectacular sunsets. And, if you have some time, take a short trip to the island of Nea Kameni for a dip in its famous hot springs. The warm dark waters are enriched with iron and manganese and considered therapeutic.

Please note: This port is accessed by tender boats. Boarding and disembarking tender boats may involve steps and uneven surfaces. While cruise lines strive to provide ease of access, accessibility options can vary at different tender ports.
Passengers with mobility concerns are encouraged to inquire about specific arrangements and consider their individual needs when participating in tendering activities.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 08:00 - Depart: 18:00

Once the capital of the Roman province of Asia Minor, this coastal town is now an archaeologist’s dream. The UNESCO World Heritage ruins of Ephesus impress even those familiar with the world's other ancient cities. Though excavations have been underway for 150 years, only 20 per cent of the city has been uncovered. This former Greek banking and trading centre is rich with historic sites, including the Great Theatre, the Temple of Hadrian, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. On your Europe cruise, check out the Celsus Library — built in 117 A.D.— made up of towering columns highlighted by the statue of the goddess of wisdom.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 14:00 - Overnight

In exotic Istanbul, you could spend an entire day strolling through the Grand Bazaar, exploring the famous Blue Mosque, or wandering through the majestic Topkapi Palace, with its gardens, libraries and 400-roomharem.

Your ship docks here overnight, allowing you to explore more of Istanbul.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Depart: 20:00

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 07:00 - Depart: 18:00

Mykonos is known for its whitewashed villages, sprinkled with blue and jade-green hues. The most popular island in the Cyclades is bustling with activity, awash in beautiful alleyways, and home to alluring sandy beaches.

Please note: This port is accessed by tender boats. Boarding and disembarking tender boats may involve steps and uneven surfaces. While cruise lines strive to provide ease of access, accessibility options can vary at different tender ports. Passengers with mobility concerns are encouraged to inquire about specific arrangements and consider their individual needs when participating in tendering activities.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 07:00 - Depart: 18:00

Naples, Italy, Framed by Mount Vesuvius along a dramatic skyline, the 2,800-year-old port city of Naples is chock-full of historical sites, churches, and museums that make it a fascinating place to explore. For all of Rome’s notoriety and reputation, Naples, with its historic city centre, deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has just as many important archeological sites and landmarks. Visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale for a world-class collection of Egyptian and Graeco-Roman artifacts. And, if you’d like to venture a little deeper on your Naples cruise, then exploring Naples from below the ground is a must. Start with a trip into the basement of the San Lorenzo Maggiore church, where you’ll find a partially excavated Roman market, and a little deeper, just below the Roman ruins, you’ll find remnants from the Greeks to discover (optional shore excursion). And in the region where pizza was first invented, you know the food is going to be incredible. Whether you’re looking for a thin, wood-fired Margherita pie, spaghetti alle vongole, or a zeppole dusted with confectioner’s sugar, Naples and its bountiful edible treasures are sure to please. Only 56 kilometres down the coast, Salerno offers you a rich history, but also boasts a marvellous collection of parks, natural wonders, and unique vantage points to take in the beauty of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Two cities. One incredible stretch of Italian coastline.

Overnight: Celebrity Cruises - Celebrity Ascent

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Arrive: 05:00

Today, your 11-night cruise aboard Celebrity Ascent comes to an end. After breakfast, disembark and make your own way to the airport for your return flight.

Optional Activity: Private Transfer
Transfer from Civitavecchia cruise terminal to Rome airport. Please see current pricing in important information.

Please note:
• Civitavecchia cruise terminal is located approximately 65 kilometres from Rome Fiumicino Airport.
• Some flights will depart late in the evening. Luggage storage is available at both the cruise port and Rome Fiumicino Airport (fees apply).

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some flights may arrive +1 day later

Meals included: None