Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Thira, Santorini
DAY 421 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
Known for unrivalled views, sparkling blue sea and iconic bleached-white architecture, Santorini is a truly unforgettable destination. A stroll down one of the many cobbled streets and along the volcanic-sand beaches is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening, while kids and families will love taking the plunge from a caldera cruise and exploring the colourful markets. Finally, don’t forget to delve into Santorini’s past at the many museums on offer.
Things to do in Thira, Santorini:
Archaeological Museum
Located in the centre of Fira, the Archaeological Museum of Thera is a must visit for insight into the civilizations that came before present day, featuring artefacts from the Archaic, Roman, Geometric and Hellenistic periods, including Byzantine works of art.
Thira
Thira, as the capital of Santorini, is the gem of the area and boasts fantastic nightlife and restaurants with mouthwatering food. Here you can feel and be part of the action as it all takes place.
Museum of Prehistoric Thera
Home to the artefacts found at multiple archaeological sites such as Akrotiri, some of these excavations were discovered as early as 1867. Visitors will find numerous temporary and permanent exhibitions offering insight into the prehistoric age of Thira.
Santorini Cable Car
Before the cable car, tourists to Santorini would have to climb the winding stairs to the capital or ride by mule. Now, this mode of transport offers stunning sights of the land and sea on the way up, as well as access to the volcano.
Santorini Volcano
If you are looking to get a better look at the local geography, Santorini Volcano is a fantastic place to start with regular boat trips to look at the powerful effects that a volcano can have on the local environment.
Kusadasi, Turkey
DAY 522 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
On Turkey's western Aegean coast, the beach resort town of Kuşadasi serves as a launching point for seeing the ancient ruins of neighbouring Ephesus (or Efes) and is a popular cruise ship stop. Hotels and eateries flank the promenade along the water, the marina and the harbour. A fortified Byzantine fortress that originally protected the town is located just offshore on Pigeon Island and is connected to the mainland by a causeway.
Things to do in Kusadasi, Turkey:
Kusadasi Castle
Since Kusadasi Castle was built to defend the harbour from sea attacks, it has earned the nickname "Pirate Castle" and is one of Kusadasi's most visited attractions. The castle fascinates visitors who come to see its defensive walls and gardens, learn about its history, and take in its views over Kusadasi harbour. It is also the location of a few marine displays that are well worth an explore.
Ladies Beach
Beloved by tourists and locals alike, the picturesque Ladies Beach is another top attraction to visit when in Kusadasi. With soft golden sand, palm trees and comfortable loungers, it's a fantastic place to visit whether you're looking to relax or walk along the shoreline.
Büyük Menderes Delta National Park
Just over an hour from Kusadasi lies the scenic Buyuk Menderes National Park. With a total size of 27.598 hectares, it's one of Turkey's most significant natural sights. The Kusadasi-Soke (Kuşadas-Soke) motorway leads to the national park, which is positioned in the centre of the two cities. An outstanding beauty of Mediterranean greenery, turquoise and emerald-coloured beaches can be seen throughout the national park.
Limassol
DAY 825 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 2 PM
From the thrilling waterpark to the immersive zoo that’s perfect for all the family, to ancient castles and an archaeology park, Limassol is a hidden gem in Cyprus. At the heart of the city is Limassol Castle, home to a grizzly history and the Museum of Cyprus which is well worth a visit to uncover more about this city. Don’t forget to make time to visit the buzzing bars, cafes and restaurants for authentic Cypriot cuisine.
Things to do in Limassol:
Fasouri Watermania
Cyprus’ biggest waterpark, Fasouri Watermania boasts a huge range of attractions including paddle boats, a ‘Tarzan Swing’, countless thrilling slides and an exciting wave pool. You can also find several restaurants, bars and snack bars.
Kolossi Castle
This 15th-century castle in Kolossi Village is an excellently preserved structure and well worth a visit for history buffs. It was once fundamental in military strategy, and is now the place of production for Commandaria wine.
Kourion Archaeology Park
Excavations from the ruins of Kourion city have unearthed many significant artefacts visitors can find onsite. Greek settlers arrived to the area in 12th-century BCE, so you’ll be sure to discover the fascinating history of the people of Kourion.
Limassol Castle
After being built, destroyed and rebuilt over time, Limassol Castle has a rich and fascinating history. Archaeological findings suggest it may have been a cathedral, and once held a prison, though it now houses the Museum of Cyprus.
Limassol Zoo
Though this zoo may be small, Limassol Zoo offers a fun and immersive educational wildlife experience. In numerous natural-looking habitats you’ll find monkeys, flamingos, meerkats and more, as well as a cafeteria, snack bar and playground.
Mykonos Town, Mykonos - Overnight onboard
DAY 9-1026 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 4 PM to 2 AM
Whether you’re in the mood for stretching out on an idyllic beach, itching to explore the maze of streets in search of seafood, or even looking to dance the night away at a seaside superclub, Mykonos has something for everyone. History buffs will be fascinated by the archaeological site of Delos, while Mykonos Windmills provide the perfect holiday snap. A romantic dinner along Little Venice is a must for couples- especially at sunset.
Things to do in Mykonos Town, Mykonos - Overnight onboard:
Little Venice
This row of 18th century fishing houses looks out onto the crystal clear sea, providing beautiful views both day and night. Though they aren’t fishing houses anymore, the shops, restaurants and bars that have replaced them still give a very enchanting waterfront experience.
Beaches
Boasting plenty of sun-kissed beaches, including Fokos and Kapari beaches, there's plenty of space and options for a relaxing day on the sand by the blue sea.
Paraportiani Church
Paraportiani Church is one of the most photographed churches in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The whitewashed structure stands out vibrantly against the ocean backdrop, creating fantastic photo opportunities and a romantic place to take a stroll.
Mykonos Windmills
Featured on many postcards you’ll find in Greece, the Mykonos Windmills are an iconic sight of the island. Once vital to the economy, the seven windmills are now a beautiful spot to take photos and explore- particularly at sunset.
Matoyianni Street
Day or night, Matoyianni Street is bustling with shopping, dining and bars. It’s the perfect place to find handmade souvenirs, such as jewellery and even sandals, as well as other designer boutiques. Visitors will also love the live music here!
Delos Archaeological Site
This small island is one of the most prominent archaeological sites in Greece, and is simply teeming with mythological and historical insights. Visitors will marvel at the artefacts exhibited here, including sculptures of Apollo and Artemis.
Athens (Piraeus)
DAY 1027 Oct 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 10 PM
Just a short distance from Athens, Piraeus is the biggest port in the Mediterranean and sees over 20 million cruisers each year. This port city is a perfect example of life by the sea, boasting an impressive harbour and authentic seafood dining, as well as the rich and fascinating history of ancient Greece. Whether you’re looking to discover archaeological findings or just want to relax in the sun at a friendly café, Piraeus is the place to be.
Things to do in Athens (Piraeus):
Agia Triada Church
Despite being a modern construction, Agia Triada features Byzantine architecture as well as an impressive dome that is visible from every spot within the church. Overlooking the port of Piraeus, Agia Triada is a must visit to discover the history of the town and take in the tranquillity.
Castella
This vibrant and colourful district is nestled on top of a hill with views out over the bay. A walk around this neighbourhood will take you to quaint cafes, neoclassical architecture, Prophet Elias church and the Veakeion outdoor theatre.
Archaeological Museum
Covering the Mycenaean period to the Roman era, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum offers artefacts excavated from Piraeus’ landscape, as well as collections donated from other sites. Visitors will discover monuments, statues, artwork and more.
Hellas Liberty
One of only three surviving Liberty ships, the SS Hellas Liberty is a fascinating vessel to explore. This floating maritime museum was presented to the public in 2010 and covers a range of exhibits people of all ages will enjoy.
Zea Bay
With stunning views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful vessels moored in the harbour, the bay of Zea is the perfect place to go for a walk, enjoy a delicious coffee and take in the sunshine. You’ll find many hidden gems here, including ancient walls.
Flight departs
DAY 10
Hotel stay included
Athens Hotel Stay - 2 Nights
We don't know the hotel yet but it will be centrally located, a minimum of 4 stars, selected from our list of preferred hotels & based on a 'room only' board basis. Local government city taxes & local resort fees may be payable.
Customer reviews for MSC Musica
3.7
Based on 26 reviews
Cabin
3.7
Service
3.7
Excursions
3.7
Dining
3.7
Activities
3.7
Value for money
3.7
Entertainment
3.7
Lovely ship, spotlessly clean as cleaning seemed to go on all day which was good. Staff exceptionally nice albeit some were overworked especially at the bar areas which also dealt with soft drinks and ice cream. Food mostly excellent but self service restaurant sometimes was a hit and miss. Customer Help Desk could really be more helpful and you have to press them if you have an important issue. Irritating when you ask a young member of staff onboard a question and you get back an enormous smile instead of an answer since not all can speak English.The theatre was a beautiful and attractive one just as you would expect, and the acts were fabulous. Looked forward every evening to this. All in all a lovely cruise but not sure if it was value for money.
Verified customer
1 cruise
22 Sep 2019
I will never cruise with MSC again first and last time ships crew members above cleaners bar staff and general workers were to be frank quite ignorant although we missed our transfer from the port of Venice and had to pay 40euros for a taxi through no fault of our own we have not received any form of apology from them in my opinionMSC stands for most ship cruise line
Verified customer
1 cruise
26 Jun 2019
CONS -Embarkation - we were waiting for two hours in the port. The port guy was constantly shouting at you and people waiting. People in the queue were very poorly mannered, kicking, pushing you and trying to skip the long queues -MSC gave us incorrect drinks package and then blamed our travel agent saying travel agent provided incorrect info ( not true) -MSC allocated our preferred restaurant incorrectly and blamed our travel agent asking for that specific restaurant as per our request (not true) -Dirty bedlinen in the cabin ( stains) -Dirty bathroom ( dirty door, mirror, rust and dirt in the shower) -The balcony cabin is old and carpet/ furniture needs to be replaced very badly - The balcony is dirty and rusty - Customer service is non existent -at the very best they will ignore your complaints, otherwise they will shout at you , they could not care less about your comfort or satisfaction -Cold water at all tea stations- impossible to make a cup of tea -The pool was impossible to get into- too many poorly mannered people pushing you out of the way and kicking you ( we have got a balcony cabin Fantastica experience, which was supposed to be a luxury experience- what a joke!) -The Italian staff were very rude , inpatient, poorly mannered. They were constantly raising their voice and shouting at you. Anything we were asking for was too much of a trouble for them - Our waiter at dinner was really good but service in the restaurant during lunchtime was awful - the waiting staff was ignoring you, you could sit there for 30 min waiting to get a menu, the waiter at the door shouted at you when asked to take order ( shouting that he is not taking orders as he is a door waiter) -They will charge you for water in the cabin even when water is included with your package - They will add Unicef charge to your bill without asking you - I have got a severe allergic reaction within 10 minutes of drinking their cheap pina colada at the pool -They will mix french and english speaking groups together on excursions to earn more money, pure greed ( and will still charge you 90 euro per person). -Disembarking was terrible, staff were treating you like a cattle, long queues again for 3 hours, staff shouting at you, people kicking and pushing you, arrival was also late -Buffet was a mess, people running around, pushing you out of the way and trying to skip long queues - The wines included in the 30 euro per day package were very cheap and of a very bad quality , MSC cocktails gave me a severe allergic reaction PROS -The food was very tasty -Ports / towns where we stopped were very nice - especially Dubrovnik , Venice, Lecce, Mykonos, Olympia -Some Asian staff were very good, polite and friendly -Excursions were interesting and well organised ( except for the guide called Eva in Athens - Acropolis, Plaka and Museum tour- my advice would be to avoid this one) -Entertainment was really good
Verified customer
1 cruise
23 Jun 2019
Great cruise. All flights and transfers worked out to perfection. Hotel Hilton In Durban excellent. Had a wonderful time.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
