Croatia & Montenegro – From Piraeus (CC17)
6-day cruise on the Celestyal Journey to Greece - Croatia - Montenegro
Italy, Croatia & Montenegro – From Piraeus (CC4)
Discover the highlights of the eastern Mediterranean on a 7-day cruise from Piraeus aboard the Celestyal Journey. This inspiring round-trip route combines the natural beauty of the Greek islands with the historic cities of Croatia, Montenegro and southern Italy.
From the spectacular coastline of Kefalonia and the medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the fjord-like scenery of Kotor and the archaeological treasures of Olympia, this cruise offers an appealing blend of culture, beaches, history and Mediterranean landscapes. The itinerary also includes Bari, Corfu and a relaxing return to Piraeus.
Celestyal Journey
The Celestyal Journey provides a comfortable setting for exploring the Mediterranean. On board, guests can enjoy a selection of restaurants and bars, inviting public areas, entertainment, a swimming pool and wellness facilities. A variety of cabin categories, including comfortable interior, ocean-view and balcony options, makes it easy to choose the accommodation that suits your cruise style.
With its welcoming atmosphere and convenient regional itineraries, Celestyal Journey is designed to make the journey between destinations as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.
Piraeus, Greece
The cruise begins and ends in Piraeus, the main port of Athens and one of the Mediterranean’s most important maritime gateways. Before or after your cruise, explore the Greek capital and its world-famous landmarks, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum and the historic Plaka district.
Piraeus itself offers a lively waterfront, traditional tavernas, cafés and easy access to the Athenian Riviera. It is an excellent starting point for a cruise filled with ancient history, coastal scenery and island charm.
Kefalonia, Greece
Kefalonia is the largest of the Ionian Islands and is celebrated for its dramatic mountains, peaceful villages and clear blue waters. The island’s varied landscape makes it one of the most attractive stops on a Greek island cruise.
Highlights include the famous Myrtos Beach, known for its bright white pebbles and turquoise sea, as well as the Melissani Cave and the underground lake of Drogarati Cave. Visitors can also explore the picturesque harbour town of Argostoli, enjoy fresh seafood and discover charming coastal villages surrounded by lush scenery.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most memorable destinations. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is enclosed by impressive medieval walls and filled with stone streets, historic churches, elegant squares and atmospheric lanes.
Walk along the ancient city walls for panoramic views over the Adriatic, visit the Rector’s Palace and Dubrovnik Cathedral, or take the cable car to Mount Srđ for a spectacular outlook over the city and coastline. Nearby beaches and coves offer opportunities to relax beside the clear Adriatic waters.
Kotor, Montenegro
Kotor lies at the head of the magnificent Bay of Kotor, surrounded by steep mountains and dramatic coastal scenery. The city’s fortified Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with narrow lanes, historic palaces, churches and inviting squares.
Explore the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, walk through the medieval streets or admire the Venetian architecture that gives Kotor its distinctive character. For memorable views, active travellers can follow the steps towards the ancient fortress of San Giovanni. The bay itself provides a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely visit and is one of Montenegro’s defining natural attractions.
Bari, Italy
Bari, the capital of Puglia, combines southern Italian character with a fascinating historic centre. The atmospheric Bari Vecchia is a maze of narrow streets where traditional life continues around ancient churches, small squares and local food shops.
Important sights include the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, the impressive Cathedral of San Sabino and the Norman-Swabian Castle. Bari is also a wonderful place to sample Puglian specialities, from handmade pasta to fresh seafood and focaccia. The city’s seafront promenade and nearby beaches add a relaxed coastal dimension to this Italian port of call.
Corfu, Greece
Corfu is renowned for its lush landscapes, elegant architecture and cosmopolitan atmosphere. The UNESCO-listed Old Town reflects Venetian, French and British influences, with arcaded streets, grand squares and historic fortresses.
Visit the Old Fortress, stroll through Spianada Square and explore the Liston promenade before enjoying a traditional Greek meal. Corfu also offers beautiful beaches, secluded coves and crystal-clear waters. Depending on your plans, you can explore the island’s green interior, visit the Palace of Achilleion or relax on one of the scenic shores near Corfu Town.
Katakolo and Ancient Olympia, Greece
The small seaside port of Katakolo is the gateway to the legendary archaeological site of Ancient Olympia. This historic sanctuary was the birthplace of the Olympic Games and remains one of Greece’s most important cultural destinations.
Discover the ancient stadium, temples and ruins of the sanctuary, and visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia to see remarkable sculptures and artefacts from the site. Katakolo itself is a pleasant coastal village with waterfront cafés, local shops and nearby beaches, making it ideal for combining cultural sightseeing with a relaxed seaside break.
A Mediterranean Cruise of History, Nature and Beaches
This Italy, Croatia and Montenegro cruise from Piraeus brings together some of the eastern Mediterranean’s most captivating destinations. Enjoy Ionian island beaches, UNESCO-listed cities, dramatic Adriatic coastlines, authentic local cuisine and legendary archaeological sites, all during one comfortable 7-day journey aboard Celestyal Journey.

Celestyal Journey is a stylish mid-sized cruise ship from Celestyal Cruises, designed for travellers who want to experience the destination as much as the ship. Following an extensive 2023 renovation, the ship combines a relaxed atmosphere with upgraded public areas, a wider choice of dining and an inviting selection of bars.
At 55,451 tonnes and 220 metres long, Celestyal Journey carries approximately 1,114 guests at standard occupancy, with space for up to 1,627 passengers. Its more intimate size is a major advantage for a Greek islands cruise or Mediterranean cruise, allowing guests to enjoy a friendly onboard environment while visiting scenic ports and destinations that may be less accessible to the largest cruise ships.
The ship suits couples, independent travellers and first-time cruisers looking for an easy-going way to explore Greece and the wider Mediterranean. With attentive service, varied dining and a choice of relaxing and social spaces, it offers a comfortable balance between discovery and downtime.
Cabins and suites on Celestyal Journey
Celestyal Journey offers 633 cabins in a range of categories, making it possible to choose accommodation according to your preferred view, space and budget. Options generally include interior cabins, ocean-view cabins, cabins with balconies and a selection of suites.
The ship has 149 private balconies, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy sea views and the changing scenery from their own outdoor space. Balcony accommodation is particularly appealing on an island-hopping itinerary, when the ship sails past Greek coastlines, small islands and picturesque ports.
For extra room and enhanced comfort, the accommodation range includes more than 28 suites and around 120 junior suites. The impressive Penthouse Suite provides a more spacious and indulgent setting for guests seeking a premium cruise experience. Cabin amenities and layouts vary by category, so it is worth checking the precise details before selecting your room.
On-board dining, restaurants and bars
Dining is one of the highlights of Celestyal Journey. Following the ship’s refurbishment, guests can choose from seven new restaurants, creating more variety throughout the cruise and making it easy to enjoy a different style of meal on different evenings.
The Chef’s Table offers a special dining experience for passengers who want to make their meal an occasion. Depending on the service and itinerary, guests can expect menus inspired by Mediterranean flavours alongside familiar international favourites, with a focus on enjoying the tastes of the destinations visited.
Casual meals and refreshments are also available in relaxed dining venues, while the ship’s buffet-style options are convenient for breakfast, lunch or an informal dinner. With eight bars onboard, there are plenty of places to meet for coffee, a pre-dinner drink or one of Celestyal’s signature cocktails. From laid-back daytime spaces to more sociable evening venues, the bar selection helps create a lively but unhurried cruise atmosphere.
Entertainment and activities
Celestyal Journey offers a varied programme for days at sea and relaxed evenings onboard. Guests can enjoy live entertainment, music and social activities, with the schedule designed to complement the ship’s destination-focused cruising style rather than overwhelm it.
During the day, passengers can spend time around the pool, relax on the sun decks or join organised activities. The ship’s public areas provide opportunities to meet fellow travellers, while the choice of bars and evening entertainment makes it easy to continue the evening after dinner.
Shore excursions are an important part of the Celestyal experience. Depending on the itinerary, guests can explore Greek islands, historic coastal towns, archaeological sites, local villages and celebrated Mediterranean landmarks. Booking selected excursions in advance can help secure a place on popular tours and make the most of limited time in port.
Wellness and relaxation
Celestyal Journey provides plenty of opportunities to slow down between port visits. The pool area and open-air sun decks are ideal for reading, enjoying the sea views or simply relaxing after a day of sightseeing.
Guests who want to maintain their routine during a cruise can make use of the ship’s fitness and wellness facilities, while spa services provide a way to add extra relaxation to the voyage. For a particularly peaceful experience, consider using the outdoor areas early in the morning, when the ship is sailing towards its next Mediterranean destination.
Tips for passengers on Celestyal Journey

Athens is a city where ancient history, lively neighbourhoods and Mediterranean culture come together. As the birthplace of classical democracy and a major centre of ancient Greek civilisation, it offers cruise passengers the chance to see world-famous monuments, archaeological treasures and traditional streets during a single day in port.
Cruise ships dock at Piraeus, Greece’s principal passenger port and the historic maritime gateway to Athens. Piraeus has its own character, with busy waterfronts, fishing boats, tavernas and scenic harbours, while central Athens lies inland and is easily reached by public transport, taxi or organised shore excursion.
Whether you spend the day exploring the Acropolis, strolling through Plaka or enjoying seafood beside the water in Piraeus, Athens provides a memorable mix of ancient landmarks and modern Greek life.
Top attractions and sights
The Acropolis is Athens’ defining landmark and the essential sight for many cruise visitors. The hill is crowned by the Parthenon, while the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea reveal the architectural ambition of classical Athens. From the summit, there are sweeping views across the city and towards the Saronic Gulf.
The Acropolis Museum is one of the city’s most important cultural attractions. Its galleries display sculptures and artefacts from the Acropolis, including the famous Caryatids, in a modern building with impressive views of the Parthenon.
Below the Acropolis, the historic neighbourhood of Plaka is ideal for a relaxed walk through narrow streets, neoclassical buildings, small shops and traditional cafés. Nearby Anafiotika has a distinctive island-style atmosphere, with whitewashed houses and quiet lanes beneath the Acropolis.
The Ancient Agora of Athens was once the political, commercial and social heart of the city. Its highlights include the remarkably preserved Temple of Hephaestus and the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos. The Roman Agora and the Arch of Hadrian are also within easy reach of the Acropolis area.
For a broader collection of Greek antiquities, visit the National Archaeological Museum, which houses masterpieces from the Mycenaean, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods. If you prefer to remain in Piraeus, the Piraeus Archaeological Museum presents important finds connected with the city’s ancient past and maritime history.
Back at the port, the waterfront areas of Mikrolimano and Pasalimani are popular for their harbourside restaurants and views of the sea. The hilltop district of Kastella offers attractive streets and elevated views over Piraeus and the Saronic Gulf.
Beaches
Piraeus has several seaside spots that can suit passengers who would rather enjoy the coast than travel into central Athens. Votsalakia Beach, near Kastella and the Mikrolimano area, is one of the better-known urban beaches close to the port. Freatida Beach, near the entrance to the Piraeus peninsula, is another local option with views across the water.
For a more extensive selection of organised beaches and seaside promenades, travellers can continue along the Athens Riviera towards Glyfada, Voula and other coastal suburbs. These areas require additional travel time, so they are best suited to passengers with a full day and a clear plan for returning to the ship.
Local products and shopping
Athens is a good place to shop for Greek food products, including extra virgin olive oil, honey, herbs, mountain tea, olives and regional cheeses. Packaged products are convenient souvenirs for cruise passengers, especially when luggage space and travel regulations are taken into account.
Traditional Greek crafts and gifts include handmade ceramics, leather sandals, woven textiles, olive-wood kitchenware and jewellery inspired by ancient Greek designs. Reproductions of classical sculptures, pottery and archaeological motifs are widely available around Plaka and the Monastiraki area.
Monastiraki is one of the city’s best-known shopping districts, combining souvenir shops, antique stalls, vintage goods and lively street scenes. Ermou Street offers mainstream shopping, while the Central Market area provides a more local atmosphere and a chance to browse Greek ingredients and delicatessen products.
Food and local cuisine
Athens is an excellent destination for trying classic Greek dishes. Look for moussaka, grilled souvlaki, gyros, spanakopita, stuffed vine leaves and Greek salad made with tomatoes, cucumber, olives and feta. Small meze restaurants are a good choice for sampling several dishes in one meal.
Seafood is particularly appealing around Piraeus, Mikrolimano and Pasalimani, where tavernas serve grilled fish, calamari, prawns and other dishes from the Aegean and Saronic Gulf. Local menus may also include octopus, fried small fish and seasonal vegetable dishes.
For a quick snack or dessert, try koulouri, a sesame-coated bread ring, or loukoumades, warm Greek doughnuts traditionally served with honey, syrup or cinnamon. Greek coffee and chilled frappé are popular drinks, while ouzo is commonly enjoyed with meze. Greek wine and regional spirits such as tsipouro are also worth discovering.
Tips for cruise passengers
From the cruise terminals in Piraeus, you can reach central Athens by metro, taxi, organised excursion or other local transport. The metro connects Piraeus with the city centre, although the best option depends on your terminal, mobility needs and the time available. Check the return route carefully before leaving the port.
Passengers visiting Athens for the first time should generally prioritise the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum and the surrounding historic centre. Plaka, the Ancient Agora and Monastiraki can be combined with these sights, but it is wise to avoid an overambitious itinerary because queues, summer heat and city traffic may slow your day.
If you have already seen the Acropolis, consider spending your time in Piraeus at the Archaeological Museum, Kastella, Mikrolimano or Pasalimani. A waterfront lunch and a walk around the harbours offer a more relaxed way to experience the port city without travelling into central Athens.
Wear comfortable shoes, carry water and protect yourself from the sun, particularly when visiting exposed archaeological sites. Reserve popular attractions in advance when possible, allow plenty of time to return to the ship, and follow the cruise line’s recommended all-aboard time rather than relying on the last available public transport connection.

Argostoli is the lively capital of Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian Islands. Set around a sheltered bay and surrounded by green hills, the town combines relaxed waterfront life with Venetian, British and modern Greek influences. Its broad harbour promenade is lined with cafés, tavernas and small shops, while loggerhead turtles are sometimes seen in the clear waters near the shore.
Kefalonia has a long and varied history, shaped by Venetian rule, earthquakes and the island’s seafaring traditions. The devastating earthquake of 1953 transformed Argostoli, but historic buildings, museums and local customs still reveal the character of the island. Cruise ships arriving at the Argostoli cruise port provide easy access to the town centre as well as to famous Kefalonia attractions such as Myrtos Beach, Melissani Cave and the village of Assos.
Top attractions and sights
Argostoli is easy to explore on foot, with many of its main sights close to the waterfront. The town is a pleasant base for discovering both Kefalonia’s history and its spectacular natural scenery.
Beaches
Several attractive beaches are available near Argostoli and the neighbouring resort of Lassi. Makris Gialos and Platis Gialos are sandy, well-known beaches with clear Ionian water, while nearby Kalamia Beach offers a more sheltered setting close to town. Lassi’s beaches can be reached by taxi or on an organised shore excursion, although travel time can vary with traffic and road conditions.
For a longer island outing, Myrtos Beach is Kefalonia’s iconic choice, famous for its brilliant white pebbles, turquoise water and dramatic mountain setting. It is farther from the port than the beaches around Argostoli, so allow plenty of time for the return journey to the ship.
Local products and shopping
Argostoli is a good place to shop for edible souvenirs and small gifts that reflect Kefalonia’s agricultural traditions. Local delicatessens, market stalls and specialist shops often stock island produce alongside Greek favourites.
Food and local cuisine
Kefalonian cooking combines fresh seafood, local meat, vegetables, olive oil and aromatic herbs. Waterfront tavernas in Argostoli are convenient for a leisurely meal, while smaller restaurants away from the main promenade can offer a more traditional island atmosphere.
Tips for cruise passengers
The Argostoli cruise port is close to the town’s waterfront and central streets. Depending on the ship and harbour arrangements, passengers may go ashore at a berth or by tender, so follow the ship’s instructions for arrival and return procedures. From the waterfront, the main shopping streets, cafés and several museums are accessible on foot.

Dubrovnik is a spectacular Adriatic city known for its medieval walls, red-roofed houses and clear blue sea. Once the centre of the powerful maritime Republic of Ragusa, the city developed into an important trading and cultural hub while preserving its historic character.
Most cruise ships arrive at the Port of Dubrovnik in Gruž, a lively harbour northwest of the Old Town. From the port, visitors can easily reach Dubrovnik’s historic centre by local bus, taxi or organised cruise transfer, making the city well suited to a day of sightseeing, swimming and sampling Dalmatian cuisine.
Top attractions and sights
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is enclosed by impressive stone fortifications and entered through the historic Pile Gate or Ploče Gate. Walk along the Stradun, the polished limestone main street, and explore the narrow lanes, elegant squares and baroque buildings surrounding it.
Beaches
Dubrovnik has several attractive swimming spots close to the port and Old Town. Banje Beach, near Ploče Gate, is convenient for cruise visitors and looks across the water towards the island of Lokrum. Lapad Bay has a pleasant waterfront promenade and access to beaches, while Copacabana Beach on the Lapad peninsula is known for its views and seaside facilities.
Sveti Jakov Beach, southeast of the Old Town, is a picturesque option with views of Dubrovnik’s walls and Lokrum. The shoreline is often pebbly or rocky, so water shoes can be useful. During the summer season, popular beaches may become busy, particularly when several cruise ships are in port.
Local products and shopping
The Old Town’s lanes contain shops selling Croatian crafts, regional food products and Dubrovnik souvenirs. Look for handmade jewellery, ceramics, embroidered textiles and traditional Konavle embroidery, which is associated with the area south of Dubrovnik.
Local food gifts include Dalmatian olive oil, dried figs, candied orange peel, lavender products and jars of arancini, a traditional Dubrovnik sweet made from candied orange rind. Croatian wines, especially those from the wider Dalmatian region, are also popular purchases. The Gruž market is a good place to see seasonal produce and everyday local life.
Food and local cuisine
Dubrovnik’s cuisine reflects the flavours of the Dalmatian coast. Try black risotto, made with cuttlefish and its ink, or fresh grilled fish served with vegetables and olive oil. Brodet, a fish stew, is another traditional Adriatic dish, while octopus salad is a refreshing choice in warm weather.
Other regional specialities include pašticada, slow-cooked beef served with gnocchi, and zelena menestra, a hearty dish associated with the Dubrovnik area. For dessert, sample rožata, a Dalmatian-style caramel custard, or kotonjata, a traditional quince sweet. Local wines such as Plavac Mali and Pošip pair well with seafood and Mediterranean dishes.
Tips for cruise passengers
The Port of Dubrovnik is located in Gruž, outside the historic centre. Local buses, taxis and cruise-line transfers connect the port with the Old Town, and some visitors choose to walk along the waterfront when conditions and time allow. Check the return arrangements carefully, as traffic can become busy during the main cruise season.

Kotor is a historic coastal town set at the head of the dramatic Bay of Kotor, where steep limestone mountains rise above calm Adriatic waters. Its compact medieval Old Town, surrounded by Venetian walls, combines grand squares, stone churches and winding lanes with a relaxed Montenegrin atmosphere.
Once an important maritime and trading centre, Kotor has a rich history shaped by the Byzantine, Venetian and Austro-Hungarian periods. The city and the natural setting of the Bay of Kotor are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making Kotor cruise port one of the most scenic destinations in the Adriatic.
Cruise ships usually dock close to Kotor Old Town, so passengers can begin exploring almost immediately. From the waterfront, it is easy to walk to the historic centre, visit museums and churches, enjoy a meal beside the bay, or join a boat trip to nearby Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks.
Top attractions and sights in Kotor
Beaches near Kotor
Kotor is best known for its heritage and mountain scenery rather than broad sandy beaches. Along the bay, visitors can find small waterfront bathing areas and concrete platforms, particularly around Dobrota, where locals swim in the clear water during the warmer months.
For a more traditional beach experience, organised excursions can travel to the Luštica Peninsula, including Plavi Horizonti Beach, or to other coastal resorts in the Bay of Kotor and along the Adriatic coast. Travel time can vary with summer traffic, so cruise passengers should allow plenty of time to return to the ship.
Local products and shopping in Kotor
Kotor’s Old Town has independent shops and market stalls selling souvenirs inspired by Montenegro’s maritime, religious and mountain traditions. Popular purchases include handmade ceramics, woven textiles, embroidered items, traditional jewellery, olive-wood crafts and locally made soaps.
Food and local cuisine in Kotor
Dining in Kotor brings together Adriatic seafood, Balkan specialities and the culinary traditions of the Bay of Kotor. Waterfront restaurants and Old Town taverns are good places to try local dishes during a cruise day, although service can be leisurely during busy periods.
Tips for cruise passengers in Kotor

Bari, the lively capital of Puglia, combines a historic Adriatic port with a warm, distinctly southern Italian atmosphere. Its ancient old town, known as Bari Vecchia, is a maze of narrow lanes, stone arches and small squares where everyday life unfolds alongside centuries-old churches and traditional food workshops.
The city has long been an important crossroads between Italy and the eastern Mediterranean. Its most famous landmark is the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, which attracts both Catholic and Orthodox pilgrims, while the seafront, historic harbour and elegant modern districts give Bari a varied character that is easy to enjoy during a day in port.
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Bari, whose cruise facilities provide convenient access to the city centre. From the port area, passengers can explore many central sights on foot, although taxis and local transport are useful for beaches and attractions farther from Bari Vecchia.
Top attractions and sights
Bari Vecchia is the ideal place to begin sightseeing. Wander through its atmospheric lanes to see local residents making fresh orecchiette pasta by hand, discover small courtyards, and admire the simple stone architecture of the old town.
Beaches
Bari has several urban beaches suitable for passengers who want time by the sea without leaving the city. Pane e Pomodoro Beach is the best-known option, with a broad shoreline, swimming areas and views back towards Bari. Torre Quetta, farther along the coast, is another popular seaside area with space for swimming and relaxing during the warmer months.
Beach conditions and facilities can vary by season, so passengers should allow time for the return journey to the cruise port. For a short port visit, the old town and waterfront usually offer a more convenient combination of sightseeing, food and sea views.
Local products and shopping
Bari and the wider Puglia region are known for high-quality Mediterranean food products. Extra-virgin olive oil is one of the best souvenirs to take home, while regional wines, taralli, dried pasta and preserved vegetables are easy to find in speciality food shops and markets.
The streets around Bari Vecchia, the central shopping district and the food markets are good places to browse for regional specialities. Check local customs and airline restrictions before buying liquids or perishable products.
Food and local cuisine
Bari’s cuisine is simple, generous and strongly connected to Puglia’s farms and coastline. Fresh seafood, vegetables, durum wheat pasta and olive oil feature prominently on menus throughout the city.
For dessert, try traditional almond-based sweets or gelato, and pair a meal with a glass of Puglian wine. Bari Vecchia is particularly atmospheric for tasting local dishes in a traditional setting.
Tips for cruise passengers
The Port of Bari is close to the city centre, and many cruise passengers can reach Bari Vecchia from the port area on foot. The exact route depends on the berth and terminal arrangements on the day, so follow the port’s pedestrian directions and allow extra time when returning to the ship.

Corfu, known locally as Κέρκυρα (Kérkyra), is one of Greece’s most atmospheric island destinations. Its elegant Venetian architecture, lush countryside, turquoise coastline and long, complex history give it a character distinct from many other Greek islands. The island blends Greek, Venetian, French and British influences, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere around the historic town.
Most cruise ships arrive at Corfu’s New Port, near the island capital. From the cruise terminal, visitors can easily reach Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where arcaded squares, narrow lanes and imposing fortresses make a memorable setting for a day ashore. The port is also a convenient starting point for excursions to beaches, palaces and traditional villages.
Top attractions and sights
Corfu Old Town is the essential destination for cruise passengers. Wander through the kantounia, the town’s narrow Venetian lanes, and visit the Liston, an elegant arcade facing the Spianada, one of the largest town squares in Greece. The area is ideal for a relaxed walk, coffee or browsing small shops.
Beaches
Several attractive beaches can be reached from Corfu Town by taxi, local transport or organised shore excursion. The closest convenient options include the beaches around Anemomylos and Mon Repos, while larger resorts and bays are found farther from the port.
Local products and shopping
Corfu is famous for products that reflect its Mediterranean landscape and long trading history. Extra virgin olive oil, green and black olives, local honey and kumquat products are among the most popular edible souvenirs. The island’s distinctive kumquat liqueur, made from fruit introduced to Corfu in the nineteenth century, is also widely available.
In the old town, look for handmade soaps, beeswax goods, local herbs, olive-wood kitchenware and traditional sweets. Corfiot embroidery, ceramics and jewellery make attractive gifts, while small delicatessens are useful places to find regional olive oil, kumquat preserves and packaged sweets suitable for travelling.
Food and local cuisine
Corfiot cuisine combines Greek ingredients with Venetian influences. One of the island’s best-known dishes is sofrito, usually made with thin slices of veal cooked in a white wine, garlic and vinegar sauce. Pastitsada, traditionally prepared with meat and a richly spiced tomato sauce served over pasta, is another signature dish.
Tips for cruise passengers
Corfu cruise ships dock at the New Port, where passengers may find a shuttle service, taxis and organised excursions. The historic centre is not at the cruise berth itself, so check the ship’s arrangements before walking away from the terminal. Taxis are useful for reaching Kanoni, Mon Repos or beaches beyond the town, while guided tours can combine the old town with attractions farther across the island.
For a first visit, make Corfu Old Town the priority. Allow time for the Old Fortress, Saint Spyridon Church, the Liston and the atmospheric backstreets before stopping for a local meal or coffee. If you prefer a sightseeing excursion, combine the town with Kanoni and Mouse Island, or choose the Achilleion area when access is available. Leave plenty of time to return to the port, particularly when travelling by taxi or visiting beaches outside Corfu Town.
Comfortable shoes are valuable on the old town’s uneven stone streets, and summer visitors should carry water, sun protection and a hat. Corfu can become busy when several cruise ships are in port, so starting early is the best way to enjoy the fortresses and narrow lanes at a quieter pace.

Katakolon is a small seaside port on the western coast of the Peloponnese, best known as the gateway to Ancient Olympia. With its relaxed waterfront, traditional tavernas and welcoming atmosphere, the village offers a gentle introduction to the landscapes and culture of Greece. The port is officially known in Greek as Κατάκολο (Αρχ. Ολυμπία).
Most cruise passengers visit Katakolon to explore Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. The sacred site was one of the most important religious centres of the ancient world, dedicated to Zeus, and remains one of the Peloponnese’s most memorable archaeological destinations. Katakolon itself is compact and easy to explore, with the port, shops and seafront restaurants close together.
The port of Katakolon welcomes cruise ships directly beside the village. From here, passengers can spend the day discovering Ancient Olympia, relaxing on a nearby beach or enjoying fresh Greek food overlooking the Ionian Sea.
Top attractions and sights in Katakolon and Olympia
Ancient Olympia is the main attraction near Katakolon and a highlight of any Greek cruise itinerary. The archaeological site includes the remains of the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the ancient stadium, the palaestra and other buildings connected with worship, sport and daily life. Walking among the ruins gives a vivid impression of the setting where the Olympic Games were held for centuries.
The Archaeological Museum of Olympia contains important discoveries from the sanctuary, including sculptures, architectural fragments and objects from the ancient site. Its celebrated exhibits include the Hermes of Praxiteles and the impressive sculptures from the Temple of Zeus. The Museum of the History of the Olympic Games in Antiquity provides further insight into the origins and traditions of the ancient sporting festival.
Back in Katakolon, the seafront promenade is ideal for a leisurely stroll after an excursion. Small cafés, tavernas and souvenir shops line the waterfront, while the village’s modest streets offer views of fishing boats and the Ionian coastline. The nearby Museum of Ancient Greek Technology presents reconstructions of inventions attributed to the ancient Greeks and can be an interesting alternative for visitors who want to remain close to the port.
Beaches near Katakolon
Katakolon is close to several beaches where cruise passengers can enjoy a swim or a relaxing break by the sea. Agios Andreas Beach, near the port area, is one of the most convenient options and has a laid-back coastal atmosphere with places to eat and drink.
Kourouta Beach, near the town of Amaliada, is a popular sandy beach with beach bars, cafés and a livelier summer atmosphere. Skafidia Beach, close to the Skafidia area and its monastery, is another attractive choice for visitors seeking clear water and a scenic Ionian setting. Travel time and transport availability can vary, so passengers should allow plenty of time to return to the ship.
Local products and shopping in Katakolon
Katakolon’s shops are a convenient place to look for authentic Peloponnese souvenirs. Popular purchases include extra-virgin olive oil, local olives, honey, herbs, dried fruit and Greek wine. The region of Elis is known for its agricultural produce, making food gifts a practical way to take home a taste of western Greece.
Visitors can also find olive-wood kitchenware, handmade ceramics, leather goods, embroidered textiles and jewellery inspired by ancient Greek designs. Souvenirs featuring the Olympic rings, Greek mythology or the ruins of Olympia are widely available near the port. Look for locally produced items and check packaging requirements before buying food products for international travel.
Food and local cuisine in Katakolon
Katakolon’s waterfront tavernas serve classic Greek dishes alongside fresh seafood. Look for grilled fish, prawns, calamari, octopus, Greek salad, tzatziki, stuffed vine leaves and moussaka. Grilled meats, souvlaki and seasonal vegetables are also dependable choices for a relaxed meal before returning to the ship.
The Peloponnese is celebrated for its olive oil, olives, honey and wine, so these ingredients feature prominently in local cooking. In western Greece, visitors may also encounter kagianas, a rustic dish of eggs cooked with tomato and pork. For dessert, try baklava, yoghurt with honey and nuts, or loukoumades, small fried dough balls served with honey or syrup.
Greek coffee, iced coffee and regional wines are easy to enjoy at a café along the Katakolon waterfront. A leisurely lunch with local wine and a view of the harbour is one of the simplest ways to experience the village during a cruise stop.
Tips for cruise passengers
The cruise port is beside Katakolon village, so the waterfront, cafés and souvenir shops are generally easy to reach on foot from the ship. Taxis, private tours and organised shore excursions provide transport to Ancient Olympia, while local rail services may operate between the port area and Olympia depending on the season and timetable.
Ancient Olympia is inland, so passengers should choose transport carefully and allow time for the return journey. An organised excursion is a convenient option for cruise visitors who want guided commentary and a planned schedule. Independent travellers should confirm return transport before leaving the port and keep the ship’s all-aboard time in mind.
For the best use of a day in Katakolon, start with Ancient Olympia if it is your main priority, then return to the village for lunch, shopping or a short beach visit. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun protection, particularly when exploring the largely open archaeological site. During hot weather, carry water and plan breaks in the shade. If you prefer a relaxed day, remain in Katakolon, enjoy the seafront and explore the local shops without travelling inland.