There’s a certain magic in waking up to a new city every morning, espresso in hand and a fresh adventure waiting ashore. That’s exactly what a 7-day cruise with Explora Journeys delivers — but with an extra layer of polish. Think: the sophistication of a boutique hotel, the relaxation of a private yacht, and the allure of Europe’s most iconic coastal cities.
Whether you’re sailing from Civitavecchia (Rome) to Barcelona, or perhaps all the way to the Greek Isles and back to Venice, this is luxury travel with a cultural soul. Here’s your inside look at what a week aboard an Explora cruise might look like.
Day-by-Day Itinerary Highlights
Day 1: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
Gateway to the Eternal City
Begin your journey in the port of Civitavecchia, less than two hours from Rome. Many travelers arrive early to wander the ancient streets, stand in awe of the Colosseum, and pause by the Trevi Fountain before setting sail.
Book a pre-cruise night in Rome — waking up under frescoed ceilings at a palazzo hotel sets the tone for an unforgettable journey.
Once onboard, toast the journey with a glass of Prosecco at the Malt Whisky Bar, then watch the sun set over the Tyrrhenian Sea from your private ocean-facing suite.
Day 2: Barcelona, Spain
Tapas, Gaudí, and coastal glam
You’re docked close to the action — perfect for a stroll down Las Ramblas, followed by marveling at Gaudí’s still-unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia. Explore the Gothic Quarter’s shadowy alleyways and tapas bars, or sip cava in a leafy courtyard.
Not to miss: A leisurely afternoon by the sea, followed by Explora’s curated sunset excursion to Montjuïc — where panoramic views of Barcelona unfold in the golden light.
Day 3: Marseille, France
The South of France, your way
Marseille itself is gritty-chic with a multicultural edge, but it’s also a launchpad to Provence. Picture lavender fields (in season), rosé tastings in Aix-en-Provence, or a breezy afternoon in the hilltop town of Avignon.
Back onboard? Cool off at the Helios Pool & Bar — an adults-only sanctuary where the rosé keeps flowing and the views are très magnifique.
Day 4: Naples, Italy
History and Pizza Heaven
Welcome to Naples, the storied birthplace of pizza — best savored fresh from a traditional wood-fired oven. But this city offers more than just culinary legend. It’s your gateway to the haunting ruins of Pompeii, the sun-drenched cliffs of Capri, and the dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
Explora’s signature touch: A curated day trip that pairs archaeological wonders with local winery tastings.
Evening calls for a candlelit dinner at the Med Yacht Club, where Italian coastal flavors are paired with local wines from Campania.
Day 5: Santorini, Greece
Postcard-perfect moments
You’ll tender into the caldera, with a choice of riding a cable car or (for the bold) a donkey to reach Oia’s cliffside villages. Expect blue-domed churches, boutique shopping, and sunsets that stop time.
Explora style: Private catamaran cruises and vineyard visits — think Assyrtiko sips with volcanic views.
Back at sea, unwind at the Ocean Wellness spa with a sea salt ritual or a meditative “Sundial Salutation” yoga class under the stars.
Day 6: Piraeus (Athens), Greece
Myths, marble, and modernity
Athens is a city of layers. Climb to the Acropolis early to beat the crowds, then wander through Plaka for antiques, ouzo, and handwoven linens. Explora often overnights here, giving you time to explore or take a ferry to Hydra or Aegina.
Evenings onboard? Expect performances that nod to the ancient world — from candlelit harp concerts to storytelling under the stars.
7: Venice (or Trieste/Ravenna), Italy
Ending on an icon
Due to sustainability efforts, most larger ships dock in Trieste or Ravenna — both charming cities in their own right — but Explora includes seamless transfers to Venice.
Glide past stately palazzos, visit Murano’s legendary glassmakers, and end your day with a golden-hour gondola ride through Venice’s timeless canals.
Your last evening may include Explora’s “Decadence” themed soirée — think jazz, Champagne, and stories swapped with newfound friends under moonlight.
Sea Days: The Joy of Doing Nothing (or Everything)
Most 7-day Explora itineraries include one or two days at sea — not simply downtime, but a luxurious interlude designed for unwinding in style.
Start with a slow breakfast at the Emporium Marketplace.
Pop into a mixology class, or dive into a book from the onboard library.
Visit the Conservatory Pool, which transforms into a starlit cinema by night.
Wellness is woven into the experience, from sunrise yoga to aqua therapy sessions in the spa.
Dining Delights at Sea
Dining on Explora Journeys isn’t just a meal — it’s a culinary journey in itself.
Sakura: Japanese meets Mediterranean fusion.
Fil Rouge: French fine dining with a twist.
Anthology: Rotating guest chef concepts for foodie adventurers.
Med Yacht Club: Regional flavors from your ports of call.
You’ll also find in-suite dining and unexpected pop-ups, like Sunset Aperitivo carts rolling out poolside.
Final Thoughts: Why Sail Explora?
A 7-day journey with Explora is about more than just reaching iconic destinations — it’s about elevating every moment in between. Mornings begin at your own pace, with sunlight spilling across the sea and a perfectly flaky pastry in hand. Days unfold in effortless rhythm, with refined comforts, unhurried conversations, and experiences designed to linger long after you disembark
For the traveler who seeks beauty in the journey and the destination — this is your ship. Bon voyage.
Ready to set sail in style?
From the cobblestone charm of Rome to the cliffside beauty of Santorini, your dream 7-day escape awaits aboard Explora Journeys.
Call us now on 888 717 5074 to speak with one of our luxury cruise specialists — because unforgettable starts here.
Book Your Explora Journeys Cruise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the dress code like?
Think elevated casual. Daytime is relaxed, while evenings lean elegant — sundresses, resort wear, and linen suits are the vibe. Formalwear is welcome, but never required.
Q: Is Explora kid-friendly?
Surprisingly, yes. The Nautilus Club welcomes guests aged 6–17 with creative, supervised programming. But the ship is also peaceful enough for adults seeking serenity.
Q: How long are shore excursions?
Most are half-day to full-day experiences. Because Explora often docks overnight or for extended hours, you get more time to explore than the usual cruise hustle.
Q: What’s included in the fare?
Explora is mostly all-inclusive: suites, meals, select drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and access to fitness and wellness programs. Specialty dining and curated excursions may be extra.
Q: Is this cruise better for couples or solo travelers?
Both. Solo travelers will love the space and privacy (plus there’s a strong solo traveler community onboard), while couples can indulge in spa days, wine pairings, and late-night stargazing.
