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Discover the Ultimate Mediterranean Escape: Athens to Barcelona on Celebrity Xcel, September 13–21, 2026
Sep 13 - 21, 2026
Embark on a luxurious journey across the Mediterranean aboard the state-of-the-art Celebrity Xcel. From the ancient wonders of Athens to the vibrant charm of Barcelona, this 8-night cruise promises an unforgettable adventure filled with culture, relaxation, and stunning scenery.
Itinerary Highlights:
Athens (Piraeus), Greece
- Acropolis and Parthenon: The iconic emblem of Athens, offering breathtaking views of the city and an unparalleled glimpse into ancient Greek history.
- Plaka District: Wander through this charming neighborhood with its neoclassical architecture, vibrant cafes, and souvenir shops nestled under the Acropolis.
- National Archaeological Museum: Home to one of the world's greatest collections of Greek antiquities, showcasing treasures from every era of Greek history.
Santorini, Greece
- Oia's Sunset: Experience one of the world's most photographed sunsets from the cliff-top village of Oia, with its white-washed buildings and blue domes.
- Black Sand Beaches: Visit Perissa or Kamari for a unique beach experience with dark volcanic sands.
- Ancient Akrotiri: Explore this well-preserved Minoan Bronze Age settlement, often referred to as the 'Minoan Pompeii'.
Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
- Ancient City of Ephesus: Walk through one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the Mediterranean, featuring the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- House of the Virgin Mary: A pilgrimage site believed to be where Mary, the mother of Jesus, spent her last days.
- Kusadasi Bazaar: Dive into vibrant Turkish culture with shopping for rugs, spices, and jewelry, and tasting local cuisine.
Mykonos, Greece
- Mykonos Town (Chora): Navigate the maze-like streets of this picturesque town, known for its Cycladic architecture, windmills, and the quaint Little Venice area.
- Beaches: Enjoy the variety of beaches from the party scene at Paradise and Super Paradise to the more serene Psarou or Elia.
- Delos: Take a short boat trip to this UNESCO World Heritage site, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, rich in archaeological treasures.
Rhodes, Greece
- Medieval Old Town of Rhodes: A UNESCO site with imposing walls and cobblestone streets, where you can visit the Palace of the Grand Master and soak in the medieval atmosphere.
- Acropolis of Lindos: Climb up for panoramic views, see the ancient Doric temple, and enjoy the blend of historical sites with the quaint village below.
- Valley of the Butterflies: A natural wonder where thousands of butterflies congregate in summer, creating a scenic and serene environment.
Valletta, Malta
- St. John's Co-Cathedral: Baroque splendor with Caravaggio's masterpiece "The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist."
- Upper Barrakka Gardens: Offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour, the Three Cities, and a daily cannon salute at noon.
- Fort St. Elmo: Now hosting the National War Museum, it's a testament to Malta's military history and resilience.
Barcelona, Spain
- Sagrada Familia: Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, still under construction, yet one of the most visited monuments in Spain.
- Las Ramblas: A bustling pedestrian boulevard where you can enjoy street performances, local markets like La Boqueria, and the city's vibrant atmosphere.
- Park Güell: Another Gaudí gem, this park features whimsical architecture and offers spectacular views over Barcelona.
Each of these ports offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making this cruise an ideal journey for those eager to immerse themselves in the Mediterranean's rich tapestry.
Why Choose Celebrity Xcel?
- Luxurious Accommodations – Modern staterooms and suites designed with your comfort in mind.
- World-Class Dining – Savor exquisite culinary creations crafted by award-winning chefs.
- Entertainment & Activities – Enjoy Broadway-style shows, spa treatments, and enriching onboard programs.
- Personalized Service – Celebrity’s renowned hospitality ensures a seamless and relaxing experience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the Mediterranean in unmatched style and comfort. Reserve your spot today and set sail on a voyage of a lifetime!
Itinerary
Trip Details
Sun, Sep 13: Piraeus, Greece
Mon, Sep 14: Santorini, Greece
Tue, Sep 15: Kusadasi, Turkey
Wed, Sep 16: Mykonos, Greece
Thu, Sep 17: Rhodes, Greece
Sat, Sep 19: Valletta, Malta
Mon, Sep 21: Barcelona, Spain
Full Itinerary

