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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

  1. Trip Details

  2. Sun, Sep 13: Piraeus, Greece

  3. Mon, Sep 14: Santorini, Greece

  4. Tue, Sep 15: Kusadasi, Turkey

  5. Wed, Sep 16: Mykonos, Greece

  6. Thu, Sep 17: Rhodes, Greece

  7. Sat, Sep 19: Valletta, Malta

  8. Mon, Sep 21: Barcelona, Spain

Full Itinerary

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Your Advisor

Alfred Eric Richner

Bucket 3 Travel

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travel@bucket3.co

678-429-2946