TF EU 062011

http://www.msccruises.com/gl_en/Cruise-Departures/Cruise-Details-MSC-Armonia.aspx?cruise_id=AR110603VV&ship_code=AR

1 	Fri 03 Jun 	Venice 	.... 	19:00
2 	Sat 04 Jun 	Ancona 	07:00 	13:00
3 	Sun 05 Jun 	Corfù 	12:30 	17:30
4 	Mon 06 Jun 	Santorini 	15:30 	22:00
5 	Tue 07 Jun 	Piraeus 	07:30 	14:30
6 	Wed 08 Jun 	Argostoli 	09:00 	14:00
7 	Thu 09 Jun 	Kotor 	07:00 	13:00
8 	Fri 10 Jun 	Venice 	10:00 	....

Ancona 6 hours (7am - 1pm)

Urbino

>1 hour bus ride from Urbino to Ancona

from

http://slowtalk.com/groupee/forums/a/tpc/f/862600685/m/802107278

The best (and almost only) way to get from Ancona to Urbino is by train to Pesaro and from Pesaro to Urbino by bus (exit Pesaro train station and you'll find the buses on the right hand side) you'll find the timetables at www.autolineebucci.com I took the bus from the Pesaro train station to Urbino and can confirm that it's both inexpensive and a very scenic.

The bus company was Bucci in one direction, and a competitor bus line (whose name I forget) on the return to Pesaro.

Once in Urbino, there is a steep uphill walk to reach the center of town. Buses arrive and depart from Piazza Mercadante, just outside the medieval walls of Urbino.

Buses depart and arrive from a terminal point about 200 yards from the Pesaro train station (although there is no bus station per se).

ANC01 - URBINO 4.5 hours - 2011

Long Bus Trip Walking on rough terrain:comfortable walking shoes advised Level of difficulty: moderate Limited Availability

Budding painters, photographers and dreamers all will enjoy the art and aesthetics of Urbino and delight in the quaint streets and squares of this lovely walled city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Urbino you will meet your guide that will take you round the historic old town, one of the best preserved medieval centres in Italy. Urbino is located on a sloping hillside and you will admire its picturesque medieval aspects while strolling around its streets and squares. Admire the Palazzo Ducale begun in the second half of the XV century and now housing the National Gallery of Marche, one of the most important collections of Renaissance paintings.

Price per person Starting from: $74.00(Adults) $52.00(Children)

• Ducal Palace - Urbino's huge Ducal Palace, Palazzo Ducale, is one of the most impressive (and also the first) in Italy. The Ducal Palace was built in the second half of the fifteenth century. Top sites are the impressive Courtyard of Honor, the Duke's study with stunning trompe l'oeil inlaid woodwork panels, and the vast network of kitchens, laundry rooms, cellars, and stables. It's easy to spend several hours wandering through the palace and two musuems, the National Gallery and the Archaeological Museum.
• Marche National Gallery - Inside the Ducal Palace, the National Art Gallery of the Marche, Galleria Nazionale delle Marche, has one of the most important collections of Renaissance paintings in the world.
• Duomo - The Duomo or cathedral was constructed on top of a sixth century religous building. Completed in 1604, it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1789 and then rebuilt. The duomo now has a neo-classical appearance and houses several important art works, including a painting of the Last Supper by Federico Barocci. The Museo Diocesano has a collection of glass, ceramics, and religious items.
• Piazza Rinascmento, Piazza della Republica, and Piazza Duca Federico - The center of Urbino is formed by these two squares. Here you'll find cafes, shops, and lots of people.
• Raphael's House - The Renaissance painter Raphael was born in Urbino (in 1483) and his family's house is now a museum.
• Oratorio di San Giuseppe - This medieval church on Via Barocci is known for its presepio, or nativity scene. Nearby is the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista with beautfiul 15th century frescoes.
• Albornz Fortress - The small fortress at the top of Urbino is a great place for views of the town and surrounding hills. It was built in the fourteenth century and was the defensive point for the walls, built in the sixteenth century. It's now a library and public park.
• Botanical Garden - The small orto botanico is nicely laid out with labeled plants, ponds, and pathways. Entrance is free.

Corfu 5 hours (12:30 ->5:30 pm)

A poster at tripadvisor says:

"Paliokastritsa, with its beauty, and monestery, bella vista , lace village views you will treasure forever"

ACHILLEION S PALACE - 4 hours - 2011

Level of difficulty: moderate

Corfu was the final stage of the legendary trip that Ulysses made on his return Ithaca. We will travel around the island admiring Corfus lush landscapes. This excursion includes a visit to Achilleions Palace, former residence of Queen Elizabeth of Austria and a richly decorated home set in a pretty gardens overlooking the sea. The Palace is dedicated to the Greek hero Achilles. Return into Corfu town for a short visit with free time to stroll around.

Price per person Starting from: $68.00(Adults) $48.00(Children)

Santorini 6.5 hours (3:30pm-10:00pm)

TRANSFER TO PERIVOLOS BEACH - 4 hours - 2011

Walking on rough terrain:comfortable walking shoes advised Level of difficulty: moderate There may be Opportunities to take a swim. It is Advisable tobring a beach towel, bathing suit, sun protection cream, and a hat. Limited Availability Take the tender to Athinios port for a bus transfer to Perivolos Beach. You can enjoy free time on the beach to relax, lie down in the sun or swim. Spend the rest of the trip sightseeing in the village of Fira. Information will be given on how to reach the Metropolis Church and then on how to take the cable car down to the port. Board the tender and return to the ship. Note : the excursion is planned from June throughout September. Sun beds and umbrellas are not included in the price of the excursion but it is possible to rent them on the spot. Limited seats. There could be a long line at the cable car station or to pick up the tender boat.

Price per person Starting from: $41.00(Adults) $29.00(Children)

busses and cabs to perivolos

I think we will take a bus or taxi to the beach in santorini

http://www.santorini.com/holidays/transport.htm

All About the Local Buses - Tel : 25404

Santorini Taxis - Tel : 22555

The main taxi stand is just below Fira main square. Minimum charges start at 2 euro and then it depends where you go, if you share (the taxi driver considers each separate party as a second tariff), what time of the night it is, and of course there is an extra charge for luggage or having a taxi come to your hotel. A fare to the port ranges between 10-14 euro from Fira, a fare to Oia might cost between 12-15 euro during the day.

It is advisable to establish the fare before you get into the taxi.

Perivolos beach is easily accessible from Perissa. Buses and cabs can be hired that will take you to the Perivolos beach. Visitors with high energy levels can choose to walk the distance and the walk is indeed invigorating as the surrounding countryside is bewitchingly beautiful.

Express Bus Services In the middle of the high season one can find express buses which go to Perissa & Perivolos. The up side is they skip out some of the villages and you arrive quicker. The down side is that express buses can be cancelled although advertised.

Buses to Athinios Port Buses to Athinios Port are timed to leave Fira main bus depot and get you on time to your ship 1 -1 1/2 hrs prior departure. Routes and pick-up points vary according to how many buses are being deployed. The traditional route is via Karterados, Messaria, Vothonas & Pyrgos.

Piraeus 7 hours (07:30 am -2:30pm)

3 Euros buy a 24 hour public transportation pass There is also a 0.8 euro ticket good for 1.5 hours

Most travellers arriving in Piraeus from Athens make use of the very convenient Metro [5]. Line 1 terminates at the Port, from there it's a short walk to the Saronic Gulf ferries, hydrofoils and catamarans, or a free shuttle-bus ride to the ships sailing to Crete and the Dodecanses. Central Cyclades ferries conveniently sail from just across the metro station. Metro ticket costs €1.00 and allows unlimited connections on all modes of transport within 90 minutes.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Athens_Metro

http://www.cruisereviews.com/forum/europe-port-chat/176-how-go-piraeus-acropolis-using-metro.html

"From the train station its easy to do. But to get to the train station from the port is a very long walk. See the google satellite map by going to googel maps and searching for "athens map ???????? @37.948089,23.642557" I tried to paste the URL but it was too long. The cruise ships dock at the south end of the port and the train/metro station is the Square M symbol top right end of the port. We walked it but it was a long hike. I suggest a taxi to the train station or a bus to the train station. There are 2 stops on the metro line that will be close to an entrance and one that will make you walk all the way around it. At the train station you want to take the green line and then transfer to the blue line at the Monastiraki station (You can get off the green station at Thissio and be close to an entrance but it is on the far side away from the Acropplois itself.) You then want to get off the blue line at the Syntagma station and get on the red line to go one more stop to the Acropoli station.. this will put you at the main entrance with minimal walking. IF you don't want to do so much transferring, just stay on the green line to the Metaxourgio station where you can transfer directly to the red line to the Acropoli station. See a metro map here. Of course you will want to by an "all day" metro pass since you will want to get back to the port and use the metro to get around. "

ATHENS & ACROPOLIS - 4,5 hours - 2011

Long Walking Tours Walking on rough terrain:comfortable walking shoes advised Level of difficulty: difficult Comprehensive sightseeing tour through the main streets and squares of this historic town. Visit the imposing Acropolis which towers 80 metres above the town and which has been the symbol of Athens for thousands of years. Brief stop for souvenir shopping before returning to the ship. Note : the tour is not advised to Guests with mobility problems as it includes a long, difficult walking on even and uneven ground.

Price per person Starting from: $82.00(Adults) $57.00(Children)

PIR08 - PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS - 3,5 hours - 2011

Level of difficulty: easy This excursion is ideal for those unable to climb the steps to the Acropolis but who wish to gain an overall impression of Greeces capital city. We will meet our guide at the port and board the bus for an excursion that covers the key attractions. As we drive from Piraeus to Athens, our guide will point out the main ancient and modern sites including Hadrians arch, the statue of Lord Byron, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Constitution Square and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Our tour will continue past the National Gardens, the Panathinion Stadium, the Academy, the University and the National Library. You will be able to see the Acropolis from a distance and will stop in Plaka for free time. Note: all sites will be seen from outside.

Price per person Starting from: $43.00(Adults) $30.00(Children)

Argostoli 5 hours( 09:00am-2:00)

One poster on tripadvisor said

"Yes you can quite quickly and easily. Argostoli is the island's capital but it's not large at all and has a lot to keep you occupied for your 8-9 hours. There are amazing fish, meat, fruit and veg markets on the harbourside, the famous Drapano Bridge, built by de Bosset, great shopping on the main street Lithostrotos ( many shops will be closed on a Monday), churches, museums, lovely civic buildings, restaurants, bars and more. If it's warm and you fancy a few hours on the beach, grab a taxi and head for Lassi, just a 5 min ride away where you'll find superb. clean, sandy beaches

Obviously, if you wanted to see more of the island, then a tour would be better. Most of the island's top sights are within an hour or less drive from Argostoli."

"there are loungers/parasols for rent, last time we were there they charged about 7 euros a day for two beds and a parasol. If you walk down to the beach on the pathway to the side of the "Supermarket Lassi" ( on the main drag through the town), there's a great beachside taverna - it's name escapes me but they serve simple, good food, as well as soft drinks, beer and spirits. It's raised above the level of the beach so has good views and the guys there don't give a hoot if you wander up to eat in your swimsuits."

http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Tourism-g644214-Lassi_Cephalonia_Ionian_Islands-Vacations.html

DROGARATI CAVES & MYRTOS BEACH - 4.5 hours - 2011

A 45-minutes bus drive will takle you to one of the most stunning cave complexes in the world discovered following an earthquake 300 years ago. Admire the numerous stalactites and stalagmites created more than 100 million years ago. A peculiar walk through the accessible part of the cave will lead you to the wondrous spectacle Big Chamber, known as Apotheosis Chamber due to its excellent acoustics. We will continue with a 45-minutes transfer to the pristine Myrtos beach, a wide, graceful arc of shimmering sand and pebbles protected by staggeringly steep cliffs. Free time to spend there to enjoy the sea.

Note : the tour includes lwalking on uneven ground ; due to the strong currents at Myrtos beach it is advisable to remain close to the shore while swimming. Limited seats. Beach chair and sun umbrella are not included ; you have the possibility to rent them on the spot. This tour is run from June through all September

Price per person Starting from: $76.00(Adults) $53.00(Children)

One poster said

"We visited the Melissani, Drogarati caves and Myrtos Beach and felt the publicity was all a bit oversold, especially after visiting the fabulous Diros Caves in the Peloponnese a few years ago. Myrtos Beach looks absolutely beautiful and best seen looking down from the cliffs above. Going to Kefalonia just to look at the caves plus beach seems a bit of a shame and does not do this lovely island justice. You can drive down to Myrtos Beach but it is not actually sand but very small limestone type pebbles and I was told that it was not a good place to swim as there are quite dangerous sea conditions with undertow current."

Kotor 6 hours (07:00am -1:00pm)

These photos show a box canyon on the sea

http://www.tripadvisor.com/LocationPhotos-g295381-w3-Kotor.html

Credit cards and foreign currencies are not accepted at Jaz Beach. You will need euros for purchases at the beach.

KTR04 - JAZ BEACH - 4,5 hours - 2011

Level of difficulty: moderate There may be Opportunities to take a swim. It is Advisable tobring a beach towel, bathing suit, sun protection cream, and a hat. Limited Availability Drink Leave the ship and enjoy a few hours in the sun on one of the most beautiful beaches of Montenegro ; open sea view and clear water. A short bus drive will take you to Jaz beach, covered with gravel and sand on the shore and sand in the water ; the landscape is real nature, with lush Mediterranean vegetation. The area is protected by the state and gained international prominence as a host of numerous concerts of stars like Rolling Stones, Lenny Kravitz and Madonna. Free time to swim or to relax in the sun, sipping a refreshing drink. Note : limited seats. 2 sun beds & 1 sun umbrella per couple, 1 drink included. This tour is foreseen from June until the middle of September and is subject to weather conditions.

Price per person Starting from: $46.00(Adults) $32.00(Children)

KTR06 - SPEED BOAT TO THE BLUE CAVE - 4,5 hourS - 2011

Level of difficulty: moderate There may be Opportunities to take a swim. It is Advisable tobring a beach towel, bathing suit, sun protection cream, and a hat. Limited Availability Drink Board a fiberglass rigid boat and enjoy a few hours in perfect harmony with the sea and the surrounding nature of Montenegro. You will have the chance to catch glimpses of small villages near the seashore and have opportunity to enjoy beautiful views of hills, bays and small islands. You will then reach the Blue Cave, a miracle of nature, where you will stop ; possibility to bath in the cave. Some who have a heightened sense of the artistic describe swimming in the cave as descent into the blue because of the amazing combination of blue sea and the various shade of blue on the walls of the cave caused by refraction of light. Your tour will then continue to Miriste Beach where you will be served a drink and where you will have free time to stroll around. Note : limited seats. 1 drink included. This tour is foreseen from June until the middle of September and is subject to weather conditions.

Price per person Starting from: $104.00(Adults) $104.00(Children)