From İstanbul’s vibrancy to Cappadocia’s unparalleled beauty and Barcelona’s artistic soul, embark on a unforgettable adventure brimming with history.
Your holiday begins with a three-night hotel stay in İstanbul. Explore its diverse neighbourhoods, marvel at the Hagia Sophia and savour tantalising Turkish cuisine. Explore Cappadocia, famous for its hot air balloons and marvel at Pamukkale’s hot springs. Uncover Ephesus’ ancient ruins, visit the House of Virgin Mary and stroll through legendary Troy, before visiting the poignant Gallipoli battlefields and Anzac Cove.
Return to İstanbul before flying to Athens. Following an overnight escape, embark your ship for a luxurious 21-night Mediterranean cruise, visiting Dubrovnik, Naples and cruising past the Stromboli Volcano. Your journey then ends with two nights in Barcelona, where you’ll marvel at Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces.
The majestic Oosterdam offers guests plenty to see and do on board when not soaking up expansive views of the sea, or relaxing in spacious staterooms after an exciting day partaking in all manner of activities across the vessel’s 11 decks.
Guests are invited to begin their day with an exquisite breakfast in the gorgeously adorned Dining Room, before enjoying other generous on-board amenities such as the Greenhouse Spa and Salon. From live dance performances to sushi bars and movie theatres, there are facilities and activities for everyone to revel in on board this mighty vessel.
In addition to Oosterdam’s unique design features, the stunningly large open-air deck offers mesmerising ocean views while you take a stroll or relax in your deckchair. At night, when the ship truly comes alive, you can catch numerous further activities such as expert history lectures or electric theatre productions under the stars.
Full-Board Cruise
21 night full-board cruise on board Oosterdam
Overnight flights
Day 1 Fly Overnight to Istanbul
Your holiday begins as you fly from Australia to your destination.
Days 2 – 3 Istanbul: Hotel Stay
Arriving in İstanbul, your thrilling adventure begins with a three-night hotel stay, where history and modernity seamlessly blend. İstanbul promises a living mosaic of cultures, evident in its diverse neighbourhoods, architectural marvels and culinary delights.
Day 4 Istanbul: Tour & Hotel Stay
Today, your guide will whisk you on a fascinating city tour. Visit the iconic Blue Mosque, wander Hippodrome Square and enjoy a photo stop at the magnificent Hagia Sophia and lose yourself in the colourful Grand Bazaar.
Day 5 Ankara: Hotel Stay
Ankara calls next; you’ll transfer from İstanbul to Ankara where a restful overnight hotel stay awaits.
Day 6 Cappadocia: Tour & Hotel Stay
Following a photo stop at Lake Tuz, Türkiye’s second-largest lake known for its stunning salt flats, you’ll then visit a Wine House for a sophisticated wine tasting before arriving in Cappadocia for a two-night hotel stay.
Day 7 Cappadocia: Hotel Stay & Tour
Join an optional early morning tour witnessing Cappadocia’s iconic sunrise punctuated with vibrant hot air balloons. Explore the Three Beauties Pigeon Valley, Uçhisar Valley and Pasabag Valley before encountering the Avanos Valley’s Red River, Türkiye’s largest river.
Day 8 Konya: Hotel Stay & Tour
Today, you’ll visit Sultan Han Caravanserai, a well-preserved example of Seljuk architecture and head to Konya, a city rich in cultural heritage. Here, you’ll explore the Mevlana Museum, the final resting place of Rumi, a renowned Suhi mystic.
Day 9 Pamukkale: Hotel Stay & Tour
Next, you’ll transfer to Pamukkale meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish. Enjoy a tour of a local textile outlet and time at leisure ahead of tomorrow’s tour of the region’s stunning white terraces filled with mineral-rich water.
Day 10 Kuşadası: Tour & Hotel Stay
Transferring from Pamukkale to Kuşadası, today you’ll delight in a full day tour including Hierapolis, Cotton Castle, the Thermal Baths and Ampitheatre. Following lunch in the thermal baths, you’ll visit the ancient city of Ephesus.
Day 11 Kuşadası: Hotel Stay
Relax on the beaches of Kuşadası or opt for an optional tour of the House of Virgin Mary, believed to be the final residence of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Dine on the delicious Mediterranean cuisine as you admire the panoramic vistas of the beckoning horizon and surrounding coastline.
Day 12 Çanakkale: Tour & Hotel Stay
Leaving Kuşadası behind, soar through the skies on a cable car to the Acropolis of Pergamon before reaching Çanakkale. Nestled on the Dardanelles Strait, it promises to be one of the highlights of your trip; here you’ll uncover the history of Troy, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 13 Çanakkale: Hotel Stay & Tour
Your day starts with a photo stop at the Trojan Horse, before you’ll explore the Gallipoli region. Visit the Lone Pine Memorial with views of the 1915 front line and the historic Anzac Cove landing site.
Day 14 Athens: Hotel Stay
Today you’ll transfer to İstanbul, before flying to Athens, where you’ll next enjoy an overnight hotel stay in preparation for your cruise.
Day 15 Athens: Embark Ship
Step on board Holland America Line's Oosterdam for a remarkable voyage to cherish. With its elegant design and sophisticated amenities, Oosterdam provides a perfect blend of comfort and style.
Day 17 Corfu
A captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Wander through Venetian streets, bask in golden sunsets, and indulge in mouth-watering cuisine. Immerse yourself in the island’s allure and create lifelong memories.
Day 18 Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, Croatia’s “Pearl of the Adriatic", enchants with medieval charm and coastal beauty. Historic city walls, cobblestone streets, and stunning views make it a captivating blend of history and scenery.
Day 19 Split
Embrace the Mediterranean allure of Split, Croatia. With its historic Diocletian’s Palace, stunning coastal views, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a city that invites you to explore the crossroads of history and modernity along the Dalmatian coast.
Day 20 Trieste
Uncover Trieste’s allure: a city where history, literature, and grand architecture converge. Wander its streets, adorned with neoclassical and art-nouveau marvels, and feel the vibrant pulse that links past and present.
Day 22 Sarandë
Sarandë, a coastal gem nestled in Albania’s embrace. Discover its turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and warm hospitality. Let the Mediterranean charm and breathtaking vistas awaken your wanderlust and ignite your soul’s longing for adventure.
Day 23 Katakolon
Embark on a voyage to Katakolon, Greece’s coastal gem. Immerse yourself in its rich history, stroll along picturesque streets, and indulge in delectable cuisine. Let Katakolon awaken your passion for exploration and cultural immersion.
Day 24 Souda
Discover the maritime charm of Souda, Crete. With its tranquil bay, historic fortresses, and Mediterranean ambiance, it’s a place that invites you to explore the island’s rich history and savor the beauty of coastal Greece.
Day 25 Athens
Soaring mountains, UNESCO World Heritage sites, unspoilt green spaces and Byzantine churches. Wander through the lively streets of Plaka, adorned with quaint shops and charming tavernas, savouring the tantalising flavours of Greek cuisine.
Day 26 Katakolon
The village serves as a popular stop for cruise ships, attracting visitors eager to explore nearby archaeological treasures, traditional tavernas, and beautiful beaches. Katakolon’s blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes makes it a captivating destination for travellers.
Day 27 Sarandë
Sarandë is a picturesque town located on the Albanian Riviera, known for its stunning coastal scenery and vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Situated just across the sea from the Greek island of Corfu, Sarandë boasts beautiful beaches, clear turquoise waters, and a charming promenade.
Day 29 Valletta
Discover Valletta, Malta’s captivating capital, where ornate palaces, museums, and historic fortifications await. Stroll the narrow streets with overhanging balconies, immerse in its rich heritage, and let Valletta’s charm inspire your every step.
Day 30 Taormina
Taormina, Italy – a captivating blend of history and beauty, where ancient ruins and stunning coastal views harmoniously coexist. Let your senses dance amidst the charming streets and vibrant culture.
Day 30 Strait of Messina: Scenic Cruising
Step into Messina’s captivating realm, where art and history merge. Explore the Museo Regionale’s Caravaggio masterpieces and embrace the ancient grandeur of Sicily’s capital. Let Messina transport you to a world of enchantment and inspiration.
Day 30 Stromboli Volcano: Scenic Cruising
Embark on a fiery adventure in Stromboli, Italy. With its active volcano, stunning coastal views, and Aeolian charm, it’s a destination that invites you to witness nature’s raw power and embrace the mesmerising allure of the Mediterranean.
Day 31 Naples
Unleash your wanderlust in Naples, Italy’s vibrant gem. With its stunning bay, Mount Vesuvius, and captivating attractions like the Royal Palace and Pompeii, Naples promises an enriching journey through history and natural beauty.
Day 32 Civitavecchia
Embrace the allure of Civitavecchia, a gateway to Rome. From its ancient Roman origins to its picturesque waterfront, let Civitavecchia transport you to a world of history, beauty, and unforgettable adventures.
Day 33 Bonifacio: Scenic Cruising
Uncover the magic of Bonifacio, Corsica’s gem. With its dramatic cliffs, historic citadel, and captivating old town, this enchanting destination offers a blend of natural beauty and timeless charm that will leave you spellbound.
Day 33 Ajaccio
Ajaccio, nestled in Corsica’s embrace, captivates with Mediterranean beauty. Birthplace of Napoleon, this port city offers history, scenic landscapes, and a blend of French and island culture that enchants visitors.
Day 34 Nice
Embrace the elegance of Nice, France’s glamorous jewel. With its sun-kissed beaches, charming old town, and vibrant promenade, this Mediterranean haven captivates with its timeless beauty, artistic flair, and delectable cuisine.
Days 36 – 37 Barcelona: Disembark Ship & Hotel Stay
Disembarking in Barcelona, you’ll conclude your holiday with a two-night escape. Marvel at artistic visionary Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell.
Days 38 – 39 Barcelona: Fly Home
Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.
