Star Clipper Voyage & Scenic Swiss Rail: Athens-Venice-Zurich (Tour code: 15836)

Star Clipper is a true clipper ship, reflecting its proud heritage in every inch of polished brass and gleaming brightwork. Step aboard and discover a new age of sail, where the traditions of the past are happily married to modern comforts. At 115 metres long, Star Clipper carries just 166 guests in relaxed, yacht-like style.

Expansive teak decks offer more outdoor space per passenger than most conventional cruise ships, with two swimming pools, open-seating dining, a Tropical Bar, Piano Bar, and an Edwardian-style library. The décor evokes the grand age of sail with antique prints, paintings, and gleaming mahogany rails.

Outside Cabin Category 1 | Star Clipper

Make your way to Athens Port (Piraeus) to begin your sailing adventure aboard the Star Clipper, a classic tall ship that combines timeless charm with modern comfort.

Walking in the shadow of the Acropolis in the Agora, you can almost hear the voices of Plato, Socrates and Aristotle arguing about who was the greatest philosopher. Ancient Athens, the birthplace of democracy and epicenter of western civilization, is a city for all eternity. Piraeus is the port of Athens, just 15km from the city and 45km from the airport.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Athens

One of the most cosmopolitan of all the Greek Islands, Mykonos is a contrast of rocky hills and beautiful beaches. Hora, the capital, spreads around a colourful harbour, a popular meeting place, overlooked by a variety of tavernas, in which fishing boats nestle side by side with luxury yachts.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Mykonos

Perched on the cliffs of the caldera, this volcanic island offers breathtaking panoramic views, whitewashed houses with blue roofs and picturesque cobbled streets. Explore the charming villages of Oia and Fira, relax on unique black or red sand beaches, and enjoy exquisite local cuisine accompanied by renowned wines. A truly photogenic island with a reputation to match.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Santorini

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalising spa (Royal Clipper only) and a peaceful library.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Credit: Star Clipper

A charming port town on Greece's Peloponnese peninsula, Katakolon serves as a gateway to the ancient site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Passengers can explore the ancient ruins with our optional tour. Katakolon itself offers a picturesque waterfront lined with shops and cafes, providing a relaxing prelude or conclusion to the historical exploration of Olympia.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Katakolon

The lushest (and some say the loveliest) of all the Greek Islands, Corfu lies just a stone's throw from the Albanian coast. Nowhere is the stunning natural beauty of Corfu more evident than in the small village of Paleocastritsa, where legend says Odysseus was washed ashore to be rescued by Nausicaa.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Corfu

This stunning rock-walled chasm splitting the coastal mountains of Montenegro is the longest arm of the sea in southern Europe. Boka harbours one of the prettiest, unspoiled towns you'll ever see, the medieval city of Kotor. Founded by the Romans, fortified during the Byzantine era, then ruled by Venice for much of its history, Kotor has been naturally preserved by its isolation.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Kotor

It was George Bernard Shaw who said: 'Those who seek paradise on earth should come to Dubrovnik.' Indeed, Dubrovnik is a treasure by any measure made more precious by its miraculous restoration. Crowned by the Minceta Tower, the 10th century city walls are the proud symbol of Dubrovnik's colourful history.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Dubrovnik

Framed by dense green forests of allepo pine and twisted cypress, the red tile roofs of Korcula, whose most famous native son was Marco Polo, form an inviting picture. The pale wheat-coloured stone Cathedral of St. Mark houses a treasure trove of Dalmatia

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Korcula

The heavenly scent of lavender perfumes the air in the fields and valleys around the island of Hvar. Idyllically located just off the Dalmatian Coast, the island and the little port named after it have been a favorite getaway ever since the time of the Romans, the Byzantines, the Venetians and even Austro-Hungarian royalty.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Hvar

Cres, situated in the Adriatic Sea, is Croatia's largest island. With its unspoilt landscapes, picturesque villages and secluded coves, Cres offers striking contrasts for a tranquil getaway in unspoilt natural surroundings.

Overnight onboard Star Clipper in an inside stateroom.

Cres

Disembark at Venice Port and transfer to the city centre and your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Venice.

Venice is the heart and soul of romance. Cast your eye on the rounded domes of San Marco, take a deep breath at the Bridge of Sighs, gaze on the golden lions and the Renaissance glories of the Doge's Palace, listen for the ghosts of Verdi, Puccini and Caruso at La Fenice Opera House, gape at the classic Palladian proportions of the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore, glide in a gondola down the Grand Canal. And know that love is always in the air in Venice.

Overnight stay in Venice at Hotel Amadeus or similar.

Venice

Breakfast at the hotel, then full day dedicated to the discovery of Venice. You can take a guided walking tour through the most famous places in the city (Piazza San Marco with the Basilica and the Clock Tower, the Rialto Bridge, Campo Santa Maria Formosa) and others less known; or a skip-the-line guided tour of the Doge's Palace, with the Doge's luxurious apartments and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

Alternatively, you can go on a boat trip to the islands of the Venice lagoon: Murano, known all over the world for its famous glass craftmanship; Burano, famous not only for its lace, but also for the picturesque fishermen's houses all painted in bright colours; and Torcello, the first settlement centre in the lagoon.

In the afternoon there will be a 30-minute “gondola ride” with commentary via app on your mobile phone (included in the rates).

Before dinner in Venice, it is traditional to have an aperitif based on “cichéti” (small snacks) in one of the many “bacari” (taverns) scattered along the “calli” (that is what the Venetian streets are called): a must experience to try, absolutely!

Overnight stay in Venice at Hotel Amadeus or similar.

Venice

Breakfast at your hotel. Reach Santa Lucia Rail Station on your own to get the High-Speed Train to Milan.

Arrival in Milan and free time to visit the city on one’s own. You can discover the most famous symbols of Milan, such as the Duomo, the Castello Sforzesco, the Basilica of Sant'Ambrogio and the Navigli, the famous canals, the very hub of the Milanese nightlife. You can continue your visit to the city with an internal visit of the Teatro alla Scala and its museum, a unique experience to visit one of the most famous theatre houses in the world. For the sports enthusiasts, a bike tour tour is also available.

Ovenight stay in Milan at NYX Hotel or similar.

Milan

Breakfast at the hotel and then take the regional train to reach Como. The journey takes about 40 min.

Discover the city of Como and its famous lake on your own. A day ticket is included for the hop-on/hop-off public boat to discover the lake departing from Como. You can choose the best stops to get off for a walk according to the departures of the boats and the time of the train back to Milan.

Enjoy some free time in Como to get to know the town and shop in the many local boutiques. Return to Milan in the evening.

Ovenight stay in Milan at NYX Hotel or similar.

Lake Como

Embark on a breathtaking journey that begins in the charming Italian town of Tirano and takes you to the world-renowned alpine resort of St. Moritz in Switzerland, aboard the famous Bernina Express.

Your adventure starts in Tirano, where you'll board the Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage railway renowned for its scenic views. As the train ascends through the stunning landscape of the Swiss Alps, you'll be treated to panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and picturesque villages. The journey crosses the Bernina Pass, reaching an altitude of 2,253 meters (7,391 feet), offering unparalleled vistas that change with every twist and turn.

Upon arrival in St. Moritz, you'll have the rest of the day to explore at your leisure. St. Moritz, famous for its glamorous atmosphere and pristine natural beauty, offers a range of activities to suit every taste. You might choose to stroll along the shores of Lake St. Moritz, explore the upscale boutiques, or dine in one of the town’s exquisite restaurants.

After a day filled with breathtaking scenery and luxury, you'll spend the night in St. Moritz, where you can relax and unwind, ready to continue your adventure the next day.

Overnight stay in St. Mortiz at Art Boutique Hotel Monopol or similar.

Bernina Express

Breakfast at the hotel. Begin your day with a morning departure from the glamorous alpine town of St. Moritz as you embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the Glacier Express, one of the most scenic train rides in the world. This iconic train journey will take you across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and over the dramatic Oberalp Pass at an altitude of 2,033 meters (6,670 feet), offering panoramic views of the Swiss Alps' rugged peaks, deep gorges, and charming villages.

As you arrive in Zermatt, a picturesque village nestled at the foot of the majestic Matterhorn, you'll have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure. Stroll through the car-free streets of Zermatt, visit the quaint shops, or relax in one of the cozy cafes while soaking in the stunning alpine scenery.

After a day of exploration, settle in for the night in your Zermatt hotel, ready for the adventure that awaits.

Overnight stay in Zermatt at Hotel Simi or similar.

Zermatt

The following day is dedicated to the awe-inspiring Matterhorn Glacier Paradise. Have breakfast at the hotel and then begin your day with a cable car ride to the highest cable car station in Europe, at an altitude of 3,883 meters (12,739 feet). From here, you'll experience breathtaking views of the Matterhorn and the surrounding peaks. Explore the Glacier Palace, carved deep inside the glacier, or enjoy the panoramic views from the viewing platform.

After your visit, return to Zermatt where you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps indulging in some local cuisine or simply relaxing after your day of high-altitude adventure. You'll spend the night in Zermatt, savouring the tranquil alpine atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Zermatt at Hotel Simi or similar.

Matterhorn

Breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a scenic train journey from the charming alpine village of Zermatt to the vibrant city of Zurich.

As you depart from Zermatt, you'll leave behind the towering peaks of the Matterhorn and glide through the picturesque landscapes of the Swiss Alps. The route takes you through lush valleys, alongside sparkling rivers, and past quaint Swiss villages, offering a glimpse of Switzerland's stunning natural beauty. As the journey continues, the landscape gradually transforms from the rugged mountain scenery to the rolling hills and serene lakes of the Swiss countryside.

Upon arriving in Zurich, Switzerland's largest city, you'll find yourself in the heart of a dynamic metropolis known for its blend of modernity and tradition. With its charming old town, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scene, Zurich offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

This train journey not only connects you from one iconic destination to another but also provides a unique and relaxing way to experience the diverse beauty of Switzerland.

Overnight stay in Zurich at Central Plaza Hotel or similar.

Zurich

Brekafast at the hotel.

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