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Embark on an unforgettable 17 night rail and sail adventure through Europe’s most iconic cities and breathtaking landscapes. Begin in the enchanting city of Paris, then journey through the stunning scenery of Switzerland and the alpine beauty of St. Moritz. Continue to the historical and cultural wonders of Rome before traveling to Greece, where ancient history comes alive in Athens and the legendary Mount Olympus awaits. Make your way to the cruise terminal and board your 7-night cruise in Piraeus visiting Izmir, Istanbul, Corfu and Bari before returning to Piraeus.
MSC Lirica
MSC Lirica brings you a distinctive cruise experience centred on elegance, comfort and hospitality in the finest MSC Cruises tradition. Magnificent internal vistas from the foyer and unimpeded ocean views from the lounges’ floor-to-ceiling windows contribute to a sense of relaxed spaciousness, which is complemented by a variety of intimate lounges.
Highlights & Inclusions
Highlights
Discover the timeless beauty and landmarks of Paris
Experience breathtaking views of Paris from the summit of the Eiffel Tower
Explore the stunning Swiss landscapes, including a ferry ride to Chillon Castle
Walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans at the Roman Forum and Colosseum in Rome
Uncover the rich history and culture of Athens, including a visit to the Acropolis
Enjoy a scenic ferry journey across the Adriatic Sea from Italy to Greece
Delve into Greek mythology with a day trip to the legendary Mount Olympus
Rail Inclusions
Rail travel as per itinerary
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Paris, Lausanne, St. Moritz, Rome
3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Athens
Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour of Paris with River Cruise
Skip-the-Line Tickets for the Eiffel Tower with Summit Access
Ferry from Lausanne to Chillon Castle
Small-Group Walking Tour of Rome with the Roman Forum and Colosseum
Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour of Rome
Day Trip to Acropolis and Museum with a Walking Tour of Athens
Day Trip to Delphi Including Entrance Fees to Delphi Site & Museum
Overnight ferry from Bari to Patras
Private transfer from Patras to Athens
Cruise Inclusions
7 night voyage departing Athens (Piraeus) on MSC Lirica in a stateroom of your choice
Port charges & government fees
Onboard entertainment
Onboard meals
Pool & gym access
Teen & youth clubs
Gratuities / Tipping included in your cruise fare
Itinerary
Day 1 | Your Journey Begins in Paris
Welcome to Paris! Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel and check-in for a two-night stay. Spend the rest of the day exploring the City of Light at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a stroll along the Seine or visiting the nearby Champs-Élysées. (Overnight in Paris)
Day 2 | Paris
After breakfast, use your 2-day Paris Hop-on, Hop-off Explore Ticket to discover the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Arc de Triomphe. In the afternoon, ascend the Eiffel Tower with your priority boarding ticket and enjoy spectacular views of the city from the summit. Conclude the day with a relaxing Seine River Cruise, taking in the illuminated sights of Paris by night. (Overnight in Paris)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 | Paris to Lausanne
This morning, board your train to Lausanne, Switzerland. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. Begin using your Swiss Pass to explore Lausanne’s charming old town or stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva. (Overnight in Lausanne)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 | Lausanne
Today, use your Swiss Pass to take a scenic ferry ride across Lake Geneva to Chillon Castle. Explore this medieval fortress and its stunning surroundings before returning to Lausanne by ferry. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps visiting the Olympic Museum or enjoying the views from the Sauvabelin Tower. (Overnight in Lausanne)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 | Lausanne to St. Moritz
After breakfast, use your Swiss Pass to travel by train through the breathtaking Swiss Alps to the luxurious resort town of St. Moritz. Check in to your hotel for a two-night stay and spend the rest of the day relaxing in this world-renowned destination known for its natural beauty and upscale charm.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 | St. Moritz
Enjoy a full day at leisure in St. Moritz. Take a scenic walk around the lake, visit the local museums, or take advantage of the many outdoor activities available, from hiking to cable car rides offering panoramic views of the Alps. (Overnight in St. Moritz)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 | St. Moritz to Rome Via The Bernina Express
Today, travel by train to Rome, the Eternal City. Join the iconic Bernina Express as you travel through the stunning scenery of the Brusio Spiral and Swiss mountains. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel for a two-night stay. Spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps dining in one of Rome’s famous trattorias or enjoying a gelato as you stroll through the historic city center. (Overnight in Rome)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 | Rome
After breakfast, join a small-group walking tour that will take you through the heart of ancient Rome. Explore the Roman Forum, once the center of Roman public life, and marvel at the grandeur of the Colosseum, the iconic symbol of Rome’s imperial past. In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Tour, which will allow you to visit other famous sites such as the Vatican, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. (Overnight in Rome)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 | Train to Bari and Overnight Ferry to Patras
Check out of your hotel and board a train to Bari, located on Italy’s Adriatic coast. Upon arrival, prepare for your overnight ferry journey to Patras, Greece. Enjoy the facilities onboard and take in the views as you sail across the Adriatic Sea. (Overnight onboard the ferry)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 | Athens
Arrive in Patras and meet your private transfer to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, checkin at your hotel for a three-night stay. Spend the evening exploring the lively Plaka neighborhood, known for its charming streets, shops, and traditional Greek tavernas. (Overnight in Athens)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 | Athens
After breakfast, embark on a day trip that includes a visit to the Acropolis, the most significant ancient site in the Western world. Explore the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and other iconic structures with a knowledgeable guide. In the afternoon, visit the Acropolis Museum, home to many of the original artifacts found on the Acropolis. (Overnight in Athens)
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 | Day Trip to Delphi
It’s an early start today but so very worth it as you will be heading to the mountains and the sacred town of Delphi. In the classical world, Delphi was considered the world's center, and its location on Mount Parnassus is now an extensive archaeological site including a vast theatre, gymnasium, stadium, and the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. There are fewer sites in the world which are in such dramatic surroundings which had such an important role in the ancient world. A local lunch is included here before you make the return journey to Athens for the night. (Overnight Athens)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 13 | Tour ends in Athens
Your tour ends today after breakfast. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast
Days 14 & 15 | Athens at Leisure
Day 16 | Athens - Piraeus
Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and make your way to Piraeus to board your 7 night cruise.
Day 17 | Izmir
Arrive 7.00am – Depart 14.30pm
Day 18 | Istanbul
Arrive 9.00am – Depart 8.00pm
Day 19 | At Sea
Day 20 | Corfu
Arrive 13.30pm – Depart 8.00pm
Day 21 | Bari
Arrive 12.01am – Depart 7.00pm
Day 22 | At Sea
Day 23 | Athens (Piraeus)
Disembark 7.00am
*Itinerary is subject to change and availability.
Dates/Prices
Departs
Junior Interior
Junior Balcony
Aurea Premium Suite
Yacht Club Deluxe Suite
1 March 2026
$7,935pp
$8,225pp
$8,625pp
$8,975pp
Enquire within your nearest Phil Hoffmann Travel store, click here for more information.
*Advertised pricing based on per person twin share, correct as of 15 July 2025.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.