13 minute read
I recently sailed the Heavenly Adriatic itinerary with Celestyal Cruises aboard their mid-size ship, Celestyal Journey. In this Heavenly Adriatic review, I’m breaking down what to expect—port by port. From the historic streets of Athens and Dubrovnik to the quiet charm of Montenegro and Kefalonia, this cruise strikes a perfect balance of culture, scenery, and low-key adventure.
🗺 Ports of Call at a Glance (jump to section):
- Athens, Greece (Pre-cruise + Embarkation Day)
- Kefalonia, Greece
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Kotor, Montenegro
- Bari, Italy
- Corfu, Greece
- Katakolo (Olympia), Greece
- Athens, Greece (Disembarkation Day)
Athens, Greece (Pre-Cruise + Embarkation)
I flew into Athens a day before embarkation and stayed near Piraeus Port at The Port Square Hotel, which I always recommend doing if you’re boarding a cruise out of this port. I won’t dive too deep into Athens itself here (because I’ve already written a what to do in Athens before your cruise and a full Piraeus Port Cruise Guide you should check out).
That said, Athens is worth more than a layover. Even with just a day, you can see the Acropolis, grab a rooftop dinner with Parthenon views, or roam the streets of Plaka and Monastiraki for food and local flavor.
If you’re interested in seeing what embarkation in Athens looks like, you can watch my video at the end of this post.
Takeaways (Athens):
- Stay near Piraeus if you’re boarding a cruise – it makes embarkation day stress-free.
- Athens deserves at least a full day or two: don’t miss the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum for a primer on Greek history.
- Embrace the café culture: a Greek coffee by the harbour’s edge is a perfect way to soak in the atmosphere before sailing.
Day 2 – Kefalonia, Greece
Excursion: “Unveil the Wonders of Kefalonia”
Kefalonia was our first real stop after Athens, and it delivered big on natural beauty. We tendered into port and kicked off our “Unveil the Wonders of Kefalonia” excursion with a visit to Drogarati Cave. Inside, the air was cool and still, with towering stalactites hanging from the ceiling—an impressive start. From there, we headed to Melissani Lake Cave, which truly felt like a hidden wonder. Floating by rowboat under the collapsed cave roof with sunlight piercing the crystal-clear water was a moment I won’t forget. Timing it around noon made the colors even more intense.
In case you were wondering if the water really looks like that… watch my Instagram video below. It’s one of those things you just have to see to believe.
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Our last stop was Fiskardo, a rare part of the island untouched by the 1953 earthquake. The harbor was buzzing with sailboats, boutique shops, and some of the best grilled fish and local Robola wine I had on the whole cruise. Kefalonia felt like five destinations in one, and every stop had a different kind of magic.
Takeaways (Kefalonia):
- Melissani Cave is at its most magical when the sun is overhead (around noon) – plan accordingly for those vivid blue hues.
- Bring a light jacket or sweater for Drogarati Cave; it’s cool and damp inside even on a hot day.
- Kefalonia’s small villages like Assos and Fiskardo are gems – if you crave off-the-beaten-path moments, consider renting a car or hiring a taxi to explore these at your own pace.
Day 3 – Dubrovnik, Croatia
Excursion: “Panoramic Dubrovnik, Village Life & Wine”
This was my second visit to Dubrovnik, but the first time I was able to overnight there. That alone made the experience totally different.
We started with the “Panoramic Dubrovnik, Village Life & Wine” excursion, which took us from the Old Town out into the rolling countryside of the Konavle Valley. One of the highlights was our stop at Crvik Winery, a family-run operation with roots in the region dating back to the 1500s. The Crvik family has been making wine for over a century, and today, the fourth generation is leading the way with a mix of tradition and innovation. Their vineyards stretch across the Konavle hills, where they grow cabernet sauvignon, merlot, plavac mali, and proudly revive indigenous varietals like Dubrovnik malvasia and marastina.
We were welcomed like old friends and tasted several of their wines under a shaded wine tasting room in the heart of Komaji village. Personally, I really enjoyed everything they poured for us. Each glass had its own personality, and it was clear the winemaking here is as much about family heritage as it is about quality. It was one of those rare excursions where the experience felt both curated and deeply personal.
After heading back to the ship, our group decided to taxi into town for dinner. It was a flat rate of €19 at the time. Having dinner in the Old City without the daytime crowds, with the lights on the stone walls glowing after sunset, was absolutely worth the return trip. Dubrovnik at night is a vibe all its own, especially when we got caught in the rain.
Takeaways (Dubrovnik):
- Dubrovnik’s Old Town gets crowded; consider walking the city walls in the late afternoon or early morning to avoid peak crowds and heat.
- Venturing outside the city (to Konavle Valley or local villages) lets you experience Croatian culture beyond the tourist bustle – highly recommended if you’ve visited Dubrovnik before and want something different.
- Local treats to try: don’t miss a glass of Dalmatian wine and a taste of rožata (Croatian creme caramel) in one of the Old Town’s cozy restaurants.
Day 4 – Kotor, Montenegro
Excursion: “Buggy Safari Montenegro”
Kotor’s arrival is one of the most dramatic I’ve seen. We were up early as Celestyal Journey sailed into the bay, passing towering green mountains and tiny churches on the water’s edge. This was a tender port, so we went ashore by boat. While many guests opted for a walking tour, our group signed up for Buggy Safari Montenegro last minute—and it was epic!
We geared up and headed straight into the mountains in open-air buggies. The ride was bumpy, dusty, and full of adrenaline as we climbed switchbacks and dirt trails toward sweeping lookout points. The panoramic views of the Bay of Kotor and Tivat were unbeatable.
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After the ride, we had time to explore Kotor’s Old Town. I wandered cobbled alleys, visited the Cathedral of St. Tryphon (aka. Kotor Cathedral), and grabbed a Montenegrin coffee while cat-spotting—because Kotor’s famous for them. Compared to Dubrovnik, it was quieter, more laid-back, and just as charming in its own way.
Takeaways (Kotor):
- The sail in/out of Kotor is a highlight of any Adriatic cruise – be on deck early morning and at departure to enjoy the UNESCO-listed bay views (it’s like gliding through a painting!).
- Buggy Safari was an absolute blast for adventure lovers, but bring clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, and secure your sunglasses (they double as dust goggles!).
- Kotor Old Town is compact – you can see the main sights in an hour or two. Don’t leave without rubbing the nose of the town’s famous bronze cat statues (for luck) and trying the local Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) and cheese, typically served at wine bars in town.
Day 5 – Bari, Italy
Excursion: “Discover a Fairy Tale Town” (Alberobello)
Bari was our only Italian port, and while the city itself has charm, the highlight for us was an excursion to Alberobello. The town is known for its fairytale-like trulli—cone-roofed stone homes that date back centuries. We explored the winding lanes of Rione Monti, popped into a bakery for a fresh panzerotto, and sampled homemade limoncello inside a family-owned trullo. The whole place had a surreal, almost whimsical vibe that made it feel like stepping into another world.
Alberobello left such an impression that I’m eager to return and spend more time exploring its unique charm.
Takeaways (Bari/Alberobello):
- Alberobello is touristy but unmissable if you’ve never seen trulli before – go early to beat some of the day-tripper crowds, and wander a bit off the main lanes for quieter nooks.
- The local cuisine in Puglia is fantastic: try focaccia Barese (fluffy focaccia with tomatoes and olives) and any dish with the region’s famed olive oil. Your taste buds will thank you.
- In Bari, the Old Town is right near the port – easy to explore on foot. It’s safe and atmospheric, but keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas as you would in any city.
Day 6 – Corfu, Greece
Excursion: “Evergreen Island of Corfu – Achillion, Kanoni, the Town”
Corfu was already charming on its own, but the day got even better after our official excursion wrapped. We visited Achillion Palace, the lookout point in Kanoni (with views of Mouse Island and Vlacherna Monastery), and had some time to explore Corfu Town. But what really made the day feel special came after.
Our cruise PR rep, Stef, who’s originally from Corfu, offered to take a few of us around personally after our excursion wrapped. There’s just something special about seeing a place through the eyes of someone who calls it home. Stef brought us to Rex Restaurant, one of her favorite spots in Corfu Town—and now, one of mine. Tucked along Kapodistriou Street, one of the most historic stretches in town, Rex has been serving guests since 1932. It’s a family-run restaurant that’s changed hands over the decades, now operated by the Katsaros family, who continue the legacy with warm hospitality, local wine, and a menu rooted in Corfiot tradition.
Inside, the space felt timeless, lined with paintings by local artist Kentarchos that captured the essence of the island. But with the weather being as perfect as it was, we opted to dine al fresco. I ordered from their Corfiot specialties and tried the Beef Sofrito, a dish I’d been meaning to taste—and it didn’t disappoint. The meat was fork-tender, drenched in a garlicky white wine sauce, and paired perfectly with an Aperol Spritz. There were no tourist-trap vibes here—just old-school charm, authentic flavors, and the kind of meal that stays with you long after the cruise ends. It was a reminder of why hosted media trips like this one are so rewarding: it’s not just about seeing the sights, but experiencing places through real connections.
If you ever find yourself with extra time in Corfu, skip the tourist menus and ask someone local where they’d eat. That one decision can change your whole experience.
Takeaways (Corfu):
- Corfu’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage treasure – give yourself time to simply wander its alleys and soak up the mix of Venetian and Georgian (British) architecture. Every corner has a story or a hidden garden or cafe.
- At Achilleion Palace, be prepared for crowds in peak season. Visiting early can help. Don’t skip the gardens – the statues and views are the highlight (and check out the ‘Dying Achilles’ statue for a slice of mythology in art).
- Corfu has unique local products: kumquat sweets and liqueur, ginger beer, and olive wood carvings make great souvenirs. Also, try the local olive oil soap – it’s a simple, authentic gift to bring home.
Day 7 – Katakolo, Greece
Excursion: “Olympia and Wine Tasting”
Katakolo itself is a small fishing village, but it serves as the gateway to one of Greece’s most historic sites: Ancient Olympia. Our excursion combined a visit to the ruins with a local wine tasting. Walking through Olympia was surreal. We saw the remains of temples dedicated to Zeus and Hera, the original Olympic stadium, and even sprinted (walked) across the same track ancient athletes once did.
Afterward, we visited a nearby winery estate for a laid-back tasting under the vines. The wine was excellent, and the vibe was peaceful, a perfect counterpoint to the ancient grandeur of the morning. Back in Katakolo, I had time for a quick walk along the waterfront before reboarding. It’s a mellow port, but that balance of history and slow-living was a great final note before heading back to Athens.
Takeaways (Katakolo/Olympia):
- Ancient Olympia is vast and largely open-air – wear a hat, sunscreen, and comfy shoes. Bring water; you’ll be doing a fair bit of walking among the ruins.
- Don’t just see the ruins, hear the stories: a good guide or audio guide can bring Olympia to life, from the myths of Zeus to the athletes’ feats. It makes the experience much richer when you know what you’re looking at.
- If wine isn’t your thing, Olympia-area tours often offer alternatives like visiting a local olive farm or a honey farm – consider those for an authentic taste of the Greek countryside. And if you’d rather relax, Katakolo’s nearby Agios Andreas Beach or Kourouta Beach are lovely for a swim.
Athens (Post-Cruise)
After docking back in Piraeus, I had a bit of time before my flight, so I grabbed a strong Greek coffee and some loukoumades at the airport. It was the perfect cap to a packed but well-balanced week. I would highly recommend you give yourself enough time to get to the airport from Piraeus. The total drive time was around 45 minutes and we were fortunate enough to miss out on traffic.
Heavenly Adriatic Review: Final Thoughts and Tips
- Pack good walking shoes – You’ll be on cobblestones, ancient ruins, and off-road trails.
- Use the full days in port – Celestyal gives you solid time ashore, so take advantage of it.
- Sail in/out of Kotor is a must-see from deck – Trust me, wake up early and grab a coffee.
- Excursions feel authentic – Especially the ones that include local food, drink, and interaction.
- Before your cruise, read my full Piraeus Port Cruise Guide to Athens for everything you need to know about getting to the ship, airport transfers, and more.
This sailing felt immersive. Celestyal doesn’t try to be flashy or over-the-top—it just delivers a smooth, culturally rich cruise experience with warm hospitality and interesting port days. That’s more than enough to keep me coming back, especially since I’m intrigued by their Arabian Gulf sailings.
Bonus: My Athens Embarkation Day Vlog
If you’re curious what it’s like embarking on a cruise from Athens, watch my Celestyal Journey embarkation vlog below.
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