Wonders of Ancient Greece & Cruise

Welcome to Athens, the capital city of Greece. Upon arrival at the airport you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. You'll have the rest of the day to discover the city, home to an exquisite architectural history and an equally thriving modern society.

Athens - Epidaurus - Mycenae - Olympia. Today we depart Athens and head for the Peloponnese, a region which was the setting of many great myths and legends. Our first stop is the narrow Corinth Canal, a man-made waterway completed in 1893 after centuries of attempts. We then continue to the beautifully preserved theatre at Epidaurus, a sanctuary famed for medicine & healing in antiquity.

Our day continues as we will be arriving in Nafplion for a short stop. Next, we visit the World Heritage site of Mycenae, the early civilization excavated by Heinrich Schliemann. We'll see the Cyclopean walls, Tomb of Agamemnon, and Lion Gate. We continue across the Peloponnese mountains to Olympia for the evening.

Olympia - Delphi. Today we explore the home of the ancient Olympic Games. Situated along the longest river in the Peloponnese, the Alfios, Olympia is a fascinating step back in time to the birth of one of today's biggest sporting events. We visit the Temple of Zeus, the Palestra and Phidia's workshop.

We continue to the local museum, one of the richest in Greece, with the impressive statue of Hermes of Praxitelis. In the afternoon, we will start heading north, driving around Patras, over the impressive Rio-Antirio bridge, through Nafpaktos and Itea, to Delphi for dinner and overnight.

Delphi - Kalambaka. The sanctuary at Delphi was revered in antiquity as a centre of pilgrimage, home to the Pythian Oracle in the Temple of Apollo. We'll walk up the Sacred Way, the path followed by ancient visitors through the sanctuary, to see the temple ruins, and visit the local museum, where we'll find the bronze Charioteer statue and mythical omphalos stone. Afterwards, we cross the mountains of central Greece back to the mainland, arriving in Kalambaka for the evening.

Kalambaka - Athens. This morning we visit Meteora, a stunning World Heritage site where a series of towering rock formations shelter several sacred Eastern Orthodox monasteries. We return to Athens for the night, briefly stopping at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a famous last stand against the Persians in 480 BC.

Today we embark on a coach tour of Greece's vibrant capital city, named after the goddess Athena and thought to be over 3000 years old. Sights include the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, which lies at the heart of modern Athens. The highlight of our day is the Acropolis, considered by some to be the most important ancient site in the western world. Here we find masterpieces of classical Greek architecture, including the iconic Parthenon. We also enjoy a guided tour of the Acropolis Museum, recently voted one of the best museums in the world.

Afterwards, we'll transfer to the port of Piraeus to embark on your 7-night Aegean cruise with "Celestyal Cruises."

Please note: Your accommodation on board will be based in an interior cabin. If you would like to upgrade, please let us know at the time of booking.

Athens - Thessaloniki. This morning, we'll arrive at the port of Thessaloniki, hailed as the "capital of the north" by Greeks. Here, you can spend the day exploring at leisure, or opt to join an excursion.

Discover the city's highlights, visit the Royal tombs of Vergina, or delve into the land of Alexander the Great with a trip to Pella and the Royal tombs of Vergina. As the day concludes, we set sail towards Turkey.

Thessaloniki - Kusadasi. We will arrive in Kusadasi, Turkey, just after midday. Seize the opportunity for an optional "Ancient Ephesus through the Ages" excursion or explore at your own pace.

While here, don't miss the chance to explore the local bazaar in Kusadasi and bargain for souvenirs. Return onboard for an overnight sail to Crete, continuing your cruise adventure.

Kusadasi - Crete. Arriving early in the morning in Heraklion, explore the picturesque Cretan capital at your own pace, or join an optional excursion. Choose to visit the historic Palace of Knossos or delve into the Cretan countryside and lifestyle for a unique experience.

Crete - Santorini. This morning marks your arrival at the most renowned Aegean Island, Santorini. The ship anchors until past midnight, with plenty of time to explore the island's breathtaking beauty and vibrant life.

Explore the volcano, visit local sites, and wander through charming villages at your own pace or consider an optional shore excursion.

Santorini - Mykonos. We will arrive at the jetsetting island of Mykonos in the morning. The ship will remain docked here past midnight, offering you the chance to explore the island's charm, indulge in a refreshing swim at one of its unique sandy beaches, or party away in the vibrant nightlife of Chora (Mykonos town).

Mykonos - Milos. This morning, arrive at Milos, a captivating island renowned for its stunning landscapes and stunning sculpted rock formations.

With sandy beaches, secluded coves, and crystal-clear waters, the entire day is yours to discover the island independently or join optional excursions. As evening approaches, set sail for the journey back to Piraeus, concluding your memorable Aegean cruising adventure.

Milos - Piraeus - Athens. We will arrive at Piraeus port early in the morning. Enjoy a final breakfast on board, followed by disembarkation and a transfer to Athens airport for your onward flight.