Idyllic Aegean with Crete Beach Stay

Having been controlled by Arabic, Venetian and Ottoman empires over the years - it's no surprise that Heraklion is a diverse patchwork of exotic cultures and historical treasures. Celebrated as the birthplace of the Spanish Renaissance artist, El Greco, you can visit to explore the storied ruins of the Minoan empire's capital, and unearth the rich cultural treasures that Crete’s bustling modern capital has to offer.

Cruising towards Santorini is like being swept away on a current to somewhere truly magical. You will its pull almost instantly. The island will greet you with its striking cliffs, promising adventure and legendary tales. The almost vertical towns of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches will rise above the blue Aegean like an oasis of beauty and calm.As you leave the comforts of the ship behind, you’ll trade them for the unique indulgences of Santorini. A sense of serenity and mystery washes over you as you step off deck and make your way through the winding, narrow streets of Fira. Start your days chasing thrills at the top of a dormant volcano and end them with mojitos on cliffs overlooking sunsets that will stay with you for a lifetime.While the island is most famous for its striking landscape, Santorini provides a feast for all senses: Feel the heat of the sun under your feet as you walk along the black sand of its volcanic beaches. Savor the flavors of local products by pairing one of the island’s most famous dishes, creamy Greek fava, with a bottle of locally-produced Vinsanto wine. Listen to the calls of the seagulls and the crashing waves create a perfect harmony with the traditional music of the island. There is no doubt, you will leave Santorini with your own Greek myth.

Cruising towards Santorini is like being swept away on a current to somewhere truly magical. You will its pull almost instantly. The island will greet you with its striking cliffs, promising adventure and legendary tales. The almost vertical towns of whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches will rise above the blue Aegean like an oasis of beauty and calm.As you leave the comforts of the ship behind, you’ll trade them for the unique indulgences of Santorini. A sense of serenity and mystery washes over you as you step off deck and make your way through the winding, narrow streets of Fira. Start your days chasing thrills at the top of a dormant volcano and end them with mojitos on cliffs overlooking sunsets that will stay with you for a lifetime.While the island is most famous for its striking landscape, Santorini provides a feast for all senses: Feel the heat of the sun under your feet as you walk along the black sand of its volcanic beaches. Savor the flavors of local products by pairing one of the island’s most famous dishes, creamy Greek fava, with a bottle of locally-produced Vinsanto wine. Listen to the calls of the seagulls and the crashing waves create a perfect harmony with the traditional music of the island. There is no doubt, you will leave Santorini with your own Greek myth.

The Greek Island, Mykonos, flaunts its double personality the moment you set eyes on its coastline. Basking in year-round sunshine, its rugged rocky landscape blends seamlessly with smooth sandy beaches. In the distance, undulating hills host the island’s iconic windmills turning in symphony with the seasonal winds that have branded Mykonos ‘island of the winds’.On appearance, traditional white-washed villages seem untouched by time, but delve deeper into their maze of cobbled streets and you’ll find cosmopolitan bars, exclusive boutiques and gourmet restaurants. High-energy nightlife gives way to calming, picture-perfect beaches where it’s easy to find your inner peace.And travel back through the centuries at Mykonos’ archaeological sites where you’ll encounter the Sanctuary of Apollo and many other fascinating ancient relics that reveal the island’s varied past. Then explore traditional villages such as Ano Mera where the pure white walls of Panagia Tourliani monastery appear crafted from the landscape.

The Greek Island, Mykonos, flaunts its double personality the moment you set eyes on its coastline. Basking in year-round sunshine, its rugged rocky landscape blends seamlessly with smooth sandy beaches. In the distance, undulating hills host the island’s iconic windmills turning in symphony with the seasonal winds that have branded Mykonos ‘island of the winds’.On appearance, traditional white-washed villages seem untouched by time, but delve deeper into their maze of cobbled streets and you’ll find cosmopolitan bars, exclusive boutiques and gourmet restaurants. High-energy nightlife gives way to calming, picture-perfect beaches where it’s easy to find your inner peace.And travel back through the centuries at Mykonos’ archaeological sites where you’ll encounter the Sanctuary of Apollo and many other fascinating ancient relics that reveal the island’s varied past. Then explore traditional villages such as Ano Mera where the pure white walls of Panagia Tourliani monastery appear crafted from the landscape.

It's no wonder that all roads lead to the fascinating and maddening metropolis of Athens. Lift your eyes 200 feet above the city to the Parthenon, its honey-colour marble columns rising from a massive limestone base, and you behold architectural perfection that has not been surpassed in 2,500 years.  The major landmarks and key sites of the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine periods are within walking distance from the city centre, whilst also taking time to browse in shops and relax in cafés and tavernas along the way.  To experience Athens fully is to understand the essence of Greece.  

Things To See, Do & Taste In Piraeus:

• See:  Views from Mount Lycabettus – Athens highest hill.
• Do:  Dinner In The Sky (Athens).
• Taste:  Loukoumades - Greek Donuts with Honey and Walnuts.

Thick Byzantine walls guarding the city give way to an inviting mix of architectural landscapes with winding cobbled streets from the Upper Town turning into grand open boulevards by the water. Approaching the port, you’ll be captivated by a city that radiates culture and sophistication bathed in golden Greek sunshine.Exploring the center, you’ll find evidence from Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empire rule in sacred sites and monuments spread everywhere across the city. Walk through its rich multicultural tapestry of unique neighborhoods from the Old City to the historical quarter, and explore renowned museums that provide a fascinating insight into Thessaloniki’s glorious past.Palm-lined avenues house glamorous shops and gourmet restaurants, and historic cobblestone streets present traditional tavernas and ouzeries to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Beautiful churches appear from every corner, seasonal markets sell colorful local produce and shaded spots on Aristotelous Square are where you can sit back with a homemade ice cream and watch the world go by.

Whilst the busy resort town of Kusadasi offers much in the way of shopping and dining – not to mention a flourishing beach life scene, the real jewel here is Ephesus and the stunning ruined city that really take centre stage. With only 20% of the classical ruins having been excavated, this archaeological wonder has already gained the status as Europe’s most complete classical metropolis. And a metropolis it really is; built in the 10th century BC this UNESCO World Heritage site is nothing short of spectacular. Although regrettably very little remains of the Temple of Artemis (one of the seven wonders of the ancient world), the superb Library of Celsus’ façade is practically intact and it is one of life’s great joys to attend an evening performance in the illuminated ruins once all the tourists have left. The history of the city is fascinating and multi-layered and it is well worth reading up on this beforehand if a visit is planned. Another point of interest for historians would be the house of the Virgin Mary, located on the romantically named Mount Nightingale and just nine kilometres away from Ephesus proper. Legend has it that Mary (along with St. John) spent her final years here, secluded from the rest of the population, spreading Christianity. An edifying experience, even for non-believers. For the less historical minded amongst you, Kusadasi offers plenty in the way of activities. After a stroll through the town, jump in a taxi to Ladies’ Beach (men are allowed), sample a Turkish kebap on one of the many beachfront restaurants and enjoy the clement weather. If you do want to venture further afield, then the crystal clear beaches of Guzelcamli (or the Millipark), the cave of Zeus and the white scalloped natural pools at Pamukkale, known as Cleopatra’s pools, are definitely worth a visit.

Having been controlled by Arabic, Venetian and Ottoman empires over the years - it's no surprise that Heraklion is a diverse patchwork of exotic cultures and historical treasures. Celebrated as the birthplace of the Spanish Renaissance artist, El Greco, you can visit to explore the storied ruins of the Minoan empire's capital, and unearth the rich cultural treasures that Crete’s bustling modern capital has to offer.