Day 1 Arrive in Athens, Greece
Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to start exploring the Greek capital. Later, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers and maybe join them in an optional evening out.
 
Day 2 Athens–Kalambaka
This morning’s included sightseeing features the highlights of Athens with a visit to the Acropolis. In the afternoon, after bypassing Lamia into Thessaly and by way of Trikala to Kalambaka, spend the night in the vicinity of Meteora, which will be visited tomorrow. (Breakfast, Dinner)
 
Day 3 Kalambaka–Meteora–Delphi
A short drive to Meteora, which is a cluster of monastic buildings perched in an unforgettable manner on a set of rising rock formations. Your included visit is certainly the day´s highlight. Later, retrace your steps southwards to reach Delphi for an overnight. (Breakfast)
 
Day 4 Delphi–Olympia
Included morning sightseeing in Delphi, in ancient times known as the “Navel of the Earth.” Located five minutes from the village, the ancient site, backed by imposing Mount Parnassus, is in one of the most beautiful natural settings in the country. Sightseeing will guide you along the Sacred Way to see the Temple of Apollo, some of the treasures, and the theater. This afternoon, follow the Gulf of Corinth through Nakpaktos to Antirion over the new spectacular bridge towards Olympia for an overnight. (Breakfast, Dinner)
 
Day 5 Olympia–Epidaurus–Nauplia
The original home of the Olympic Games, first held in 776 BC, Olympia was a sacred precinct to the god Zeus, whose temple once housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This morning’s included sightseeing takes in the ancient stadium where the games were held and the temples of Zeus and his wife, Hera. Later, travel across the mountains of Arcadia, passing through Tripolis before entering the Argolis, land of Greek myths and legends. Stop awhile to visit the Epidaurus theater, which can still seat 14,000 spectators. Overnight in Nauplia on the Argolic Gulf. (Breakfast)
 
Day 6 Nauplia–Mycenae–Corinth Canal–Athens
This morning, visit the imposing ruins of the site of Mycenae with a Local Guide (entrance fees included), the ancient city Homer called a “city rich in gold.” It was here that the Golden Mask of Agamemnon was unearthed, along with many other treasures that matched exactly Homer’s descriptions in the Iliad. Enter the city by the magnificent Lion’s Gate and stroll up to Agamemnon’s Royal Palace. Then, to the Corinth Canal for a brief stop before continuing to Athens for an overnight. (Breakfast)
 
Day 7 Athens–Piraeus (Embarkation)
Evening embarkation in Piraeus. Cruise overnight towards Istanbul. (Breakfast, Dinner)
 
Days 8-13 Istanbul, Izmir, Patmos, Mykonos, Rhodes, Heraklion (Crete), Santorini (weather permitting)
(B,L,D daily)
 
Day 14 Piraeus (Disembarkation)–Athens
After an early breakfast on board, disembark at Piraeus and return to Athens. The remainder of the day is free to catch up on last-minute shopping or explore the city. (Breakfast)
 
Day 15 Athens
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
 
BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS WITH US
Learn more about booking an air-inclusive vacation - the reasons why include, you'll receive free airport transfer on published dates and your air will be coordinated with your vacation.
 
AIRPORT TRANSFER TIMES
Ask about airport transfer times, prices and what's included with your vacation.
 
INCLUDED FEATURES
Headsets throughout the land tour

Visits to Epidaurus, Meteora, Kalambaka
 
Notes:
We recommend that you plan to spend about US$70 per person for gratuities to the service personnel on board.
Port taxes of approximately US$260 are included in the price.
Please check visa requirements for Turkey with your local consulates; responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
 
SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS
Peloponnese, Mount Parnassus, Arcadian Mountains, Corinth Canal, Rion-Antirion Bridge
 
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
 
GUIDES
Local Guide for city sightseeing in Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae. Professional Tour Director while touring.
 
STANDARD INCLUDED FEATURES
Ask more about transportation, hotels, and other standard included features offered.
 
Accommodations

MEALS
Buffet breakfasts; 6 lunches; 9 dinners
 
HOTELS - (F) First-Class (ST) Superior Tourist-Class (T) Tourist Class
ATHENS Acropolis Select (F), KALAMBAKA Famisi (ST), DELPHI Acropole (ST) or Parnassos (ST), OLYMPIA Olympia Palace (F), NAUPLIA Rex (ST)
 
TRANSPORTATION
Touring by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach. Cruise in fully air-conditioned inside cabins with private shower and toilet; outside cabins are available; all port taxes are included.
 
Optional Excursions

Important Note: the following list of optional excursions are examples only for this vacation as they are the excursions that are being offered for this vacation in the current travel year. These optional excursions might or might not be offered next year, as well as new optional excursions might be offered. Information about what optional excursions will be offered for your vacation will be available later this year into next year. If no example excursions are listed, please check back later.

Here's a list of optional excursions you can enjoy during your vacation. Whether it's a special dinner, a local show or a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into an historical site, optional excursions are a wonderful way to enrich your vacation even further. Plus, they give you flexibility. We include the must-see sites and experiences, and we also understand that people take interest in different activities and may want to craft a more personal vacation by hand-picking optional excursions that appeal to them.

Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, days of operation, group interests, and general feasibility for your vacation. The approximate value listed gives you a good, general idea of what you can expect to pay but may vary once you are on your vacation. Some information provided might be in a foreign currency.
 
CITY: Athens

A Taste Of Athens
First by coach into the centre of Athens where you will pick up the "train" which will take you at a leisurely pace for about 20 minutes around the old part of Athens, the "Plaka" - a good way to get a first impression of the layout, shops and points of interest. Re-board your coach to continue to a Taverna for a Greek feast with unlimited local wine. On the way back to the hotel view the illuminated Acropolis.
Approximate value: EUR €49 per person
 
Acropolis Museum
A guided tour of the new Acropolis Museum, which was opened in 2009 and has been cited as one of the most important museums in the world. All the finds from the Acropolis have been collected here - more than 4000 art crafts are on display.
Approximate value: EUR €30 per person
 
CITY: Nauplia

By Night
Late afternoon, take a small caique to the little island of Bourtzi with free time to explore. Then sail back to Nauplion to enjoy a dinner in a typical small Greek restaurant in the old part of town.
Approximate value: EUR €28 per person
 
CITY: Shore Excursion

Kusadasi-Ancient Ephesus
Drive through the colorful town of Kusadasi and along the coast to reach Ephesus, famous in antiquity for its Temple of Diana - one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World - and later the home of St. John. Discover innumerable monuments, view the symbols all around and marvel at the fact that one is still able to read the inscriptions in the ancient Greek language. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi.
Approximate value: EUR €62 per person
 
Ephesus & Virgin Mary's House
Drive through the colorful town of Kusadasi to reach Mt. Koressos. Situated in a small valley, the humble chapel lies on the site of the little house where the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last days. Continue on to Ancient Ephesus through the Magnesian Gate for a guided walking tour which will take you through one of the most magnificent excavations in the world. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time in Kusadasi.
Approximate value: EUR €65 per person
 
Palace of Knossos/ Archeological Museum
Crete is the largest and the most rugged of the Greek islands. It is also the home of the great Minoan Civilization and the mythological home of Zeus. After a short drive through the town of Heraklion the tour will arrive at the Knossos excavations. Your guide will lead you on a journey of discovery to learn of the sophisticated culture that flourished thousands of years ago on this island.
Approximate value: EUR €58 per person
 
A Taste Of Crete
The tour begins from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion with a drive through the city to the famous wine producing area of Peza, south of Heraklion. The first stop is a modern winery, then the journey continues through rural villages and hilly countryside, with a photo stop to view one of the oldest farmhouses. The tour continues through the islands. At the quaint market town of Archanes, you can sample an assortment of Cretan snacks and locally produced wine, while listening to typical Greek live music.
Approximate value: EUR €54 per person
 
Thira & Oia Village
Traveling along the road you will have the unique opportunity to admire the panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the neighboring islands. Built on the Caldera rim, Oia Village is an excellent example of Cycladic architecture. Explore the village walking along the cobble-stone streets, then proceed to the town of Thira, an attractive town perched on the Caldera rim. Time to stroll through the lanes or relax over a coffee.
Approximate value: EUR €55 per person
 
Santorini Sailing & Volcano
Sail along the strange formations of the volcanic shores, where black lava rocks and white pumice are combined beautifully with the red color of lava. Take a walk to the top of the volcanic island where sulphur is spewed into the air by one of the craters. In the distance, admire the breathtaking sight of Thira town with its white washed houses clinging precariously on the rim of the Caldera. Take time to swim in the warm waters heated by Hot Springs.
Approximate value: EUR €55 per person
 
St. John Monastery & Grotto
Enjoy a short drive to the village of Chora, where the Monastery of St. John is built within the walls of a strong fortification, then continue to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of the Apocalypse above it. Afterwards, return back to the port of Scala for some free time in this quaint and picturesque town.
Approximate value: EUR €51 per person
 
Scenic Island Tour
An interesting tour has been designed for those passengers who prefer to discover the beauties of Patmos by coach. Drive to the central part of the island "Chora" and continue around the island to see its landscape of outstanding natural beauty. The tour ends at the port of Scala with free time in the quaint and picturesque little town. A refreshment will be offered at Arion Café, the oldest and most beautiful café of the town.
Approximate value: EUR €39 per person
 
Highlights Of Istanbul
Begin the excursion with a drive through the business centre of the modern city. Continue around the mighty city walls. In the Old City, the first visit will be to the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once one of the largest chariot race arenas in the Byzantine Empire. Then the Sultanahmet Mosque, decorated with 21,000 blue Iznik tiles from where it gets its name, the "Blue Mosque". Walk to the world famous monument of Hagia Sophia. Return to the ship for lunch on board. After lunch continue the tour with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans. During the tour you will also have the opportunity to get a cultural taste of Turkey with an exhibition of oriental carpets, jewelry or leather goods.
Approximate value: EUR €99 per person
 
Highlights Of Istanbul+Lunch
Begin the excursion with a drive through the business centre of the modern city. Continue around the mighty city walls. In the Old City, the first visit will be to the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once one of the largest chariot race arenas in the Byzantine Empire. Then the Sultanahmet Mosque decorated with 21,000 blue Iznik tiles from where it gets its name, the "Blue Mosque". Walk to the world-famous monument of Hagia Sophia, then through the large gardens to Konyali Restaurant and experience typical Turkish cuisine. After lunch continue the tour with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans. During the tour you will also have the opportunity to get a cultural taste of Turkey with an exhibition of oriental carpets, jewelry or leather goods.
Approximate value: EUR €106 per person
 
Istanbul By Night
After a short drive through the illuminated streets of Istanbu, you will arrive at one of the best known Night Clubs of Istanbul. Enjoy a variety of Turkish specialties while you are entertained by Turkish musicians, belly dancers and folk dancers, performing dances from different regions of Turkey. At the end of the show, join in the singing of popular and favorite songs.
Approximate value: EUR €77 per person
 
Secret Treasures Of Istanbul
This tour is designed to give you a glimpse of the best and the most famous monuments in Istanbul remaining from the Byzantine Empire era. First an interesting tour of Istanbul with a drive through the business centre of the modern city. Continue with a drive along the ancient Byzantine city walls. Visit the ancient church of St. Sergius and Bachus. The tour continues with a visit to an Underground Cistern and to Balat area, another historical part of Istanbul, for lunch at a restaurant. After lunch, drive to Rustem Pasha Mosque, located at Eminonu close to the Spice Market.
Approximate value: EUR €61 per person
 
Scenic Bosphorus
Start the tour with a short drive through the modern city of Istanbul. The impressive Süleymaniye Mosque can be seen on the way. Then board on a boat for your exciting trip on the Bosphorus. You will have the chance to take amazing photographs sailing between the European shore and the Asian shore.
Approximate value: EUR €56 per person
 
Rhodes & Lindos
Drive along the picturesque south-eastern coastline, dotted with white-washed villages, to Lindos, one of the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. From the Acropolis, marvel at the breathtaking views covering the great expanse of the Aegean Sea. After the guided tour of the Acropolis, enjoy some free time on your own in Lindos village. Return to Rhodes city for a short visit to a ceramic factory.
Approximate value: EUR €53 per person
 
Old City & Philerimos
Drive along the medieval walls to the summit of Mount Smith, the Acropolis of ancient Rhodes. The view encompasses the nearby Temple of Apollo, the stadium of Diagoras and the port, once protected by the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The drive continues across the island to Philerimos to the restored Byzantine Church. After the visit and some free time, return to Rhodes for a guided walk of the old walled city.
Approximate value: EUR €54 per person
 
Mykonos-Apollo Sanctuary of Delos
Delos, once a Sacred Island, is the legendary birthplace of the Sun God Apollo. Depart by boat, to the ancient harbor of Delos where you begin the guided walking tour. See Agora and the Sacred Way, which leads to the Temple of Apollo and the remains of a Hellenistic Quarter with its harbor and many interesting buildings. Continue and admire the spectacular Avenue of the Lions, vigilantly guarding the now dry sacred lake.
Approximate value: EUR €53 per person
 
Spinalonga-Crete
Leave St. Nicholas, capital city of Eastern Crete, and its cosmopolitan atmosphere to Mirabelo and Elounda Bay. Elounda is renowned in the entire Aegean Sea, much acclaimed for its outstanding establishments in a magnificent natural environment. The combination of the landscape and the sea is something you will never forget! At the Northwest entrance of Elounda Bay lies the island of Spinalonga, impressive and tragic due to its past role of Venetian castle and leper colony. After visiting Spinalonga continue to St. Nicholas, with its small lake ("Voulismeni") located in the centre of the city, at the foot of the cliffs. It is an especially picturesque site with many open-air cafes and restaurants along the bank.
Approximate value: EUR €51 per person
 
Butterflies Valley & Walking
Drive along the western side of the island of Rhodes, where lies the Valley of the Butterflies, one of the most attractive destinations on the island. Driving back to Rhodes Town continue the tour on foot, following the guide through the narrow, cobblestone streets. The most imposing building of medieval Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Masters, dominates the end of the Street of the Knights, which goes through colorful shops to the 15th century Hospital of the Knights, now housing the Archaeological Museum.
Approximate value: EUR €49 per person