7 Day Idyllic Aegean

Our Ancient Ephesus bus tour is a journey through the golden ages which shaped a pivotal center of commerce and spirituality. Built 3,000 years ago, Ephesus shaped the history of Greek, Turkish and Christian civilizations from its privileged location, chosen (according to legend) by the oracle of Delphi. A site of pilgrimage, due to its proximity to the Temple of Artemis (one of the 7 Wonders of the World) and the presence of major Christian figures (the apostles Paul and John and the Virgin Mary) within the city walls, Ephesus is currently one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. The splendour of its golden age is visible throughout its streets and exceptionally well-preserved ruins. As we explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site you will have the opportunity to breathe in the centuries of cultural effervescence, visible in the Ephesus Agora, Odeon, the Houses of the Patricians, the beautiful Temple of Hadrian and the astonishing Library of Celsus. You will also have the opportunity to bargain and shop local merchandise such as carpets,

For over 13 centuries the City of Ephesus has been at the heart of intense commerce, spiritual revelations and blooming art, and was the hub of the Christian community in the East established by St. Paul the Apostle. Our bus tour will take you to a selection of the city’s remarkable landmarks, allowing you to get a glimpse of its former glory and the history that still lives within its architectural jewels, inspiring edifices and narrow streets. You will also have the opportunity to bargain and shop local merchandise such as carpets, leather goods, souvenirs, etc. On our half-day excursion we will explore some truly memorable locations within the City of Ephesus. One of the most awe-inspiring sites is that of the Terrace Houses. There is so much to absorb here -- we will take some time to walk through the ruins to discover what family life was like for the wealthy Romans who resided in these once opulent homes. Mosaic floors and frescos on the walls of dining rooms, living rooms and bedrooms tell lost tales of ancient times. Our visit will include stops at the Ephesus Agora, the Thermal Baths for Scholastica (built in the 1st Century AD), the monumental Great Theatre and Library of Celsus (the 3rd largest library of the ancient world, where 12,000 scrolls were once carefully stored), the Trajan fountain and the Prytaneum (the religious and political center of the city).

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

One of the largest open-air museums in the world, the ancient city of Ephesus is home to impressive architectural treasures from the Greek, Roman and Hellenistic periods. Join a half-day tour to delve back through the centuries, visit the House of the Virgin Mary and shop for souvenirs in the sprawling Kusadasi bazaar. You’ll travel into the olive grove hills around Kusadasi to the House of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site where the Virgin Mary lived the last few years of her life. Then on to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the most incredible open-air archaeological sites and museums in the world. Admire ancient relics such as the Library of Celsus, the Odeon, marble-paved streets, baths, the Magnesia Gate and the Great Theater amongst many others. Enjoy unravelling the layers of history before returning to the bustling seaside city of Kusadasi. You will also have the opportunity to bargain and shop local merchandise such as carpets, leather goods, souvenirs, etc.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

Join us for a spectacular day. Our first stop after leaving lovely Kusadasi is the House of the Virgin Mary on Mount Bulbul (“canary”). Prior to his crucifixion, Jesus Christ entrusted his mother to St. John the Evangelist, who took her to Ephesus and hid her in a hut at the foot of Mount Bulbul, where he brought her food and water every day. The Virgin lived here until the 101st year of her life, around 60 A.D. In 1957 the Vatican recognized the House of the Virgin Mary as the dwelling in which the Virgin spent the final years of her life, and for the last five-and-a-half decades it has been an important pilgrimage site for Christians and Muslims. There is a fountain here whose waters are said to be therapeutic. We then visit St. John the Evangelist’s Basilica, a cross-shaped chapel built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian. Modeled after the now lost Church of the Holy Apostles in Constantinople, it was one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites of the Middle Ages. Our next stop is Ancient Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionia. This is a stunning marvel in the hills above the Aegean coast, one of the world’s largest open-air archeological museums. Founded by the ancient Greeks circa 2000 BC, it was the wealthiest of the Ionian cities and one of the most important cultural centers in the Mediterranean. The city was dedicated to the goddess Artemis, and its Artemision, a temple in her honor, took 120 years to complete and was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ephesus later became the second-largest city in the Roman Empire, at one time home to a quarter-million people. It was the first and most significant city in the Roman province of Asia and one of its key ports. Millennia ago the Aegean receded west, stranding the city on its sun-seared hillsides. It is believed Paul wrote his Letter to the Ephesians here. It was the most important Christian city between Rome and Antioch. Ephesus is rivaled only by the Forum and the Acropolis as one of the most complete classical cities in Europe, even though only 13% of the city has been uncovered! You can wander through the Odeon and the Prytaneion, then stroll between the marble colonnades of Curetes Street to visit Trajan’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, the Scholastica Baths and the astonishing Terrace Houses. Nearby, where Curetes Street becomes Marble Street, is the spectacular Library of Celsus, which has been almost entirely reconstructed, and the Agora. Every step here takes you deeper into the Hellenistic, Roman and early-Christian eras; you’ll notice inscriptions on many of the city’s columns. The Great Theater of Ephesus, where St. Paul once preached, was carved into the side of Mt. Pion in the 4th century BC. It held up to 24,000 spectators and is still renowned for its outstanding acoustics – even today it hosts concerts and other performances. From Ancient Ephesus we drive to the Rug Village for lunch and a demonstration of traditional Turkish carpet weaving. From the Rug Village we journey to the ancient city of Miletus, near the coast, which was one of the greatest and wealthiest cities in the ancient Greek world. St. Paul stopped here on his Third Missionary Journey, on his way back to Jerusalem. Miletus was located at the mouth of the River Meander, and its four harbors and strategic location made it an important port and commercial center. Miletus became the most important of the 12 cities of Ionia and was one of the first cities in the ancient world to mint coins – Homer mentions Miletus in The Iliad. The city’s fortunes declined, however, as the Meander silted up its harbor. There are many well-preserved ruins here, including a Temple of Apollo, a Byzantine church and the theater. After our tour of Miletus we return to the ship. (without the House of the Virgin Mary) Join us for a spectacular day. Our first stop after leaving lovely Kusadasi is Ancient Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionia. This is a stunning marvel in the hills above the Aegean coast, one of the world’s largest open-air archeological museums. Founded by the ancient Greeks circa 2000 BC, it was the wealthiest of the Ionian cities and one of the most important cultural centers in the Mediterranean. The city was dedicated to the goddess Artemis, and its Artemision, a temple in her honor, took 120 years to complete and was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Ephesus later became the second-largest city in the Roman Empire, at one time home to a quarter-million people. It was the first and most significant city in the Roman province of Asia and one of its key ports. Millennia ago the Aegean receded west, stranding the city on its sun-seared hillsides. It is believed Paul wrote his Letter to the Ephesians here. It was the most important Christian city between Rome and Antioch. Ephesus is rivaled only by the Forum and the Acropolis as one of the most complete classical cities in Europe, even though only 13% of the city has been uncovered! You can wander through the Odeon and the Prytaneion, then stroll between the marble colonnades of Curetes Street to visit Trajan’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, the Scholastica Baths and the astonishing Terrace Houses. Nearby, where Curetes Street becomes Marble Street, is the spectacular Library of Celsus, which has been almost entirely reconstructed, and the Agora. Every step here takes you deeper into the Hellenistic, Roman and early-Christian eras; you’ll notice inscriptions on many of the city’s columns. The Great Theater of Ephesus, where St. Paul once preached, was carved into the side of Mt. Pion in the 4th century BC. It held up to 24,000 spectators and is still renowned for its outstanding acoustics – even today it hosts concerts and other performances. From Ancient Ephesus we drive to the Rug Village for lunch and a demonstration of traditional Turkish carpet weaving. From the Rug Village we journey to the ancient city of Miletus, near the coast, which was one of the greatest and wealthiest cities in the ancient Greek world. St. Paul stopped here on his Third Missionary Journey, on his way back to Jerusalem. Miletus was located at the mouth of the River Meander, and its four harbors and strategic location made it an important port and commercial center. Miletus became the most important of the 12 cities of Ionia and was one of the first cities in the ancient world to mint coins – Homer mentions Miletus in The Iliad. The city’s fortunes declined, however, as the Meander silted up its harbor. There are many well-preserved ruins here, including a Temple of Apollo, a Byzantine church and the theater. After our tour of Miletus we return to the ship.

Prices

Adults: $96, Children: $54

Centuries of culture and layer upon layer of extraordinary civilizations await to be discovered during our bus tour through impressive Lindos and within the awe-inspiring structure of the Acropolis of Lindos. We will follow the footsteps of heroes as we walk along the Knight's Street in the heart of historical Rhodes. The seven lodges of the Order, still bearing their original coats of arms, are displayed along the cobblestone street where Rhodes’ history was written for over two centuries. Sitting at the top of Knights Street, the Grand Master’s Palace is well worth its name. You will be awed by the fort’s imposing Gothic architecture and strength displayed throughout its court structures, as you get a glimpse into the fascinating era of the Knights. We will end our tour of historical Rhodes with free time so that you may fortify your memories of Rhodes at your own pace.

This half-day tour of Rhodes is a feast for the eyes and the spirit, as we experience Rhodes’ fantastic history, beautifully layered from its elegant ancient temples to the grand medieval fortified structures. The Philerimos hill, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, is a prime location for enjoying magnificent views of the homonymous bay and marvel at the elegance of the Byzantine church of St. George Hostos, which is home to stunning 14th century frescoes. We will also see the Philerimos Monastery, unique throughout Greece because of its surprising Gothic architecture. Our tour will also explore the hill of Monte Smith, named after a Napoleonic British admiral, upon which the impressive Acropolis of Rhodes has stood throughout centuries of Greek, Roman, Byzantine or Ottoman rule. Amazing structures, such as the Apollo Temple and the Diagoras Ancient Stadium, still evoke the ancient glory of Rhodes. We will end our tour with free time in the Old Town, following a brief view of the majestic Grand Master Palace, the symbol of power for the Knights of St. John of Rhodes.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

On our half-day walking tour we will explore the city’s medieval history and the fascinating story of the Knights of St. John. The citadel, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and the home of the Knights of St. John, will give you a glimpse into the everyday life and challenges of medieval Rhodes. We will walk among two centuries of Knights’ history in Rhodes as we explore the Street of Knights, where the seven lodges of the Order were once housed. At the top of the street we will enter a world of architectural and political might, as we visit the impressive, Gothic-style Grand Master’s Palace, the seat of power during the occupation of the Knights of St. John. Built in the 14th century, atop the ruins of a 7th century citadel, the palace is beautifully preserved as a key feature of the Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will end our walking tour with free time in Rhodes’ Old Town, giving you the chance to enjoy a refreshment, take more photographs or search for the best souvenir from magical Rhodes.

Prices

Adults: $58, Children: $37

This tour will give you the opportunity not only to discover, see and learn the wild Cretan landscape, meet local people, enjoy typical Cretan villages, but also have great fun as a team hunting for the treasure. In every jeep will be a team of 4 persons that will be given printed material with allegoric maps. During stops on the route and, off-course limited time, you will have to use your imagination in search of hidden trails that, actually represent points. The team with the most points will be the winner. The top three winners will receive, respectively, gold, silver and bronze medals at a small ceremony during dinner in the evening.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

The amazing Richtis Gorge is between Agios Nikolaos and Sitia, on the north of Eastern Crete, and there is water flowing through the gorge year-round. Our hike, which takes between three and four hours, begins just outside the village of Exo Mouliana, at the Lachanas Bridge, a stone arch built in the 19th century. We will travel approximately three kilometres along the gorge, to Richtis Beach, and we will climb about 350 metres Total. The mountain rises above us as we hike, and throughout our journey the air is redolent with the scent of local herbs and flowers, including oleander and sage. The highlight of our trek is the Richtis Gorge waterfall, from which water cascades year-round from a height of more than 20 metres. We will also pass abandoned water mills, which lie in the gorge like footprints from the past. We fi nish our hike at beautiful Richtis Beach, a pebble beach near the village of Kalabro, where we’ll rest and regroup at stone picnic tables under tamarisk trees before returning to the ship.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

From Agios Nikolaos we drive to Elounda, a quiet resort on the beautiful Bay of Elounda - its hotels have been designed to complement the area’s rocky geography and turquoise waters. Elounda is an unforgettable beauty, famed throughout the Aegean for its gorgeous green hills, its sugar-sand beaches and its pristine, inviting sea. We leave Elounda for lovely Kritsa. Enjoy an incredible view of the Bay of Elounda and spectacular Mirabello Bay, then wander the narrow streets of this traditional village. Its residents are known for planting flowers and fruit trees in their courtyards and on the balconies and terraces of their houses. After Kritsa we continue to a local olive farm we particularly love - the owners have designed all of its 2,000 square metres to embrace Cretan countryside life. Olive oil, wine and raki, the traditional drink of Crete, are produced here using traditional methods from the early 20th century. On arrival you will be welcomed with a glass of raki and with a snack of traditional Cretan meze. Enjoy the local delicious snacks while you thrill to a performance of Cretan music and folk dances. We leave the olive farm and return to picturesque Agios Nikolaos, the St. Tropez of Crete and home to many charming cafes and restaurants. The city’s most famous landmark is a small lake in the centre of the city at the foot of a cliff - the lake, known as “Voulismeni,” is where the goddess, Athena, used to bathe. Also noteworthy here, in the capital of Eastern Crete, are the Archeological Museum and the cathedral, just southwest of the lake on Platia Venizelou.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

We travel by air-conditioned bus to the Minoan Palace of Knossos. Knossos, the capital of the Minoan civilization, was the first civilisation in Europe. The hill of Kephala, which hoists the Palace above a valley of pines a few miles outside Heraklion, has been continuously inhabited since 7000 BC. The Minoan civilisation, which endured for about 2000 years, was one of the most advanced in the ancient world, and Knossos is one of the instances in which Greek mythology might dovetail with archeological fact. Minos, a legendary king and lawgiver of Crete, was one of Europa’s three sons, all born after her tryst with Zeus, who appeared to Europa as a white bull and carried her off to Crete. The frescoed Palace at Knossos, which comprises more than 1500 rooms and occupies more than 20,000 square metres, may have been the mythical labyrinth designed by Daedalus wherein Minos imprisoned the Minotaur, a monstrous half-bull, half man born to his wife, Pasiphaë, who was impregnated by a bull sent by Poseidon. We depart from Knossos to bustling Heraklion, the city of Hercules and the resting place of Nikos Kazantzakis, Crete’s most famous son and the author of Zorba the Greek. Within the Venetian walls of Heraklion, a busy metropolitan port and the capital of Crete, you’ll find unique shops and many lively cafes.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

We drive from Agios Nikolaos to the resort of Elounda, an unforgettable beauty famed throughout the Aegean for its gorgeous green hills, its sugar-sand beaches and its pristine, inviting sea. From Elounda we sail the calm waters of the Bay of Elounda for the island fortress of Spinalonga, a former Venetian bastion and, until 1957, a leper colony. Spinalonga also features in Victoria Hislop’s debut novel, The Island, which was adapted by Greek television channel Mega into a 26-part drama, To Nisi, the most successful television series ever broadcast in Greece. We leave Spinalonga for a small nearby bay to swim in its turquoise waters and enjoy a barbecue on the beach.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

First you head up to Megalochori village, one of the most authentic and unspoiled villages of the island with its distinctive architecture and character.

We will continue on to the east, in the background, you will have settlements like Kamari and Monolithos, while you will pass through Fira, the small traditional villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli with delicate architecture and beauties, to eventually arrive at the settlement of Oia. During the entire route, to the west you will have before your eyes the lace-like caldera, the little islands of Thirasia, Palea and Nea Kameni and an unsurpassable panoramic view. In Oia you will have plenty of time to stroll through the marble-paved alleys, to gaze at the adorably cute shops, to take pictures, to become acquainted with the characteristic buildings, carved into the rocks and the unusual captains’ manors, the settlement Ammoudi at the foot of the caldera… After your curiosity has been sated of the area which is characterized as being of “exceptional natural beauty”, your return begins...

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

Welcome to a half-day tour of Plato’s source of inspiration for the legend of Atlantis, the Minoan Bronze Age settlement of Akrotiri. During our exploration we will discover ancient treasures exceptionally preserved by the same element which led to the destruction of the Akrotiri civilization - volcanic ash. Dating back to the 4th millennium BC, the archeological site of Akrotiri will simply amaze you with the complexity of the edifices and decorations unearthed here since 1967. Delicate art treasures, including vivid frescos, furniture and vessels, tell magnificent stories of the ancient life and society of the Minoan civilization. We will end our immersion in Santorini’s astounding history with free time in the town of Akrotiri, beautifully located close to the famous Red Beach and overlooking the southeastern side of the island.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

Our half day boat tour takes you on a unique journey around one of the most photographed landscapes in the world - the island of Santorini. This intimate boat tour will allow you to discover this incredibly romantic island from a unique perspective, getting up close and personal with Santorini’s coarse volcanic silhouette. We will pass by Palea and Nea Kameni, two uninhabited and wholly volcanic islands in the Santorini complex. These islands, made of black lava, present an astonishing landscape, violently moulded by the powerful volcanic eruption of circa 1600 BC which created Santorini’s current scenery. The famous Santorini volcano crater is found on Nea Kameni and a brief walk takes the curious visitor to the edge of the still active crater. The raw power, visible among the rugged landscape, is exceptionally impressive and will fill you with a rush of adrenaline as you peer into its seemingly bottomless darkness. We will end our tour of Santorini with a visit to Palea Kameni’s hot springs, where the healing waters can reach up to 35 degrees celsius. Here you will have a chance to swim to the springs.

Prices

Adults: $85, Children: $52

Condensed into half a day, this action-packed 4x4 tour takes you speeding along country tracks and up into the hills of Santorini. First on our itinerary is the remote village of Akrotiri for stop-and-stare views over the caldera cliffs. We’ll then swoop down the coast to the oldest lighthouse in the country and age-old location for sunset watching. Then, rumble along the tracks to Vlychada Beach, a red-sand beach, and Perissa Beach with its swathes of black sand. Afterwards, it’s up and up the highest peak to the Monastery of Prophet Ilias, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramas over the whole of Santorini. Take in tradition at Exo Gonia village and get lost in amongst the vast stretch of beach at Monolithos. And last but not least, you’ll stroll around the capital Fira, located high above the Aegean Sea with views that extend for miles. Guests are required to have an international driving licence to do this excursion.

Prices

Adults: $117, Children: $80

Santorini has it all – history, beaches, and beauty. Start off at the Church of Panagia Episkopi in the village of Gonia, a Byzantine beauty that houses fascinating icons. Then it’s over to the south-east coast to the seaside village of Kamari. Here you’ll get your first glimpse of Mesa Vouno looming up ahead as you explore this cosmopolitan resort during your free time, where traditional white houses line up against the black sand beach. No tour around Santorini would be complete without visiting Oia – the most famous village on the island. Bright blue domes contrast against crisp white buildings, and its clifftop location is something else to behold as you wander around. There you will have the chance to enjoy wine tasting and you’ll get some free time to cool off at Perissa Beach before visiting the capital Fira with its blissful clifftop location, and passing by the mighty Mesa Vouno Mountain.

Prices

Adults: $102, Children: $72

After a short drive from the harbor, you might think you’ve landed on the moon as you step off the bus and on to Sarakiniko Beach. We’ll kick off this full-day island bus tour at one of Milos’ most photographed sites, where you’ll have time to wander down to the inlets and capture it from the best angles. Make sure you take a moment to swim in its gin-clear waters – it’s magical. The uneven surfaces in Sarakiniko require comfortable and sturdy shoes. Then, we’ll travel to the pretty village of Plaka, tucked below the imposing Venetian castle, to stroll along its cobblestone alleys and pass by traditional houses decorated with blooming bougainvillea. Savor local sweet specialties like karpouzopita and koufeto, or head to the marble courtyard at Korfiatissa Church for the best panoramic views. Last but not least, we’ll drive to Kipos for a typical taverna lunch via Papikinos Beach and the salt plains on our way to board the boat. Cruise out to Kleftiko – another Milos must-see – where you’ll swim through sparkling sea caves and stop for a final refreshing dip at Gerondas Beach.

Prices

Adults: $136, Children: $80

The delicate island of Milos is renowned for its lacy coastline and the deep blue waters which embrace its spectacular landscape. More than 75 beaches are home to a variety of textures, color tones and experiences. Our half-day bus tour will take you along the beautiful shores of Milos as we make our way towards the first stop on our exploration, the Paleochori beach on the island’s southern shores. Paleochori beach welcomes you with a long strip of the finest sand in the most serene atmosphere. Its turquoise waters and the unexpected colors of the rock formations surrounding the beach will make your time at Paleochori beach a truly vivid memory. We complete our discovery of the surprising beaches of Milos with a stop at the uniquely mysterious Sarakiniko beach. Situated on the northern shore, Sarakiniko’s volcanic rocks have been shaped by winds and waves into natural sculptures. The lunar landscape created by centuries of exposure to the natural elements is simply unparalleled. The uneven surfaces in Sarakiniko require comfortable and sturdy shoes.

Sold only onboard

The island of Milos is an unexpected experience, offering you a bouquet of natural and historical treasures completely unique among the Greek islands. Often called “the Island of Colors”, due to its emerald waters and the vibrant tones of its buildings, Milos will surprise you with its unique landscape such as the lunar feeling of the widely photographed Sarakiniko beach and we will explore many hidden treasures throughout our half-day bus tour. The uneven surfaces in Sarakiniko require comfortable and sturdy shoes. The Milos Mining Museum, dedicated to the island’s mineral history and its geologic and natural heritage, is a fascinating highlight of this truly awe-inspiring destination. Long before it became inhabited, Milos was a treasured source of obsidian (as early as 15,000 years ago) and the little island continued to be an important source of mineral resources across the ancient world. Our visit to the museum will let you discover firsthand the treasures of Milos - baryte, sulfur, millstones, gypsum and even the Melian earth, used as natural pigment by ancient artists. We will end our exploration of Milos with free time in Plaka, the picturesque capital city of the island. Winding tiled streets, vibrantly painted houses and a plethora of small traditional shops, restaurants, and cafes await you in this superbly preserved city. Breathe in the salty air and the magical views of the Milos bay, guarded by the 13th century Venetian Castle which sits atop the Plaka hill.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

With never-ending rows of whitewashed houses, churches, boutiques and hidden lanes, Mykonos Town is a haven to explore. We’ll set off on foot around Chora, the historic heart, gradually weaving our way to Little Venice where you’ll spot colorful houses dripping into the bright blue sea and al fresco terraces buzzing with cocktail and coffee drinkers. Then, it’s over to the town’s most famous landmark – the Windmills – that stand tall by the sea, providing the most romantic spot to watch the sunset. Our next stop on the walking tour will be Panagia Paraportianí, a beauty of a Byzantine church dating back to 1425 and one of the most photographed on the island. Afterwards, it’s time to take your seat at the dinner table for a real Greek feast rounded off with a side order of some feet-stomping music and traditional island dancing.

Prices

Adults: $96, Children: $68

Savor the delights of Mykonos with a foodie tour around the island capital. You’ll see the city’s highlights and neighborhoods all while sampling the best food and drink that Mykonos Town has to offer. We’ll start it all with a caffeine kick at Café Barco where you’ll be served a traditional coffee and sweet treat, after which we’ll stroll past the famous windmills, through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Little Venice and the Three Mills to the one and only Paraportiani Church. Next, try some Greek peppers and olives washed down with some local raki before heading to Gioras bakery to eat their famous cheese and onion pie. We continue our food odyssey at Popolo where you’ll sample local bruschetta, and then it’s onto the pretty garden of Cine Manto to taste fresh Greek salad, beer and Mykonian sausage. And last but not least, you’ll have some fig cheesecake served with olive marmalade waiting for you at Il Forno di Gerasimo.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

This tour encompasses the best of Mykonos outside its main city. We will drive around the island to get a glimpse into its beaches such as Ornos (one of the most family-friendly on the island), St Anna (protected by two hills called “Aphrodite’s breasts”), and Kalafatis (a paradise for water sports and windsurfing). We will stop briefly at each of these natural splendors for photos. We will then leave the seashore and drive inland to Ano Mera, a village which remains one of the rare unspoiled parts of the island. Home to the Panagia Tourliani Monastery from the 16th century, the village unfolds around its impressive bell tower and marble fountain. Coming back to Chora we will go for a short stop to Panagia Paraportianí, the iconic 15th century Byzantine church. We will conclude our bus tour at the picturesque Little Venice -- the perfect spot for a cocktail on the sea.

Prices

Adults: $83, Children: $54

This full day island hopping tour promises a healthy dose of history, culture and relaxation set in the gorgeous ‘Cycladic Sisters’ – Mykonos, Delos and Rhenia. You’ll cast off by boat towards the ancient harbor of Delos, birthplace of Apollo, where a myriad of ancient treasures await. Travel back in time during a guided visit of the archaeological site of Delos and cast your eyes over one of the most important mythological and historical sites in Greece. As you wander round, you’ll spot ancient monuments such as the Agora of the Hermaists with its towering altars as well as Oikos (House) of Naxians, the three Temples of Apollo, the Temple of the Delians and the ‘treasures’ where every city displayed its offerings. Learn all about its past as a wealthy trading port as you step through the Sanctuary of the Bulls, the Agora of Theophrastos, and pass by the Temple of the Twelve Gods towards the Granite Monument. You’ll be swept through centuries of rich history and great legends as you wander through its extensive grounds with highlights including the grand Avenue of the Lions and the large building complex known as the Establishment of the Poseidoniasts of Beirut. Afterwards, hop aboard the boat once more and sail straight to the mesmerizing beaches that encircle Rhenia – a real hidden paradise. Swim, snorkel and soak up the last rays of sunshine on its serene, uncrowded beaches.

Prices

Adults: $136, Children: $80

The most sacred island in ancient Greece is just a short boat trip away from Mykonos, nestled in amongst the Cyclades Islands. And with Delos covered in temples, sanctuaries and ancient monuments dedicated to the gods Apollo and Artemis, you can’t help but be swept away by the magic of it all. You’ll spend half a day unravelling centuries of history, enjoying free time to explore Delos’ Chora and treading past ancient treasures at the Archaeological Site of Delos, including the most photographed of them all – the Avenue of the Lions. Walk down the central colonnade - the House of Naxians - and gaze up at the Doric Temple of Delians, dedicated to Apollo. Stop and stare at the Sanctuary of the Bulls as well as the Agora of Hermaists and soak up the once-upon-a-time glory of ancient Greek civilization. It’s one of Greece’s most important archaeological and mythological sites, which was once a buzzing trade center. What’s more, as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, you’ll be exploring the Archaeological Site of Delos, a rich and extensive UNESCO world heritage site, with the help of a knowledgeable guide on this tour.

Prices

Adults: $91, Children: $68

This jam-packed excursion promises all the highlights of Athens and its history in just half a day. You’ll set off by bus from the port into the center of Athens, where during the panoramic drive you’ll get to gaze up at the Temple of Olympian Zeus and pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which sits in front of the Greek Parliament. Our first destination is the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Olympic Games were held in 1896. Next, it’s on to the stylish ‘Trilogy of Athens’ – the University of Athens, National Library and the Academy of Athens – before you reach the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma in the heart of modern Athens. Here you’ll also get a glimpse of picturesque Plaka tucked beneath the Acropolis, and then it’s onwards to Propylaea where the Temple of Athena Nike lies. Last but not least, it’s time for the final highlight of the tour - the iconic Acropolis. You’ll join a guided exploration to see the mighty Parthenon, symbol of the city, closer than ever before and stand on ground that has witnessed centuries of history. From here, you’ll also admire the glorious Odeon of Herodes Atticus before you reach the final stop – the New Acropolis Museum – to uncover and marvel at more famous works from classical antiquity.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $108, Children: $80

This jam-packed excursion promises all the highlights of Athens and its history in just half a day. You’ll set off by bus from the port into the center of Athens, where during the panoramic drive you’ll get to gaze up at the Temple of Olympian Zeus and pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which sits in front of the Greek Parliament. Our first destination is the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Olympic Games were held in 1896. Next, it’s on to the stylish ‘Trilogy of Athens’ – the University of Athens, National Library and the Academy of Athens – before you reach the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma in the heart of modern Athens. Here you’ll also get a glimpse of picturesque Plaka tucked beneath the Acropolis, and then it’s onwards to Propylaea where the Temple of Athena Nike lies. Last but not least, it’s time for the final highlight of the tour - the iconic Acropolis. You’ll join a guided exploration to see the mighty Parthenon, symbol of the city, closer than ever before and stand on ground that has witnessed centuries of history. From here, you’ll also admire the glorious Odeon of Herodes Atticus before you reach the final stop – the New Acropolis Museum – to uncover and marvel at more famous works from classical antiquity.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $105, Children: $74

For an overview of Athens, look no further than this half-day tour to the Panathenaic Stadium and historic neighborhood of Plaka. You’ll see two of the main attractions in Athens whilst exploring at your own pace. Firstly, you’ll travel back through the centuries at the Panathenaic Stadium, originally built in circa 330BC for the Panathenaic Games. This 45,000-seat marble beauty is a sight for sore eyes with its never-ending expanse of bright white tiers. Afterwards, you’ll navigate the maze of cobbled alleys that make up Plaka, the oldest area in the city. Its streets are lined with neoclassical buildings, pavement-side tavernas churning out delicious food around the clock, and flashes of hot pink bougainvillea draped across historic walls – it’s magical! And to top it off, you’ll also pass by Syntagma Square, the Academy of Athens and the National Library, all while catching fantastic glimpses of the Acropolis above.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $83, Children: $54

Discover what lies at the heart of the rich history of Greece and savor the intensity of its proud capital city in a swift bus tour of Athens. Explore the metropolis and some of its most emblematic sights, from the cradle of the modern Olympic Games to the city’s vibrant squares and the archaeological treasury of the Acropolis. The panoramic bus tour will immerse you in the effervescent atmosphere of the city where ancient heritage and modern culture blend seamlessly, as you drive by the gleaming Panathenian Stadium (home of the 1st edition of the modern Olympic Games), the awe-inspiring Temple of Zeus and the lively Omonoia and Syntagma Squares. You will then arrive at the fantastic Acropolis Museum, a state-of-the-art architectural jewel which tells the fascinating stories of numerous, priceless artefacts retrieved from the Acropolis since 1834. The time spent here will allow you to uncover a powerful visual representation of the life and culture of ancient Greece. Finish the Athenian experience with a stroll through the charming narrow streets of Plaka, where you can use your free time to shop, enjoy a coffee or simply explore the “Neighborhood of the Gods”.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $96, Children: $68

Explore the best that Athens has to offer with this half-day tour around the historic city center. Visit the Acropolis, Parthenon and many other ancient treasures; enjoy some free time exploring the winding streets of Plaka with its charming traditional tavernas and gift shops selling handmade and locally-produced goods, then embark on a panoramic bus tour around the top sights in Athens. The mighty Acropolis overlooking the rooftops of Athens is a symbol of classical architecture and jewel in Athens’ crown. You’ll visit the city’s most important archaeological site, including the Doric order temple dedicated to the goddess Athena – the one and only Parthenon – as well as other highlights such as the Propylea (gates), Temple of Erechtheoin and Temple of Athena. Then after some free time discovering Plaka, you’ll be taken on a bus tour around the Theatre of Herodes Atticus, Panathenian Stadium, National Library, Athens Academy, the University, The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Parliament, Omonoia Square and last but not least Syntagma Square.

*Passengers departing from Piraeus, take the excursion, on the last day of their cruise, after disembarkation.

Prices

Adults: $96, Children: $68