7 Day Legendary Archipelago

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.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

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

You’ll start this half-day tour in the historic center of Limassol, where your guide will take you on an illuminating walk past some of the city’s main sights. Look around the old harbor area and by the 14th century medieval fort, where legend has it that Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre. Then, you’ll have free time to explore the old city at your own pace or sit down for a coffee ready for the next step of the tour at Curium Archaeological Park. This important ancient city-kingdom, and one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the island, boasts treasures that evoke stories from times gone by. Peek inside the House of Efstolios, originally a private Roman villa with a network of baths and ornate mosaic floors, and admire the jewel in the crown, the Greco-Roman theater. By the end, you’ll know Cyprus’s history like the back of your hand.

Prices

Adults: $80, Children: $55

The city of Limassol is a bustling metropolis that boasts a beautiful panoramic Mediterranean waterfront, a plethora of cultural attractions and majestic historic places of interest. Our excursion visits the enchanting Old Town and transports you back in time. The focal point of the Old Town is the imposing medieval castle of Lemesos. According to history books, the site of the 14th-Century fort is where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre. Today, the castle is home to the Cyprus Medieval Museum which features exhibits of tombstones, pottery, weaponry, crosses, and silver Byzantine coins. Enjoy time out exploring the narrow streets that lead from the picturesque fishing harbour to the heart of the Old Town. At the Limassol Marina, you can watch the luxury yachts whilst sipping coffee at a pavement café.

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

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

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

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

On this excursion you are sure to experience the sacred grandeur of this intensely spiritual Dodecanese island. We visit Chora, St. John’s Monastery and the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse, which for centuries have drawn pilgrims to Patmos for prayer, esoteric seclusion and solemnity. From the port of Skala we travel up the mountain by air-conditioned coach to immaculate Chora. Its skirting of traditional white houses encircles the bottom of the exterior walls of the Monastery of St. John the Divine. An architecturally homogenous village, the cobblestone streets and alleys of Chora are lined with mansions built by wealthy ship owners during the 17th and 18th centuries. As you wend your way up to the Monastery, at the top of the hill, be sure to seek out an authentic taste of this unique Dodecanese village along some of its quieter thoroughfares. Now surrounded by the village, the fortified Monastery of St. John, whose walls are more than 15 meters high, was built with local gray stone. In 1088 St. Christodoulos requested the entire island of Patmos from Byzantine Emperor Alexis I Comnenus so he could found a monastery dedicated to St. John. Even after “The Blessed” was driven from Patmos by pirates, monks continued building the monastery which, within a few centuries, became an important cultural, religious and spiritual center. Within its warren of chapels and courtyards, the Monastery of St. John houses medieval icons of the Cretan school and the Chapel of the Theotokos (the Virgin Mary), whose beautiful frescoes date to the 12th century; the monastery’s main chapel dates to the end of the 11th century. There is also a museum within the monastery, with icons, religious objects of silver and gold, sacred relics and embroidered vestments of inestimable value on display. Halfway down the mountain to Plaka we stop at the Holy Grotto of the Apocalypse. According to Christian tradition, three fissures (a symbol of the Holy Trinity) opened in a wall in the grotto, and St. John heard the voice of God, who granted him a series of visions of the future (revelations), vivid pictures of how the Church would grow, battle the wicked powers of earth and hell and ultimately emerge victorious. The voice commanded the saint to transcribe these visions: St. John dictated the revelations to one of his disciples, Prochoros, and this text became the Book of Revelations. During his time in this sacred cave, St. John also composed the Fourth Gospel. The entrance to the grotto is marked with a mosaic of the visions of the saint. Inside the grotto, the nightly resting place of the saint’s head is fenced off and delineated in beaten silver. We return to Plaka, where you’ll have free time for shopping and a coffee beside the harbor. Close your eyes and let the grandeur of this miraculous island suffuse your soul.

Prices

Adults: $82, Children: $55

We start our tour with a drive through Skala, the only port and the center of Patmos Island where you will also find a beautiful beach, the new modern marina and most cafes, restaurants, tavernas and bars of the island, all clustered together. Our first stop is the Cave of the Apocalypse -- an important place of pilgrimage as it is said to have been the place where St John heard the voice of God and where he received the words of the Revelation. We will then go to Chora, a medieval settlement from where you will enjoy a wonderful view of the Monastery of the Apocalypse, Skala and the northeastern side of the island. Its architectural details have been respectfully restored ensuring full harmony and balance with the sacred Monastery. Our exploration continues with a scenic tour of the rocky, volcanic landscape of the island where we will also stop to take pictures of the ethereal windmills. We will say farewell to Patmos at Arion Bar on the Skala promenade -- the oldest café on the island and the best place to enjoy a classic freddo cappuccino.

Prices

Adults: $82, Children: $55

Join us for a visit to a biblical city! We travel by air conditioned coach from the port of Thessaloniki to the Citadel and Vlatadon Monastery, where St. Paul reached during his Second Missionary Journey. We then leave Thessaloniki for a one-hour drive through the countryside to reach the city of Veria (called “Berroia” in the Bible), St. Paul’s next stop after Vlatadon – it was here that he preached to the city’s “noble Jews” – we pay a visit to the traditional Tribune, where three in situ steps coexist with a recently finished mosaic of the Saint that commemorates this sermon. Today Veria is the capital of the regional unit of Imathia and the largest exporter of agricultural products in the region. It may have been inhabited as early as 1000 BC. Paul is the patron saint of Veria, which was named for one of the daughters of the mythological King Veris. Established in the foothills of Mt. Vermion, fortified Veria flourished behind its massive walls. One of the first cities to surrender to the Romans, in 168 BC, it became the area’s second most important city after Thessaloniki. During the Byzantine era many small, delicate, frescoed churches were built in the city, which came to be known as “Small Jerusalem.” We will visit one of these immaculate churches, the Church of Christ, which was built in the early 14th century and is home to masterworks by the most famous painter of the era, Kalliergis. Under the Ottomans, Veria was an important commercial and cultural center – it was during this period that many mosques, mansions and the old market were built. There will be time to wander and explore and shop in this marvelous ancient city before we return to the harbor at Thessaloniki.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

Join us for a fantastic half-day excursion to Thessaloniki’s most popular landmarks! We’ll travel by air conditioned coach from the pier to the city, where we’ll stop for photos at the White Tower. The city’s most famous monument, the White Tower, along the paralia (seafront promenade), was built in 1430 and today houses Byzantine icons and historical displays on its several floors. An excellent example of post-Byzantine architecture, it has become a majestic symbol of Thessaloniki. Our next stop is the Byzantine Museum, where we’ll have an hour to wander through an incredible collection of artifacts from the early Christian period through the Byzantine era, including sculpture, mosaics, painted tombs, embroidered fabrics and religious icons. We board the bus to drive past the International Trade Fair grounds and the Aristotelion University toward the Citadel, where you’ll enjoy a superb panoramic view of the city and Mt. Olympus and Thermaic Gulf beyond. From here we drive to the 5th century Basilica of St. Demetrius, the largest church in Greece, which houses an impressive display of mosaics and the crypt where Demetrius was confined. On our return to the ship we drive past the Arch of Galerius and St. George’s Rotonda. The Arch was built in 303 to commemorate the victory of Galerius over the Persians in 297 A.C., and it’s chiseled with scenes of the battle. Just north of the arch stands the massive Rotonda, which historians believe was constructed as a mausoleum for Galerius. Now closed, it has been used as a mosque and was for a time the Church of Agios Georgios.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

This is a fascinating half day, step back in time. Vergina was the first ancient capital of the Greek Kingdom of Macedonia and we have the privilege of visiting the Royal Tombs. The most important tomb is that of Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. We will be accompanied into the museum by our guide to look at some of King Philip’s most important possessions, including the king’s shield and gold-trimmed breast plate. Legend has it that the golden chest containing the king’s bones was washed with wine and wrapped in purple cloth. We will find out how this was unearthed before being able to discover it for ourselves. Also on display are gold diadems of unparalleled artistry, lavish wall paintings and a golden wreath of oak leaves. This is also the site of an extensive royal palace and one of the most important museums in Greece. The area was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status as “an exceptional testimony to a significant development in European civilisation.”

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

This is a remarkable, historic, full-day excursion combining the glories of Pella with those of Vergina, and it includes lunch overlooking the stunning Aliakmon Valley. We begin with a 45-minute drive by air-conditioned motor coach to Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great and the second capital of ancient Macedonia. Alexander, Emperor in the 4th Century BC, was undefeated in battle and is widely considered one of history’s most successful military commanders. For 250 years Pella was the cultural centre of the Ancient Greek world and as the seat of the royal family, enjoyed its greatest prosperity during the reign of Alexander. Archaeological excavations have uncovered public buildings and luxurious private homes with intricate marble-floor mosaics along with a plethora of delicate clay figurines and vases. We have the opportunity to view these and many other treasures before heading to the city of Veria where we will enjoy a three-course lunch will be served at a local restaurant overlooking the immense Aliakmon Valley. Our next stop is Vergina, where we visit the tomb of King Philip II of Macedonia. Dating from 335 BC, the bones of the king are covered with a golden wreath of oak leaves. Also here are the king’s iron helmet and a cache of weapons. As well as King Philip’s tomb and personal effects, we will see well-preserved examples of large-scale classical painting and numerous carved, painted steles of ordinary citizens. We have an hour’s drive by coach back to the ship.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

Thessaloniki is the second city of Greece and the capital of Macedonia. It has a fascinating and colourful history with evidence of Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman remains and it was the richest city in the Byzantine Empire. It is a glorious blend of beauty, history, and culture, framed by vast and stunning sea views and is considered to be Greece’s cultural capital. Our panoramic tour begins along the waterfront boulevard to Aristotelous Square, named for Macedonia’s leading philosopher Aristotle. We will see Thessaloniki’s most famous sight, the White Tower, part of the lower city’s original fortification which has also served as a prison. We hear the fascinating narrative by our guide as we take in many of the city’s highlights including, the Gallerius Arch, the Rotunda, and numerous neo-Classical buildings. We visit the 5th century St. Demetrius’ Cathedral as well and stop up to the Upper Town for sweeping views of the city with Mount Olympus and the Thermaic Gulf in the background.

Prices

Adults: $0, Children: $0

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