14-night An Extended Journey Of Greek Isles, Turkish Landmarks & Classic Legends

Oct 04, 2027 - Athens (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.

Oct 05, 2027 - Nafplion (Nauplia)

A former capital of Greece and a popular port on the eastern Peloponnese coast, Nafplion impresses visitors with grand, medieval architecture erected by Venetians during the 15th century. The most dominant structure is Palamidi Fortress towering high above town. The port is a lively town with a scenic harbor, a picturesque center to explore on foot and pebble beaches. Several monuments remain from its Turkish past, including mosques and parliament building. Handicrafts and local costumes are on display at the Folk Art Museum. Palamidi Castle has an incomparable view from the fortress’ lofty position. Spend time strolling along the waterfront, exploring around main square and narrow streets of Old Town. Platia Sintagmator, the city’s main square, is fronted by a former mosque, now the meeting place of Greek Parliament. Here is also the Archaeological Museum, which features an outstanding collection of Mycenaean finds. The entrance to Akronafplia Citadel has a gate built of Roman bricks, a Byzantine gatehouse with frescoes dating from 1291, and Venetian bastions. From the port, don't pass up a tour to Mycenae. There is evidence that the site has been inhabited since 4000 BC, but reached its peak of civilization during 1500 - 1000 BC. It was here that the mighty Agamemnon ruled and the site still contains massive structures which give visitors a glimpse of what this magnificent city once was.

Oct 06, 2027 - Paros, Greek Isle

Paros is a pristine escape among the Cyclades, with terraced hills inland accented by windmills and a coastline rich with relaxed, comfortable and traditional Greek towns, of which Paroikia is the central port. This island capital is a labyrinth of white houses clustered around the extraordinary Ekatontapyliani - the Church of a Hundred Doors. Legend says there are 99 doors already discovered and upon finding the hundredth, Constantinople will be reunited with Greece. From antiquity, Paros has been known for its famed, translucent marble; such famous statues as the Venus de Milo was made from it. Also visit the Venetian castle, built on the site of an acropolis and steps away from the sea. From Paroikia you can also go to Naoussa, the Monastery of St John and Prodromos.

Oct 07, 2027 - Skiathos, Greek Isle

One of the Greek Sporades islands, its pine-clothed hills and lovely coves and beaches ringed by cobalt-blue seas, Skiathos is a fashionable Aegean haunt of great natural beauty. The only center of any size is Skiathos Town, whose pretty harbor is filled with graceful yachts, and its narrow streets and sunlit waterfront with stylish bars, restaurants and boutiques. In and around the walled town of Skiathos are several monasteries, reflecting the history of the islands from the seventeenth through nineteenth centuries. A short boat trip will bring you to the ruined clifftop citadel of Kastro,once a haven from pirates. Handicrafts are also still made including pottery, fabrics and furniture, and on Skiathos Island, boats known as caiques are built.

Oct 08, 2027 - Volos (Meteora)

Volos is a commercial and industrial city; it is Greece’s third-largest port. The location in the gulf of the same name and near scenic Mount Pelion ensures this town an attractive setting. Interesting sites in the surrounding areas include imposing monasteries perched atop craggy mountains and a fine Archaeological Museum. Remains of Mycenaen buildings have been discovered near the river, where a palace stood around 1400 B.C. The main reason visitors come to Volos is to depart on excursions to the monasteries of Meteora.

Oct 09, 2027 - Kusadasi (Ephesus)

Visitors come to Kusadasi for beaches and nearby ruins of Ephesus. The major attraction is the archaeological site of ancient Ephesus, considered to be most important in Turkey. The history of this ancient city dates back to 10th century BC; many remarkable structures seen today are result of an excavation and restoration program. Along a white marble road grooved by ancient chariot wheels, the two-story Library of Celsus presents a striking sight. There are temples, houses of noblemen, and community buildings lining ancient streets. Nestled in the mountainside is a 25,000-seat amphitheater, still used for performances during Festival of Culture and Art. Bible buffs may know Ephesus as inspiration for St. Paul’s Epistle to Ephesians and the site of one of the first seven churches of Asia Minor. Treasures are kept in the Seljuk Archaeological Museum. Among the better-known ancient sites near Kusadasi are ancient Miletus and Dydima. Remains include a well-preserved Roman theater at Miletus and Dydima's sacred temple of Apollo.

Oct 10, 2027 - At Sea

Oct 11, 2027 - Istanbul

This centuries old capital guards the slender waterway between the Mediterranean and the Black Sea, and is the doorway between the East and West. Visitors can explore remnants of Byzantine Constantinople in the Sultanahmet district, where you will have the chance to see ancient splendors, such as the Haghia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace. At night the city boast a lively nightclub scene and excellent Turkish dining options that may include cultural entertainment and dancing. Istanbul also features splendid shopping malls, boutiques, and hand crafted items can be found all over the city.

Oct 12, 2027 - At Sea

Oct 13, 2027 - Bodrum

Situated on a beautiful peninsula, Bodrum is known as a popular holiday resort. Enchanting villages of white painted houses trimmed with purple bougainvillea together with miles of sandy beaches and ideal locations for water sports. On the southern coast of the peninsula lie the golden sandy beaches at Bardakci, Gumbet, Bitez, Ortakent Yalisi, Karaincir, Bagla and Akyarlar, while on the western side are Gumusluk, Yalikavak and Turgut Reis. For those who want seclusion, the northern coast boasts Turkbuku, Golkoy and Gundogan - all small simple fishing villages, ideal for those who want a subdued and relaxing atmosphere. While the nights in Bodrum town itself are noisy, crowded and vital, these smaller villages offer cozy taverns and restaurants over-looking quiet bays and can all be reached easily by car or even by boat.

Oct 14, 2027 - Rhodes

Rhodes is one of Greece’s favored vacation centers and was an important cultural center with a well-known School of Rhetoric attended by such greats as Cicero and Caesar. Rhodes' most famous attractions originated with the Knights of St. John, who occupied parts of the island from 1310 to 1522 and left a medieval town, dominated by the Palace of the Grand Masters and Knights' Hospital, which houses an Archaeological Museum with interesting exhibits of national archaeological finds. Rhodes has inspired many artists. The Old Town offers shopping opportunities and lively nightlife. At Mount Filerimos a church has been built on the site of an ancient temple. A popular excursion is to the charming village of Lindos. Its premier attraction, the ancient acropolis, stands atop sheer cliffs. Walls of a 13th-century Crusader castle enclose the site. Today, the winding path up to the acropolis is lined by stalls, where locals sell lace tablecloths and souvenirs. Mandraki Harbor's entrance is flanked by stone columns topped by figures of a stag and a hind, the town's heraldic animals.

Oct 15, 2027 - Patmos

This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic Revelations of St. John the Divine, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave where he lived is near the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. The Monastery of St. John, built on one of the island's highest points, houses priceless icons and manuscripts in its Treasury.

Oct 16, 2027 - Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos lies picturesquely on Mirabello Bay in the eastern part of Crete. Its charming small town has developed into a popular holiday resort thanks to its beautiful beaches and its convenience as a center from which to explore eastern Crete. Visit the island's capital, Heraklion, and the famous site of Knossos. Many of the artifacts and frescoes unearthed at Knossos are now in Heraklion's renowned museum. Among the artists who came from this port city was El Greco, who was born near Heraklion in 1541. The area around the harbor and the side streets are lined with souvenir and handicraft shops. Tavernas along the harbor front offer tasty local dishes. Spinalonga Island is located 15 miles from Ághios Nikólaos. Formerly the site of a leper colony, the island is popular with sun worshippers who enjoy its picturesque setting. Other attractions include the remains of a 16th-century Venetian fort.

Oct 17, 2027 - Mykonos

Mykonos's many captivating attributes make it one of the most celebrated Greek holiday islands. Its main village is a colorful maze of narrow streets lined with white-washed houses, many with bright blue doors and shutters. As an attractive backdrop, famous windmills are lined up like toy soldiers on the hillside, vestiges of a time when wind power was used to grind grain. Mykonos has churches and chapels scattered about the island; quite a number of them are located right in town. Radiant flowers spill over white-washed walls and shady courtyards. In addition to swimming, sunning, water-skiing and surfing, visitors find endless shopping opportunities. Artists have relied on Mykonos' beautiful setting to inspire them. The most photographed site is the Paraportiani, a cluster of white-washed churches resting below windmills. Mykonos's museums include an Archaeological Museum, which houses relics from the Trojan War, a Folk Art Museum and a Maritime Museum. The best beaches are Aghios Stephanos, Psarou, Kalafatis, Onros, Panormos and Elia.

Oct 18, 2027 - Athens (Piraeus)

Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization, which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life. Climb the hill of Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution Square, and find a welcoming taverna for spirited bizouki music, plenty of ouzo to drink, and energetic Greek dancing. Piraeus is the largest harbor in the country. The white chapel of St. George at its summit has a theater bearing the same name. The hill of Nymphs is the site of a planetarium, which is located above magnificent Thesseio temple. Among all of these hills, Acropolis is the one that glorified Athens and the whole Greek world and became the symbol of the western civilization. Bays and small rocky or sandy coves dot the area and during the summer are filled with Athenians and foreigners enjoying their beauty.