Hellenic Culture & 4 Night Aegean Cruise

Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day discovering the fascinating heritage of Meteora on an excursion to the floating Monasteries of Meteora.* Perched atop gravity-defying rocky peaks, the monasteries of Meteora are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 6 remaining monasteries are still active today. Established between the 12th and 16th centuries, the monks chose this isolated and hard to reach location to build their monasteries in order to escape the political and religious upheaval of the Middle Ages.

Visit up to two of these ancient sites and enjoy the amazing views across the Plain of Thessaly. Afterwards, depart to Athens and transfer to the hotel (approx. 4.5h journey). The evening is free at your leisure to explore the atmosphere of Syntagma Square or enjoy the city's lively nightlife. Overnight stay in Athens. 

* Entrance fee must be paid at the destination (approx. 3 euros per person at each monastery).

Please note: At Meteora, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and you will be required to climb a number of stairs in order to visit the monasteries. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. Modest dress is required to enter the monasteries of Meteora. This includes a long skirt (not trousers) and covered neckline/shoulders for women, and long trousers for men. 

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the port of Lavrio this morning, where you'll board the ship ready to embark on an unforgettable full-board 4-night cruise around the eternal Greek islands. Your home for the next four nights is fully-equipped to ensure you have a memorable experience. Make the most of the Greek sunshine at the onboard pool and savour authentic Greek cuisine with a full-board meal plan including complimentary drinks with each meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner). All you have to do is sit back and enjoy!

Set sail across the Aegean Sea, headed for your first stop of the journey: Mykonos! Famous for its vibrant nightlife and picture-perfect architecture, arrive in the evening and enjoy some time to explore at your leisure, soaking up the Mediterranean ambience or stopping for a sunset cocktail at a local taverna. Return to the ship and spend the night on board.

Full-board. This morning you'll anchor in Kusadasi, on Turkey's Aegean coast. This port city is the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the region. Enjoy this leisurely time to take in the beauty of this location or opt for an amazing half day visit of Ancient Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary*, one of the most celebrated pilgrimage sites in the world! 

Back on board, leave Turkey behind as you navigate towards the island of Patmos. Part of Greece’s Dodecanese island group, Patmos is a volcanic island with an immaculate coastline and truly impressive cliffs known as an archaeological site of great religious importance. Spend some time exploring the island's charming towns and tranquil coastline at your leisure.

Back on board, why not enjoy a drink at the bar as you leave Patmos behind, ready to continue your adventure through the Aegean tomorrow morning! Night on board.

* Optional Visit of Ancient Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary: One of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the region, Ephesus' ruins are truly a sight to be seen, which include the iconic and instantly recognizable Library of Celsus. It is also said to be Mary’s final place of residence as well as once being home to the Apostle Paul who lived, preached and wrote extensively making this one of the most significant pilgrimage sites on Earth. 

Full-board. Arrive in Rhodes, the largest island in the Greek Dodecanese known for its dazzling landscapes. Here, you’ll be able to admire the island’s eclectic scenery: from its impressive ancient and historic sites to its quaint and endearing villages. Why not use this leisurely time to explore the narrow cobbled streets of the old town and its magnificent architecture. Optionally, you can visit the ancient acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights*, a truly impressive natural citadel fortified between 800 BC and 200 BC by several ancient empires. Night on board.

* Optional Half-Day Tour of the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights: A tour that takes us at the very heart of the fascinating island of Rhodes, get ready to feast your eyes on iconic Greek relics. These include: the spectacular Doric Temple of Athena, the Church of the Virgin Mary adorned with heavenly frescoes and the Gate D’Amboise to walk along the Street of the Knights of St. John where they lived during the Crusades.

Full-board. As the sun rises this morning, you'll arrive at the port of Heraklion on the historic island of Crete. Famed for its rich Minoan heritage, this large island is one of the most popular in all of Greece. Take this leisurely time to explore the rich history of this port city. Perhaps you can grab a bite to eat or go shopping in one of its many boutiques.

After exploring this legendary site, head back to the ship and set sail for Santorini, believed by some to be the lost city of Atlantis! Known to this day for its stunning landscapes, which you will get to experience with your own eyes, you can get to know the island better with an optional excursion to Oia, famous for its blue-domed roofs and beautiful cobblestone streets. Leave Santorini in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxing night on board.

* Optional Oia Tour in Santorini: Discover the cobblestoned streets of Oia, one of Santorini’s most beloved destinations, as you enjoy a tour of this charming town. Take in the fabulous views from its hilltop streets and admire the blue-domed roofs of its white buildings.