12-Day Greece And Adriatic Antiquities
Itinerary
Day Piraeus (Athens), GreeceDeparts 05:00 PM
"No modern metropolis is more steeped in myth than Athens, Greece. From the gritty port of Piraeusgateway to Greeces fabled islesto the Parthenoneternal symbol of Western civilizationAthens has attracted adventurers and classicists for centuries. This heritage is still very much alive for modern visitors sightseeing in Athens: ancient stadiums and temples dwell alongside apartment blocks, modern performances are staged in the marble amphitheaters where Greek drama was born and millennia-old monuments are scattered in the archaeological park that circles the Acropolis. One of the worlds oldest maritime powers, Athens is blessed with a balmy climate and stunning coastline. The seaside suburbs of Athens are scalloped with sandy beaches, fancy yacht clubs and glamorous beach bars. While the Athenian lifestyle is known for late-night dinners and dancing until dawn, the city shines brightly by day in the bustling markets, lively cafés and fascinating museums that illuminate Greece's past and present. Contemplate the magnitude of all that culture and ancient tourist attractions while marveling at the sun setting into the Aegean or rising over the Acropolis. "
"No modern metropolis is more steeped in myth than Athens, Greece. From the gritty port of Piraeusgateway to Greeces fabled islesto the Parthenoneternal symbol of Western civilizationAthens has attracted adventurers and classicists for centuries. This heritage is still very much alive for modern visitors sightseeing in Athens: ancient stadiums and temples dwell alongside apartment blocks, modern performances are staged in the marble amphitheaters where Greek drama was born and millennia-old monuments are scattered in the archaeological park that circles the Acropolis. One of the worlds oldest maritime powers, Athens is blessed with a balmy climate and stunning coastline. The seaside suburbs of Athens are scalloped with sandy beaches, fancy yacht clubs and glamorous beach bars. While the Athenian lifestyle is known for late-night dinners and dancing until dawn, the city shines brightly by day in the bustling markets, lively cafés and fascinating museums that illuminate Greece's past and present. Contemplate the magnitude of all that culture and ancient tourist attractions while marveling at the sun setting into the Aegean or rising over the Acropolis. "
Day Cruising The Dardanelles / Istanbul, TurkeyCruising / Arrives 04:00 PM
Cruising
Istanbul, Turkey
"Arriving in Istanbul, Turkey on board a ship is an unforgettable experience. The Bosphorus, dividing Europe and Asia, welcomes passengers with ocean breezes, soaring seagulls andif youre luckyplayful dolphins that frolic en route to the port. On deck is where the views of Istanbuls best attractions await. The shores of Asia to the east, the first Bosphorus Bridge to the north, and the old Istanbul peninsula in the southhome to Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophiagive a glimpse of whats to come on your visit. But once you step ashore in Istanbul, youll find the most interesting parts of the cityneighborhoods with personalities of their own. Explore the sights of bohemian Beyoğlu: a contemporary district brimming with galleries and street art, back street bars, cafés and fashion outlets that line the busy shopping avenueIstiklal Caddesi. Meanwhile, across the Golden Horn, Zeyreks ancient timber houses made it a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site where people live a traditional way of life. Sultanahmet is where travelers of the world sightsee and explore palaces, temples and mosques that once defined the power of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. But, as these empire builders learned, its difficult to conquer Istanbul in one trip. Youll want come back for more. "
Cruising
Istanbul, Turkey
"Arriving in Istanbul, Turkey on board a ship is an unforgettable experience. The Bosphorus, dividing Europe and Asia, welcomes passengers with ocean breezes, soaring seagulls andif youre luckyplayful dolphins that frolic en route to the port. On deck is where the views of Istanbuls best attractions await. The shores of Asia to the east, the first Bosphorus Bridge to the north, and the old Istanbul peninsula in the southhome to Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophiagive a glimpse of whats to come on your visit. But once you step ashore in Istanbul, youll find the most interesting parts of the cityneighborhoods with personalities of their own. Explore the sights of bohemian Beyoğlu: a contemporary district brimming with galleries and street art, back street bars, cafés and fashion outlets that line the busy shopping avenueIstiklal Caddesi. Meanwhile, across the Golden Horn, Zeyreks ancient timber houses made it a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site where people live a traditional way of life. Sultanahmet is where travelers of the world sightsee and explore palaces, temples and mosques that once defined the power of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. But, as these empire builders learned, its difficult to conquer Istanbul in one trip. Youll want come back for more. "
Day Istanbul, TurkeyDeparts 04:00 PM
"Arriving in Istanbul, Turkey on board a ship is an unforgettable experience. The Bosphorus, dividing Europe and Asia, welcomes passengers with ocean breezes, soaring seagulls and if you are lucky,playful dolphins that frolic en route to the port. On deck is where the views of Istanbul's best attractions await. The shores of Asia to the east, the first Bosphorus Bridge to the north, and the 'old Istanbul' peninsula in the south home to Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia give a glimpse of what's to come on your visit. But once you step ashore in Istanbul, you'll find the most interesting parts of the city neighborhoods with personalities of their own. Explore the sights of bohemian Beyoglu: a contemporary district brimming with galleries and street art, back street bars, cafes and fashion outlets that line the busy shopping avenue Istiklal Caddesi. Meanwhile, across the Golden Horn, Zeyrek's ancient timber houses made it a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site where people live a traditional way of life. Sultanahmet is where travelers of the world sightsee and explore palaces, temples and mosques that once defined the power of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. But, as these empire builders learned, it's difficult to conquer Istanbul in one trip. You'll want come back for more. "
"Arriving in Istanbul, Turkey on board a ship is an unforgettable experience. The Bosphorus, dividing Europe and Asia, welcomes passengers with ocean breezes, soaring seagulls and if you are lucky,playful dolphins that frolic en route to the port. On deck is where the views of Istanbul's best attractions await. The shores of Asia to the east, the first Bosphorus Bridge to the north, and the 'old Istanbul' peninsula in the south home to Topkapı Palace and Hagia Sophia give a glimpse of what's to come on your visit. But once you step ashore in Istanbul, you'll find the most interesting parts of the city neighborhoods with personalities of their own. Explore the sights of bohemian Beyoglu: a contemporary district brimming with galleries and street art, back street bars, cafes and fashion outlets that line the busy shopping avenue Istiklal Caddesi. Meanwhile, across the Golden Horn, Zeyrek's ancient timber houses made it a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site where people live a traditional way of life. Sultanahmet is where travelers of the world sightsee and explore palaces, temples and mosques that once defined the power of the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman empires. But, as these empire builders learned, it's difficult to conquer Istanbul in one trip. You'll want come back for more. "
Day Mykonos, GreeceArrives 12:00 PM Departs 11:00 PM
One of the most visited of Greece's Cyclades Islands, Mykonos is also known by the lyrical name of "the island of winds." The name comes from its first ruler, Mykons, son of the god Apollo. Today, you'll see what look like the descendants of the gods lounging on Mykonos's beachesthe island is known for being a lure for the rich and beautiful and was once a favorite vacation destination of Jackie Kennedy Onassis and her entourage. Although a mystique of money and hedonism still lingers around the island, there's lots to see, do, taste and buy in Mykonos that's accessible to us mere mortals. There's also the simple beauty of Greek windmills, whitewashed houses clinging to the hills and charming tavernas with terraces open to the sky and the sea air.
One of the most visited of Greece's Cyclades Islands, Mykonos is also known by the lyrical name of "the island of winds." The name comes from its first ruler, Mykons, son of the god Apollo. Today, you'll see what look like the descendants of the gods lounging on Mykonos's beachesthe island is known for being a lure for the rich and beautiful and was once a favorite vacation destination of Jackie Kennedy Onassis and her entourage. Although a mystique of money and hedonism still lingers around the island, there's lots to see, do, taste and buy in Mykonos that's accessible to us mere mortals. There's also the simple beauty of Greek windmills, whitewashed houses clinging to the hills and charming tavernas with terraces open to the sky and the sea air.
Day Kusadasi (Ephesus), TurkeyArrives 07:00 AM Departs 06:30 PM
"Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the citys role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesuss mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region."
"Kusadasi in Turkey is the gateway to one of the most legendary cities of the ancient world: Ephesus. St. Paul preached in its Great Theater, while the facade of the Celsus Library survives as a testament to the citys role as a center of learning and culture. Not far from Ephesus, the Temple of Artemis (also known as the Temple of Diana), one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world, once stood, drawing pilgrims from around the Mediterranean. While it no longer stands, it is possible to walk amongst its foundations and the remains of its towering columns. Other historic sites can also be found nearby: The House of Mary is believed to be the home of Jesuss mother at the end of her life, and the Basilica of St. John, constructed in the 6th century, marks the location of his tomb. (Like Mary, he spent his final years in Ephesus.) Nearby, the Selcuk fortress reflects the period of Byzantine and Ottoman control of the region."
Day Rhodes, GreeceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
"Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese (the name translates as ""twelve islands""), draws more visitors than most other Greek islands. Its capital, Rhodes Town, offers an enduring blend of history and architecture, and the island's interior is filled with lushly forested hills. To the south, Lindos, one of the most stunning villages in all of Greece, is watched over by a picture-perfect ancient ruin on the hill above. The island owes its rich history to a good climate and a strategically valuable position between Asia and Europe. Adding to this is a fine natural port where its former main attraction, an immense statue of the sun god Heliosthe Colossus of Rhodesonce stood. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the statue made Rhodes a must-visit destination for ancient world travelers until it collapsed in an earthquake in 226 B.C.E. Even the statues ruins were grand enough to bring curious travelers to Rhodes for another 800 years until the metal pieces were melted and sold off by an occupying army."
"Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese (the name translates as ""twelve islands""), draws more visitors than most other Greek islands. Its capital, Rhodes Town, offers an enduring blend of history and architecture, and the island's interior is filled with lushly forested hills. To the south, Lindos, one of the most stunning villages in all of Greece, is watched over by a picture-perfect ancient ruin on the hill above. The island owes its rich history to a good climate and a strategically valuable position between Asia and Europe. Adding to this is a fine natural port where its former main attraction, an immense statue of the sun god Heliosthe Colossus of Rhodesonce stood. One of the Seven Wonders of the World, the statue made Rhodes a must-visit destination for ancient world travelers until it collapsed in an earthquake in 226 B.C.E. Even the statues ruins were grand enough to bring curious travelers to Rhodes for another 800 years until the metal pieces were melted and sold off by an occupying army."
Day Thira (Santorini), GreeceArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
Santorini, the jewel in the crown of Greece's Cyclades, is best known as the island with the giant volcanic caldera at its heart. All but the largest ships can anchor here in this stunningly scenic bay. Cruise visitors who come for an afternoon or a day can immerse themselves in the art, food and legendary wines of this island that some believe may have been the site of the lost civilization of Atlantis. On Santorini you can do as Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, would do and sample the island's wonderful wines or play Indiana Jones and explore the archaeological treasures of ancient Thera. Santorini's pleasures will likely leave you with a taste for more and planning your return.
Santorini, the jewel in the crown of Greece's Cyclades, is best known as the island with the giant volcanic caldera at its heart. All but the largest ships can anchor here in this stunningly scenic bay. Cruise visitors who come for an afternoon or a day can immerse themselves in the art, food and legendary wines of this island that some believe may have been the site of the lost civilization of Atlantis. On Santorini you can do as Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, would do and sample the island's wonderful wines or play Indiana Jones and explore the archaeological treasures of ancient Thera. Santorini's pleasures will likely leave you with a taste for more and planning your return.
Day At Sea
Day Korcula, CroatiaArrives 08:00 AM Departs 05:00 PM
Croatias sixth-largest islandonce known as Melaina Korkyra (Black Korkyra) because its vast oak forests reminded Greek settlers of Corfuis covered in pine trees, olive groves and vineyards. As you glide down the Strait of Peljeac, admire the peninsulas dramatic karst slopes dropping off into the Adriatic Sea and the 19 islets of the archipelago around the canal. Korčula Old Town is the islands treasured highlight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate. Its stone architecture and historic ambiance reflect almost four centuries of Venetian rule, with towered gates, lion statues, magnificent palazzos and elaborate stonework peppering the charming streets. Venturing out of the Old Town, you will encounter historic villages, picturesque bays, waterfront promenades and welcoming locals. Korčula is one of the last places on earth where knightly games like the Moreka dances are still regularly performed and where medieval fraternities still keep up their centuries-old traditions. The island truly is a treasure trove of history, nature and serenity.
Croatias sixth-largest islandonce known as Melaina Korkyra (Black Korkyra) because its vast oak forests reminded Greek settlers of Corfuis covered in pine trees, olive groves and vineyards. As you glide down the Strait of Peljeac, admire the peninsulas dramatic karst slopes dropping off into the Adriatic Sea and the 19 islets of the archipelago around the canal. Korčula Old Town is the islands treasured highlight and a UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate. Its stone architecture and historic ambiance reflect almost four centuries of Venetian rule, with towered gates, lion statues, magnificent palazzos and elaborate stonework peppering the charming streets. Venturing out of the Old Town, you will encounter historic villages, picturesque bays, waterfront promenades and welcoming locals. Korčula is one of the last places on earth where knightly games like the Moreka dances are still regularly performed and where medieval fraternities still keep up their centuries-old traditions. The island truly is a treasure trove of history, nature and serenity.
Day Rijeka, CroatiaArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Tucked into Kvarner Bay off the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic, Rijeka is Croatias premier seaport and third largest city. It is a mix of modern structures and grand old buildings from the heyday of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city skyline is dominated by the 13th century Trsat Castle, believed to be the oldest fortification on Croatias coast, and now a tourist visitor center. The traditional entry to the medieval city is the round, yellow City Tower with its 18th century clock. The Our Lady of Trsat Sanctuary has been a pilgrimage site since the 14th century, when a pope gifted the church with an icon of the Virgin, which still graces the altar. It can be reached by the 16th century Petar Kruzic Stairway, and also contains an extensive collection of sacral art and artifacts.
Tucked into Kvarner Bay off the Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic, Rijeka is Croatias premier seaport and third largest city. It is a mix of modern structures and grand old buildings from the heyday of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city skyline is dominated by the 13th century Trsat Castle, believed to be the oldest fortification on Croatias coast, and now a tourist visitor center. The traditional entry to the medieval city is the round, yellow City Tower with its 18th century clock. The Our Lady of Trsat Sanctuary has been a pilgrimage site since the 14th century, when a pope gifted the church with an icon of the Virgin, which still graces the altar. It can be reached by the 16th century Petar Kruzic Stairway, and also contains an extensive collection of sacral art and artifacts.
Day Koper, SloveniaArrives 08:00 AM Departs 06:00 PM
Located on the tip of Istria, Slovenia's main port was an island until the 19th century, but local history goes back much further. Called Aegida by the Greeks, Capris by the Romans and Justinopolis in Byzantine times, Koper was the influential city in the Venetian Empire and five mayors sat on the throne of the Venetian doges. Today monuments of this Golden Age line the cobblestone streets of an Old Town that boasts a wealth of architecture, cultural monuments and intriguing shops.
Located on the tip of Istria, Slovenia's main port was an island until the 19th century, but local history goes back much further. Called Aegida by the Greeks, Capris by the Romans and Justinopolis in Byzantine times, Koper was the influential city in the Venetian Empire and five mayors sat on the throne of the Venetian doges. Today monuments of this Golden Age line the cobblestone streets of an Old Town that boasts a wealth of architecture, cultural monuments and intriguing shops.
Day Venice, Italy--
"When I went to Venice, my dream became my address," wrote Lord Byron, just one of many famous figures who found a haven in this fantasy city. This enchanted land was built on stilts, set into the water by ancient Venetians seeking refuge from the harsh realities of landlocked life. And Venice, Italy still offers a palpable feeling of escape from the real world today. When you cruise into the lagoon and step onto what passes for solid ground, you'll still be very much on the water. Venice is a floating labyrinth of reflections, with mirror and glass sights everywhere, from glorious Venetian architecture echoed in the canal waters to the marble palaces that shimmer in the sky. And although Carnivale is only held once a year, being in Venice on any day is like going to a festival with plenty of vibrant things to do and attractions to see. Locals seem to love the many sightseeing visitors who arrive each year, and Venice will openly reveal her charms even to those who are only here for a few hours, an afternoon or a magical evening.
"When I went to Venice, my dream became my address," wrote Lord Byron, just one of many famous figures who found a haven in this fantasy city. This enchanted land was built on stilts, set into the water by ancient Venetians seeking refuge from the harsh realities of landlocked life. And Venice, Italy still offers a palpable feeling of escape from the real world today. When you cruise into the lagoon and step onto what passes for solid ground, you'll still be very much on the water. Venice is a floating labyrinth of reflections, with mirror and glass sights everywhere, from glorious Venetian architecture echoed in the canal waters to the marble palaces that shimmer in the sky. And although Carnivale is only held once a year, being in Venice on any day is like going to a festival with plenty of vibrant things to do and attractions to see. Locals seem to love the many sightseeing visitors who arrive each year, and Venice will openly reveal her charms even to those who are only here for a few hours, an afternoon or a magical evening.
Day Venice, ItalyArrives 08:00 AM
"When I went to Venice, my dream became my address," wrote Lord Byron, just one of many famous figures who found a haven in this fantasy city. This enchanted land was built on stilts, set into the water by ancient Venetians seeking refuge from the harsh realities of landlocked life. And Venice, Italy still offers a palpable feeling of escape from the real world today. When you cruise into the lagoon and step onto what passes for solid ground, you'll still be very much on the water. Venice is a floating labyrinth of reflections, with mirror and glass sights everywhere, from glorious Venetian architecture echoed in the canal waters to the marble palaces that shimmer in the sky. And although Carnivale is only held once a year, being in Venice on any day is like going to a festival with plenty of vibrant things to do and attractions to see. Locals seem to love the many sightseeing visitors who arrive each year, and Venice will openly reveal her charms even to those who are only here for a few hours, an afternoon or a magical evening.
"When I went to Venice, my dream became my address," wrote Lord Byron, just one of many famous figures who found a haven in this fantasy city. This enchanted land was built on stilts, set into the water by ancient Venetians seeking refuge from the harsh realities of landlocked life. And Venice, Italy still offers a palpable feeling of escape from the real world today. When you cruise into the lagoon and step onto what passes for solid ground, you'll still be very much on the water. Venice is a floating labyrinth of reflections, with mirror and glass sights everywhere, from glorious Venetian architecture echoed in the canal waters to the marble palaces that shimmer in the sky. And although Carnivale is only held once a year, being in Venice on any day is like going to a festival with plenty of vibrant things to do and attractions to see. Locals seem to love the many sightseeing visitors who arrive each year, and Venice will openly reveal her charms even to those who are only here for a few hours, an afternoon or a magical evening.
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