Eclectic Aegean from Thessaloniki - 7 Nights

Thessaloniki’s ancient ruins rooted in the middle of the city create a rich tapestry sewn with a Roman Agora, the Arch of Galerius, the Rotonda, the Byzantine Baths and the Crypt of Agios Demetrios) together with the neoclassical architecture and the impressive Aghia Sofia. The island also has a reputation for its sumptuous culinary delights and delicious pastries.

Volos itself offers everything you need for an exciting or relaxing day in port. Step off your Volos cruise, and you’re greeted by a thriving university city whose energetic pace will whisk you up into its whirlwind of activity, along the edge of the beautiful natural harbor and in the tsipouradika—traditional tavernas—and set you on course to uncover some real architectural gems, both ancient and neoclassical. Wander around and you’ll find grand urban mansions sitting beside nods to the city’s long-lasting industrial heritage.

The mesmerising landscape of Santorini is instantly recognisable all over the world. The sweeping cluster of traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches are instantly recognisable, and you have the opportunity to experience the island’s charming villages on our complimentary excursions to the picturesque beauty spot of Oia perched on the Caldera rim.  You won’t want to forget your camera.

Our cruise arrives back in Athens early where you will have the entire day to explore the magic of this modern metropolis. The heart of ancient Greece is the cultural home to numerous important archaeological sites and famous landmarks. Take your time to discover the highlights, or alternatively uncover the colourful street art or relax on the gorgeous golden-sand beaches.

Our adventure next takes us to the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Istanbul, and today you have the chance to see it from a unique perspective. Sailing down the Bosphorus Strait on a private boat, you’ll catch spectacular views of the Topkapi Palace and Rumeli Hisari Fortress. Followed by a wander around the historic spice market to set your senses ablaze.

An Istanbul morning is rich with the melodic call to prayer and the scent of spices going to market. This is one of the world’s truly great cities, wonderfully eclectic and full of opportunities. Be sure to take in the city’s skyline, embellished with the silhouetted minarets of lavish Byzantine and imperial mosques, to get a sense of what makes Istanbul so special.

Perched on the slopes of Mt Symvolo, this vibrant seaport resort has been a little-known favourite for centuries. Its name, Kavala, is said to have been based on Alexander the Great’s favourite horse. These days it’s also affectionately known as ‘the blue city’, boasting crystal-clear waters and dreamy sea views. For a taste of ancient life, you can also explore the nearby ruins of Neapolis and Philippi, with a specialist guide bringing their stories to life.

This is the city that in the days of Philip II of Macedon would steal Athens’ thunder. It’s relatively flat but there are simply mountains of history: Roman and Byzantine ruins, early Christian heritage (the Apostle Paul brought the first message of Christianity here in 50 BC), Pontic Greeks and Armenians, remnants of Venetian and Ottoman rule and perhaps most movingly, a remarkable Jewish history too.