Eclectic & Idyllic Aegean - 14 Nights

Your idyllic Aegean escape begins in the majestic city of Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Explore the city and soak up the atmosphere by the harbour’s edge as you wait to embark for your exciting adventure.

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.

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.

You’re making your way through your Aegean getaway and dropping anchor in Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Soak up this ancient city’s unique blend of cultures and tastes, before you take to the sea once more.

Thessaloniki is a gorgeous and cosmopolitan seaside city and the largest in Greece after Athens. Centuries of cultural commingling has also made Thessaloniki a culinary nirvana, with almost too many great restaurants and little eateries to count.

Turkey’s captivating seaside resort of Kusadasi is the gateway to ancient Ephesus, one of the complimentary highlights of your all-inclusive cruise. After visiting the ruins, you will have just enough time to explore the iconic Grand Bazaar and browse the treasure trove of colourful shops and stalls selling souvenirs, silks, leather goods, carpets and jewellery.

Along the spectacular Cretan coast east of Heraklion you’ll find the energetic resort towns of Hersonissos and Malia and also the capital of the Lassithi region, Agios Nikolaos. The charming resort town, whose name (Saint Nicholas, in English) refers to Greece’s patron saint of sailors, fronts the wide blue Bay of Mirabello. The town’s landmark round Lake Voulismeni—where the goddess Athena is said to have bathed—connects to the sea.

The romantic island of Santorini is the remnants of a devastating volcanic eruption in the 16th-Century BC. The picture-perfect scenery features clustered traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches set against a beguiling brilliant blue backdrop. Here you will have the chance to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle of the idyllic oasis and relax in the island’s calm and tranquillity.

The sun-drenched island of Mykonos is affectionately known as the ‘Island of the Winds’. Easily recognised by its iconic 16th-Century windmills perched high on the hill, the vibrant Mykonos Town is an alluring landscape of smooth sandy beaches dotted along a dramatic coastline. Indulge in the islands culinary delights or take a short boat trip to explore the sacred island of Delos.

The volcanic origins of the beautiful Greek island of Milos are clearly evident in its complex and bewitching landscape. Here you have the opportunity to explore the dramatically surreal and sculptured looming rock formations that rise out of the crystalline waters and create the stunning coastline. Why not join a local expert to explore the many beauty spots and charming fishing villages.

While your cruise may be drawing to an end, the tantalising city of Athens still lies ahead. Delve deep into the city’s sidestreets, bursting with life and culture. Or, clamber up high to the Acropolis for a stunning view of this thriving, cosmopolitan city. As the sun sets, take in the Athens skyline by night and wonder at the dancing Aegean. There’s no better place to end your cruise than here.