A&K x Crystal Cruises: Ancient Greece and the Adriatic

The seed of Western civilization is a chaotic tangle of busy streets and bougainvillea-fringed squares, a romantic litany of ruins and relics. It is no stranger to reinvention: factories are now chic hotels, historic sites a showcase for high-end fashion. But Athens is always poised to offer an education in the classics — turn the corner and you might just stumble across a time-worn temple or amphitheater.

Dive into Athens’ ancient history at the Parthenon and other Hellenistic ruins of the Acropolis. Or, embrace the deliberate pace of the Plaka, one of Athens’ most atmospheric neighborhoods, as you sample souvlaki and sip ouzo on a laidback culinary tour. Alternatively, drive through the Peloponnese to the Argolis region, pausing at the Corinth Canal, Cyclopean Walls, Lion’s Gate, Royal Tombs, Treasury of Atreus and Epidaurus’ ancient theater.

Get a handle on ancient history with a tour of the Acropolis Museum, where an expert guide will interpret the spectacular 2,500-year-old frieze created by the legendary sculptor Pheidias. Later, head to the port of Piraeus to board your vessel.

Here, in 1820, a humble farmer digging at the foot of an ancient city wall unearthed what would later be known as the Venus de Milo. Today, it seems the subject of this sculpture — the Greek goddess of love, beauty and pleasure — still casts her ancient spell on this alabaster island of volcanic moonscapes — all while keeping the crowds of other Greek Isles at bay. Nature, myth and history converge as you explore how the island’s geological deposits afforded considerable fortunes, while the great tidal wave of 1650 BC wiped them away. Or, embark on an epicurean tour of the island’s tavernas and wineries, capped with a lunch cooked by the island’s own geothermal energy. Alternatively, hike along the ashen lunar landscape of the coast.

While Kalamata’s olives are renowned the world over, the city itself continues to fly under tourists’ radar despite its sprawling beaches, delightful seafront promenades and wealth of ancient history just a stone’s throw away. Delve into the city’s namesake export with a curated tasting of some of the world’s finest olive oils and tapenades. Or, journey through the fertile plains of the Peloponnese to explore Messini, one of Greece’s most intact ancient cities. Carved into the slopes of Mount Ithomi, this fortified enclave was once the envy of the Spartans. For yet another option, visit the former Turkish stronghold of Niokastro Castle and the legendary bastion of Methoni, a site also known as the ancient city of Pedasus. Some believe Methoni also has ties to Ampeloessa, one of the seven towns offered by Agamemnon to appease Achilles in Homer’s epic poem, the Iliad.

Even among the beautiful and scenic Greek isles, Corfu stands out for its lush greenery as well as its charmingly winding streets and whitewashed houses. Head ashore to explore the Old Town’s Esplanade, Town Hall and the Church of Saint Spyridon. Pair your Old Town Tour with an exploration of artifacts excavated from the ancient ruins of Paleopolis or a culinary deep dive into local favorites such as souvlaki, olives, ouzo and a distinctive kumquat liqueur. Alternatively, hike Mount Pantokratoras (3,018 feet), pausing to explore the villages of Spartilas, Strinilas and Old Peritheia, quintessential examples of Corfu’s traditional mountain enclaves.

Flanked by fjords and mountainous ridges on a picturesque Dalmatian bay, Kotor enjoys a rich medieval maritime and trade legacy survived by its remarkably preserved houses, palaces and churches. Begin with an exploration of Kotor’s historic Roman buildings and a local cathedral dating to 1166. Afterward, opt for a boat excursion to the Baroque jewel of Perast and Our Lady of the Rocks Church — home to Tripo Kokolja’s 33-foot masterwork Death of the Virgin. Or, cruise to the charming coastal village of Prcanj for a Montenegrin-themed cooking class at the historic St. Nikola Monastery. A visit to the renowned at Storia di Pietra winery is also on offer.

The sleeping beauty of the Mediterranean, Dubrovnik has been plundered so many times over its 700-year-history that its Old Town was once unrecognizable. Today, it has been restored to its red-roofed, ocean-lapped former glory and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making its car-free streets an irresistible setting for the location scouts who worked on Game of Thrones. With so much to see and experience, there are a variety of options for spending your day here. Explore the Dominican Monastery and Cathedral, the Sponza Palace, the Rector’s Palace and Onofriou’s Fountain. Linger in the Old Town for a foodie tour or journey into the countryside for a winery visit and lunch at a local farm. Alternatively, sample the region’s fresh mussels, oysters and olive oil on a culinary excursion to the village of Orasac and the city of Ston.

Relax as you cruise northward up the Adriatic, taking advantage of the ship’s amenities along the way. En route, the team recaps your voyage with a series of enriching presentations.

Disembark Crystal Symphony in Venice’s port of Fusina and transfer to the airport for your homebound flight, or continue on your post-tour extension.