Highlights of Greece with Cruise (category 2 cabins)

Athens was once the center of the world and for a short spell it will be the center of yours. Arrive at your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the Greek capital your way. Evidence of the city’s former status as the 'Cradle of Western Civilization' can be seen around every turn, so lace up your walking shoes and pound the pavements in search of the artistry, architecture and archaeological treasures that have made Athens a popular stop for history lovers. Later, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers.

Today you’ll come face-to-face with the impressive ancient backdrop that followed you throughout yesterday’s solo sightseeing – the Acropolis. A Local Guide joins you for a sightseeing tour through what remains of the ancient citadel, including the Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena. View the Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch, stopping at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to admire the curiously clad Evzone guards. Later, follow the road taken by the ancient Greeks who once sought the wisdom of the Oracle, arriving in Delphi for your overnight stay.

Walk the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo – the same path that Alexander the Great once trod, demanding to hear that he would conquer the entire ancient world. Your Local Guide will reveal the ancient site’s captivating history and some of the Oracle’s prophecies, many of which would eventually come true. You’ll also discover Delphi’s fame as the host of the Pythian Games, dedicated to Apollo and the arts. A scenic drive takes you to Thermopylae, most notably the site of the heroic defense by King Leonidas and his brave Spartans against the invading Persians. Later arrive in Kalambaka, where you dine tonight at your hotel.

The mystical monasteries of Meteora cling almost implausibly to the rounded rock towers that overlook Kalambaka. Joining a Local Guide this morning, you’ll visit this heavenly Eastern Orthodox complex, built by monks in the 14th century to stave off attacks from the invading Turks. Return to Athens later this afternoon where the rest of the day is free to do as you wish. An Optional Experience this evening could see you indulge in tasty traditional cuisine. Join your new friends for a taverna evening including dancing and drinks.

Set your watch to the laid-back pace of the Greek Islands, boarding your cruise through the Aegean where your only priorities will be good food, good friends and good times. With that in mind, your first stop ticks all the boxes as you enjoy your time on Mykonos, the island of the winds, rambling through the narrow streets of Chora or sharing the sun-dappled courtyard with lazy cats and welcoming locals. You will have an orientation with your Travel Director upon arrival to the island.

Get ready for the beauty of Santorini! Rising from the deep blue Aegean, this volcanic wonder is calling your name. Fancy exploring more? Join a Choice Experience to visit the island’s villages perched on dramatic cliffs. Don’t miss Oia, famous for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches, with views over the caldera.

Step back in time on the Turkish coast as you explore the ruins of Ephesus. Stroll down Curetes Street, lined with ancient pillars, and see the grand Library of Celsus. Don’t miss the remains of the Temple of Artemis, once one of the Seven Ancient Wonders of the World. Next, head to Patmos, where history and legend collide. It’s here that the disciple John is said to have written the Book of Revelation. You can choose a Choice Experience to the Cave of the Apocalypse where a Local Guide joins you to experience this site up close.

And just like that, we’re back in Athens! After soaking up ancient Greek history and living the Aegean island dream, it’s time to wrap up your adventure. From walking in the footsteps of Socrates, Aristotle and Plato to admiring some of the world’s greatest treasures, you’ve ticked off bucket list items spanning millennia. As you disembark the cruise, it’s goodbye for now—but those memories will stick around much longer. Heads up: your flight from Athens should be scheduled no earlier than noon on disembarkation day.