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Best of Greece with 7-Day Aegean Eclectic Cruise Moderate C
17 Day Greece Tour with Greek Island Cruise
Abandon your sea legs to explore the Grand Bazaar of Istanbul, palm-tree lined avenues of Thessaloniki and the shores of Santorini, renowned as the most romantic town in Greece with its Venetian architecture and nostalgic Neoclassical mansions.
Travel Style - Cruise or Rail
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15 Cities
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- Day 1 Welcome to AthensNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 2 Explore Amazing AthensNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 3 Journey to Corinth, Mycenae and NafplionNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 4 Continue to Ancient OlympiaNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 5 Onwards to Patras and DelphiNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 6 Off to Thermopylae and KalambakaNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 7 Admire Meteora and Return to AthensNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 8 Athens Your WayNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 9 Embark on Your 7-Day CruiseNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 10 Journey to IstanbulNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 11 The Grand Bazaar and More in IstanbulNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 12 Through the Dardanelles to ÇannakaleNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 13 ThessalonikiNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 14 Explore Vibrant VolosNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 15 Onwards to SantoriniNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 16 Disembark in AthensNavigation Chevron Right Icon
- Day 17 Journey HomeNavigation Chevron Right Icon
The Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Athens
Put the 'oh' in opa and embark on an unforgettable exploration of an ancient land of gods and goddesses, myths and legends. Your springboard to your spellbinding holiday is the vibrant capital of Athens, an effortless mix of ancient treasures and modern verve, which you will have an opportunity to explore after being transferred to your hotel. This evening, join your Travel Director and travel companions for a Welcome Reception, including a light meal and welcome drink.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Divani Palace Acropolis
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Welcome Reception
Day 2
Explore Amazing Athens
Join your Local Specialist for a guided morning sightseeing tour to the ancient complex that was once the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. Along our journey into antiquity, we'll have an opportunity to explore the Acropolis with its treasures. We'll admire the Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, the Royal Palace, Temple of Zeus and the Agora, once the haunt of Socrates and Plato. Dive Into Culture and see remarkable displays of an ancient world during an included visit to the Acropolis Museum, and see Hadrian's Arch and the stadium where the first modern Olympics took place in 1896. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy on your own. Stroll through the Plaka, people watch in Syntagma Square or go in search of the city's tastiest souvlaki - the choice is yours.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Cape Sounion
Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, thereby giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
Adult Price: €45.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Dinner "Meze" Style In Psiri With Acropolis Illuminations
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at a wonderful restaurant located in the lively area of Psiri. Dining is “meze style”, giving you the opportunity to taste many Greek cuisine dishes, which are served in the centre of the table. Also enjoy the local free-flowing wine! Afterwards see the Acropolis beautifully illuminated as you return to your hotel (Casual dress).
Adult Price: €50.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Cape Sounion And Seafood Dinner
Take a relaxing drive along the Apollo coast to the southernmost point of Attica and visit the splendid 5th century B.C. Temple of Poseidon. The area steeped in Classical Greek history is where King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice, a 197 ft drop in to the sea below, thereby lending his name to the Aegean Sea. A unique opportunity to view of the temple high above the Aegean Sea! Do not forget your cameras to capture the moment. A real Greek fish-seafood dinner in one of the most popular fish-tavernas in the area, frequented by the local people. Sitting next to the sea savour delicious seafood starters, Greek salad, fish for the main course and local wine.
Adult Price: €85.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 3
Journey to Corinth, Mycenae and Nafplion
We depart Athens this morning, crossing the mighty Corinth Canal to the wild Peloponnesian Peninsula. Arriving in Corinth, we join a Local Specialist to explore an ancient city that several empires fought over throughout the centuries. We continue to Mycenae, a mighty kingdom of Ancient Greece, where we'll see the Beehive Tombs (the Treasury of Atreus), the Lion Gate and the remains of Agamemnon's Royal Palace, in the company of a Local Specialist. Later, we'll travel to Epidaurus to visit the ancient Theatre and view the Sanctuary of Asclepius, the God of Medicine, whose snake-entwined staff remains the symbol of medicine to this day. Arriving in the Venetian town of Nafplion later, we'll dine in our hotel this evening.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Amalia Nafplio
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4
Continue to Ancient Olympia
We traverse the Mountains of Arcadia to ancient Olympia, the site of the first Olympic Games held in 776 BC. This evening, we Connect With Locals joining the Karambellas family for dinner on their olive and wine farm at a Be My Guest experience featuring traditional dancing and characteristic Greek philoxenia.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Amalia Olympia
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Day 5
Onwards to Patras and Delphi
We join a Local Specialist this morning to delve into centuries of history. We'll visit the ancient Olympic site, the museum and the ruined remains of the Temples of Zeus and Hera. Leaving Olympia, we skirt the coastline north to Patras, crossing the Gulf of Corinth to mainland Greece before continuing to Delphi, our home for the night.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Amalia Delphi
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
Day 6
Off to Thermopylae and Kalambaka
Tread in the footsteps of the ancient Greeks, who would descend on the sanctuary of Delphi to consult with the most important oracle in the classical world. Join your Local Specialist and walk the Sacred Way to the 4th-century Temple of Apollo. View the statues immortalising the strength of the athletes who once competed in the Pythian Games, held in honour of Apollo and the Arts. A scenic afternoon drive brings us to Thermopylae, famous for the heroic defence by Leonidas and his brave Spartans against the invading Persians. We cross the lush Thessaly region, the 'bread basket of Greece', then travel over the Pourmaraki Pass towards Kalambaka.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Amalia Kalambaka
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7
Admire Meteora and Return to Athens
The UNESCO World Heritage monasteries of Meteora are our first stop today. Join a Local Specialist to visit two of the six Eastern Orthodox monasteries that cling impressively to immense, rounded rock towers overlooking the town. A scenic drive returns us to Athens, where we'll enjoy a rousing Farewell Dinner with our travel companions and reminisce over an incredible journey through Greece.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Divani Palace Acropolis
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Farewell Dinner
Day 8
Athens Your Way
Spend the day at leisure on your own and see the city's ancient sites.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
One Day Cruise - Aegina, Poros And Hydra
Spend the day on board and cruise towards the islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. A great way to see and take in as much as you can whilst enjoying the Saronic gulf and the islands that are closest to the capital! A light lunch is included on board.
Adult Price: €104.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Embark on Your 7-Day Cruise
Spend the morning on your own exploring what was once the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. See the city's ancient sites before boarding your cruise ship this afternoon for your seven-night cruise through the Aegean.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10
Journey to Istanbul
Nothing stands between you and a morning of pure indulgence as you sail across the Aegean bound for Istanbul, the meeting place between East and West. Embark on an included Bosphorus cruise then don't resist the urge to stretch your legs in its historic Sultanahmet district this evening.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11
The Grand Bazaar and More in Istanbul
Today, visit the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's oldest and largest covered markets and a wonderland of carpets, lanterns, spices and teas. You'll have the rest of the day on your own to explore the city that Napoleon once called the capital of the world.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Experience
Ottoman Empire and Byzantine Legacy Tour
(approx. 9hrs) In the Old City, you will visit the Byzantine Hippodrome. It had a capacity for 100,000 spectators, while the horse racing and chariot racing that here offered an opulent spectacle. You will admire the Kaiser’s German fountain, the bronze Serpent Column of Delphi, the Egyptian Obelisk and the Walled Obelisk of Constantine VII. The next monument is the Mosque of Sultan Ahmed or “Blue Mosque”. It is the most beautiful mosque of Istanbul, built upon the order of 20-year-old Sultan Ahmed I, whose grave lies inside the mosque. The Church of the Holy Wisdom of God is your next magnificent destination. Hagia Sophia is a symbol of the city and a very important monument that is a pole of attraction not only for those seeking religious tourism. After a delicious meal at a local restaurant, you will visit the Top Kapi Palace. In the interior of the Palace, which is declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. For the end of this excursion you will have plenty of free time to stroll around the maze-like complex of the Grand Bazaar; where 400,000 visitors meet daily, among the 4,000 shops and 58 streets! During the excursion, you will have the opportunity to do some shopping such as carpets, jewelry, leather and other souvenirs. NOTE: Sequence of visits may change due to traffic and/or congestion of the sites.
Adult Price: €124.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 12
Through the Dardanelles to Çannakale
Cruise through the Dardanelles strait where Asia and Europe meet and brave warriors have fought through the ages. Today's stop is Çannakale, the gateway to the ancient city of Troy and the ancient Aeolian city of Assos. You could choose to join an optional trip to Troy to see its Trojan horse or visit Gallipoli to pay tribute to the brave soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Experience
Full Day Trip to Troy and Assos
(app. 7,30 hrs) Departing the quayside, we drive to Troy, the immortal city of the legendary Helen and the Trojan horse. Troy is spoken of in the Iliad and the Odyssey in the tale of Helen, a beautiful woman, whose beauty was said to have launched the Trojan War. Troy existed for 4,000 years and suddenly disappeared from the earth until the ruins at Hisarlik were discovered in the 1800s. Up until then, many people only believed the city only existed in tales. We shall stop here to visit the remains of this exciting old city, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. Our next stop is at Assos, where we will see the Temple of Athena, the marketplace and city walls dating from the time of Hermias and Aristotle. St Paul passed through Assos on his way between Alexandria Troas and Miletus at the end of his third missionary journey. From Assos he sent a message back to Carpus in Alexandria Troas, asking him to forward his cloak and notebooks. His friends had taken a boat from Alexandria Troas while Paul travelled overland. He met them in Assos, from where they sailed together to Mytilene. During the tour lunch will be served at a local restaurant at the ancient harbour of Assos.
Adult Price: €95.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Gallipoli Half Day Tour
(app. 5 hrs) Your tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park begins with a visit to Anzak Cove. It was here where the Australian and New Zealand soldiers began landing. Today it hosts dozens of gravesites and memorials. Lone Pine Cemetery is the smallest cemetery at Anzac and commands spectacular views in all directions over the 1915 Anzac battlefield. It was up towards the heights of Plugge’s Plateau that the 11th Battalion, AIF, struggled after their dawn landing at North Beach on 25 April 1915. You can still see the lines of terraces in Anzac Gully and the remains of trenches beside the path. The tour will continue with the visit of Beach Cemetery, Hell Spit, Sharapnel Valley, Brighton Beach and Quinn’s Post. Your day continues with a tour of the 57. Regiment Cemetery. The memorial grounds and cemetery are a fairly new addition to the national park but the lawns and ablution fountain provide a perfect rest stop for contemplating the puzzle of war. At the Chunuk Bair Cemetery you’ll appreciate why Atatürk's arrival on the scene marked a turning point not only in the Gallipoli Campaign but in the history of Turkey. Atatürk immediately recognized the importance of the high ground of Chunuk Bair as the key to the straits. The fateful hill, visited by thousands of pensive visitors each year, is where the main New Zealand memorial shares the crest with a statue of Atatürk as a promising young officer.
Adult Price: €74.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 13
Thessaloniki
This morning we sail into the port city of Thessaloniki. Beyond its thick Byzantine walls, Thessaloniki is an appealing mix of the traditional and the glamorous. Wander along winding cobbled streets and palm-tree lined avenues, popping in to browse chic boutiques and feast on traditional delights in local ouzerias. Explore age-old churches, rub shoulders with the locals browsing the markets and enjoy homemade ice cream in Aristotelous Square.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Experience
Land of Alexander the Great
Your historic excursion to the Land of Alexander The Great begins with a scenic drive to Pella – the second state capital of ancient Macedonia and the birthplace of the 4th-Century BC Emperor. He is widely considered to be one of history’s most successful military commanders. What was once a bustling metropolis and the seat of the royal family is now an important archaeological site that reveals the ancient city’s grandeur. The monumental palatial complex covers an area of 60.000 m2 and features the biggest agora (commercial and manufacturing center) of the ancient world. Among the archaeological excavated treasures that have been unearthed are two-story public buildings built in traditional Doric and Ionic style and luxurious private homes with intricate marble mosaic floors. There is also a collection of delicate clay figurines and vases. After admiring the historically important excavations, you will enjoy a delicious three-course lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the spectacular Aliakmon River Valley. Your final stop is the charming town of Vergina for a visit to the Royal Tombs. The most important royal tomb belongs to King Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. The King’s personal effects and most prized possessions are exhibited alongside a cache of weapons and armory excavated from the site. You can also admire the well-preserved examples of large-scale classical paintings and the collection of carved and painted monumental steles.
Adult Price: €115.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
The Royal Tombs of Vergina
Step back in time and discover a bounty of treasures in the first ancient capital of Macedonia, Aigai. The remains of its monumental palace, burial grounds and lavishly decorated artifacts date back to the 11th-Century BC and are a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Royal Tombs of Vergina is an outstanding archaeological site and also a gateway into Greece’s rich historic past. Here, you will discover the resplendent life and death of the elite ancient Macedonians that have been unearthed.The most important tomb belongs to King Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. A number of the King’s most prized possessions are on display, including a battle shield and a gold embellished breastplate. Cremated bones, gold and silver artifacts, weapons and armour are also exhibited. Admire the impressive collection of excavated treasures including monumental tombs, temple-like facades and finely crafted personal, ceremonial and utilitarian objects made from gold, silver, bronze, iron, textile and ivory. There are also carbonized organic remains of the foods that were ritually offered. As you hear about Macedonia’s great past and observe the historically important collection of archaeological discoveries, you can clearly see the development of Europe’s civilizations throughout the ages. It’s easy to understand why the Royal Tombs of Vergina, and the extensive royal palace, is one of the most important must-visit museums in Greece.
Adult Price: €74.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Panoramic Thessaloniki
As Greece’s second city and cultural center, and the capital of Macedonia, Thessaloniki has a lot to live up to. This delightful excursion gives you the chance to discover that this beautiful ancient port city on the Thermaic Gulf far exceeds expectations. The richest city in the Byzantine Empire still boasts an abundance of treasures.From the waterfront boulevard, you can enjoy spectacular sea views before we stroll to Aristotelous Square to pay homage to the famous philosopher. Continuing on to the city’s iconic landmark attraction, the White Tower, you can admire the imposing fortification that also served as a prison. Learn about Thessaloniki’s rich history and heritage as we tour the intricate 4th-Century Triumphal Arch of Galerius, the Rotunda and other historic monuments. As you admire the architecture of the neo-classical buildings in the charming Old Town, you’ll feel magically transported back in time. You will also visit the 5th-Century St Demetrius Basilica. Thessaloniki’s Ano Poli (Upper Town) is the most ancient part of the cultural hub and the only area that survived the great fire of 1917 which destroyed two-thirds of the city. Explore the charming stone-paved streets lined with Ottoman houses that beautifully reflect the neighborhood’s historic identity. A large part of the fortified Byzantine walls have been remarkably well preserved and now provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s old, great civilization remnants as well as its newer attractions. From the coastline, you can enjoy magnificent sprawling vistas with majestic views of Mount Olympus in the distance.
Adult Price: €67.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 14
Explore Vibrant Volos
You'll have the day to visit the vibrant university city of Volos, which sits in the shadow of Mt Pelion. Spend the day exploring, perhaps visiting the monasteries of Meteora and stop at one of the tsipouradika tavernas on the seafront Argonauts Avenue to sample the local tsipouro (pomace brandy). Return to your ship in time for an evening departure.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Experience
Volos & Mt. Pelion
(4 hours) On this excursion, we will have the opportunity to travel through the ages, both to the prehistoric times, but also to the tradition and culture of Volos and Pelion. The sense of mystery engendered by the mountain’s impenetrable forests has given rise to many legends. It was said by the ancients that during the battle between the gods and the giants, the latter tried to challenge Olympus by piling Pelion in Ossa. Mount Pelion was also the remote home of Chiron, the wisest of the centaurs, who played an important role in the Greek fables. Moreover, Pelion was the mountain that the Gods held their weddings and beauty contests. We will drive up to one of the most interesting village of Pelion, Makrinitsa at an altitude of 700m. We shall leave the coach in the square at the entrance to the village and take a stroll through the narrow streets among the splendid old houses. Owing to the abundant water resources, they are also scattered; many are built in the traditional style with jutting upper storey’s, supported on wooden sorbels, and slate roofs, with overhanging saves. The main square (platia) is especially attractive due to its fountain, plane trees and tiny church (13th c.). There will be plenty of time for those wishing to stroll along the cobble paths of the village, visit the museum of culture and tradition, or just have coffee at the square of the village, gazing at Volos and the Gulf. Return to the ship.
Adult Price: €65.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 15
Onwards to Santorini
Admire the dramatic volcanic landscape of Santorini, an inspiring backdrop for an encounter with laid-back island life. Embark on an included excursion to the stunning clifftop village of Oia, passing pretty villages of whitewashed houses and vineyards set against Santorini's magnificent caldera. Marvel at Oia's iconic blue domed church, a true pinch-me moment.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 16
Disembark in Athens
This morning, disembark from your cruise ship for your transfer to the hotel.
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon Hotel - Divani Palace Acropolis/Radisson Blu Park
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
Day 17
Journey Home
Transfers are provided to the airport for your return flight home. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.
Trip Summary Meals Icon Included Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 2
Cape Sounion
Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, thereby giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
Adult Price: €45.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 2
Dinner "Meze" Style In Psiri With Acropolis Illuminations
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at a wonderful restaurant located in the lively area of Psiri. Dining is “meze style”, giving you the opportunity to taste many Greek cuisine dishes, which are served in the centre of the table. Also enjoy the local free-flowing wine! Afterwards see the Acropolis beautifully illuminated as you return to your hotel (Casual dress).
Adult Price: €50.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 2
Cape Sounion And Seafood Dinner
Take a relaxing drive along the Apollo coast to the southernmost point of Attica and visit the splendid 5th century B.C. Temple of Poseidon. The area steeped in Classical Greek history is where King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice, a 197 ft drop in to the sea below, thereby lending his name to the Aegean Sea. A unique opportunity to view of the temple high above the Aegean Sea! Do not forget your cameras to capture the moment. A real Greek fish-seafood dinner in one of the most popular fish-tavernas in the area, frequented by the local people. Sitting next to the sea savour delicious seafood starters, Greek salad, fish for the main course and local wine.
Adult Price: €85.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
One Day Cruise - Aegina, Poros And Hydra
Spend the day on board and cruise towards the islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. A great way to see and take in as much as you can whilst enjoying the Saronic gulf and the islands that are closest to the capital! A light lunch is included on board.
Adult Price: €104.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 11
Ottoman Empire and Byzantine Legacy Tour
(approx. 9hrs) In the Old City, you will visit the Byzantine Hippodrome. It had a capacity for 100,000 spectators, while the horse racing and chariot racing that here offered an opulent spectacle. You will admire the Kaiser’s German fountain, the bronze Serpent Column of Delphi, the Egyptian Obelisk and the Walled Obelisk of Constantine VII. The next monument is the Mosque of Sultan Ahmed or “Blue Mosque”. It is the most beautiful mosque of Istanbul, built upon the order of 20-year-old Sultan Ahmed I, whose grave lies inside the mosque. The Church of the Holy Wisdom of God is your next magnificent destination. Hagia Sophia is a symbol of the city and a very important monument that is a pole of attraction not only for those seeking religious tourism. After a delicious meal at a local restaurant, you will visit the Top Kapi Palace. In the interior of the Palace, which is declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. For the end of this excursion you will have plenty of free time to stroll around the maze-like complex of the Grand Bazaar; where 400,000 visitors meet daily, among the 4,000 shops and 58 streets! During the excursion, you will have the opportunity to do some shopping such as carpets, jewelry, leather and other souvenirs. NOTE: Sequence of visits may change due to traffic and/or congestion of the sites.
Adult Price: €124.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 12
Full Day Trip to Troy and Assos
(app. 7,30 hrs) Departing the quayside, we drive to Troy, the immortal city of the legendary Helen and the Trojan horse. Troy is spoken of in the Iliad and the Odyssey in the tale of Helen, a beautiful woman, whose beauty was said to have launched the Trojan War. Troy existed for 4,000 years and suddenly disappeared from the earth until the ruins at Hisarlik were discovered in the 1800s. Up until then, many people only believed the city only existed in tales. We shall stop here to visit the remains of this exciting old city, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. Our next stop is at Assos, where we will see the Temple of Athena, the marketplace and city walls dating from the time of Hermias and Aristotle. St Paul passed through Assos on his way between Alexandria Troas and Miletus at the end of his third missionary journey. From Assos he sent a message back to Carpus in Alexandria Troas, asking him to forward his cloak and notebooks. His friends had taken a boat from Alexandria Troas while Paul travelled overland. He met them in Assos, from where they sailed together to Mytilene. During the tour lunch will be served at a local restaurant at the ancient harbour of Assos.
Adult Price: €95.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 12
Gallipoli Half Day Tour
(app. 5 hrs) Your tour of the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park begins with a visit to Anzak Cove. It was here where the Australian and New Zealand soldiers began landing. Today it hosts dozens of gravesites and memorials. Lone Pine Cemetery is the smallest cemetery at Anzac and commands spectacular views in all directions over the 1915 Anzac battlefield. It was up towards the heights of Plugge’s Plateau that the 11th Battalion, AIF, struggled after their dawn landing at North Beach on 25 April 1915. You can still see the lines of terraces in Anzac Gully and the remains of trenches beside the path. The tour will continue with the visit of Beach Cemetery, Hell Spit, Sharapnel Valley, Brighton Beach and Quinn’s Post. Your day continues with a tour of the 57. Regiment Cemetery. The memorial grounds and cemetery are a fairly new addition to the national park but the lawns and ablution fountain provide a perfect rest stop for contemplating the puzzle of war. At the Chunuk Bair Cemetery you’ll appreciate why Atatürk's arrival on the scene marked a turning point not only in the Gallipoli Campaign but in the history of Turkey. Atatürk immediately recognized the importance of the high ground of Chunuk Bair as the key to the straits. The fateful hill, visited by thousands of pensive visitors each year, is where the main New Zealand memorial shares the crest with a statue of Atatürk as a promising young officer.
Adult Price: €74.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 13
Land of Alexander the Great
Your historic excursion to the Land of Alexander The Great begins with a scenic drive to Pella – the second state capital of ancient Macedonia and the birthplace of the 4th-Century BC Emperor. He is widely considered to be one of history’s most successful military commanders. What was once a bustling metropolis and the seat of the royal family is now an important archaeological site that reveals the ancient city’s grandeur. The monumental palatial complex covers an area of 60.000 m2 and features the biggest agora (commercial and manufacturing center) of the ancient world. Among the archaeological excavated treasures that have been unearthed are two-story public buildings built in traditional Doric and Ionic style and luxurious private homes with intricate marble mosaic floors. There is also a collection of delicate clay figurines and vases. After admiring the historically important excavations, you will enjoy a delicious three-course lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the spectacular Aliakmon River Valley. Your final stop is the charming town of Vergina for a visit to the Royal Tombs. The most important royal tomb belongs to King Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. The King’s personal effects and most prized possessions are exhibited alongside a cache of weapons and armory excavated from the site. You can also admire the well-preserved examples of large-scale classical paintings and the collection of carved and painted monumental steles.
Adult Price: €115.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 13
The Royal Tombs of Vergina
Step back in time and discover a bounty of treasures in the first ancient capital of Macedonia, Aigai. The remains of its monumental palace, burial grounds and lavishly decorated artifacts date back to the 11th-Century BC and are a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Royal Tombs of Vergina is an outstanding archaeological site and also a gateway into Greece’s rich historic past. Here, you will discover the resplendent life and death of the elite ancient Macedonians that have been unearthed.The most important tomb belongs to King Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great. A number of the King’s most prized possessions are on display, including a battle shield and a gold embellished breastplate. Cremated bones, gold and silver artifacts, weapons and armour are also exhibited. Admire the impressive collection of excavated treasures including monumental tombs, temple-like facades and finely crafted personal, ceremonial and utilitarian objects made from gold, silver, bronze, iron, textile and ivory. There are also carbonized organic remains of the foods that were ritually offered. As you hear about Macedonia’s great past and observe the historically important collection of archaeological discoveries, you can clearly see the development of Europe’s civilizations throughout the ages. It’s easy to understand why the Royal Tombs of Vergina, and the extensive royal palace, is one of the most important must-visit museums in Greece.
Adult Price: €74.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 13
Panoramic Thessaloniki
As Greece’s second city and cultural center, and the capital of Macedonia, Thessaloniki has a lot to live up to. This delightful excursion gives you the chance to discover that this beautiful ancient port city on the Thermaic Gulf far exceeds expectations. The richest city in the Byzantine Empire still boasts an abundance of treasures.From the waterfront boulevard, you can enjoy spectacular sea views before we stroll to Aristotelous Square to pay homage to the famous philosopher. Continuing on to the city’s iconic landmark attraction, the White Tower, you can admire the imposing fortification that also served as a prison. Learn about Thessaloniki’s rich history and heritage as we tour the intricate 4th-Century Triumphal Arch of Galerius, the Rotunda and other historic monuments. As you admire the architecture of the neo-classical buildings in the charming Old Town, you’ll feel magically transported back in time. You will also visit the 5th-Century St Demetrius Basilica. Thessaloniki’s Ano Poli (Upper Town) is the most ancient part of the cultural hub and the only area that survived the great fire of 1917 which destroyed two-thirds of the city. Explore the charming stone-paved streets lined with Ottoman houses that beautifully reflect the neighborhood’s historic identity. A large part of the fortified Byzantine walls have been remarkably well preserved and now provide breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s old, great civilization remnants as well as its newer attractions. From the coastline, you can enjoy magnificent sprawling vistas with majestic views of Mount Olympus in the distance.
Adult Price: €67.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 14
Volos & Mt. Pelion
(4 hours) On this excursion, we will have the opportunity to travel through the ages, both to the prehistoric times, but also to the tradition and culture of Volos and Pelion. The sense of mystery engendered by the mountain’s impenetrable forests has given rise to many legends. It was said by the ancients that during the battle between the gods and the giants, the latter tried to challenge Olympus by piling Pelion in Ossa. Mount Pelion was also the remote home of Chiron, the wisest of the centaurs, who played an important role in the Greek fables. Moreover, Pelion was the mountain that the Gods held their weddings and beauty contests. We will drive up to one of the most interesting village of Pelion, Makrinitsa at an altitude of 700m. We shall leave the coach in the square at the entrance to the village and take a stroll through the narrow streets among the splendid old houses. Owing to the abundant water resources, they are also scattered; many are built in the traditional style with jutting upper storey’s, supported on wooden sorbels, and slate roofs, with overhanging saves. The main square (platia) is especially attractive due to its fountain, plane trees and tiny church (13th c.). There will be plenty of time for those wishing to stroll along the cobble paths of the village, visit the museum of culture and tradition, or just have coffee at the square of the village, gazing at Volos and the Gulf. Return to the ship.
Adult Price: €65.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Trip details
Trip details
What's included
16 nights
Accommodation
34 Meals
16 Breakfasts, 6 cruise lunches, 12 dinners (including Be My Guest)
On-trip Transport
All transport shown
Included Highlights that will delight you
Connect with Locals
Say opa! to an Olympic Be My Guest experience with the Karambellas family on their olive and wine farm, followed by a traditional dinner and dancing. (Day 4)
Dive into Culture
Visit the Acropolis Museum containing remarkable antiquities giving visitors an insight into the lives of Athenians centuries ago. (Day 2)
Sightseeing highlights
Explore Athens, Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora with a Local Specialist
Visit the Acropolis and Museum in Athens, the ancient ruins in Corinth, the ancient Theatre at Epidaurus, the Olympic Stadium in Olympia, the home of the Oracle at Delphi and the incredible rock monasteries in Meteora
View the Parthenon, Agora, Royal Palace and Temple of Zeus in Athens, the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus and the battle site at Thermopylae
See the Corinth Canal, the Lion Gate and Agamemnon's Palace at Mycenae
Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
Daily breakfast and up to half your evening meals
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Optional Experiences and free time
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Handcrafted Highlights
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Trip Notes
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Website Terms of Use page.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless traveling as part of a family group.
Travel to Europe often requires an overnight flight. Please arrange your flights to arrive on or before day 1.
Your selected departure date will feature some seasonal itinerary changes to what is displayed. Click 'VIEW ITINERARY' below to see full details.