Greece Intensive Cruise: Corfu, Rhodes & Santorini

Experience Venice, one of the most captivating—and romantic—cities in the world. Tour the city’s cobblestone streets and overarching bridges, or take to the water and explore the canals on a water taxi or gondola. As you make your way through the city, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to shop, sample delicious Veneto wines, or people watch in Piazza San Marco.

Piran, a charming coastal town in Slovenia, is renowned for its Venetian architecture and scenic beauty. Start a visit at Tartini Square, named after the famous violinist Giuseppe Tartini, whose statue graces the plaza. Explore the narrow, winding streets leading to St. George’s Parish Church, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea from its bell tower.

Stroll along the picturesque promenade and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants while watching the sunset over the water. The town's medieval walls are perfect for a leisurely walk, providing panoramic views of Piran and its surroundings. For a taste of local culture, visit the Maritime Museum and learn about Piran’s rich maritime heritage.

Backed by hills of olive groves and vineyards, the historic port of Koper boasts a colourful history dating back to Ancient Greece and Rome that springs to life in its Old Town. Koper is also your gateway to Ljubljana, the nation's capital, a graceful city of Baroque and Art Nouveau architecture and bridges. Ships will dock at the Potniški terminal.

Top Things to Do in Koper:

• admire the architecture in Tito Square
• explore Lake Bled
• tour the Postojna Caves
• shop the open air market in Ljubljana
  

Your boutique hotel at sea, the Azamara Onward® is a mid-sized ship with a deck plan that’s intimate but never crowded, and offers everything modern voyagers are looking for - plus some unexpected extras. Seven restaurants, cafes, and lounges, a refreshing pool, sun-drenched decks, a revitalizing spa…the list goes on.

The lush and verdant island of Corfu lies in the Ionian Sea, midway between Greece and Italy. It is an island of sparkling beaches, mountains splashed with wildflowers, and historical, perched fortresses. Ships will dock at the town of Corfu.

Top Things to Do on Corfu:

• visit the village of Palaiokastritsa
• marvel at the Achilleion Palace
• stroll through the UNESCO listed Old Town
• taste the local liqueur made from kumquats
• explore the Old Fortress
• sail the waters of Corfu

Cephalonia, the largest of Greece's Ionian Islands, offers stunning landscapes and rich history. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, particularly at Myrtos Beach, known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise sea. Visitors can explore the captivating Melissani Cave, where a boat tour reveals a mesmerizing underground lake illuminated by sunlight streaming through a hole in the cave’s roof. History enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the ancient ruins of Sami, a testament to the island's rich past. The island also had its part in the Battle of Greece during World War II, which later inspired Louis de Bernières' novel "Captain Corelli's Mandolin".

The modern and cosmopolitan town of Argostoli, stands on the far end of a natural bay surrounded by mountains and verdant forests. It’s a slower life here, especially since the town had to rebuild itself from the ground up following a 1953 earthquake that devastated the area. Ships will dock or anchor at this port.

Top Things to Do in Argostoli:

• explore the dramatic Drogarati Cave
• glide across subterranean Melissani Lake
• ascend Mount Ainos
• relax on the famous Myrtos beach
• taste some local wine at Robola Winery

A town of rustic, lyrically romantic beauty, Monemvasia is perched on a colossal rock island, which rears spectacularly from the waves. The rock is laced with tight cobbled streets, exposed stone masonry and pretty Byzantine churches. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to the shore.

Top Things to Do in Monemvasia:

• explore the medieval town of Mystras
• visit the 13th century Christ Elkomenos Cathedral
• visit the Archeological Museum
• taste some of the renowned sweet wine

Set on the east of the Greek island Crete, Agios Nikolaos seamlessly blends the charm of a small fishing village with the glamour of a chic resort town. Pastel-coloured houses surround the towns pretty harbour and inky lake, while busy restaurants and cafes spill out onto its lively waterfront. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos:

• visit Knossos Palace and the Museum of Heraklion
• hike to Kolokytha Beach
• explore the fortress on Spinalonga Island
• enjoy a scenic drive up Mt. Ditki

Rhodes, the largest of Greece's Dodecanese islands, offers a blend of medieval history and sun-kissed beaches. Start your exploration at the Palace of the Grand Master, a stunning medieval fortress in the heart of the Old Town. Wander through the cobbled streets, where the mix of Byzantine, Gothic, and Ottoman architecture tells tales of the island's storied past.

For a relaxing afternoon, head to Elli Beach, just a short walk from the port. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and perhaps try some water sports. Don’t miss the Acropolis of Rhodes, offering panoramic views of the island and the Aegean Sea. Savor local delicacies like fresh seafood at a seaside taverna to complete your day.

Turkey's most notable beach resort, Marmaris has a chic feel to it. An elegant, palm-lined promenade weaves its way around the shoreline, while the marina plays host to a flotilla of gleaming white yachts. The city boasts immense ancient ruins amid the colourful beauty of the Turkish Riviera’s glowing scenery. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Marmaris:

• visit Marmaris Castle and Museum
• stroll along the Marmaris Marina
• explore the city’s Old Town
• visit the ancient city of Kaunos

Santorini, a jewel of the Aegean Sea, is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and distinctive white-washed buildings with blue domes. Begin your exploration in Fira, the island's bustling capital, where narrow streets are lined with charming shops, cafes, and stunning views of the caldera. Don't miss the Archaeological Museum of Thera to glimpse into the island's ancient past.

A short journey from Fira, the village of Oia awaits with its iconic sunset views and picturesque architecture. Wander through its winding alleys, and discover unique art galleries and boutiques. For a taste of local flavors, indulge in fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes at a cliffside taverna. End your visit with a relaxing afternoon on one of Santorini's famous black sand beaches.

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation' and a historian’s delight. Uncover the awe-inspiring Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adorned with iconic structures like the Parthenon and nearby Temple of Olympian Zeus. The nearby Acropolis Museum showcases stunning artifacts from ancient Greece, providing deeper insight into the city's heritage.

Afterward, wander through Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, and charming tavernas. For lunch, indulge in traditional Greek cuisine like moussaka or souvlaki. Head to the National Garden for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll amid lush greenery and historical statues.

Athen's city center is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Piraeus and it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach by taxi or train. A taxi ride to the airport from Piraeus will take approximately 40-60 minutes, depending on the traffic. The taxi fare (indicative only) is around 45 euros in the daytime and 64 euros at night (24:00-05:00).