Greece & Turkey Cruise: Thessaloniki, Istanbul & Rhodes

Welcome to the ancient city of Athens, the 'Cradle of Western Civilisation'. If your schedule is tight, savor traditional Greek coffee at a café with a view of the city's iconic ruins, soaking in the historic ambiance before your cruise departs. If you've got time to explore the Acropolis stands as a must-see, 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.

Piraeus is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from the city center and it takes roughly 20-30 minutes to reach by taxi or train. A taxi ride from the airport to Piraeus port 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).

Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, is a gem in the Aegean Sea, captivating visitors with its blend of traditional Greek culture and neoclassical beauty. The island's capital, Ermoupoli, is a visual feast, with its striking town hall and Apollo Theater, often likened to a miniature La Scala.

Venturing beyond Ermoupoli, travelers find tranquil beaches like Galissas and Finikas, perfect for unwinding after a morning of exploration. The island's culinary scene is a delight, with local specialties such as loukoumi - small cubes made of a mixture of sugar, water and starch that are offered in a number of scents and flavours and the famous halvadopita (nougat pie), offering a taste of Syros' rich cultural tapestry.

Volos combines the allure of the sea with mystical charms and mythical legends. Located at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos wasn't founded until the mid-19th century, and its neoclassical architecture lends it a contemporary feel. Ships will dock at the Port of Volos.

Top Things to Do in Volos:

• stroll along Argonauts Avenue
• visit the Meteora monasteries
• take in the views at the village of Makrinitsa
• relax on Boufa Beach
• dine at one of Volos' famed fish tavernas

Greece's 'second city', Thessaloniki, is the countries energetic cultural capital. Weaved in among ancient ruins are vibrant streets lined with a diverse selection of delicious restaurants, boutique shops and beautiful beaches. Ships will dock at the Port of Thessaloniki.

Top Things to Do in Thessaloniki:

• visit the iconic White Tower and Museum
• tour the city's 15 UNESCO listed monuments
• visit the Royal Tombs in Vergina
• explore the ancient city of Dion
• stroll along the Thessaloniki waterfront
• shop the Modiano and Kapani markets

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.

Once the seat of two massive empires, Istanbul has been shaped by its colourful history. From massive Byzantine churches, to towering Ottoman mosques, history can be found in each building no matter what part of the city you wander through. Ships will dock at the Galataport cruise ship terminal which is a 40 minute drive from the Istanbul Airport.

Top Things to Do in Istanbul:

• marvel at the Blue Mosque
• haggle at the Grand Bazaar
• explore the Underground Cistern
• visit the Hagia Sofia

The small seaside town of Kepez is the port for Canakkale, a city of many amazing sites and incredible vistas. This ancient city is the gateway to the Gallipoli WWI battlefields and the archaeological site at Troy. Ships will dock at this port.

Top Things to Do in Kepez:

• visit the Canakkale Archaeological Museum
• explore the famous ancient city of Troy
• visit the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park
• see the ancient city of Assos and the Temple of Athena

A mountainous island situated a few miles from the Turkish shores, Chios is rich in history. The Greek island is most famous for its mastic trees that are used to make chewing gum and for its small medieval towns. Ships will dock or anchor in Chios Town.

Top Things to Do on Chios:

• visit a Masticha plantation
• drive across the Kambos plain
• visit the medieval villages of Pyrgi and Mesta
• view the traditional windmills in Tampakika
• visit Homer's Rock on the Vrontados coast
• admire the mosaics in Nea Moni monastery

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.

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

Mykonos, a jewel in the Aegean Sea, is renowned for its vibrant nightlife and iconic white-washed buildings. Begin your day in Mykonos Town, or Chora, where the maze-like streets are filled with boutique shops, charming cafes, and art galleries. The town's famous windmills, a symbol of the island, offer a perfect photo opportunity and a glimpse into the island's history.

In the afternoon, relax on one of the island's beautiful beaches, such as Platis Gialos or Paradise Beach, known for their golden sands and clear waters. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, showcasing artifacts from the island's rich past. End your visit with a meal at a waterfront taverna, enjoying local dishes like moussaka and fresh seafood.

If you've got time to explore the rich heritage of Athens, begin at the Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers breathtaking views of the city. Nearby, the Plaka district's narrow streets are filled with charming shops and tavernas, perfect for leisurely exploring. Visit the Ancient Agora to walk in the footsteps of Socrates. For a modern twist, the National Archaeological Museum houses treasures spanning millennia. Wrap up your day with a sunset stroll up Lycabettus Hill, providing panoramic vistas of this timeless city.

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).