Holy Land, Isles & Crossroads

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).

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.

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.

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

Ephesus, a marvel of ancient architecture, invites visitors to explore its well-preserved ruins and relive the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Key highlights include the Library of Celsus, a stunning facade that once housed over 12,000 scrolls, and the Great Theatre, which could seat 25,000 spectators for dramatic performances.

Travellers can also wander the streets of this historic city to uncover the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Although only foundations and a single column remain, the site's past significance as a major religious and commercial center is palpable. A morning visit is recommended to avoid the crowds and heat.

In Izmir, cruise ships typically dock at the Alsancak Port, just about 5 kilometers from the city center, making it a quick 10-minute drive.

However, the historical site of Ephesus, a must-visit for its ancient ruins and biblical history, is approximately 80 kilometers away - a drive of around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

If you're lookin gto explore Izmir, consider a leisurely stroll along the Kordon promenade for scenic sea views, or explore the historic Kemeraltı Market for unique souvenirs and local cuisine. Izmir’s rich history and bustling markets make it a memorable stop.

Bodrum, a vibrant port city on Turkey's southwestern coast, is known for its rich history and stunning coastline. Start your day at the Bodrum Castle, a magnificent fortress that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology. Wander through its halls to discover fascinating artifacts and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Aegean Sea.

Later, head to the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. For some relaxation, visit the beautiful Bitez Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Don’t miss a stroll through the bustling Bodrum Marina, where you can explore chic boutiques and charming cafes while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

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.

With an average of 13 hours of sun a day in the summer, it’s easy to fall in love with Paphos. This beautiful land of rocky coastline and clear blue waters was the perfect setting for the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of beauty and love. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders will be provided to shore.

Top Things to Do in Paphos:

• explore the UNESCO listed Paphos
• visit an excavated ancient theatre in Kourian
• stop at Aphrodite’s Rock, where the goddess of love and fertility was supposedly born
• visit the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo
  

Begin your exploration in the Old City, where the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Dome of the Rock stand as powerful symbols of the world's major religions. The maze-like alleys, vibrant markets, and ancient architecture create an atmosphere rich in history and spirituality.

Beyond the Old City, discover the vibrant cultural life of modern Jerusalem. The bustling Mahane Yehuda Market, with its array of spices, fresh produce, and local delicacies, is a sensory delight. For a more relaxed experience, visit the serene Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial and the beautifully landscaped Israel Museum, home to the famous Dead Sea Scrolls.

Ashdod is the largest port in Israel and the gateway to the Holy Land. Located about 64 kilometers (40 miles) away, approximately a 1-hour drive.

If you're looking to explore Ashdod itself, start at the Ashdod Yam Fortress, an ancient site with panoramic views of the sea. The Corinne Mamane Museum of Philistine Culture provides a fascinating look into the region's ancient inhabitants .For a more relaxed experience, stroll along the city's pristine beaches or visit the bustling Ashdod Marina, filled with cafes and restaurants. The Ad Halom Park, a beautiful green space, is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Don't miss the Eye of the Sun, an impressive sculpture and a popular spot for photos.

Visit the land of miracles - Galilee, the Jordan River, the Mount of the Beautitudes and Tabgha. Venture to Nazareth, home of the young Jesus. See the largest hanging gardens in the world at the Bahai Gardens of Haifa. Or visit the Nahalal Moshav, a commune established in 1921 by Jewish immigrants.

Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and Mount Carmel, Haifa is a popular gateway to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Tel-Aviv and the Jordan River. Haifa is also home to the exquisite Bahá'í Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring terraced gardens and panoramic views. Explore the vibrant German Colony, renowned for its historic Templar buildings and trendy cafes. For a unique cultural experience, visit the Haifa Museum of Art, showcasing contemporary Israeli and international works.