Athens (Piraeus) to Athens (Piraeus)

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).

Part of the Cyclades archipelago, Paros is a radiant island boasting villages of whitewashed houses set off by azure doors and shutters. Along the quays of Parikia, its main town, you’ll see Byzantine churches and neoclassical buildings. Ships will dock or anchor offshore in Parikia.

Top Things to Do on Paros:

• visit the seaside village of Naoussa
• trek down the famed Byzantine Road
  
• explore the untouched town of Lefkes
• see the marble quarries of Marathi
• relax on Chrissi Akti Beach

Combining a touch of Venetian beauty with Crete’s rugged landscape and dazzling beaches, Chania is an enchanting welcome to this legendary Greek island. Inhabited since the Neolithic era, Chania is a modern city built over the ruins of the ancient city of Kydonia.

Start your day exploring the old town's labyrinthine alleys, filled with charming shops, cafes, and the 16th-century Venetian harbor. Afterward, visit the Archaeological Museum housed in a former Venetian monastery, showcasing artifacts from the Minoan to the Roman periods. For a more relaxed experience, head to the Municipal Market, a bustling hub of local life where you can taste Cretan delicacies, or relax seaside at Nea Chora beach, a short walk from the old town, perfect for a leisurely afternoon by the sea.

Souda Bay’s huge natural harbour is a spectacular entrance to Greece's largest island, Crete. Packed with beautiful beaches and rich maritime history, Crete is also a treasure trove of well-stocked museums, rich archaeological sites and charming Venetian fishing towns. Ships will dock at the Port of Souda.

Top Things to Do in Souda Bay:

• admire the Arkadi Monastery
• stroll through the Old Town of Chania
• visit a Cretan winery and taste the local wine
• explore Rethymnon and its Fortezza
• visit the Agia Tradia Monastery

The most southwestern of the Cyclades archipelago, Milos is an island shaped by time, history and natural forces. Best known as the place where the Venus de Milo statue was discovered, the island offers an exciting variety of landscapes, impossibly blue waters and an intimate side of Greece. Ships will anchor offshore and tenders guests to shore.

Top Things to Do in Milos:

• explore the Catacombs of Milos
• admire Sarakiniko Beach
• visit Archaeological Museum of Milos
• explore the caves at Kleftiko beach

Patmos Island boasts idyllic beaches, swimming coves and historic hilltop mansions. Though many are drawn to Patmos for its natural beauty and seclusion, the island is also famous for being the location where St. John penned the Book of Revelations. Small ships will dock in the port town of Skala, while large ships will anchor offshore and tender guests to Skala.

Top Things to Do in Patmos:

• stroll the narrow lanes of Chora
• visit the Grotto of Revelation
• relax on Agriolivadi Beach
• visit the museum in St. John’s Monastery

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.

Kusadasi's main cruise terminal is Ege Port, conveniently located just 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from the city center, a quick 5-minute walk. Its proximity to the ancient city of Ephesus makes it a prime spot for history enthusiasts.

In the town itself, explore the bustling bazaar, where you can find traditional Turkish crafts and spices. Take a leisurely stroll along the seafront promenade, enjoying views of the azure waters and vibrant marina. For a taste of local cuisine, try a traditional Turkish breakfast or fresh seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

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).