Experience the vibrant and historic port of Piraeus, Athens gateway to the Aegean islands and beyond, and find a rich maritime heritage, a bustling local culture, and access to the wonders of Athens. Venture through Greece’s largest port city, Piraeus, as you make your way to the cradle of Western culture and the birthplace of democracy. Athens, among the world's oldest cities with a history spanning 3,400 years, has long been the location of myth and muse, and its ancient heritage is still an incredible source of inspiration. Here, the Acropolis crowns the city as home to the Parthenon and other legendary temples and monuments. 

Santorini is a breathtaking island in the southern Aegean Sea known for its iconic blue-domed churches, picturesque whitewashed buildings, and stunning sunsets. Of all the Cyclades Islands, Santorini is often considered the most dramatic with its dark landscape and iconic whitewashed buildings. The rich soil is ideal for grapes and local vines produce a cherished crop known for its special volcanic taste. Picturesque "Thíra," or Fira Town, laid out along the edge of a cliff at the rim of the now extinct caldera, exudes an easy charm. 

 If you wished to paint the perfect picture of a Greek island, it would probably look like Monemvasia. Start with a rocky promontory on the eastern edge of the Peloponnese. Then sketch in restored stone houses, beautiful churches and a winding two-donkey wide road. Add a medieval citadel. Remove all automobiles. Then make the island accessible from the mainland via a strollable causeway spanned by a grand Venetian gate. The finishing touch: the backdrop of an exquisite Aegean sunset. 

 Upon arrival in Katakolon, venture out to see the ancient site of Olympia, the storied place where the Olympic Games originated in 776 BC. The Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera and the famous stadium, along with a visit to the nearby Archaeological Museum, offers a fascinating introduction to the Games and ancient mythology. Relax over ouzo in an open-air café, or engage in a friendly round of bargaining as you shop for Greek jewelry and handicrafts. 

Immerse yourself in this immaculately preserved island covered in cypress and olive trees. Corfu is considered one of the Mediterranean’s best kept secrets and its elegant downtown area, serene beaches and warm breezes will keep leave you truly captivated.  
 

 Dubrovnik is one of the most recognizable cities in Europe. Behind the walls, find sleek Venetian-style buildings and a rich Slavic culture. Home to lavender, olive oil, and gorgeous beaches, Dubrovnik will leave a lasting impression on all your senses.  

 In a region where the words "Baroque," "medieval" and "Renaissance" - not to mention "beautiful" and "charming" - describe virtually every sight, one might think it would be difficult to find any one town that is a standout. Yet Trogir, Croatia, may just be that place. Located on a small island between the Croatian mainland and the island of Ciovo, the city of Trogir has a history that reaches back to the 3rd century BC, when it was founded by the Greeks. Later influenced by the Romans and Venetians, Trogir is nothing short of an open-air museum, sprinkled liberally with churches, palaces, towers and fortifications. Its Romanesque-Gothic quarter is one of the best-preserved not only in the Adriatic, but in all of Central Europe. UNESCO has recognized Trogir as the special place that it is, designating the historic center as a World Heritage Site. 

 In 2019, UNESCO warned the Italian government that Venice would be put on the blacklist of “World Heritage Sites in Danger” due to the steady stream of ships damaging the city’s fragile architecture and ecosystem. This caused the government to grant Venice’s waterways national monument status (a standing usually only given to artworks and historical buildings), putting the lagoon under enhanced state protection. Under the decree, all ships longer than 590 feet needed to find somewhere else to berth if they wanted to visit the city. Enter Fusina, a nearby industrial port that respects maritime safety and environmental laws. While the port is not as pretty as mooring in Venice’s Grand Canal, a stunningly scenic 30-minute boat ride delivers you to a central city pier, a perfect jumping-off spot for visiting all of Venice’s romantic, watery attractions. 

Departure Day