Authentic Greece with Greek Islands Explorer

On arrival, be transferred to your hotel. Tonight, dine with a local in Athens and indulge in your first Insider Experience.

Insider Experience

Delve deep into modern Greek culture and immerse yourself into local life with this experience. Meet your gracious Athenian host and learn about the importance of each dish as they take you on a culinary journey with a variety of dishes thoughtfully presented throughout your meal. Savour the warm hospitality and incredible menu meticulously crafted for your enjoyment. Taste dishes rich in flavours of traditional Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

After breakfast, head north on a scenic drive through the beautiful Greek countryside, stopping at Thermopylae along the way. Discover the Meteora, an incredible rock formation, known for its impressive monasteries perched above the towering cliffs. Originally built by monks seeking solitude and spiritual elevation, these structures offer spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Awake to awe-inspiring views of the Meteora, directly translating to ‘suspended in the heavens above’. Discover the stunning monasteries that have stood the test of time since their construction in the 14th century and delve into the heart of this location. Soak in the sensational architecture of these sacred sites. Glimpse into the region’s rich history as you admire intricate frescoes, ornate courtyards and ancient relics. Then, head south towards the town of Delphi. En route, savour a wine and ouzo tasting. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.

This morning, discover the alluring highlights of UNESCO’s archaeological site of Delphi, perhaps the most renowned oracle of the ancient world. See the Panhellenic sanctuary of Delphi, situated at the base of Mount Parnassus. Pass the Castalian Spring before continuing to explore the vast World Heritage Site. Delight in locations including the Monument of the Argive Kings, the Treasury of the Athenians, the Athenian Stoa, the impressive Polygonal Wall, the Monument of Platea and the magnificent Temple of Apollo. Visit the famous ancient Oracle where seekers pursued enlightenment about their destinies through divine guidance. Afterwards, head south to the spectacular town of Nafplion. After an Insider Experience, arrive at the hotel, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. 

Insider Experience

Visit the picturesque town of Galaxidi and relish a Greek pie-making experience, accompanied by a local who shares their insights. Discover the significance and culinary traditions of this delicious dish made with locally sourced ingredients.  .

After breakfast, visit the archaeological site of Mycenae, one of the most famous ancient locations of Greece and retrace the steps of the ancient civilisation who once lived here. Pass through the legendary Lion Gate as you head towards the ruins of the Mycenaean Acropolis and the Palace. Visit the tomb of Agamemnon and witness the ruins of the Cyclopean walls that surrounded this impressive citadel. Later, embark on a guided walk through the old quarter of Nafplion, pausing to sample local Greek coffee. Tonight, savour a dinner and bid farewell to your time in mainland Greece.

After breakfast, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of Epidaurus. Considered to be the birthplace of Asklepios, explore the impressive ancient ruins of temples and hospital buildings devoted to the healing gods. Delight in some of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture in existence. Admire the Sanctuary of Asklepios, the Tholos and the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus dating from the fourth century BC.

Later transfer to Athens to explore the highlights before heading to board your ship, the MS Caledonian Sky. This evening, get to know your Cruise Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception.

Awake in Syros, located in the spectacular Cyclades. The day has been set aside for you to explore at your leisure. Perhaps take an optional tour of the island and discover an array of colour and architecture. This evening, join your newfound friends for a Gala Welcome Dinner.  

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Syros 

Set off on a walking tour on the beautiful island of Syros. One of the smallest islands of the Cyclades with the highest population, it enchants all who visit with its kaleidoscope of modern and traditional Greek elements. Venture through Ermoupoli, perhaps the grandest of all Cycladic towns. With a much more localised feel than other locations, the town boasts an excellent example of local island life. Stop at the the Holy Cathedral of the Dormition of the Virgin and witness El Greco’s painting ‘Dormition of the Virgin’ before continuing to see the first high school of modern Greece. Then, be mesmerised by the Orthodox Cathedral of Agios Nikolaos. Discover the Vaporia district and the haven of neoclassical mansions, an insight into the island’s wealthy history. Conclude your tour with a stroll to the first opera house in Greece, the Apollon Theatre, and a visit to the town hall in the atmospheric Miaouli Square.  

Enhance Your Journey – Island Tour of Syros 

Be captivated by the island of Syros on a guided tour. Explore this location abundant in history and enriching natural beauty. Showcasing vibrant culture and traditional charm, the island boasts a more authentic lens into Greece than its neighbouring islands. As well as Ermoupoli and Ano Syros, charming villages across the island, including Posidonia, Vari and Finikas, dazzle visitors with their individual uniqueness. Stone-paved streets, small churches and friendly locals allow you to deep dive into the island’s rich culture. Stop at Galissas, a beautiful beachside village; Kini, a calm fishing village; and Posidonia, also known as Dellagratsia, an elegant village with opulent mansions.  

Arrive in the beautiful island of Amorgos, known for its ancient ruins and quaint villages. Set out on a guided tour, followed by an Insider Experience. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and enjoy dinner at your leisure at a local restaurant. 

Insider Experience – Olive Oil Press Visit a local olive oil press to learn about the production of this essential ingredient. Savour a tasting of the local produce and relish the unique flavour composition. 

Today takes you to the volcanic island of Nisyros, where you will enjoy free time to explore. In the port of Mandraki, you may like to wander through its whitewashed streets and visit the cliffside monastery of Panagia Spiliani or perhaps visit the archaeological museum. Alternatively, join an optional tour to the Polyvotis volcano. Learn about the Greek legend surrounding this landmark and walk into the volcano’s caldera.

Later, continue to the island of Symi to discover an old-world glamour and neoclassical architecture, a legacy of Italian rule almost a century ago. With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to join an optional guided tour, including Gialos Harbour with its pastel shaded houses, ancient monastery and Customs House.

This morning you will dock in Kuşadasi, located on Türkiye’s Anatolian coast.

Insider Experience – Visit Ephesus

Drive to the nearby ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities of the Eastern Mediterranean. Step back in time today as you immerse yourself in ancient Roman life and imagine the city’s former splendour. Broad streets are lined with impressive buildings, including the library of Celsus, which was built in memory of Celsus Polemeanus, a Roman senator and reportedly a great book lover.

Land on the dazzling Greek island of Mykonos, where you’ll have the day to explore at your own pace. Perhaps join an optional walking tour through the main town of Chora. Your ship will stay docked in port until late evening, so you may wish to disembark and enjoy dinner at your leisure at a local restaurant.    

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Town and Island Tour 

Join an optional tour by coach through the main town of Chora, taking in the incredible views of inland Mykonos. Admire the old port and spot local fishermen in their traditional fishing boats. Enjoy panoramas of charming Cycladic architecture and famous windmills so often featured on postcards. Your next stop is the village of Ano Mera. Prepare to be in awe of its alluring architecture, captivating public square and the historic Panagia Tourliani Monastery. Observe local life as you wander through a labyrinth of authentic bakeries, taverns and cafes. Then, spend some time at leisure at Kalafatis beach, a particularly stunning setting with a backdrop of the Aegean Sea. Venture back to the old port of Mykonos. Set off through a maze of bustling tiny lanes, soak in the whitewashed buildings with iconic blue shutters, and see the majestic blue-domed churches. 

Enhance Your Journey – Walking Tour of Mykonos 

Take part in an immersive guided walking tour through Mykonos’ main town. Wind your way through traditional laneways lined with iconic cubed architecture, charming blue shutters and bright domed churches. Discover the delightful old port, boasting authentic fishing boats and glittering turquoise water, reminiscent of postcards. Learn about local life and the secrets of the island’s rich history. There are plenty of photo opportunities with stops at Little Venice and the Church of Panagia Paraportiani. Relish free time to explore more or enjoy a drink at a local terrace bar before concluding your tour. 

Known for its most celebrated export, the iconic Venus de Milo, volcanic Milos arches around a central caldera and is ringed with dramatic coastal landscapes of colourful and surreal rock formations. Disembark your ship and enjoy a tour of the island which includes Plaka, the island’s capital, the beach of Sarakiniko and the small fishing village of Pollonia. With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to enjoy a relaxing morning at one of the island’s most picturesque beaches, Paleochori.

This morning after breakfast, your journey draws to an end. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.