Your journey through the highlights of Greece commences in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization. The capital’s iconic landmarks, like the Acropolis and Parthenon, are in one archaeological site for you to visit. While you’re there, wave a gentle hello to the female columns of the Erechtheion. The historic Plaka neighborhood makes for a pleasant wander, as it’s known for its narrow streets and traditional architecture. In your wandering through Agora district, see if you can you feel the presence of the ancient philosophers, like Socrates and Plato who walked the same streets.
Your cruise ship heads due east and about halfway to Turkey we’ll stop at Syros, a lesser-known Greek island where a stroll around the charming town of Ermoupoli feels leisurely. Neoclassical architecture dominates here. The towns landmarks include the Apollo Theater, the Cultural Center, and the Archaeological Museum, housing artifacts from the early Cycladic and Byzantine periods.
We shift countries and cultures as we go east and dock at Cesme, Turkey. This is the first of an astounding four ports that Azamara has arranged for later departure times so you can explore at your own pace. Now that you’re on a beautiful island on the Adriatic Sea, be sure to at least check out one of the beaches. For a little history and the best views, head up to Cesme Castle. Built in the 1500s, today it also hosts an archaeological museum.
A visit to the ancient city of Ephesus takes you back in time. This is the second of four ports where you have a late departure time, so take your time exploring the wealth of ancient ruins, including the Library of Celsus, the Great Theatre, and the Temple of Artemis. You can catch a glimpse of the fascinating world and lavish lifestyle of the Roman elite with a visit to the Terrace Houses.Heading south and to one of the most eastern island of Greece, we arrive at Patmos, a realm of spiritual significance. Enter the Cave of the Apocalypse, where Saint John the Evangelist is believed to have received the divine sights of the Book of Revelation. You can also explore the imposing Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, perched atop a hill with wonderful views.
Arriving in Rhodes, you can take your time uncovering the island's rich history because we will set sail later! Visit the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through its narrow streets, lined with medieval buildings and impressive fortifications. Explore the Palace of the Grand Master, a testament to the island's Knights Hospitaller past. Watch the sunset at a bar, cafe or on a romantic spot by the water.
We linger in the Aegean Sea, docking at Kos, a small Peloponnesian island of ancient ruins charged with spiritual significance. Visit Asklepion, a sanctuary dedicated to the god of healing, Asklepios, the gymnasium, Roman baths and 2nd and 3rd century Roman Odean amphitheater. Moving forward to the 1300s, you can also visit the Castle of the Knights and museum. Or go take advantage of the fun water activities that a small island can offer, such as kite or windsurfing and motorized watersports.
Now we arrive at the largest Greek island, docking in Aghios Nikolaos, Crete. This is the last port where you have an extended time on the island, with a later departure time. Right in the center town you’ll find Lake Voulismeni, lined by welcoming cafes where locals can recount the myth associated with their precious lake. The port offers some of the best beaches on Crete, due to the protection of the large bay of Aghios Nikolaos. Bask on the beach or frolic in the turquoise waters of Voulisma Beach or Istron Bay Beach.
We continue on to the iconic island of Santorini, renowned for its stunning caldera views. Visit the ancient site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement frozen in time by volcanic ash. Visit Oia for the postcard perfect view of of whitewashed buildings, set against deep blue waters, and saturated sunsets. Indulge in the local cuisine and savor the renowned Santorinian wines.
End your sailing adventure across various seas at the dense port of Monemvasia, Greece, backed by a dramatic rock formation that juts out into the water, like a smaller Gibralter. On this rocky island, you can climb up the zigzag path, cross under the small city gate to the hilltop fortress for a view. You can also find small Byzantine churches, medieval buildings, narrow paths, and cafes. Cross the causeway by foot to the other side, a town also brimming with activity.