Piraeus/Athens, Volos, Istanbul

Piraeus port is the gateway to Athens center. Don't miss the Parthenon, the temple to Athena which looms over Athens from its perch atop the Acropolis, an eternal icon of art and civilization. Completed in 438 B.C., the temple still astounds as the flowering of Greek art and architecture. When you come down off the hill, don't miss a visit to the Ancient Agora, Syntagma Square, the Acropolis Museum and the city's historic centre, around Plaka. Ideally, sit and relax at a cafe on the foot of the hill, sample some Greek souvlaki or a frappe, take a glance back up the hill from time to time and give the goddess her due.

Volos is a modern and lively port city, located at the innermost point of the Pagasetic Gulf and at the foot of Mount Pelion and is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Greece. Visitors can enjoy the waterfront cafes, bakeries and shops, explore the charming Pelion villages perched on the nearby mountains, visit the impressive Volos Archaeological Museum and Municipal Gallery, and last but not least, spend the day on golden beaches in the wider area of Volos are among the best-loved in Greece (Agios Dimitrios, Anchialos, Alykes, Pigadia, and many others).

A cruise to Istanbul (nee Constantinople nee Byzantium) takes you to the world's only two-continent metropolis, steeped with nearly 10 millennia of history. We will cross Galata Bridge to the old city, go past the Süleymaniye Mosque, whose 174-foot dome was once the highest in the Ottoman Empire, pass from the ancient city walls, built by Constantine, and beneath the epic Roman aqueduct. Don't miss the visit to the Blue Mosque, Süleymaniye Mosque, Agia Sophia, the Ecumenical Patriarchate and enjoy the views to Bosphorus and Galata Tower. The aromas and scents of curry, saffron, and myrrh fill the air. A unique city of unparalleled beauty that will enchant you.