Istanbul, Izmir, Bodrum, Rhodes, Antalya, Alanya, Heraklion/Crete, Piraeus/Athens

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.

Izmir, rightfully called "the pearl of the West", is Turkey's third largest city and one of the most important port cities, lying at the tip of a long and narrow gulf. Also known as Old Izmir, Smyrna was established around 3000 BC and flourished into a great center of civilization over time, til 1922 when it was completely destoyed by a fire. Check out the clock tower at Konak Square, Izmir's landmark today, the historical Kemeralti neighborhood, the ancient Agora, built in the 4th century BC, Hisar Mosque and Alsancak District with its many museums and end you tour with a nice walk along the waterfront. For a truly astonishing view, take a horse drawn carriage for a ride along Izmir’s broad, palm-lined promenade or ascend the 19th-century elevator at Halil Rifat Pasa district, 51 meters above the city, at Asansor district.

Rhodes is an enchanting island that shines green and white, surrounded by the blue waters of the eastern Aegean. It is strewn with small towns and was merely one of the most glorious cities of antiquity, the world- renowned Island of the Knights. The Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, stood more than 100 feet high at the edge of the harbor, before an earthquake toppled it in 226 B.C. Of the statue, nothing remains, but Rhodes Old Town, a World Heritage Site, remains one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and a place of pilgrimage for cruise travelers. Stroll along the medieval streets and the wonderful fortifications, walk along the Street of the Knights and visit the Palace of the Knights.

Antalya is a large coastal Mediterranean city on the south coast of Turkey. The Roman port of Antalya is full of fishing boats and sailboats. Around it, the old city walls since the Byzantines, stand intact. Major hotels dominate in the coastline

The Alanya is a seaside resort in Turkey. The city grows up around a fortified harbour and castle. The Mediterranean climate, natural attractions, and historic heritage make Alanya a popular tourist destination

Ηere in the island’s capital and largest city, you can wander among the squares and fountains or gaze out over the azure blue waters of the Cretan Sea, as you enjoy fresh seafood in a local taverna on the promenade. Don't miss the Palace of Knossos, the largest of the preserved Minoan palatial centres, situated not more than 5 kms from Heraklion. It is the most visited archaeological site in Crete. The palace was the seat of the legendary King Minos and has been associated with famous Greek myths, like that of Daedalus and Icarus, the Labyrinth and the Minotaur. The incredible complex houses a warren of rooms decorated with columns and frescoes

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.