Taranto, Argostoli/Kefallonia, Mykonos, Piraeus/Athens

Taranto, in Italian Taranto, is a seaside town of Italy built in the place of the ancient Greek colony. It is located in southern Italy, in the Puglia region, built on the banks of the homonymous bay. The city has grown on a small island within the local lagoon and on the coasts around it. It is the seat of the homonymous province, Taranto is an important commercial port and main base of the Italian navy.

Greece's best-kept secret, Argostoli is the capital and largest town of Kefallonia Island. It is a natural harbour, surrounded by low hills that reach the sea. At the edge of the bay next to Argostoli lies the lagoon of Koutavos, with lush vegetation and a forest with very tall eucalyptus trees. Argostoli's attractions are mostly within walking distance of the port. A couple blocks south of the square is the main shopping street, Lithostroto, which is a pedestrian-only cobble shopping area. There are two nice small museums, the Archaeological Museum with artifacts from Mycenean to Roman times and the Korgialeneio History and Folk Art Museum, which includes many displays showing the island prior to the earthquake. Discover enticing beaches, tasty white wine, visit the fishing village of Fiskardo where you may while away the afternoon schmoozing with the locals.

Welcome to Greece's most famous cosmopolitan island, a whitewashed paradise in the heart of the Cyclades. Whether you are an entertainment junkie out for a real good time or a visitor who wishes to explore the island’s history and tradition, Mykonos will certainly meet your expectations, as one of the most quaint destinations of this cruise. Ramble along narrow streets past white-washed houses and blue-domed churches, bougainvillea-covered walls and thread-like, step-laden footpaths leading everywhere. Set out on a journey to discover a fascinating world where glamour meets simplicity. 

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.