Ravenna, Santorini, Mykonos, Piraeus/Athens, Argostoli/Kefallonia

Ravenna, the former capital of the Western Roman Empire (402- 476) in Emilia Romana region, is famed for its mosaics which depict a rich cultural heritage. Eight early Christian monuments of Ravenna are inscribed on the World Heritage List, among which, the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe (549), the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia (c. 430), the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo (c. 500) and the Mausoleum of Theoderic (520), the Archiepiscopal Chapel (c. 500) and the Baptistry of Neon (c. 430). Ravenna is a port town and cruise destination which serves as a gateway to the Apenine republic of San Marino, the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world and one of the smallest states in the world.

Santorini is essentially what remains of an enormous volcanic explosion dated back 3,600 years (between 1627- 1600 BC) and which created the current geological caldera: a giant central lagoon, more or less rectangular, measuring about 12 by 7 km. The effect is still explosive: 300-m-high steep cliffs on three sides rise from sea level, cubic white houses surrounded by pink bougainvilleas glow in the Aegean sun. The wild beauty, the fascinating Caldera, the gold sunset, of the Number 1 destination in Greece will steal your heart away! 

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.

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.

Ravenna, the former capital of the Western Roman Empire (402- 476) in Emilia Romana region, is famed for its mosaics which depict a rich cultural heritage. Eight early Christian monuments of Ravenna are inscribed on the World Heritage List, among which, the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare in Classe (549), the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia (c. 430), the Basilica of Sant'Apollinare Nuovo (c. 500) and the Mausoleum of Theoderic (520), the Archiepiscopal Chapel (c. 500) and the Baptistry of Neon (c. 430). Ravenna is a port town and cruise destination which serves as a gateway to the Apenine republic of San Marino, the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world and one of the smallest states in the world.