Athens to Rome Grand Voyage

With its many charms including iconic windmills, fabulous beaches and an irresistible traditional town of twisting streets and alleys, Mykonos is living proof that picture postcard destinations do exist.

Dating back to the Neolithic age and famed as the mythical “City of the Argonauts”, Volos is a modern city in the heart of Greece, and is a place of immense natural beauty and numerous archaeological sites.

As Greece’s second-biggest city and the Byzantine Empire’s second-most important city, the word “second” is often used to describe this port, but we’re here to tell you: Thessaloniki is anything but second-rate!

Once the stuff of mythology, archaeological excavations at Troy have brought life to Homer’s Iliad and the tale of the beautiful Helen, fought over by warriors like Hercules and won by means of the Trojan horse.

Istanbul is exotic, warmly welcoming and unique – after all, where else can you tour Europe and Asia on the very same afternoon? – with must sees that include Hagia Sophia, Topkapi and the Grand Bazaar.

Istanbul is exotic, warmly welcoming and unique – after all, where else can you tour Europe and Asia on the very same afternoon? – with must sees that include Hagia Sophia, Topkapi and the Grand Bazaar.

On the northwest side of Crete rests the old Venetian port of Chania with its mixture of Greek, Venetian and Ottoman influences on every corner: Minoan ruins, Byzantine churches and impressive frescos.

In Patmos, there is no missing the incredible Monastery of St. John, a massive dark 11th century fortress atop a hill, standing out against the traditional white houses of the village of Hora that surround it.

Kusadasi is your port to the age-old civilization of Ephesus, once the second largest metropolitan area in the Roman Empire, and famed for the Temple of Artemis, one of the wonders of the ancient world.

Said to have more fine days than anywhere else in Europe, Rhodes’ diverse historical influences are evident in an old town remarkably intact—in particular the medieval presence of the Knights of St John.

Each Greek Isle offers its own bit of wonder, but Amorgos? It’s especially captivating. Discover its ancient sites, picture-perfect towns, and secluded beaches.

As the largest city on the isle of Crete, with a history that dates back to the 9th century, Heraklion has seen its share of travelers over the millennia. Discover the many treasures at the Archaeological Museum, regarded as one of the most important museums in Greece. Given that it’s Greece we’re talking about, the food here is naturally outstanding, and comes with a delicious Cretan touch.

One look at Monemvasia as you pull in to port and it’s easy to understand why locals nicknamed it The Rock. Shrouded by precipitous cliffs along the brilliant teal waters of the Myrtoan Sea, Monemvasia is a castle town suspended in history.

The capital and “heart” of the Greek Island of Kefalonia, Argostoli is a modern town with a traditional soul, with the famous Drogati Cave and underground Melissani Lake routinely topping must-see lists.

With its millions of olive trees, scent of lemon blossoms and sapphire bay, Corfu is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean and is said to cast a spell upon those who land upon its shores.

An independent city-state and major power during the Middle Ages and Renaissance, Venice consists of more than 100 small islands connected by arched bridges and is one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

In 1844 Opatija began its life as a resort; with stunning coastal views and a mild climate it quickly drew an aristocratic clientele and became the fashionable seaside retreat for the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Perched on Adriatic Sea in Croatia, Zadar is a truly captivating city, where history-drenched cobblestone streets meet contemporary life, and are then surrounded by blue sea, green olive groves and white stone.

One of the best ways to see Sibenik is to lose yourself (but not really!) in the side streets and alleys that lead to charming shops and squares. Since the countryside around Sibenik is a major wine-producing region, be sure to take a break at one of the city’s many restaurants and enjoy a local red babićpaired with some fresh Adriatic seafood.

With its fertile plains, fresh water springs, fields of lavender, fruit orchards, ancient olive trees and vineyards, it’s no wonder Hvar frequently appears on lists of the world’s most appealing islands.

To visit Dubrovnik is to step back in time to the Middle Ages, as the town is one massive museum of fountains, palaces and churches, with thick walls that date back to the 13th century and encircle the city.

One of Europe’s best-preserved cities of medieval or Renaissance vintage, Kotor’s walls were constructed right into the slopes of the mountain behind it, making it an amazing sight on approach from the sea.

The second-largest city in Crete and capital of the Homonym Prefecture, Chania is located in Minoan Kidonia at the end of the Homonym Gulf between the Akrotiri and Onicha peninsulas. Chania City is divided into two parts; the Old Town, which is comprised of several connected districts built around the old Venetian Harbour, and New Town, a larger, more modern city whose centre is situated next to, and south of, the Old Town. The Old Town is home to Venetian buildings and Turkish elements that combine to create a unique architectural style, and is considered to be the most beautiful urban district on Crete. It was once surrounded by old Venetian fortifications that separated it from the New Town; however, only the eastern and western parts remain today. Due to its compact size, Skiathos can be easily explored in just a single day.

Perfectly blending the traditional with the modern, Syros offers visitors an authentic snapshot of Greek life in the beautiful Cyclades. Come for the laid back pace, stay for the buzzing gastronomy scene. Opa!

As the site of the ancient city of Halikarnassus (and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World), Bodrum’s ties to the past are evident everywhere; but there are plenty of modern-day pleasures, too.

Said to have more fine days than anywhere else in Europe, Rhodes’ diverse historical influences are evident in an old town remarkably intact—in particular the medieval presence of the Knights of St John.

Known for having “three faces to the sea”, this port on Crete’s east coast seamlessly blends the charm of a small fishing village with the glamor of a chic resort town. With a diverse range of dining, shopping, and nightlife options, you can find your own personal paradise in Agios Nikolaos.

One look at Monemvasia as you pull in to port and it’s easy to understand why locals nicknamed it The Rock. Shrouded by precipitous cliffs along the brilliant teal waters of the Myrtoan Sea, Monemvasia is a castle town suspended in history.

As one of the major powers of the Mediterranean world in 5th century BC, Siracusa is known for the archaeological and historical sights (like the tomb of Archimedes and Ear of Dionysus) that define its grand past.

A lovely medieval town perched on high cliffs and situated next to the still active Mt. Etna, Taormina offers spectacular views over the bay and rugged coastline and lush crops of olives, citrus and grapes.

Known for its rich history, beautiful coastal views, and significant landmarks, Salerno is a vibrant city with a blend of historical charm and modern amenities.

A warming sun and gentle sea breezes have been attracting visitors to Sorrento for two millennia, and its reputation as a playground of the ancient rich and famous have resulted in lavish villas and palaces.

Whether it’s tossing a coin in a fabled fountain or being awestruck by the magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica and Michelangelo’s masterpieces, Rome seems to live up to its sobriquet, the Eternal City.