ITINERARY
SAT 24 JUL – FLY FROM NZ TO GREECE
On arrival you will be met and transferred to your lovely hotel for 2 nights based in the bustling Plaka District.
FREE TOUR: Walking Tour of the Acropolis
WED 27 JUL – ATHENS (PIRAEUS), GREECE, EMBARK 1PM-6PM
Embark the stunning Oceania Riviera for 10 nights exploring the wonders of the Aegean.
THU 28 JUL – VOLOS, GREECE, 8AM-7PM
Located at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos wasn`t founded until the mid-19th century, and its neoclassical architecture lends it a contemporary feel. The broad streets along the waterfront are excellent for strolling. Still, history hasn`t been completely disregarded as the Archaeological Museum of Volos displays vast collections of ancient coins and glass vessels.
FRI 29 JUL – KAVALA/PHILIPPI, GREECE, 7AM-5PM
Built on a promontory on the site of ancient Neapolis, Kavala offers fine beaches and numerous historic sites. A Byzantine castle lords over Kavala, and its 16th century aqueduct is still intact. The ruins of nearby Philippi include a Roman forum and a 5th century cathedral.
SAT 30 JUL – SUN 31 JUL – ISTANBUL, TURKEY – OVERNIGHT 2 DAY STAY
Indulge your eyes and senses in this magnificent city astride two continents. Visit beautiful Topkapi Palace, the awesome Hagia Sophia and the impressive Blue Mosque. Cruise the Bosphorus to see the city and its surroundings from another perspective. Visit one of the many museums or stroll through the spice market and the famous Grand Bazaar.
MON 1 – TUE 2 AUG – EPHESUS (KUSADASI) – OVERNIGHT 2 DAY STAY
Meander through the ruins of ancient Ephesus and marvel at the famed Library of Celsus, the huge amphitheater, the marble roads with their chariot marks, the amazing mosaic sidewalks and the superb, rarely opened Terrace Houses. Or journey to three monumental cities of antiquity – Priene, Miletus and Didyma – renowned for their majestic temples and impressive, beautifully preserved stadiums.
WED 3 AUG – RHODES, GREECE, 8AM-7PM
Enjoy a walking tour of the old fortified city and stand in awe of the impressive Grand Master`s Palace. See where the Colossus of Rhodes once stood and savor the charm of this remarkable walled town. Or drive along the scenic coast to Lindos. Enjoy the whitewashed little town and climb to the ancient acropolis, its temples and wonderful views.
THU 4 AUG – SANTORINI, GREECE, 8AM-11PM
Visit the beautiful whitewashed hilltop towns of Oia and Fira and their breathtaking views of the caldera below. See the stunning artifacts in Fira`s museum, including recent finds from the excavation of Akrotiri, thought by many to be the legendary city of Atlantis, or visit a winery. Stroll through the winding streets with fantastic views around every corner.
FRI 4 AUG – MYKONOS, GREECE, 8AM-7PM
Enjoy wandering through the narrow, winding streets of this delightful seaside village with its whitewashed houses, flowers and brightly painted shutters and doors. Stand beneath the windmills on the hill. Visit the archaeological museum and an old bakery still using a 15th century wood-burning stove.
SAT 6 AUG – ATHENS (PIRAEUS), GREECE, DISEMBARK 8AM
Enjoy 2 nights post-cruise exploring the winding alleyways and fascinating state-of-the-art museums of Athens.
MON 8 AUG
Extend your holiday in Europe or fly home to NZ.
