Oceania Cruises Greek islands: 21 nights from Trieste with Allura
Jul 7, 2026
Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Turkey
Cruise itinerary
Departure Port: Trieste ➞
Landing: Athens
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Tuesday, July 7, 2026 - 7:00 PMTrieste
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Wednesday, July 8, 2026 11:00 AM - 7:00 PMHvar
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Thursday, July 9, 2026 7:00 AM - 5:00 PMBari
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Friday, July 10, 2026 7:00 AM - 5:00 PMKotor
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Saturday, July 11, 2026 7:00 AM - 5:00 PMDubrovnik
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Sunday, July 12, 2026 8:00 AM - 7:00 PMKorfu
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Monday, July 13, 2026Navigation
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Tuesday, July 14, 2026 7:00 AM - 5:00 PMChania
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Wednesday, July 15, 2026 9:00 AM - 6:00 PMRhodes
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Thursday, July 16, 2026 7:00 AM - 9:00 PMSantorini
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Friday, July 17, 2026 7:00 AM - 6:00 PMAthens
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Saturday, July 18, 2026 7:00 AM - 5:00 PMMykonos
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Sunday, July 19, 2026 7:00 AM - 4:00 PMEphesus
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Monday, July 20, 2026 1:00 PM - not foundIstanbul
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Tuesday, July 21, 2026 not found - 5:00 PMIstanbul
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Wednesday, July 22, 2026 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMBozcaada
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Thursday, July 23, 2026 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMMitilene
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Friday, July 24, 2026 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMIzmir
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Saturday, July 25, 2026 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMChio
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Sunday, July 26, 2026 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMKos
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Monday, July 27, 2026 7:00 AM - 8:00 PMSantorini
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Tuesday, July 28, 2026 5:30 AM 6:00 PMAthens

Trieste
Trieste overlooks the Adriatic Sea and it is the starting point of serveral cruise ships. Set sail from Trieste and discover the pearls of the Adriatic, Dubrovink e Kotor, up to reach the enchanting Greek Islands for a unique cruise!
Trieste is a city located in the far end of the Adriatic Sea, in Friuli Venezia Giulia, Trieste is developed on several levels. One of its peculiarities are its wide streets, squares where there are majestic buildings of various architectural styles, they are typical of the Austrian domination era. One feature of the city that is known worldwide is its tourist and commercial port.
The port of Trieste has always been an important commercial centre, for example during the Habsburg Empire it was the main sea outlet for commercial activities.
We suggest you to visit the majestic Piazza dell'Unità d'Italia, that directly overlooks the sea and offers a very suggestive sight. Trieste is a city where the influence of the East is evident both in its traditions and in the local cuisine that has united flavours and various ingredients for unique recipts. The main dishes consist of soups and stews, but also gnocchi and stuffed pasta. If, on the other hand, you want to try a meat dish, don't miss the tasty cevapcici, very spicy meatballs of Balkan origin. While to finish, enjoy a presnitz, a pastry made of puff pastry and dried fruit of Hungarian origin.
If your ship sets sail from Trieste, do not miss the opportunity to visit this city and its most important monuments such as the Molo Audace. From here you can admire the sea before heading towards the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, built in Baroque style. Not to be missed is the San Giusto Hill and the famous Roman Theatre, which will leave all archaeology lovers speechless.
Trieste: Adriatic Elegance for Your CruiseSet sail from Trieste, Italy, a captivating port city on the Adriatic, known for its unique blend of Italian, Austrian, and Slovenian influences. With its grand Habsburg architecture, bustling Piazza Unità d'Italia overlooking the sea, and a rich literary history, Trieste offers an elegant and culturally rich departure point for your cruise. Before stepping aboard, explore its charming cafes, historical landmarks, and enjoy the city's distinct cosmopolitan atmosphere. Trieste promises a sophisticated and memorable beginning to your Adriatic and Mediterranean adventure.
Discover the Adriatic and Beyond from TriesteCruises departing from Trieste open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas. Whether you dream of discovering the picturesque coasts of Croatia, the historical richness of Montenegro, the ancient allure of Greece, or the charming ports of Italy, Trieste serves as an ideal launchpad. Enjoy the seamless transition from the refined elegance of Trieste to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments. Each voyage from Trieste promises breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, leaving you with cherished memories.

Hvar
Located on the Adriatic Sea, the island of Lesina is one of the largest islands overlooking the Croatian coast. An ancient city with a rich past, it is located on the west side of the island, towards the south. A popular tourist destination, not only in summer but also in spring and autumn, it becomes the most visited destination in Croatia.
During your stay in Lesina, you can discover the richness of its natural heritage: the island is well-equipped with a series of caves, some of which are completely uninhabited.
Do not forget to visit the various monuments such as the imposing fortress, built in the early 16th century and restored in 1579, following an explosion, which offers extraordinary panoramic views of the city of Lesina and the Pakleni islands. Other significant monuments are: The Cathedral of San Stjepan, located on the east side of the main square of the city, the Arsenal, the oldest public theater built in 1612, the Franciscan monastery, now a museum and gallery of rarities, and many other works that testify to the turbulent past of the Nation. In this country, you will find a transparent and crystalline sea with small beaches of sand and rocks. In front of the bay of Lesina you will find the "Infernal" islands, where you will meet the most beautiful beaches.
The city is connected to the islands by regular ferry lines. Sports and leisure lovers can go trekking, scuba diving, numerous water activities, walking, playing football, handball, volleyball, basketball, and tennis. The nightlife of the city of Hvar is more active in Dalmatia. You can relax among enchanting beaches, watching shows, exhibitions, concerts, musical, and folklore events.

Bari
Bari is located on the Adriatic Sea and, in addition to having its own well-defined character, is one of the main ports for exploring the South, the Greek Islands and Croatia. Discover all the itineraries and prices for cruises from Bari, we have numerous offers and last minute for your Cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean from Bari!
Bari: Your Gateway to the Adriatic and BeyondDiscover the magic of Southern Italy as you embark on a cruise from Bari, a vibrant port city in Puglia. With its charming Old Town (Bari Vecchia), the Basilica di San Nicola, and bustling promenade, Bari offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. Before setting sail, wander through its narrow streets, savor local delicacies, and soak in the authentic Italian atmosphere. Bari provides a convenient and picturesque starting point for exploring the wonders of the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas.
Experience Unforgettable Journeys from BariCruises departing from Bari open up a world of possibilities, from the sun-drenched beaches of Greece and the historical richness of Croatia to the enchanting coasts of Montenegro and beyond. Whether you seek ancient ruins, vibrant cities, or serene natural landscapes, Bari serves as the perfect launchpad for diverse itineraries. Enjoy the seamless transition from the lively streets of Puglia to the luxurious comforts of your cruise ship, ready for days of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments on the open water.

Kotor
The Adriatic Sea penetrates the jagged coast of Montenegro and winds between high mountains until it meets the exquisite and walled medieval city of Kotor.
Along the Adriatic coast of the former Yugoslavia, we find one of the most unique and fascinating European coastal areas, the city hidden in Montenegro, Kotor.
Located at the bottom of a bay, the beautiful medieval city of Kotor is considered a Mediterranean location surrounded by cliffs and an interesting historic wall. The tourist attractions of Kotor are easily reached with a pleasant walk. This small walled city, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has compact dimensions that make it comfortable and easy to visit.
The central part of Kotor was built between the XII and XIV centuries. A historic center surrounded by a rather thick wall, four and a half kilometers long and fifteen meters high. This immense fortified wall reaches the bastion of Sveti Ivan (San Giovanni).
Inside the walls, it preserves an urban network cut into the stone. Its most emblematic work is the Cathedral of San Trifone, built in the 12th century. Inside the church it contains objects and frescoes sculpted during the 14th century. Furthermore, The Orthodox Church of San Nicolas, built between 1902 and 1909 in neo-Byzantine style and that of San Luca (13th century) built in Romanesque and Byzantine style.
Together with the churches, the city includes many palaces that tell its history: the Maritime Museum, located in the Grgurina Palace, a splendid baroque building located in the historic center of the country. The Drago house, with its beautiful Gothic windows, the Prima building, where Renaissance and Baroque lines are combined, the Ducal Palace and the Bizanti, both from the 17th century and the Napoleonic theater in the 19th century.
In Kotor, it is very common to see locals located along the rocky coast in the lower part of the city. In the old part of the area you will find many shops and restaurants that will delight your eyes. This location is the classic ideal city to spend quiet days or for a romantic getaway.

Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is definitely special. A magnificent curtain wall surrounds marble streets and Baroque buildings exude a pearly light in the Adriatic sun.
Picturesque and artistic, Dubrovnik is a tourist hotspot and port in southern Dalmatia, at the foot of the Srđ mountain. From a historical and cultural point of view, it has been included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Thanks to its beauty and everything it has on offer for tourists, Dubrovnik is one of the most attractive destinations in the Mediterranean, so much so that the city can be visited all year round. In addition to its world-famous architectural heritage, this place has beautiful rocky beaches, pebble beaches and sandy beaches, enjoys a Mediterranean climate and also has lush vegetation. The main pedestrian street, Placa, is a melange of cafes and shops with monuments at each end.
Churches, monasteries and museums adorned with finely carved stone, recall an eventful history and a rich artistic tradition. Beyond the city there is a paradise of beaches, wooded peninsulas and a crystal-clear sea dotted with lush islands.
The city is also known for its delicious cuisine and its infrastructure of hotels for tourists. The city offers a wide selection of first-class restaurants, numerous sport and leisure activities, as well as cultural and entertainment events

Korfu
Corfù is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, located off the northwestern coast of Greece and south of Albania. The Greek island is a natural paradise. It is the second largest island of Greece, with 220 km of coastline. Its geography is dominated by mountain ranges and reaching 1000 meters above sea level, you will find Mont Pantokrator.
This mountain divides the island into three different areas. The northern area, abundant in olive groves, features green valleys and coastlines that form both small and large bays. The central part, the most populous and important, is covered by dense vegetation and lush hills.
The southern area consists of a large plain with less vegetation than the other regions but is decidedly more fertile. The most lively part of the city is found at Liston, similar to Paris’ Rue de Rivoli- a grand avenue lined with beautiful cafes and excellent restaurants. On the other hand, the island also has beautiful beaches washed by the Ionian Sea.
One of the most beautiful walks in the capital is along the harbor promenade, next to the city walls, where you can contemplate the view of the city. Corfù was the first Greek Island to open its doors to tourism, becoming an important international tourist centre that attracts many visitors every year. Even if tourism is evident in the coastal areas, the island has managed to preserve its authenticity.

Chania
Chania, the second largest city in Crete, is a jewel overlooking the Aegean Sea, rich in history and natural beauty. Here's what to do during your stop in this city:
1. Walk in the Venetian Port: Start your visit with a walk along the picturesque Venetian port. Admire the Lighthouse, one of the symbols of the city, and visit the Janissaries Mosque.
2. Explore the Historic Quarter: Get lost in the narrow streets of the old quarter, where you can discover craft shops, traditional taverns and colorful houses. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania.
3. Municipal Market: Take a jump to the covered market of Chania, where you can buy local products such as olives, cheeses and spices.
4. Stop in a Local Tavern: Savor Cretan cuisine in one of the taverns on the waterfront or in the alleys of the historic center. Try typical dishes such as dakos, moussaka and oven-baked lamb.
Chania: Crete's Venetian Jewel for Your Cruise
Embark on an unforgettable Mediterranean journey from Chania, Crete's most picturesque city. With its charming Venetian harbor, lighthouse, and labyrinthine Old Town, Chania offers a captivating and romantic setting for your cruise departure. Before setting sail, wander through its narrow alleys, discover ancient ruins, and savor the authentic Cretan cuisine. Chania provides a vibrant blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal beauty, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Aegean and beyond.
Explore the Aegean and Beyond from ChaniaCruises departing from Chania open up a world of possibilities across the sparkling Aegean and Mediterranean seas. Imagine discovering the ancient wonders of mainland Greece, the volcanic landscapes of Santorini, or the historical richness of Turkey. Whether you seek vibrant island life, serene beaches, or profound historical sites, Chania serves as an excellent launchpad for diverse itineraries. Enjoy the seamless transition from Crete's charming city to the luxurious comfort of your cruise ship, ready for days of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments on the open water, promising a truly enriching voyage.

Rhodes
Ancient Charms and Aegean Sails from Rhodes!Embark on a captivating cruise from Rhodes, Greece, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, steeped in ancient history and medieval charm. From its impressive Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to its beautiful beaches, Rhodes offers a magical departure point for exploring the Aegean Sea. Immerse yourself in its legendary past before setting sail on a journey filled with sun-drenched islands, historical treasures, and serene sea days.
Rhodes is the 3rd largest island in Greece. Its geographical location and beauty have long been a target for many empires. Considered one of the most important centers of ancient Greece, this locality was frequented by wealthy Romans. In the Middle Ages, the city came under the dominion of the Knights of Malta and was later occupied by the Ottomans. Thus, Rhodes is known both for the variety of landscapes and the richness of its historical architecture. The old city, thanks to its imposing fortifications, makes it one of the largest inhabited medieval cities in Europe. The metropolis is divided into three areas. The modern and cosmopolitan city, with its hotels and buildings. The ancient one, built in 408 BC, later restored and where the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, Athena, and Apollo, the stadium, the gymnasium, and the theater are located. Finally, the one characterized by medieval Gothic architecture, built during the Ottoman period. Not to mention the Grand Masters Palace, home to ancient mosaics and a collection of Western-style furniture. Rhodes is the sunniest in Europe, with 300 days of sunshine a year. You will find both modern comfort and vintage style. You can also appreciate the warm hospitality of its people and the traditions that are still alive. After visiting the city, you will notice its beautiful beaches, some of which are equipped for water sports.

Santorini
Santorini is a small circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km southeast of mainland Greece.
Santorini is located in the southern part of the Cyclades.Its special geological configuration gives a spectacular, wild and unique beauty, becoming one of the main tourist destinations in Europe.
The current crescent shape of Santorini is a consequence of the enormous volcanic explosion that destroyed much of the island causing the formation of the caldera present on the territory, inside which form a series of wonderful small islands.
The island is a sanctuary of peace and calm, an idyllic corner where tourists from all over the world enjoy a few moments of pleasant relaxation. However, the quiet Santorini is, at the same time, one of the most suggestive and festive places in Greece. The square in the center of Fira and the beaches of Kamari, Perivolos and Perissa are the most lively and fashionable places.
The volcanic beaches of Santorini are not the best known in Greece, but they stand out for their diversity, their unique charm and the unique colors of the sand and stones. Santorini offers a spectacular view of the city, eclectic cuisine, enchanting art galleries, a very fun nightlife and excellent wines.

Athens
For many, Athens is a city lived two thousand five hundred years ago. Symbol is the mighty Acropolis which dominates almost every view and itinerary of every visitor, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, stands above the city, watching the sprawling modern metropolis in evolution.
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where antiquity and modernity, history and contemporary culture blend in a unique way. Everyone knows that the name of the city derives from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and justice. However, few people actually know the legend behind this event. According to myth, Athena and Poseidon, the God of the seas, vied for the right to name the city. Poseidon, to impress the inhabitants, gave them water, while Athena gave them an olive branch.
At first the choice fell on Poseidon, since the citizens considered water the most precious gift. When, once they tasted the water, they discovered that it was salty and not drinkable, they changed their minds and recognized Athena as their patron. One of the most famous historical sites in the city is the Acropolis, a majestic hill topped by ancient Doric temples, including the Parthenon, built in 477 BC. and the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC. Climbing the Acropolis, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Aegean Sea. However, Athens is not only history, but also a lively cultural capital. In the Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is possible to stroll through the welcoming streets, visit the traditional Greek taverns and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.
Then there are the numerous cultural activities offered by the numerous museums, galleries and theaters present in the city. Athens is an important port for cruise ships that offer trips to the Mediterranean and beyond. Cruises from Athens allow guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Greece, including the islands of Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, where you can admire the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and a coast of white houses.
In addition to the Greek islands, cruises from Athens also offer the opportunity to visit other exciting Mediterranean destinations, including historic cities in Italy, Croatia and Turkey. Athens is therefore not only the historical and cultural center of Greece, but also an important starting point for cruises in the Mediterranean, which offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the great history and splendid landscapes of this unique region.
Many still think of Athens as an ancient city that thrived two and a half thousand years ago. Its symbol is the mighty Acropolis, which dominates almost every view and the itinerary of every visitor, and it is crowned by the iconic Parthenon, which rises above the city, overlooking the sprawling and evolving modern metropolis.
Perhaps the most significant change is in the historical centre, which is almost unrecognisable since cars have been banned. This has liberated the area with the most significant archaeological sites, creating the longest, and undoubtedly one of the most splendid, pedestrianised zones in Europe. This huge archaeological park has brought past and present together, returning the cultural and social life of the city to the area around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Athens remains a city of contradictions; it is both frustrating and seductive. It is the oldest city in Europe, yet still in a state of transition. It is one of the safest and most vibrant European cities - an intoxicating mix of grunge and grace with an undeniably urban soul.

Mykonos
Mykonos is an extremely fun and fascinating place, where the frenetic mix of vacationers, fashionistas and celebrities is magically subdued to the cubist charm of the old town.
Mykonos is famous for being a cosmopolitan destination among the Greek islands and widely recognized as one of the meccas of great tourism. It is one of the most touristy islands in the Aegean Sea. Mykonos tends to be extremely crowded with visitors in July and August. The best time to visit Mykonos is mid-May through June (early in the season, accommodation is much cheaper and it's not that hot), or from September to mid-October.

Ephesus

Istanbul
An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).
The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Istanbul
An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).
The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Bozcaada

Mitilene
Mitilene is an ancient Greek city, with origins dating back to the 11th century BC. The city is the capital and port of the island of Lesbos, which is located in the north-east of the Aegean Sea. Lesbos has an area of about 1,632 km², with 320 km of coastline, making it the third largest Greek island. The city of Mytilene is located on the south-east coast of the island. It has a large number of neoclassical buildings, public and private homes. Among these, the Prefecture of Lesvos, the old town hall, schools and various houses and hotels that dot the city. The Baroque church of San Therapon, with its imposing style, overlooks the port. Its construction began in the 19th century and was completed in 1935. The port of Mytilene offers navigation services to the nearby islands of Lemnos, Chios and sometimes Dikili Ayvalik in Turkey. It also serves the continental cities of Piraeus, Athens and Thessaloniki. The island has a series of attractions, including cultural (ancient remains), geological, gastronomic and religious. Lesbos was also known, in ancient times, for the quality of its wines, its timber, for ships and for its famous light blue marble. Do not miss the superb Kastro, a fortress built by Emperor Justinian in 527. It houses the ruins of the Gatezulli palace and a Byzantine cistern. If you are a history enthusiast, the archaeological museum is full of mosaics and numerous Neolithic objects. The island's airport is named after the contemporary poet Odysseus Elytis. Lesbos (in Greek: Λέσβος, Lesbos) is a Greek island located in the north-eastern Aegean, in front of the coasts of the Anatolian peninsula. The main center is Mytilene. It is famous for having given birth, in the 7th century BC, to the lyric poets Alcaeus and Sappho. In Sappho's verses we find the exaltation of the beauty of femininity and eros between women, hence the term lesbianism. With an area of 1,630 km² Lesbos is the third largest Greek island by surface area and the eighth in the Mediterranean. Characterized by a conspicuous coastal development (320 km), it has a population of about 90,643 inhabitants at the 2001 census[1], a third of whom reside in the capital Mytilene. From an administrative point of view it is a municipality and peripheral unit consisting of the only homonymous municipality in the periphery of the Northern Aegean.
Izmir
The second most important port in Turkey after Istanbul, Izmir is located on the Aegean Sea near the Gulf of Izmir. It is a large city and a famous culture center, situated along the coastal strip, it is surrounded on all sides by high mountains covered with ancient forests. The city has many points of interest, with museums and theaters, so visitors, in addition to relaxing on the beach, will have the opportunity to engage in cultural activities.
The most valuable archaeological discovery is the Temple of Athena Barakly, located in the region. Within the temple, fortified walls surrounding an ancient Ionian town were also found The buildings date back to the 9th-7th Century BC, and all the priceless artifacts from the excavations in the area have been transferred to the archaeological museum, where examples of ceramics and jewelry can be seen.
History lovers should visit Kadifekale Mountain, where the ruins of a castle built during the time of Alexander the Great are located. In front of the castle there is a large courtyard, which offers a scenic view of the mountains and the Blue Gulf. Another build from the time of Alexander the Great is the market known as the Agora. It was severely damaged by an earthquake, but it was rebuilt and has been perfectly preserved to this day. The architectural monuments, remnants of the Roman Empire, include the water pipes of Elshiedere Shiriner.
Among the religious buildings, we must mention the Church of St. Polycarp, built in the 14th Century and rebuilt in 1620. It is the oldest building of its kind. In the central square, you can see the Izmir Clock Tower. It was built in 1901 by order of Sheik Abdul Hamid and, more than a hundred years later, remains the undisputed symbol of the city.

Chio

Kos

Santorini
Santorini is a small circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200 km southeast of mainland Greece.
Santorini is located in the southern part of the Cyclades.Its special geological configuration gives a spectacular, wild and unique beauty, becoming one of the main tourist destinations in Europe.
The current crescent shape of Santorini is a consequence of the enormous volcanic explosion that destroyed much of the island causing the formation of the caldera present on the territory, inside which form a series of wonderful small islands.
The island is a sanctuary of peace and calm, an idyllic corner where tourists from all over the world enjoy a few moments of pleasant relaxation. However, the quiet Santorini is, at the same time, one of the most suggestive and festive places in Greece. The square in the center of Fira and the beaches of Kamari, Perivolos and Perissa are the most lively and fashionable places.
The volcanic beaches of Santorini are not the best known in Greece, but they stand out for their diversity, their unique charm and the unique colors of the sand and stones. Santorini offers a spectacular view of the city, eclectic cuisine, enchanting art galleries, a very fun nightlife and excellent wines.

Athens
For many, Athens is a city lived two thousand five hundred years ago. Symbol is the mighty Acropolis which dominates almost every view and itinerary of every visitor, crowned by the iconic Parthenon, stands above the city, watching the sprawling modern metropolis in evolution.
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city where antiquity and modernity, history and contemporary culture blend in a unique way. Everyone knows that the name of the city derives from the ancient Greek goddess of wisdom and justice. However, few people actually know the legend behind this event. According to myth, Athena and Poseidon, the God of the seas, vied for the right to name the city. Poseidon, to impress the inhabitants, gave them water, while Athena gave them an olive branch.
At first the choice fell on Poseidon, since the citizens considered water the most precious gift. When, once they tasted the water, they discovered that it was salty and not drinkable, they changed their minds and recognized Athena as their patron. One of the most famous historical sites in the city is the Acropolis, a majestic hill topped by ancient Doric temples, including the Parthenon, built in 477 BC. and the Erechtheion, built between 421 and 406 BC. Climbing the Acropolis, tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the Aegean Sea. However, Athens is not only history, but also a lively cultural capital. In the Plaka district, located at the foot of the Acropolis, it is possible to stroll through the welcoming streets, visit the traditional Greek taverns and enjoy the authentic atmosphere.
Then there are the numerous cultural activities offered by the numerous museums, galleries and theaters present in the city. Athens is an important port for cruise ships that offer trips to the Mediterranean and beyond. Cruises from Athens allow guests to explore the rich cultural heritage of Greece, including the islands of Crete, Santorini and Mykonos, where you can admire the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea and a coast of white houses.
In addition to the Greek islands, cruises from Athens also offer the opportunity to visit other exciting Mediterranean destinations, including historic cities in Italy, Croatia and Turkey. Athens is therefore not only the historical and cultural center of Greece, but also an important starting point for cruises in the Mediterranean, which offers guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the great history and splendid landscapes of this unique region.
Many still think of Athens as an ancient city that thrived two and a half thousand years ago. Its symbol is the mighty Acropolis, which dominates almost every view and the itinerary of every visitor, and it is crowned by the iconic Parthenon, which rises above the city, overlooking the sprawling and evolving modern metropolis.
Perhaps the most significant change is in the historical centre, which is almost unrecognisable since cars have been banned. This has liberated the area with the most significant archaeological sites, creating the longest, and undoubtedly one of the most splendid, pedestrianised zones in Europe. This huge archaeological park has brought past and present together, returning the cultural and social life of the city to the area around the ancient monuments and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Athens remains a city of contradictions; it is both frustrating and seductive. It is the oldest city in Europe, yet still in a state of transition. It is one of the safest and most vibrant European cities - an intoxicating mix of grunge and grace with an undeniably urban soul.