Looking to make the most of your time when you only have a one-week vacation? Consider Greek Island hopping with Celestyal Cruises! Offering 3 and 4-night cruises, Celestyal will deliver you 4 to 5 Greek Islands, with some itineraries even including a stop in Turkey.
To start off your trip, spend two-nights in Athens. Book a city tour or food walking tour on your arrival day to help you adjust to the jetlag. On the second day, you’ll want to visit the ancient citadel of the Acropolis. Be sure to pre-purchase skip the line tickets. Then make your way through the Athens National Garden to see the changing of the guard at the Presidential Palace on the other side. Head back to the Plaka and enjoy a drink at the oldest distillery in Athens, Brettos. End the evening at one of the city’s rooftop restaurants or bars with scenic views of the lit-up Acropolis. Check out The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel rooftop for such an experience, only a 15-minute walk from the Plaka.
Boarding The Ship
After two days in Athens, board your Celestyal ship and begin your Aegean voyage. Most itineraries will include a stop at the magical sun-kissed island of Mykonos. Add on one of Celestyal’s Authentic Excursions, such as a cooking class with locals, or simply explore your way through the winding stone walkways, where you may stumble upon authentic cafes and rooftop bars, such as the emblematic hot spot, SKYBAR, atop The Townhouse Mykonos, offering breathtaking sunset views.
Turkey & the Ancient City of Ephesus
When in Turkey, be sure to take advantage of the optional excursion to the ancient city of Ephesus. Its excavated remains reflect centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire and is a must-see! Other tour options include a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, where it’s believed Mary lived her final years of her life.
On the charming and quaint island of Patmos, enjoy leisurely exploring on your own, or sign up for tours to beaches, windmills, or monasteries, as the island is a major Christian pilgrimage site, where biblical figure St. John is said to have had a vision that inspired the Book of Revelation.
If you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for kayaking the sea caves and snorkeling the beaches of the UNESCO-listed medieval city of Rhodes!
The Palace of Knossos on Heraklion, Crete
Another must-see site is the Palace of Knossos on Heraklion, Crete. Its amazingly preserved state provides an enchanting window into the life of the Minoans. Besides being an architectural marvel, Knossos also housed the mythical Minotaur, according to legend.
The Stunning Island of Santorini
One of the most-anticipated stops on your voyage will be the stunning island of Santorini! This bucket list island looks like a place straight out of a fairy tale, with the city carved into cliffs, overlooking sapphire waters and a volcano view. Enjoy one of the many scenic restaurants, stroll the streets and shop in the villages, and be sure to post-up at one of the many viewpoints in time for the spectacular sunset.
An Unforgettable Action-Packed Itinerary!
This action-packed itinerary will have you feeling satisfied and rewarded in just a short European getaway. Ask a MAST Travel Advisor to help you craft this once in a lifetime journey!
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