Relive the highlights of Greek history including Athens with the Parthenon and the Acropolis…enjoy the sun-kissed warmth of Kusadasi, the archeology of Ephesus, and the bucolic splendor of Patmos. See where the Colossus of Rhodes, a wonder of the ancient world once stood, explore the white-washed blue domed homes of Mykonos, stroll in a garden created by an empress on Corfu, and fall in love with the dramatic coastline, pristine beaches, and charming villages of Santorini.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Depart for Athens, Greece
Arrive at the airport and check in for your overnight flight to Athens, Greece.
Day 2 - Arrive Athens
Welcome to Athens. Meet your Tours of Distinction Cruise Concierge and start your tour of this incredible city. This is the cradle of civilization, the oldest city in Europe. Not only is this city home to the Acropolis and some of the most important architectural structures and archaeological finds in the Western world, it is also a very modern city, an urban amalgam of extraordinary art, culture, cuisine and shopping.
Day 3 - Athens – Embarkation on the Jade (Port: Depart at 5pm)
This morning take some time to enjoy Athens at your own leisure. Explore the hidden spots of this historical city. Locals always know the best way to get to know Athens is to ‘lose yourself’, and it is not hard to do so in the labyrinth of streets. Enjoy a relaxing morning at the hotel or take in some pre-cruise shopping. Later, we transfer to the pier and board the Norwegian Jade. Once settled into our staterooms, we get together for a Welcome Cocktail.
Day 4 - Kusadasi, Turkey (Port: 6:30am-12:30pm) | Patmos, Greece (Port: 6:30pm-11:59pm)
Once an ancient Greek city, Kusadasi was known for the famed Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built, destroyed, and rebuilt again through several notably historical periods, Ephesus boasts abounding ruins and archaeological excavation sites.
Patmos boasts idyllic beaches and swimming coves and enviable historic hilltop mansions, as it is a favorite hideaway for the elite. Though many are drawn to Patmos for its natural beauty and seclusion, the island is also famous for being the site of where the Apostle John is said to have written The Book of Revelations.
Optional Shore Excursions: Magnificent Ephesus, Historic Highlights, Ephesus and House of Virgin Mary and others.
Day 5 - Rhodes, Greece (Port: 8am-6pm)
This Greek island just off the coast of Turkey exudes beauty and history. Take 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, a onetime Wonder of the World, once stood and savor the charm of this remarkable walled town. Along the scenic coast lies the whitewashed town of Lindos with its ancient acropolis and stunning views.
Optional Shore Excursions: Highlights of Rhodes, Ancient Lindos & its Acropolis, Grand Masters Palace and more.
Day 6 - Mykonos, Greece (Port: 7am-4pm)
Mykonos is a classic Greek Island with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and windmills. Add a reputation for beautiful beaches and you’ll understand why Mykonos is the most popular island in the Cyclades.
Optional Shore Excursions: Let’s Take a Selfie – Mykonos. More coming soon.
Day 7 - Argostoli, Greece (Port: 10am-6pm)
Looking at picturesque Argostoli, you wouldn’t know it suffered a devastating earthquake in 1953. The city and its surrounding area are full of treasures, including a 12th-century Byzantine cathedral and beautiful 16th Century frescoes. The nearby underground Lake of Melissani is simply magical. Enter the caves to find ancient stalactites, and marvel at the scattered rays of light beaming through, turning the water an intense blue.
Optional Shore Excursions: Melissani & Drogarati Cave, St. Andres Monastery & Robla Winery, Cephalonia Highlights and others.
Day 8 - Corfu, Greece (Port: 7am-3pm)
One of the lushest of the Greek Isles, Corfu is rimmed in dramatic blue waters and topped with tranquil hillside villages. A collection of quaint cafes in the town of Corfu feels very continental, but the island’s secluded coves and sandy beaches could only be found in the Greek Isles.
Optional Shore Excursions: Achilleion Palace & Corfu Town, 4x4 Adventure, Timeless Villages & Scenic Drive and many others.
Day 9 - Santorini, Greece (Port: 12:30pm-9:30pm)
Whitewashed villages clinging to the sides of the sea cliffs have made the volcanic island of Santorini one of the most widely photographed places in the world. The island’s charm and subtle mystery have even made it a target of speculation as the location of the lost city of Atlantis.
Optional Shore Excursions: Greek Style Celebration - Opa!, Charming Oia & Winery, Volcano Hiking and more.
Day 10 - Arrive Athens & Disembarkation from the Jade (Port: Arrive at 6am)
We return to Athens this morning and after breakfast disembark the Jade. The cruise may be over, but the memories of all the beautiful places we have visited on this cruise, will stay with you forever as we transfer to the airport for our flight home.