A Mediterranean cruise offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. With its sun-kissed shores, crystal-clear waters, and charming ports, this region promises an unforgettable vacation experience. To ensure your cruise is as memorable as possible, careful planning is essential. This comprehensive guide provides invaluable tips to help you navigate the intricacies of planning a Mediterranean cruise, from selecting the perfect itinerary to packing essentials.

Choosing the Perfect Itinerary

The Mediterranean boasts a plethora of destinations, each with its unique allure. Consider your interests when selecting your itinerary. Here are some popular options:

  • Classic Mediterranean: Explore iconic cities like Rome, Florence, and Athens, immersing yourself in rich history and art.
  • Greek Isles: Discover the magic of Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, with their whitewashed buildings, azure waters, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Italian Riviera: Indulge in luxury and relaxation along the stunning coastline, visiting glamorous destinations like Portofino and Monaco.
  • Spanish Coast: Experience the vibrant culture of Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville, with their lively atmosphere and delicious cuisine.

Selecting the Right Cruise Line

The cruise line you choose significantly impacts your overall experience. Consider factors such as:

  • Ship size: Large ships offer a wide range of amenities, while smaller ships provide a more intimate atmosphere.
  • Target audience: Some cruise lines cater to families, while others focus on couples or adults-only experiences.
  • Dining options: Explore the variety of dining experiences available, from casual buffets to fine dining restaurants.
  • Entertainment and activities: Consider your preferences for onboard entertainment, such as live shows, casinos, or wellness programs.

Booking Your Cruise

When booking your cruise, keep the following tips in mind:

  • Book early: Popular itineraries tend to sell out quickly, especially during peak season.
  • Consider cruise length: Determine the ideal duration for your vacation based on your interests and time constraints.
  • Choose your cabin wisely: Select a cabin location that suits your preferences, whether it’s an ocean-view room or an interior cabin.
  • Explore add-on packages: Consider booking optional excursions or shore excursions in advance to save time and money. Easytraveller’s team will help you maximise your experience, booking pre and post stays and combining cruise and land stay so you visit many islands on the cruise and exploring more some islands as well as the mainland

Packing for Comfort

While packing for a Mediterranean cruise, comfort is key. Custom shorts offer a versatile and stylish option for exploring ports and enjoying casual onboard activities. Tailored to your exact measurements and preferences, custom shorts provide an unparalleled level of comfort and fit. Consider incorporating a pair of custom shorts and dresses into your cruise wardrobe for a personalized and enjoyable experience.

Packing Essentials

Packing efficiently is crucial for a stress-free cruise. Here’s a packing list to get you started:

  • Clothing: Pack versatile clothing suitable for both warm and cool weather. Consider packing comfortable walking shoes for exploring ports.
  • Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat for enjoying the ship’s pool and deck areas.
  • Formal wear: If you plan on attending formal nights, pack appropriate attire.
  • Travel documents: Ensure you have your passport, visas, and other necessary travel documents.
  • Medications: Pack any prescription medications you need, as well as over-the-counter remedies for common ailments.

Maximizing Your Onboard Experience

To make the most of your cruise, consider the following:

  • Unwind at the spa: Indulge in relaxing treatments and massages to rejuvenate your body and mind.
  • Enjoy the entertainment: Take advantage of the ship’s entertainment options, from live shows to casino gaming.
  • Stay active: Participate in fitness classes, swimming, or other onboard activities to maintain your energy levels.
  • Savor the cuisine: Explore the various dining options available on the ship, from casual buffets to specialty restaurants.
  • Connect with fellow passengers: Engage in social activities and make new friends.

Exploring Mediterranean Ports

Each port offers unique experiences. Here are some tips for making the most of your shore excursions:

  • Research your destinations: Learn about the history, culture, and attractions of each port before your arrival.
  • Book excursions in advance: To avoid disappointment, book popular excursions well in advance.
  • Consider independent exploration: Rent a car, take a taxi, or use public transportation to explore on your own.
  • Shop for souvenirs: Bring home unique treasures to commemorate your trip.
  • Try local cuisine: Immerse yourself in the local culture by sampling authentic Mediterranean dishes.

Capturing Your Memories

To preserve your precious memories, consider the following:

  • Bring a camera: Capture stunning photos of the breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments.
  • Create a travel journal: Document your experiences and reflections.
  • Collect souvenirs: Bring home tangible reminders of your trip, such as postcards, magnets, or local crafts.

Planning a Mediterranean cruise is an exciting adventure. By following these tips and customizing your trip to your preferences, you can create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Remember to relax, embrace the beauty of the Mediterranean, and savor every moment of your journey.

YbaraThe service outstanding, our cruise was enjoyable

Apostolos,

Sorry its taken me so long to response to your request.
The service was outstanding, our cruise was enjoyable except for a few things as follows:
We didn’t have much time to enjoy the island of Santorini, I took the same tour as before and we didn’t even have enough time to even stop and enjoy to town of Fira.  Last time out with your tour I had time to have dinner and still make it back to the ship. I was very disappointed about that.
The next time I visit your wonderful country, i will request a single queen size bed.
I enjoyed the stop in Turkey more this time taking the tour to Ephesus & Terrace Houses, the only problem with that tour was our guide, he couldn’t get the radio’s to work (not able to talk with us using radio’s).
We enjoyed the cruise very much, I wouldn’t want to go on a ship larger than the one we were on.
Again, thanks for your personal touch, greeting us and taking care of us.  We’ll see you again.
Regards,
Art and Judie
USA

Do you want to enjoy a similar cruise?

Heraklion_Crete_Island_Greece_Knossos_Palace

Athens city tour with visit to Acropolis and its Museum, three days Greek Islands Turkey cruise visiting Mykonos, Patmos, Kusadasi, Ephesus, Heraklion (Crete) and Santorini and all these in just 6 days

 

WEDNESDAY: ATHENSUpon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Karyatides_Acropolis_Athens_GreeceBalance of day at leisure.


Academy_of_Athens_GreeceTHURSDAY: ATHENS Morning sightseeing tour of Athens including all famous monuments: House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Adrian’s Arch, Temple of the Olympian Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Academy, the University and the National Library. Tour will end by visiting the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum, “State of the art” in museum construction and very rich in content.
Afternoon free to visit Plaka (The old Athens city) with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants and taverns.


FRIDAY: ATHENS – MYKONOS Morning transfer to Piraeus port to embark your Mykonos_Myconos_Island_Greeceselected cruise ship. Our cruise ship will leave the port of Piraeus at 11:00 for a 4 full days of fun and experiences. We go along the Athens Riviera in the Saronic Golf to the south end of Attica passing close to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion. This afternoon is a good opportunity to get around and know your ship and the services we provide.
In the afternoon we arrive in Mykonos, known around the world as the Ibiza of the Aegean, the most popular destination of the Mediterranean. An international “jet-set” known for its beautiful sandy beaches, hundreds of tiny white chapels and incredible night life. Stroll around the streets of the capital that are considered the most beautiful of the Greek islands and enjoy the great night life. It’s easy to get lost in its maze of gleaming white walls dotted with blue domes and windows and balconies full of flowers. Have a coffee or a cocktail in one of the famous bars and promise to return for longer stay and more experiences.


Ephesus_Turkey_Augustus_GateSATURDAY: KUSADASI – PATMOS Kusadas? a resort town on Turkey’s Aegean coast. In ancient time settlers include the Aeolians in the 11th century BC and Ionians in the 9th century who made Kusadasi a centre of art and culture. In the early years of Christianity. St John the Evangelist and (according to Roman Catholic sacred tradition) Mary (mother of Jesus) both came to live in the area.
Take the opportunity to visit Ephesus, an ancient Greek city and later a major Roman city, on the coast of Ionia. The city was famed for the Temple of Artemis (completed around 550 BC), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
You can also visit the House of the Virgin Mary, purported to have been the last home of Virgin Mary, based on the visions of Sister Anne Catherine Emmerich. It is a popular place of Catholic pilgrimage which has been visited by three recent popes.
Then on to the island of Patmos, a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea. Patmos is a destination for Christian pilgrimage. Participating in the optional tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Monastery & the Grotto (the Cave of the Apocalypse) of St. John, where he lived and recorded the Book of Revelation.


SUNDAY: HERAKLION (CRETE) – SANTORINI  We will spend this morning to explore Santorini_Thira_Island_Greecethis beautiful city, the capital of Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. Archaeological treasures, magnificent ruins and museums, glorious beaches and fabulous restaurants make Crete a complete vacation spot.
You can participate in one of the optional tours and visit the ruins of Knossos, which in Minoan times was the largest centre of population on Crete and are located within close proximity or the archaeological Museum of the city, one of the greatest museums in Greece and the best in the world for Minoan art, as it contains the most notable and complete collection of artifacts of the Minoan civilization of Crete.
One of the jewels of small volcanic archipelagos five islands is undoubtedly Santorini. Santorini was created due to a volcanic eruption culminated in the explosion of a volcano caldera, therefore, its rugged landscapes dotted with huge cliffs. Santorini’s capital, Fira, with white-washed houses, narrow streets and open air cafes that cling to a steep cliff, is at the top of the beautiful island where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the bay. Discover Santorini villages that retain their authenticity, with beautiful blue and white buildings and barren volcanic rocks. It is a very fascinating and picturesque island. A magical place that has nothing to do with the rest of the Greek islands, a place to spread the peaceful and hospitable nature of its people.


Academy-Athens-GreeceMONDAY: PIRAEUS – AIRPORTEarly morning return to Piraeus port. After breakfast, disembarkation and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.


 

 


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Heraklion_Crete_Island_Greece_Knossos_Palace

Take a taste of Athens and enjoy the luxury of 4 day cruise package.
Athens city tour with visit to Acropolis and its Museum, four days cruise  Greek Islands and Turkey to Mykonos, Patmos, Kusadasi, Rhodes, Heraklion and Santorini offering you unforgettable days and nights in these famous islands.

SATURDAY: ATHENS Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Balance of day at leisure.


SUNDAY: ATHENS Morning sightseeing tour of Athens including all famous Academy_of_Athens_Greecemonuments: House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Adrian’s Arch, Temple of the Olympian Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Academy, the University and the National Library. Tour will end by visiting the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum, “State of the art” in museum construction and very rich in content. On Mondays the new Acropolis Museum is closed.
Afternoon free to visit Plaka (The old Athens city) with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants and taverns.


Mykonos_Myconos_Island_Greece   MONDAY: ATHENS – MYKONOS Morning transfer to Piraeus port to embark your selected cruise ship. Our cruise ship will leave the port of Piraeus at 11:00 for a 4 full days of fun and experiences with our Cruise Greek Islands and Turkey program. We go along the Athens Riviera in the Saronic Golf to the south end of Attica passing close to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion. This afternoon is a good opportunity to get around and know your ship and the services we provide.
In the afternoon we arrive in Mykonos, known around the world as the Ibiza of the Aegean, the most popular destination of the Mediterranean. An international “jet-set” known for its beautiful sandy beaches, hundreds of tiny white chapels and incredible night life. Stroll around the streets of the capital that are considered the most beautiful of the Greek islands and enjoy the great night life. It’s easy to get lost in its maze of gleaming white walls dotted with blue domes and windows and balconies full of flowers. Have a coffee or a cocktail in one of the famous bars and promise to return for longer stay and more experiences.


TUESDAY: KUSADASI – PATMOS Kusadasi a resort town on Turkey’s Aegean coast. Ephesus_Turkey_Celsus_LibraryIn ancient time settlers include the Aeolians in the 11th century BC and Ionians in the 9th century who made Kusadasi a centre of art and culture. In the early years of Christianity. St John the Evangelist and (according to Roman Catholic sacred tradition) Mary (mother of Jesus) both came to live in the area.
Take the opportunity to visit Ephesus, an ancient Greek city and later a major Roman city, on the coast of Ionia. The city was famed for the Temple of Artemis (completed around 550 BC), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
You can also visit the House of the Virgin Mary, purported to have been the last home of Virgin Mary, based on the visions of Sister Anne Catherine Emmerich. It is a popular place of Catholic pilgrimage which has been visited by three recent popes.
Then on to the island of Patmos, a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea. Patmos is a destination for Christian pilgrimage. Participating in the optional tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Monastery & the Grotto (the Cave of the Apocalypse) of St. John, where he lived and recorded the Book of Revelation.


Rhodes-Rodos-Island-GreeceWEDNESDAY: RHODES Today we visit the magnificent island of the roses, Knights and Butterflies. Rhodes was famous worldwide for the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The medieval Old Town of the City of Rhodes has been declared a World Heritage Site. Today, it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe.
Participating in one of the optional tours, you can visit the old medieval city and the famous Acropolis of Lindos. If you want to be on your own you can swim in one of the many beaches of the island or just stroll in the old city and imagine being one of its inhabitants of the ancient times.


THURSDAY: HERAKLION – SANTORINI We will spend this morning to explore this Heraklion_Crete_Island_Greece_The_Cathedralbeautiful city, the capital of Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. Archaeological treasures, magnificent ruins and museums, glorious beaches and fabulous restaurants make Crete a complete vacation spot.
You can participate in one of the optional tours and visit the ruins of Knossos, which in Minoan times was the largest centre of population on Crete and are located within close proximity or the archaeological Museum of the city, one of the greatest museums in Greece and the best in the world for Minoan art, as it contains the most notable and complete collection of artifacts of the Minoan civilization of Crete.
One of the jewels of small volcanic archipelagos five islands is undoubtedly Santorini. Santorini was created due to a volcanic eruption culminated in the explosion of a volcano caldera, therefore, its rugged landscapes dotted with huge cliffs. Santorini’s capital, Fira, with white-washed houses, narrow streets and open air cafes that cling to a steep cliff, is at the top of the beautiful island where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the bay. Discover Santorini villages that retain their authenticity, with beautiful blue and white buildings and barren volcanic rocks. It is a very fascinating and picturesque island. A magical place that has nothing to do with the rest of the Greek islands, a place to spread the peaceful and hospitable nature of its people.


FRIDAY: PIRAEUS – AIRPORT After breakfast on board disembarkation & transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

For more details and booking please click here

 

 

Delphi_Greece_Tholos_Athina_Pronea

4 Days Classical Greece Bus Tour to Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora.
3 days Cruise to Greek Islands and Turkey visiting Mykonos, Patmos, Kussadasi, Heraklion in Crete Island and Santorini. Ancient Greece and Islands combination.

SATURDAY: ATHENS: Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your selected Academy_of_Athens_Greece hotel. Balance of the day at leisure.


Acropolis Museum Athens Greece  SUNDAY: ATHENS: Morning sightseeing tour of Athens including all famous monuments: House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Adrian’s Arch, Temple of the Olympian Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Academy, the University and the National Library. Tour will end by visiting the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum, “State of the art” in museum construction and very rich in content.
Afternoon free to visit  Plaka (The old Athens city) with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants and taverns.


MONDAY: ATHENS – NAUPLION – OLYMPIA: Leave by the Coastal Road to the Corinth Canal (short stop).  Olympic-Flame-Olympia-GreeceDrive on and visit the Theatre of Epidaurus famous for its remarkable acoustics. Then proceed to the Town of Nauplion ( short stop) drive on to Mycenae and visit the Archaeological Site and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Departure for Olympia Through Central Peloponnese and the Towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Dinner and overnight in Olympia, the Cradle of the Olympic Games.


Delphi_Greece_Archaeological_Site TUESDAY: OLYMPIA – DELPHI:In the morning visit the Archaeological Site with the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium and the Archaeological Museum. Then drive on through the plains of Eliad and Achaia until the magnificent bridge which is crossing the Corinthian Bay from Rion to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque Towns of Nafpactos (Lepanto) and Itea, arrive in Delphi . Dinner and overnight.


WEDNESDAY: DELPHI – METEORA:Visit the Archaeological site and the Museum of Delphi. Depart for  Meteora_Greece_The_Holy_Monastery_of_Rousanou_01Kalambaka, a small Town situated at the foot of the astonishing complex of Meteora, gigantic rocks. Dinner and overnight.


Meteora_Greece_The_Holy_Monastery_of_Varlaam THURSDAY: METEORA – ATHENS: Visit Meteora, among striking scenery, perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine Art. Return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae (visit the Leonida’s monument). Arrive in Athens early in the evening.


FRIDAY: ATHENS – MYKONOS: Morning transfer to Piraeus port to embark your selected cruise ship. Our  Mykonos-Island-Greece-Little-Venicecruise ship will leave the port of Piraeus at 11:00 for a 3 full days of fun and experiences. We go along the Athens Riviera in the Saronic Golf to the south end of Attica passing close to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion. This afternoon is a good opportunity to get around and know your ship and the services we provide.
In the afternoon we arrive in Mykonos, the island of the international “jet set”, famous for its beautiful sandy beaches and incredible night life. Take a taste of the island and check if you maybe like to return in the future to spend more time. In the evening return to the ship for overnight travel to our next destination


Ephesus_Turkey_Augustus_Gate SATURDAY: KUSADASI – PATMOS*: First port of call is the Turkish port of Kusadasi. Do not miss the opportunity to visit the city of Ephesus. One of the most complete ancient cities ever excavated, where St. Paul was arrested and then banished. In the afternoon arrival to Patmos, where participating in the optional tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Monastery and the Grotto of St. John, where he lived and recorded the book of the Revelation.


SUNDAY: HERAKLION (CRETE) – SANTORINI: We arrive at Heraklion in the morning and have the Meteora_Greece_The_Holy_Monastery_of_Varlaam opportunity to visit the archaeological site of Knossos Palace or the Archaeological Museum or just stroll around and see the biggest city of Crete Island.
We will then sail to and spend the afternoon in the most breathtaking island, Santorini, believed to be the lost continent of Atlantis. You can participate in the optional tours or just relax in one of the famous cafes of the town and admire the sunset on the Caldera, known to be the most famous in the world. Do not miss to taste the Greek and Mediterranean food in one of the island’s restaurants.


MONDAY: PIRAEUS – AIRPORT: Early morning return to Piraeus port. After breakfast, disembarkation and transfer to the airport for your departure flight.

Cappadocia Valley TurkeyIstanbul Cappadocia Ankara  Athens.
Famous places, great monuments to discover. With this Turkey Greece vacation package you will see Istanbul, the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk in Ankara, Cappadocia area, Athens and famous Greek islands like Mykonos, Patmos, Crete and Santorini.
Also with the visit to Kusadasi you will see ancient Ephesus.

 

  FRIDAY: ISTANBUL: Arrival in Istanbul,

welcome & assistance at the airport and   transfer to hotel. Free day.


Istanbul_Turkey_Hagia_Sophia   SATURDAY: ISTANBUL:After breakfast full day visit to Istanbul. We begin our tour from the Sultanahmet district, the heart of old Istanbul at Agia Sophia. Built by Emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD this church is one of the marvels of world architecture. Its massive dome dominates the skyline of old Istanbul. It is famed for its mosaics, including glittering portraits of emperors and empresses.
Next we visit the Blue Mosque, which owes its name to the exquisite tiles adorning its interior. Dating from the 17th century, it is the only imperial Mosque with six minarets. The Hippodrome, the stadium of ancient Byzantium, held 100.000 spectators and featured objects from all corners of the empire.
The Grand Bazaar was the commercial heart of the old city and its 4.000 shops are full of treasures – including carpets and kilims, silks, jewellery, ceramics, icons and leather goods. Lunch in a local restaurant and continuation of our tour. Our afternoon will begin at Topkapi Palace which, from the 15th to 19th century, was the principle residence of the Ottoman Sultans.
Little Agia Sophia Mosque is known as one of the oldest standing churches in Istanbul dating back to 6th century. It is early domed-basilica architectural plan of famous Agia Sophia which was applied here first time in the history.


SUNDAY: ISTANBUL – ANKARA – CAPPADOCIA: In the morning, transfer to  Cappadocia-Turkey-Housesairport  for flight to Ankara. Arrival in Ankara & then to the city to visit the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations and the Mausoleum of Kemal Ataturk. Lunch and continue to Cappadocia. Dinner and overnight.

 


Cappadocia_Turkey_High_Chimneys MONDAY: CAPPADOCIA: Visit the spectacular Cappadocia region, unique for its fascinating and unique landscape formed by the lava thrown out by volcanoes Erciyes and Hasan, 3 million years ago.
Visit the many monasteries and chapels in Goreme, World Heritage Site by UNESCO, dug into the rocks and decorated with frescoes of the tenth century (some of them very well preserved).
Pass by and admire a panoramic view of the castle of Uchisar on top of a mound of volcanic rock crossed by tunnels and windows and Avcilar Valley. Lunch and in the afternoon, visit the village of Avanos, famous for its handicrafts and valleys and G?vercinlik Valley (Pigeon Valley).
Visit the underground city of Kaymakli or Serhatli, one of 36 underground cities of Cappadocia served as a refuge for Christians. Return to hotel and dinner.


TUESDAY: CAPPADOCIA – KAYSERI – ISTANBUL: After breakfast departure to Kayseri airport for return flight to Istanbul. Arrival & transfer to hotel.


WEDNESDAY: ISTANBUL – ATHENS: At the appropriate time will be transferred Academy_of_Athens_Greece  to   Istanbul airport to board the flight to Athens. Upon arrival, be met and transferred to your hotel. Free day


   THURSDAY: ATHENS: Morning sightseeing tour of Athens including all

famous monuments: House of Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Adrian’s Arch, Temple of the Olympian Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Academy, the University and the National Library. Tour will end by visiting the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum, “State of the art” in museum construction and very rich in content.
Afternoon free to visit  Plaka (The old Athens city) with lots of souvenir shops, restaurants and taverns.


FRIDAY: ATHENS – MYKONOS:  In the morning we will transfer you to the Piraeus  Mykonos_Myconos_Island_Greece_04port to embark you cruise ship.  Our cruise ship will leave the port of Piraeus at 11:00 for a 3 full days of fun and experiences. We go along the Athens Riviera in the Saronic Golf to the south end of Attica passing close to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion. This afternoon is a good opportunity to get around and know your ship and the services we provide.
Mykonos is known around the world as the Ibiza of the Aegean, the most popular destination of the Mediterranean. An international “jet-set” known for its beautiful sandy beaches, hundreds of tiny white chapels and incredible night life. Stroll around the streets of the capital that are considered the most beautiful of the Greek islands and enjoy the great night life. It’s easy to get lost in its maze of gleaming white walls dotted with blue domes and windows and balconies full of flowers. Have a coffee or a cocktail in one of the famous bars and promise to return for longer stay and more experiences.


Ephesus_Turkey_Celsus_Library   SAUTURDAY: KUSADASI – PATMOS: Kusadas? a resort town on Turkey’s Aegean coast. In ancient time settlers include the Aeolians in the 11th century BC and Ionians in the 9th century who made Kusadasi a centre of art and culture. In the early years of Christianity. St John the Evangelist and (according to Roman Catholic sacred tradition) Mary (mother of Jesus) both came to live in the area.
Take the opportunity to visit Ephesus, an ancient Greek city and later a major Roman city, on the coast of Ionia. The city was famed for the Temple of Artemis (completed around 550 BC), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
You can also visit the House of the Virgin Mary, purported to have been the last home of Virgin Mary, based on the visions of Sister Anne Catherine Emmerich. It is a popular place of Catholic pilgrimage which has been visited by three recent popes.
Then on to the island of Patmos, a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea. Patmos is a destination for Christian pilgrimage. Participating in the optional tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Monastery & the Grotto (the Cave of the Apocalypse) of St. John, where he lived and recorded the Book of Revelation.


SUNDAY: HERAKLION – SANTORINI: We will spend this morning to explore this Heraklion_Crete_Island_Greece_Knossos_Palacebeautiful city, the capital of Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. Archaeological treasures, magnificent ruins and museums, glorious beaches and fabulous restaurants make Crete a complete vacation spot.
You can participate in one of the optional tours and visit the ruins of Knossos, which in Minoan times was the largest centre of population on Crete and are located within close proximity or the archaeological Museum of the city, one of the greatest museums in Greece and the best in the world for Minoan art, as it contains the most notable and complete collection of artifacts of the Minoan civilization of Crete.
Then we continue to Santorini. One of the jewels of small volcanic archipelagos five islands is undoubtedly Santorini. Santorini was created due to a volcanic eruption culminated in the explosion of a volcano caldera, therefore, its rugged landscapes dotted with huge cliffs. Santorini’s capital, Fira, with white-washed houses, narrow streets and open air cafes that cling to a steep cliff, is at the top of the beautiful island where you can enjoy the beautiful views of the bay. Discover Santorini villages that retain their authenticity, with beautiful blue and white buildings and barren volcanic rocks. It is a very fascinating and picturesque island. A magical place that has nothing to do with the rest of the Greek islands, a place to spread the peaceful and hospitable nature of its people.


MONDAY: PIRAEUS- AIRPORT: After disembarkation you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

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Louis Olympia Louis Cruise Lines
Dear Apostolos,
It was wonderful meeting you,  in person, in Athens in the early days of September, and I want to thank you, even a little belatedly, for your kindness in brining our tickets to our home in Halandri.  Again, thank you very much indeed for all your efforts in making our cruize a memorable one.
We had a really wonderful time and everything was far more than we expected.   We especially enjoyed the friendly and hospitable atmosphere of all the crew members who went out of their way to make our cruize as comfortable and as pleasant as possible but especially the junior cabin attendants, the waiters – who were so friendly and went beyond the call of duty in every respect.
The entertainment on board was of a very high standard and we took away memories of a life time!   We have not hesitated to recommend you to everyone who is planning a trip to Greece and I am sure that once, spring and summer are on their way, you will be getting quite a few bookings from this part of the world – deep from the heart of Africa!
We are very  grateful.
Teddy
Kenya

Celestyal Discovery

Enjoy the luxury on board our cruise ships and get to know the Greek Islands and the Greek hospitality. The breeze of the clear blue waters of the Aegean Sea will make you wanting to come back and spend more time in the islands.

MONDAY: ATHENS/MYKONOS: Embarkation starts at 09:00. Our cruise ship will Mykonos_Myconos_Island_Greeceleave the port of Piraeus at 11:00 for a 3 full days of fun and experiences. We go along the Athens Riviera in the Saronic Golf to the south end of Attica passing close to the Temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion. This afternoon is a good opportunity to get around and know your ship and the services we provide. In the afternoon arrival at the famous island of Mykonos, an international “jet-set” known for its beautiful sandy beaches, hundreds of tiny white chapels and incredible night life. Walk around the town and admire the small houses, all white and blue, have a coffee or a cocktail in one of the famous bars and promise to return for longer stay and more experiences.


Celcius_Library_Epheus_Turkey   TUESDAY: KUSADASI/PATMOS: First port of call today is the Turkish port of Kusadasi with the option to visit Ephesus, one of the most complete ancient cities ever excavated. Then on to the island of Patmos, where participating in the optional tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Monastery & the Grotto of St. John, where he lived and recorded the Book of Revelation.


WEDNESDAY: RHODES: Today we visit the magnificent island of the roses, Knights  Rhodes_Rodos_Island_Greece_Maltan_knights_Castleand Butterflies. Participating in one of the optional tours, you can visit the old medieval city and the famous Acropolis of Lindos. If you want to be on your own you can swim in one of the many beaches of the island or just stroll in the old city and imagine being one of its inhabitants of the ancient times, Late evening return in the ship.. Participating in one of the optional tours, you can visit the famous Acropolis of Lindos.


Sunset_Santorini_Island_Greece   THURSDAY: HERAKLION/SANTORINI: New port, new places, new interesting sites in Crete. We will wake up in Heraklion, the biggest city of Crete, the island full of archaeological sites, beautiful beaches and fantastic scenery. Take the opportunity to participate in the optional tour to the Palace of Knossos, the centre of the Minoan Civilization.
We continue and this afternoon we visit the most breathtaking island, Santorini, believed to be the lost continent of Atlantis. You can participate in the optional tours or just relax in one of the famous cafes of the town and admire the sunset on the Caldera, known to be the most famous


FRIDAY: PIRAEUS: Early we arrive in Piraeus port. After breakfast disembarkation and continue for your Greece vacation or for your return home trip.

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Corfu Kerkyra Island GreeceJust before the end of 2011, arrivals of tourists are expected to reach 16.5 million and tourism revenues go up more than 10% over last year, equivalent to a 1% increase in GDP.

For the next years the role of tourism is expected to be a catalyst for leaving the country from crisis. According to a recent study by the McKinsey Company on behalf of the Hellenic Federation of Enterprises and the Union of Greek Banks, 220,000 new jobs can be created by the increase in incoming tourists in the most dynamic sector of the Greek economy.

By 2021 the contribution of tourism to the GDP of Greece is estimated to exceed 1 / 5 which means that the direct gross value added of tourism (direct and indirect contribution) can increase by 18 billion and reach 50 billion euro. Again, according to the study data, these numbers represent 44% of the number of new jobs over the next decade, but 36% of the estimated total development of the country.

In 2010, directly and indirectly employment in the tourism industry in Greece was 746,000, according to the WTCC (World Travel & Tourism Council) which is equivalent to 17.9% of total employment in the domestic economy, while during the last decade tourism contribute consistently above 16% of the GDP and covers 1 / 3 of the trade deficit.

The Association of Greek Tourist Enterprises stresses that Greece can serve 20 million arrivals by 2014, ie 20% more than the year’s record high of 16.5 million arrivals, with what this means for increasing employment.

Posted by the Easytraveller Team


Heraklion Crete Island Greece Heraklion port authorities welcomed the arrival of new cruise ships and is encouraging more cruise companies to include Heraklion in Crete island in their itineraries.
Very close to many archaeological sites gives you the opportunity to be an eye witness of places where the western civilization started a few thousand years ago.
The Heraklion is a modern vibrant city with nice architecture and a very interesting museum with excellent ceramic paintings.
Enjoy the Greek and Mediterranean food in the restaurants and taverns of Heraklion and taste the local wine and “raki” the local spirit.
This very informative video is made by the port authorities of Heraklion.

Posted by the Easytraveller Team