Greece And Turkish Isles

Athens is still as iconic as ever. Winding pathways from ancient times transformed into modern-day roads and streets lead you to the monumental gateway of the Acropolis and other archaeological sites. It is a land soaked in history and mythology, but not stuck in the past.

As you wend through back alleys, passing the street art and getting serenaded by street musicians, you are never lost. You are simply taking a journey to an unknown destination. You may find yourself at the likes of the Church of Agioi at the southeast corner of the Holy Apostles Ancient Agora, a less-crowded historical site away from the flocks of tourists.

Try your hand at haggling with local vendors at the Plaka or Monastiraki flea market. There are so many handmade wares and trinkets to peruse and purchase. Keep an eye out for the more risqué souvenirs if you want a good laugh.

Aside from venturing through the cradle of Western Civilization, you can explore the port of Piraeus. It is the biggest port in Greece and one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean. Centuries of history have transformed this seaside town from a wartime fortress to a major shipping and transportation center.

Welcome to Milos, the gem of the Aegean Sea, where ancient geological wonders and rich cultural heritage blend seamlessly. As you step off the yacht, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of turquoise waters framed by colorful cliffs, each telling a story of volcanic origins. Milos boasts over 70 beaches, from the striking white sands of Sarakiniko to the hidden beauty of Kleftiko. Experience history firsthand with visits to ancient ruins and the fascinating Catacombs of Milos. Meander through picturesque fishing villages like Klima, with its vibrant boathouses. Savor authentic Greek flavors with local delicacies. Milos is a serenade of adventure, history, and culinary delight—all waiting for you to explore.

Chania exudes a rich culture, coming from every corner, crack, and cranny found throughout the city. In the summer, the municipal government hosts a series of music and theater performances. The best spots to catch one of these iconic shows is in Public Garden, the theatre at Eastern Trench, or Park of Peace and Friendship. Not far from Chania lies the small town of Souda, Crete’s second-largest port. On a verdant island nearby you find the Fortress of Souda, one of the strongest castles built in Crete by the Venetians, as well as the archaeological site of ancient Aptera.

Chania exudes a rich culture, coming from every corner, crack, and cranny found throughout the city. In the summer, the municipal government hosts a series of music and theater performances. The best spots to catch one of these iconic shows is in Public Garden, the theatre at Eastern Trench, or Park of Peace and Friendship. Not far from Chania lies the small town of Souda, Crete’s second-largest port. On a verdant island nearby you find the Fortress of Souda, one of the strongest castles built in Crete by the Venetians, as well as the archaeological site of ancient Aptera.

Welcome to Rhodes, Greece - a cradle of history, culture, and timeless beauty. Take a journey to the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobbled streets are guarded by ancient stone walls. Explore the Palace of the Grand Master, a fortress that echoes the valor of the Knights of St. John. Hike up to the Acropolis of Rhodes for sweeping views of the blue Aegean Sea. Engage with local artisans who craft intricate ceramics and jewelry, keepsakes that capture the heart of the island. Savor the rich tapestry of Rhodesian cuisine, a delightful medley of fresh seafood, sweet honey-soaked desserts, and locally pressed olive oil. Toast to new adventures with a glass of wine from nearby vineyards. The luscious varieties are as enchanting as the island’s stories of ancient vintners. Visit the ancient ruins of Kamiros, an archaeological gem that narrates tales of prosperity and ambition. In Rhodes, every stone tells a tale, every breeze carries whispers of ancient legacies, and every meal is a dance of flavors.

Welcome to Rhodes, Greece - a cradle of history, culture, and timeless beauty. Take a journey to the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobbled streets are guarded by ancient stone walls. Explore the Palace of the Grand Master, a fortress that echoes the valor of the Knights of St. John. Hike up to the Acropolis of Rhodes for sweeping views of the blue Aegean Sea. Engage with local artisans who craft intricate ceramics and jewelry, keepsakes that capture the heart of the island. Savor the rich tapestry of Rhodesian cuisine, a delightful medley of fresh seafood, sweet honey-soaked desserts, and locally pressed olive oil. Toast to new adventures with a glass of wine from nearby vineyards. The luscious varieties are as enchanting as the island’s stories of ancient vintners. Visit the ancient ruins of Kamiros, an archaeological gem that narrates tales of prosperity and ambition. In Rhodes, every stone tells a tale, every breeze carries whispers of ancient legacies, and every meal is a dance of flavors.

Symi enchants from the moment you arrive, its harbor framed by tiers of pastel-colored neoclassical mansions rising from the sea like a painting come to life. This hidden gem of the Dodecanese invites you to slow down and savor its elegance—whether wandering cobbled lanes lined with boutiques and artisan shops, or lingering at a waterfront café with views of gently bobbing fishing boats. Beyond the town, discover the revered Panormitis Monastery, a spiritual landmark steeped in history and dedicated to the Archangel Michael. Steeped in history and charm, Symi offers an authentic slice of Greek island life, where beauty is found in every detail and the pace is as relaxed as the Aegean breeze.

From its sunbathing corners shaded by olive groves to gourmet cuisine and a lively night life, Bodrum has been deemed the St. Tropez of Turkey. The vibrant city has become a celebrity hot spot for a getaway away from prying eyes.

Located along the southern coast of Bodrum Province, this town offers vistas of deep blue sea that only the Aegean Sea can provide. Whitewashed houses mixed with the more colorful buildings reaching up into the hills creates a magnificent sight that calls travelers to come further explore the city’s shores.

Further into the backstreets and side paths of Bodrum, you pass between the iconic Greek style houses adorned by brightly colored flowers and lush foliage. These narrow streets and paths beckon with the sense of adventure and taking the road less traveled.

From the street markets and into the Bodrum Bazaar, you get the chance to test your haggling skills as you shop among the locals for fresh herbs and produce. The spice markets of Bodrum tantalize with a rainbow of colors and fresh, aromatic scents that drift through the air as you peruse the stalls for what will become part of your next culinary adventure.

Fresh seafood abounds at the restaurants along the waterfront. Savory smoked mackerel fillets send a whiff of pure deliciousness through the air that will make your nose lead the way. If you have a sweet tooth, then lokmasi is the way to go. These deep fried dough balls submerged in syrup will leave your mouth watering for more once the very last one is gone.

Making port in the coastal resort town of Kusadasi from the Aegean Sea, travelers are greeted by a castle on Pigeon Island surrounded by lush, green trees. The causeway along the route connects this lone island to the mainland of Kusadasi, where visitors will disembark to begin their exploration of Turkey.

Picture this: marble ruins of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World right before your eyes. Through the rubble you gaze upon the impressive Temple of Artemis. This is the experience of Ephesus, a UNESCO-listed, 4,000-year-old city located in Selcuk that is considered the best-preserved classical city of the eastern Mediterranean.

Countless historical sites and ruins abound in the region, from the Basilica of St. John to the House of the Virgin Mary. A visit to Ephesus makes it easy to step into the past and imagine life among the locals in times before. Nothing invokes that feeling more than the ruins of the Library of Celsus, an ancient Roman site where its namesake is buried in a crypt beneath it.

This archaeological zone still buzzes with activity, as archaeologists continue to dig through the ruins and discover its secrets. To walk among the excavations as scientists continue to unearth the site’s remnants makes it hard not to get swept up in the history.

Standing amid the ruins, beyond the excavations, stretching far and wide before your eyes is Ayasuluk Hill. Dotted with palm trees and other foliage, the site creates the perfect picture of the region’s mild climate, making it a vacation haven.

Tucked into a natural bay, Amorgos welcomes you with whitewashed houses, flowering bougainvillea, and the timeless charm of Cycladic island life. Known for its dramatic cliffs and sapphire seas, this remote gem invites exploration and reflection. Climb to the clifftop Hozoviotissa Monastery for breathtaking views, or wander ancient trails scented with wild herbs. Swim in hidden coves made famous by The Big Blue, and savor the island’s quietude over a seaside meal of freshly caught seafood. Amorgos offers a soul-stirring escape where tradition, nature, and serenity converge.

Nestled in the heart of the Aegean, Folegandros is a hidden gem that enchants explorers with its charming port and picturesque landscapes. As you sail into the cozy port of Karavostasis, you’re greeted by azure waters lapping at sandy shores, setting the stage for a serene escape. The island’s charm is mirrored in its traditional Cycladic architecture, with whitewashed houses and vibrant bougainvillea. Meandering through its narrow cobblestone streets, you’ll discover delightful tavernas serving authentic Greek cuisine. Folegandros invites you to unwind, explore hidden beaches, and immerse in a quintessentially Greek ambiance that captures the heart.

One of the most sophisticated of the Greek Isles, Hydra, lies in the Argo Saronic Gulf. This island is a popular getaway for celebrities and the elite, making it an exceptional destination for the explorer that wants cultural immersions. Various historical sites and landmarks like the bastions surrounding the port, the Merchant Marine Academy and Monastery of Agia Efpraxia tell the island’s story throughout the years. The three main villages – Hydra Town, Vlichos and Kaminia – each hold a different facet of Greek life. Hydra also offers a surplus of beaches to bask in the sun on the sandy shores.

Athens is still as iconic as ever. Winding pathways from ancient times transformed into modern-day roads and streets lead you to the monumental gateway of the Acropolis and other archaeological sites. It is a land soaked in history and mythology, but not stuck in the past.

As you wend through back alleys, passing the street art and getting serenaded by street musicians, you are never lost. You are simply taking a journey to an unknown destination. You may find yourself at the likes of the Church of Agioi at the southeast corner of the Holy Apostles Ancient Agora, a less-crowded historical site away from the flocks of tourists.

Try your hand at haggling with local vendors at the Plaka or Monastiraki flea market. There are so many handmade wares and trinkets to peruse and purchase. Keep an eye out for the more risqué souvenirs if you want a good laugh.

Aside from venturing through the cradle of Western Civilization, you can explore the port of Piraeus. It is the biggest port in Greece and one of the most important ports of the Mediterranean. Centuries of history have transformed this seaside town from a wartime fortress to a major shipping and transportation center.