Aegean Intermezzo

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. Athens is a land soaked in history and mythology, but not stuck in the past. Through back alleys, passing street art and getting serenaded by street musicians, you are never lost. 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 site away from flocks of tourists. Haggle with local vendors at the Plaka or Monastiraki flea market.

When you think of the quintessential whitewashed houses of Greece with blue domes and windmills sprinkled throughout the landscape, it’s Santorini that comes to mind. This island of the Cyclades contains lush scenery, a quaint charm and cosmopolitan feel all at once. Just 300 steps down from the northern city of Oia you will find Amoudi Bay, an exquisite vista of vibrant red cliffs and the caldera that demand you stop and take in the view. In the little village of the bay you will find the Greek island life thriving amid the local tavernas serving the catch of the day. Discover one of the most prominent excavations of prehistoric settlements in the Aegean at the Akrotiri archaeological village. Ruins from the ancient city date back as far as 1700 BCE before it was buried by a volcanic eruption. But the first inhabitants date even further back to the Late Neolithic period (fourth millennium BCE). For the wine lovers who are curious about the history and process of their favorite drink, the Koutsoyannopoulos Wine Museum is a must-visit. Nestled within a natural cave six meters underground, a tour of the museum and tasting of the vineyard’s Volcan wines is an experience like none other. A visit to Santorini is not complete until you sample the local fare - fava me koukia. Mashed fava beans are prepped with lemon, parsley, dill and fennel for a delectable Greek dish popular among the islanders. Or opt for tomato gefthedes (tomato fritters) for another savory selection.

The "Holy Island" of Patmos holds religious history as the site where St. John wrote the Book of Revelations. Venturing over to the Cave of the Apocalypse amid the hills between Skala and Chora, you get a whole new view of the countryside. Along the seaside village you find an array of restaurants with the fresh catch of the day. With quintessential whitewashed houses in the Greek style and iconic windmills against a backdrop of blue skies, the Sacred Land of the Aegean also offers breathtaking panoramas that will impress the most experienced travelers.

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 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. These explorations all start in the coastal resort town of Kusadasi from the Aegean Sea. Countless historical ruins abound in the region, including the Basilica of St. John, the House of the Virgin Mary and the Library of Celsus, an ancient Roman site where its namesake is buried in a crypt beneath.

A hidden gem in the Aegean, Chios offers a refreshing escape from the well-trodden paths of the Greek Isles. Rich in history and natural beauty, the island is home to the UNESCO-listed Nea Moni Monastery, a Byzantine masterpiece adorned with intricate mosaics. Wander through medieval stone villages like Mesta and Pyrgi, where narrow alleys and patterned facades whisper stories of centuries past. Along the coast, discover uncrowded beaches with crystal-clear waters perfect for a peaceful swim or sun-soaked relaxation. With its authentic charm, cultural depth, and unspoiled landscapes, Chios invites you to explore Greece at its most genuine and serene.

The Aegean boasts many treasures, a few of which you can find on the Sporades archipelago. Skiathos, the westernmost island of this chain, is blessed with more than 60 legendary beaches. Among the most popular is Koukounaries Beach, backed by pine trees and touted as the best beach in Greece. The northwest coast’s beaches are less crowded, but are subject to the strong summer northeasterly winds. For incredible windsurfing, head west of Koukounaries to Agia Eleni Beach. Perched dramatically on a rocky headland above the north coast is the original site of Kastro, the fortified pirate-proof capital of the island from 1540 to 1829.

Bozcaada Island, also known as Tenedos, offers spectacular views of the cerulean Aegean Sea, where a diverse array of underwater flora invites you to see more beneath the waves. Rocky coastlines lead to lush vineyards that cover one-third of the island and where fun-loving travelers can tour the wineries and wine cellars. Beyond the shores, whitewashed houses in the Greek style decorated with vibrant foliage line the narrow, cobblestone streets. A gateway to the Canakkale Province, you get closer to myth and legend than ever before with a visit to the replica Trojan horse from the star-studded film Troy.

The influences of Roman, Egyptian, Byzantine and more remain apparent in Istanbul’s architecture, art and traditions. Stop at the Grand Bazaar to get a true feel for the present-day culture, filled with merchants, artisans and authentic wares, providing a vibrant backdrop. For an intimate experience with Istanbul’s traditions, a visit to a hamam, the famous Turkish baths, fits the criteria. Some of the most beautiful architecture in Istanbul is found in the mosques, the most iconic of these the Blue Mosque. These sacred spaces are filled with centuries of religious history that inspire awe with colorful and intricate decor.