Ancient Egypt and Greece

Welcome to Cairo! Cairo, named Al-Qahirah in Arabic, is not only one of Africa’s largest cities (population of 17 million) but the political and cultural center of the Arab World. Cairo’s old quarters retain their ancient charm with many streets still known by descriptions given to them by medieval chroniclers. Modern Cairo’s architecture is distinguished by Ottoman and later European influences, especially in commercial architecture, particularly as the city’s population boomed during the 19th century. Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in.Overnight in Cairo

Today you will visit the Pyramids & Sphinx — reckoned by the Greeks as of the Seven Wonders of the World.  A single pyramid is built from 2,300,000 blocks, each weighing an average of two and one–half tons. In the face of such immensity, one cannot help but feel the wonder and awe that so many writers and artists have sought to convey over the centuries. The Cheops Pyramid is particularly interesting since its interior burial chambers are open for inspection by the public. Not far from the Pyramids stands the Great Sphinx of Giza, dating from the time of Chephren (2620 BC). Hewn from a natural yellowish limestone and standing 65 feet high & 187 feet long, this unforgettable statue combines the head of a Pharaoh with a lion’s body. From there you will return to the hotel, with the rest of the day at leisure. Perhaps book one of the following optional tours.Overnight in Cairo

Optional: Sound and Light show at the Pyramids
Enjoy the evening with the incredible Philae Temple Sound and Light Show. This show will take you on a narrated journey to discover the legends of Goddess Isis and God Osiris. There is a marvelous story for this temple, from the early centuries when the site of Philae was flooded for six months each year. An incredible restoration program was undertaken in the 1960s, and the Temple was moved stone by stone to its current location. Enjoy the spectacular lights of the multimedia presentations which vividly reveal the form and majesty of this ancient site and walk through the magnificent temple as its history is narrated.

Meeting Point: Hotel Lobby

English Summer program: at 8:30 PM. (except Thursday at 9:30 PM)

English Winter program: at 6:30 PM. (except Thursday at 7:30 PM)

This morning, we will be transferred back to Cairo International Airport for a flight to Luxor. Upon arrival in Luxor, we will be escorted to the cruise ship for embarkation. This will be our home for the next four nights. Lunch on board and in the afternoon, we will visit Luxor and Karnak Temples. Luxor Temple was the center of the most important festival, the festival of Opet. Built largely by Amenhotep III and Ramses II, the temple served as a setting for the rituals of the festival, which was held to reconcile the human aspect of the ruler with his divine office. The procession of images of the current royal family began at Karnak and ended at the Luxor temple. Karnak Temple was erected in 1928 BC as a small shrine dedicated to Amun, the god of Thebes. The Temple of Karnak comprises three main temples, smaller enclosed temples, and several outer temples — all constructed over 1300 years. The three main temples of Mut, Monthu, and Amun are enclosed in enormous brick walls, with the temple of Amun at the center. Karnak is now the largest and oldest temple compound on earth.Dinner and overnight onboard cruise

Optional: Sound & Light Show at Karnak Temple
The Karnak Sound and Light Show highlight the dramatic history of ancient Thebes. The show will narrate the achievements of great Pharaohs, with poetic descriptions of the ancient treasures. As visitors walk through the complex, the pharaohs will rise to tell the story of their fascinating lives, as haunting music mysteriously flows through the ancient city. Ancient and poetic voices tell visitors about the birth of the Karnak Temple along with the heroic achievements of the pharaohs and the god Amun. It is an enchanting and supernatural experience to listen to the sound effects and gaze at the magnificent ruins illuminated during the well-presented show.

After breakfast, cross the newly constructed Luxor Bridge to visit the Valley of the Kings, which is home to many pharaonic tombs of the New Kingdom, including those of King Tutankhamun and Ramses the Great. You will visit 3 Royal tombs based on the availability of the day. Each king's formal name and title are inscribed in his tomb, which is also adorned with his images and statues. Most of the tombs were cut into limestone following a similar pattern: three corridors, an antechamber, and a sunken sarcophagus chamber. Explore several amazing Royal Tombs. Then visit the Valley of the Queens which includes between 75 and 80 tombs. These tombs belong to the Queens of the 18th, 19th, and 20th Dynasties. Among these is the famous tomb of Nefertiti, one of the five wives of Ramses II. Afterward tour the Mortuary Temple of Hatshepsut, the only woman Pharaoh to rule ancient Egypt. The mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut of the 18th dynasty was built just north of the Middle Kingdom temple of Mentuhotep Nebhepetre, amid the bay of cliffs known as Deir El-Bahri. In ancient times the temple was called Djeser-djeseru, meaning the sacred of sacred. The female pharaoh chose to build her temple in a valley sacred to the Theban Goddess of the west, on a direct axis with Karnak Temple of Amun on the East Bank. After lunch on board, you sail to Edfu via Esna. Ancient Nubia was known to the pharaohs as the “Land of Gold,” and its wealth and lands were eventually incorporated into Egypt around 1500 BC. In the afternoon, join your shipmates for afternoon tea.Dinner and overnight on-board cruise

Optional: Hot Air Ballooning Over the Valley at Sunrise
Bask in the splendor of the ancient historical sights of Luxor from the air. See this spectacular landscape from a unique perspective that only hot air ballooning can provide. Glide majestically over the temples and burial grounds of the Pharaohs and allow history to come to life before your eyes. 

Available: Every Day

Departure Time: Approx. 4 am - *Pick up time may vary depending on the location / pick up point / flight time  

Enjoy breakfast on board before visiting the Temple of Edfu. This temple is not only the best-preserved ancient temple in Egypt but also the second largest after Karnak. It was believed that the temple was built on the site of the great battle between Horus and Seth. Hence, the current temple was but the last in a long series of temples built on this location. We will then sail to Kom Ombo and enjoy lunch and afternoon tea onboard the ship. This afternoon, you will disembark and enjoy a short walk to the Temples of Kom Ombo. This complex consists of two temples: The Temple of Sobek and the Temple of Haroeris. In ancient times, sacred crocodiles basked in the sun on the riverbank nearby. The Temple has scanted remains, due first to the changing Nile, then the Copts who once used it as a church, and finally by builders who used the stones for new buildings. As we sail toward Ancient Nubia, you may participate in an Egyptian Galabeya Party.Overnight on-board cruise

After breakfast, you will visit the Aswan High Dam (completed in 1971); the Old Dam (completed in 1902). You will also visit the Philae Temple, dedicated to the goddess Isis, a structure rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser at the time of the High Dam's construction. The High Dam, just north of the border between Egypt and Sudan lies the Aswan High Dam, a huge rockfill dam that captures the world's longest river, the Nile, in the world's largest artificial reservoir, Lake Nasser. The dam, known as “Sadd El-Aali” in Arabic, was completed in 1970 after 10 years of work. Later, you may take a short trip on a motorboat to discover the Philae Temple. The Boat ride will bring the visitor to a magnificent vista of the island, before landing at what would have been the ancient quay on the south side. The temple was dedicated to the goddess Isis and has many legends connected to it. The most well-known legend tells the story of how Isis found the heart of Osiris here after his murder by his brother Seth.Dinner and overnight onboard cruise

Optional: Sound and Light Show at Philae Temple
Enjoy the evening with the incredible Philae Temple Sound and Light Show. This show will take you on a narrated journey to discover the legends of Goddess Isis and God Osiris. There is a marvelous story for this temple, from the early centuries when the site of Philae was flooded for six months each year. An incredible restoration program was undertaken in the 1960s, and the Temple was moved stone by stone to its current location. Enjoy the spectacular lights of the multimedia presentations which vividly reveal the form and majesty of this ancient site and walk through the magnificent temple as its history is narrated.

Duration: Approx. 2 hours

Schedule: In Winter it is at 6:30 PM, In Summer it is at 8:00 PM 

Disembark the cruise after breakfast before being transferred to Aswan Airport for our flight back to Cairo. There, you will be met and escorted back to the hotel. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure or perhaps take an optional tour. Overnight in Cairo

Optional: Morning visit to Abu Simbel
This morning you will transfer to Aswan Airport to board a flight to Abu Simbel. Upon arrival in Abu Simbel, you will be transferred to the temple site. Visit the Temple of Ramses and Temple of Queen Nefertari. Not only are the two temples located at Abu Simbel among the most magnificent monuments in the world, but their removal and reconstruction were historic events. Two of the temples, Rameses II (primarily dedicated to Re-Harakhte), and that of his wife, Nefertari (dedicated to Hathor) were originally located in Lake Nasser (280 km from Aswan) but had to be relocated due to the risk of sinking.

Available: Every Day

Departure Time: Approx. 7 am - *Pick up time may vary depending on the location / pick up point / flight time  

Today after breakfast, you will be transferred back to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Athens. On arrival at Athens International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.Overnight in Athens

Start your day with breakfast at your hotel in Athens. Begin the tour with a brief stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Enjoy a panoramic drive past landmarks such as the former Royal Palace, Zappion Hall, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, St. Paul’s Church, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Schliemann’s House, the Catholic Cathedral, the Academy, University, and National Library. Visit the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion with its Porch of the Maidens, and the Parthenon. End with a short walk to the Acropolis Museum to admire artifacts from daily life, Archaic statues, Caryatids, and the impressive Parthenon Hall.Overnight in Athens

Optional: Athens at Night Walking Tour
Discover the most ancient and atmospheric quarters of Athens on a small-group night walking tour. Feel the weight of history while passing the Greek and Roman Forums, and admire views of the illuminated Parthenon and Acropolis from the outside as the city's nocturnal energy comes alive in pubs and cafes. Catch the sound of the ‘laterna’ barrel piano drifting through doorways as you wind along narrow streets of this romantic city.

In the morning our representative will transfer you to the port for your ferry to the magnificent island of Mykonos. Your ticket includes reserved seating. The island boasts splendid beaches, historic churches, and quaint streets laced with whitewashed houses, where artists and jet setters alike may mingle. Tall, white windmills give an extra romantic touch to this lovely island, which also hosts a plethora of tavernas offering traditional Greek dishes. It is truly a paradise for you to bask in the sun, explore the sandy beaches, and experience the incredible nightlife. Upon arrival at the port of the island, you will be met, assisted, and transferred to your hotel by our representative. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.Overnight in Mykonos

Spend the day free at leisure. You can explore the many beaches and landmarks of Mykonos and experience the ambience of this Cycladic Island with a day at leisure. You may visit the Mykonos Windmills, Little Venice, and the Paraportiani, or spend the day in the Archaeological or Aegean Maritime Museum.Overnight in Mykonos 

Optional: Jeep Safari Tour
Explore the hidden treasures of Mykonos on an 8-hour jeep tour. Traveling in a 4x4 vehicle, you'll access remote spots that are rarely visited by others. Visit Houlakia Beach, the ruins of Paleokastro, Ano Mera, and more. Enjoy plenty of opportunities to swim and unwind, while also taking in stunning views perfect for photos. After a stop at the old castle, you'll head back to town.

Optional: Mykonos Island and City Tour with Transfers
This half-day tour will allow you to explore the town and the island of Mykonos with many incredible learning opportunities. The tour will begin in Fabrika Square, from where you will set out to explore the town on foot. First, you will see the Tria Pigadia, three wells which, until 1956, served as the city’s only water source. Take a walk through Matogianni, the main shopping street in the area. At the harbor front, you can see the local fish and vegetable market. Take a glance at the Parportiani church, one of the most famous examples of Cycladic architecture in Greece and one of the most photographed spots on the island! See the famous windmills which were once used to grind wheat, overlooking the view of “Little Venice”. From there you will hop on the bus tour for a thrilling adventure. Your first stop will be at Plati Yialos, a protected and organized beach on the southern coast. Continue your journey to the bay of Ayios Ioannis, where you may uncover a panoramic view of Delos. The tour will make stops for incredibly scenic photo opportunities before arriving in the village of Ano Mera, home to the Panagia Tourliani Monastery with a magnificent marble bell tower. The tour will come to an end as the bus drives back to Fabrika Square in the town of Mykonos. 

Optional: South Coast Cruise

Explore the best four beaches of Mykonos, including Frangias and Plati Yalos, on an 8-hour cruise along the island's southern coast. Enjoy complimentary wine, ouzo, and snacks on the beach, and indulge in a traditional Greek lunch (with a vegetarian option) at a seaside restaurant. Throughout your full-day adventure, you'll have plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun.

Today you will be transferred to the port for your ferry to Santorini, the precious gem of the Aegean. Your ferry ticket will include reserved seating. Apart from the fabulous caldera villages, Santorini is also famous for its romantic sunset, the exotic volcano, and its luxurious resorts. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy free time to explore this beautiful island at leisure.Overnight in Santorini

Optional: Akrotiri Guided Tour
Santorini is renowned for its whitewashed houses and stunning sunsets, but the island also boasts several historical landmarks. Hop on a bus tour to explore traditional villages, visit the Akrotiri excavations, and admire a famous monastery. You'll also make stops at the iconic Red Beach and the black-sand shores of Perivolos Beach.

Optional: Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia, Sunset in Oia (May to Sep)
Take a break from the beach with this cruise around Santorini’s volcanic islands. Sail from one spot to another aboard a traditional Greek caïque boat, exploring the volcano at Nea Kameni (entrance fee not included), relaxing in the sulfur hot springs at Palea Kameni, and enjoying free time to wander around Thirasia. After the cruise, head to the village of Oia to witness a stunning Aegean sunset from Santorini’s cliffside.

Optional: Dinner Onboard Afroditi Caique

Take a break from the beach with a scenic cruise around Santorini’s volcanic islands. Hop aboard a traditional Greek caïque boat and visit Nea Kameni to explore the volcano (entrance fee not included). Unwind in the sulfur-rich hot springs at Palea Kameni, and enjoy some free time to explore the charming island of Thirasia. After the cruise, head to the village of Oia to witness a breathtaking Aegean sunset from the iconic cliffs of Santorini.

You are free to explore Santorini on your own. One can only look and wonder at the beauty created by natural destruction. This is the island of the lost civilization of Atlantis, where you can see unforgettable sunsets and panoramic views... thus the lover’s paradise. The town of Fira’s whitewashed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes, and glittering boutiques cling to a cliff, accessible by a cable car or donkey ride.Overnight in Santorini

Optional: Sailing Catamaran Tour in the Caldera
Set sail on Santorini’s most luxurious and fully-equipped yacht, where elegance meets adventure. Cruise in comfort and style while exploring the island’s iconic sights and diving into the crystal-clear blue waters for swimming and snorkeling. Your journey begins with a scenic sail along the caldera cliffs beneath the picturesque towns of Oia and Fira, passing by the famous volcano. The first stop is at the rejuvenating Hot Springs, where you can enjoy a natural mud bath. Continue past the islet of Aspronisi, the historic Akrotiri Lighthouse, and the striking Indian Rock formation. The next stop is the stunning White Beach, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in the serene Aegean waters. Back on board, indulge in a delicious barbecue featuring authentic Greek flavors, complemented by local wines and refreshing drinks. The final stop is at the iconic Red Beach, ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and capturing breathtaking photos. Your unforgettable cruise concludes at Vlychada Bay, where your private transportation will be ready to take you back.

Optional: Caldera & Oia Sunset Boat Tour from Santorini
Depart by luxury bus to Athinios port and embark on a unique traditional boat. Our first stop is the volcanic island of Nea Kameni where we will walk an ascending soil path to approach the crater of the still active Volcano. We continue to the island of Palea Kameni where we can swim in the green sulphur waters or bath in the warm therapeutic mud. Next, the boat will sail to the picturesque island of Thirassia, where you can have lunch at one of the traditional seafront tavernas or swim at the beach next to the port.After Volcano, Hot Springs and Thirassia Island, boat reaches Armeni port of Oia. Disembark and take the steps or the donkey up to the village. Enjoy free time to admire magnificent panoramic views and the spectacular sunset. Head back to the meeting point 15 minutes after the sunset for your return. 

After breakfast at your hotel, at the arranged time you will be transferred to Santorini port to catch your ferry to Piraeus port.  Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel in Athens.Overnight in Athens

After breakfast at your hotel, you will be transferred to Athens International airport to board your flight back home.