Wonders of Ancient Greece & Adriatic Cruise - 14 days

Welcome to Athens, the capital city of Greece. Upon arrival at the airport you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. You'll have the rest of the day to discover the city, home to an exquisite architectural history and an equally thriving modern society.

Today we embark on a coach tour of Greece's vibrant capital city, named after the goddess Athena and thought to be over 3000 years old. Sights include the Panathenaic Stadium, the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, which lies at the heart of modern Athens. The highlight of our day is the Acropolis, considered by some to be the most important ancient site in the western world. Here we find masterpieces of classical Greek architecture, including the iconic Parthenon. We also enjoy a guided tour of the Acropolis Museum, recently voted one of the best museums in the world.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Plaka, a historical and picturesque part of the city. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets or relax with a drink at one of the many tavernas in the area. Don't forget to shop for souvenirs on Ermou Street.

Athens - Epidaurus - Mycenae - Olympia. Today we depart Athens and head for the Peloponnese, a region which was the setting of many great myths and legends. Our first stop is the narrow Corinth Canal, a man-made waterway completed in 1893 after centuries of attempts. We then continue to the beautifully preserved theatre at Epidaurus, a sanctuary famed for medicine & healing in antiquity. Next we visit the World Heritage site of Mycenae, the early civilization excavated by Heinrich Schliemann. We'll see the Cyclopean walls, Tomb of Agamemnon, and Lion Gate. We continue across the Peloponnese mountains to Olympia for the evening.

Olympia - Delphi. Today we explore the home of the ancient Olympic Games. Situated along the longest river in the Peloponnese, the Alfios, Olympia is a fascinating step back in time to the birth of one of today's biggest sporting events. We visit the Temple of Zeus, the Palestra and Phidia's workshop.

Heading north this afternoon, we cross the impressive Rio-Antiro Bridge before heading for our final stop of Delphi.

Delphi - Kalambaka. The sanctuary at Delphi was revered in antiquity as a centre of pilgrimage, home to the Pythian Oracle in the Temple of Apollo. We'll walk up the Sacred Way, the path followed by ancient visitors through the sanctuary, to see the temple ruins, and visit the local museum, where we'll find the bronze Charioteer statue and mythical omphalos stone. Afterwards, we cross the mountains of central Greece back to the mainland, arriving in Kalambaka for the evening.

Kalambaka - Athens. This morning we visit Meteora, a stunning World Heritage site where a series of towering rock formations shelter several sacred Eastern Orthodox monasteries. We return to Athens for the night, briefly stopping at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a famous last stand against the Persians in 480 BC.

Athens - Cruising. After breakfast, transfer to Piraeus port to board the "Celestyal Cruises" vessel for your captivating Adriatic cruise.

Relax and enjoy the facilities of the cruise ship and its onboard entertainment while cruising around the Peloponnese to the Ionian Sea. Lunch and dinner will be served onboard.

Cruising - Kefalonia. This morning, we will arrive at Kefalonia, the largest of the Ionian islands. Explore the island at leisure or join one of the optional excursions to discover the unparalleled beauty of the island, including its stunning beaches, unique caves, local wines, and picturesque fishing villages

Kefalonia - Dubrovnik. Around midday, the cruise arrives at the Croatian jewel of Dubrovnik.

Around midday, you will arrive at the Croatian jewel of Dubrovnik. Join an optional walking tour through the Old City or opt to take the cable car to the top for stunning panoramic views. Explore hidden corners and enjoy an authentic experience, but be sure to return to the ship for the included dinner. We will set sail again just after midnight.

Dubrovnik - Kotor. Today, we sail to Kotor, a charming historical town in Montenegro and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a full day of optional excursions to discover Montenegro's rich beauty and history. Explore Kotor, Budva, and Sveti Stefan, admiring these historic towns, their medieval charm, and breathtaking natural landscapes.

Kotor - Bari. Arrive in Bari in the morning, where a variety of optional excursions await. Explore the fairytale town of Alberobello or visit Ostuni, the stunning white hilltop city. Alternatively, delve into Bari’s rich history or discover Apulia's highlights, including the Grottos of Castellana and the picturesque town of Polignano al Mare.

Bari - Corfu. Get ready to explore the enchanting island of Corfu, known for its lush greenery and unique blend of Byzantine and Venetian architecture.

Choose from optional excursions to explore ancient fortresses, stroll through the charming old town, visit Espianada Square, Europe’s largest, admire Achilleion Palace, or enjoy views of Pontikonisi from the famous Kanoni.

Corfu - Katakolon. Today we arrive in Katakolon, the gateway to ancient Olympia and home of the original Olympic Games. Explore at leisure or join an excursion to explore the ancient site, including the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra, Phidias’s Workshop, and the local museum, featuring the iconic statue of Hermes of Praxiteles.

Katakolon - Athens. As your cruise journey concludes, the ship arrives at Piraeus port early in the morning. Enjoy breakfast on board before disembarking. Following disembarkation, a transfer will be provided to the Athens airport for your onward flight.