Aegean Odyssey from Athens - 9 Days

On arrival in Athens, you are met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you time to relax after the journey or explore the city at your own pace.

This morning, we set out on a guided panoramic tour of Athens. Our drive takes us past the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely of marble and still used for ceremonial events, as well as the Zappeion Hall, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch. We also pass Syntagma Square, the Greek Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where the changing of the guards reflects a proud national tradition.

We continue past the neoclassical buildings of the Academy, University and National Library before reaching the Acropolis. Here, we explore this UNESCO-listed site on foot, seeing the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, each reflecting the architectural and artistic achievements of ancient Athens. We then visit the Acropolis Museum, home to remarkable sculptures and finds from the sacred hill, including the original Caryatides.

In the afternoon, we transfer to the port of Piraeus where we board our ship and begin our seven-night Idyllic Aegean cruise.

Athens - Thessaloniki. Today, we continue sailing to Thessaloniki, arriving by midday at Greece’s lively northern capital. With a history shaped by Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman rule, the city offers a rich cultural mix, from historic churches to a bustling waterfront promenade.

You are free to spend time exploring on your own, perhaps strolling along the waterfront or wandering through the characterful old town. Alternatively, you may join an optional excursion offering a richer insight into the area, such as a guided tour of the city, a visit to the Royal Tombs of Vergina – final resting place of the Macedonian kings – or a wine-tasting experience at a local winery.

In the evening, we depart Thessaloniki and sail onwards to Turkey.

Thessaloniki (Greece) - Kusadasi (Turkey). As we sail, we will enjoy breakfast onboard before arriving in Kusadasi just after midday. This lively Turkish port is the gateway to one of the eastern Mediterranean’s most important archaeological sites.

You may choose to join an optional excursion to the ancient city of Ephesus, where remarkably preserved streets, temples and theatres reveal the scale and sophistication of this former Roman centre. Alternatively, you can spend time in Kusadasi itself, exploring the local bazaar, browsing for souvenirs and enjoying the atmosphere along the waterfront.

Later in the day, we return to the ship and continue sailing overnight towards Crete.

Kusadasi (Turkey - Heraklion (Greece). This morning, we arrive in Heraklion, the capital of Crete and a city closely linked to the island’s ancient Minoan past. The port sits close to the historic centre, where modern life blends with centuries of history.

You may choose to explore independently, discovering local markets, museums and cafés, or you can join an optional excursion to the Palace of Knossos, the ceremonial heart of the Minoan civilisation. Another option is an excursion into the Cretan countryside, offering insight into traditional village life, local produce and long-standing customs.

Later, we will continue our journey towards Santorini.

Heraklion - Santorini. Arriving in Santorini, we discover an island renowned for its cliffside villages, whitewashed architecture and sweeping views across the sea. Formed by a dramatic volcanic eruption, the caldera creates one of the most striking natural settings in the Aegean.

Our ship remains in port until after midnight, giving you ample time to explore at your own pace. You may choose to visit the volcanic islets, explore villages such as Fira and Oia, or simply enjoy the island’s unique atmosphere.

As evening falls, you can make your way to Oia to watch the sunset, famous for its glowing colours and panoramic views over the caldera.

Santorini - Mykonos. Today, we arrive in Mykonos, one of the Aegean’s most cosmopolitan islands, known for its distinctive Cycladic architecture and lively atmosphere. Whitewashed houses, narrow lanes and windmills create a striking setting by the sea.

You have time to enjoy the island at your own pace. You may choose to relax on one of the sandy beaches, wander through Mykonos Town with its boutiques and cafés, or explore quieter corners away from the main crowds. With our late departure in the early hours, you also have the opportunity to experience the island’s vibrant evening scene before we sail on to our next destination.

Mykonos - Milos. This morning, we arrive in Milos, an island shaped by volcanic activity and known for its dramatic coastline, sculpted rock formations and clear turquoise waters. The island’s varied landscapes make it one of the most distinctive in the Cyclades.

The day is free for you to explore at your own pace. You may choose to visit traditional villages, relax on one of the island’s many beaches, or discover secluded coves along the coast. Alternatively, you can join an optional excursion offering a guided introduction to Milos, taking in its most scenic viewpoints and key sites.

Milos - Athens. After our final breakfast onboard, we will disembark at the Piraeus port and say goodbye to our fellow travellers and crew before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight.