Greece by Gate 1

DAY 1, Friday - Depart for Greece
Depart for Greece

DAY 2, Saturday - Arrive in Athens
Arrive in Athens, the classical capital of Greece, transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to discover the ancient wonders of this city known as the cradle of Western Civilization and the birthplace of democracy
Overnight: Athens

DAY 3, Sunday - Athens City Tour
The exploration of Athens begins with a panoramic drive through the city center. View the Panathenian Stadium and the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, built to celebrate the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Continue on to visit the Acropolis, the ancient architectural masterpiece built during the Golden Age of Athens and the new Acropolis Museum, a striking modern building built at the base of the monument where many of the original statues from the Acropolis are now displayed. The rest of the day is at leisure. Be sure to walk to Constitution Square, where you might catch a glimpse of the colorfully costumed Evzone guards, outfitted in the traditional Greek style. Tonight, perhaps walk through the lively Plaka area, the oldest section of Athens, a neighborhood of charming restaurants, shops and sidewalk cafes
Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Monday - Cruise Embarkation, Arrive in Mykonos
Morning arrival at the pier for embarkation. Set sail at 11:30 AM and sit back as you take in the spectacular scenery of the beautiful turquoise waters of the Aegean. Arrive at 6 PM in the ultra-popular and chic jet-set island of Mykonos with its whitewashed houses, iconic windmills and sophisticated town with trendy cafes and boutiques. Find a table at a harborside taverna and gaze at the bustle of Cycladic Island life and the gorgeous views. Perhaps visit one of the island's popular night clubs before returning to the ship departing at 11 PM for Kusadasi, Turkey
Overnight: Aegean Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Tuesday - Arrive in Kusadasi (Ephesus), Evening in Patmos
Today, arrive at 7:30 AM in Kusadasi, Turkey. This splendid city is renowned for its significant historic and religious sites, including ancient Ephesus, one of the most exquisite cities in antiquity. Tour the magnificent archaeological site of Ephesus, home to the Library of Celsus and Fountain of Trajan. Spend free time in Kusadasi before returning to the ship in time for lunch and departure at 1 PM. Arrive in Patmos at 5 PM. This small island is famous as the location where John the Divine received the visions found in the Book of Revelation of the New Testament, and where the book was written. A large monastery in his name dominates the landscape above Chora, the island's capital, surrounded by strong fortress-like walls. Follow the picturesque narrow lanes in the port of Skála and discover cafés, shops and bakeries selling traditional honey and nut pastries. Time to linger until sailing at 9:30 PM to Rhodes
Overnight: Aegean Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6, Wednesday - Full Day in Rhodes
View the magnificent panorama as the ship arrives at 7 AM in Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese Islands. Discover the medieval Old Town of Rhodes on your own. Perhaps visit the Palace of the Grand Master and Knight's Quarter, or shop for souvenirs. Later, transfer back to the ship. Set sail this evening at 6 PM
Overnight: Aegean Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Thursday - Arrive in Crete, Evening in Santorini
At 7 AM, arrive in Crete*, largest of the Greek Islands. Crete's remarkable history is highlighted by the ruins of the great Palace of Knossos, ceremonial and political center of the ancient Minoan civilization and residence of the mythical King Minos. Explore the palace ruins, including the Throne Room, the fresco of the "Prince of the Lilies", and the Queen's Megaron in the east. At 12 PM, enjoy a leisurely lunch on board as the ship sets sail. At 4:30 PM, cruise into Santorini's caldera as you marvel at the sapphire blue water, snow-white architecture, and multicolored cliffs that characterize this enchanting getaway. The streets of bustling Fira, the island's capital city, are a vision of pristine whitewashed buildings. Relax at a cliff-side café or wander the narrow footpaths before the ship sails towards Athens at 9:30 PM
*Mar. & Nov. sailings will not visit Crete/the Palace of Knoosos.
Overnight: Aegean Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Friday - Depart Greece
Arrive at the pier at 7 AM, disembark your cruise and transfer to the airport in Athens for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast

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