Compare Greece & Three Continents Cruise - Premier, Classic Group Premier Classic Group by Insight Vacations vs 7 Day Essential Greece by Gate 1 Travel

Day 1: Welcome to Athens

An Insight host will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel, where there is time to settle in and relax. At 19:00, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception, and get to know your fellow travellers over a delightful evening of dinner and wine.

Day 2: Athens, City of Gods

Today your mythical Grecian discovery encapsulates the intriguing history of ancient Greece. Begin with an exploration revealing the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian. Next, your Local Expert takes you to the Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world. Crowning the top is the Parthenon, visible from almost everywhere in the city. See the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of the Wingless Victory, and the six stone-carved caryatids that make up the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion. Continue to Thermopylae, famous as the mountain pass where King Leonidas led his Spartan army, along with fellow Greek soldiers, into battle against the Persians in 480 B.C. See the memorial dedicated to Leonidas and his courageous Spartans. Then on to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner from a fresh, seasonal menu.

Day 3: The Pinnacles of Meteora Relaxed Start

With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning 'in the air.' The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a science fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a relaxed walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum.

Day 4: The Sacred Way and onto Olympia

Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus.Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You'll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,' rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner is served in your hotel.

Day 5: Ancient Olympia

It's all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C. in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honour the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef for an entertaining cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek flavours, as you savour dishes prepared for your Highlight Dinner.

Day 6: Mycenae and Nafplio

Visit the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones used to build the city walls.Later, meet the artisans and view beautiful works of art at a family-run pottery studio.Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio, known for its beautiful architecture, colourful shops and cafes.Your journey continues following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal dividing the Peloponnesse and mainland Greece, and arriving in Athens.In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style, complete with wine and good cheer.

Day 7: Getting ready to sail

This afternoon, board your home for the majority of the trip, MV Celestyal Crystal or similar. Settle into your stateroom cabin as tonight you set sail for Egypt.

Day 8: Sailing to Egypt

Today you continue cruising the Mediterranean as you make your way to Egypt. Make the most of your time relaxing on-board in the cruises spa and lounges. While cruising, enjoy an exquisite variety of Mediterranean dishes as well as flavours, aromas and spices from around the world. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served onboard daily. Vegetarian options are available for those who require them. Your cruise includes a selection of alcoholic beverages and non alcoholic hot and cold beverages are included.

Day 9: Port Said

Today you’ll arrive in Port Said where you have the choice to unwind or venture out and explore Cairo on an included full day experience. Marvel at the remains of the ancient world when you visit the ancient Pyramids of Giza, the mighty Sphinx and National Archaeological Museum.

Day 10: Discovering Ashdod Relaxed Start

This morning disembark in Ashdod the gateway of Israel You may choose to explore Bethlehem, the birthplace of Jesus, and vibrant Jerusalem.

Day 11: Adventures on Cyprus

Enjoy a relaxed morning and make the most of your vessel's facilities, before disembarking in Limassol. Perhaps explore Paphos, or spend the afternoon walking on Limassol's promenade.

Day 12: Myth and Legend of Rhodes Relaxed Start

Upon arrival at Rhodes, chosen by the Crusaders as their fortified headquarters, the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Perhaps join an optional guided experience and walk the streets of the old town surrounded by medieval walls and explore the ancient buildings. In the evening, your cruise continues to Kusadasi.

Day 13: On to Kusadasi

Arrive in Kusadasi and embark on a half-day tour of Ephesus with a Local Expert. This ancient Greek city and UNESCO World Heritage site was founded by the Carian and Lelegs in the 10th century BC and is a must-see during your time here. End the day with a delicious meal onboard your ship.

Day 14: Disembark in Athens

You’ll end your trip in Athens where you’ll enjoy a final night in your beautiful hotel.

Day 15: Depart Athens

Bid farewell to Athens. Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport.