7-Day Crete, Mykonos &
Evening At Ephesus

Piraeus

Athens exudes a unique charm through its mix of street markets,
vine-covered tavernas, souvenir stalls, ancient monuments and
high-rise buildings. For tourists, a plus is that most of the
capital's attractions are accessible by foot.

Athens was named after Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom.
According to mythology, she won the city after duelling against
Poseidon, god of the sea. Indeed, Athens can chart its history back
thousands of years and is regarded as the cradle of Western
civilisation. More specifically, it's democracy's birthplace, and
where philosophy, art and architecture were refined.

The city declined after the Classical Age, dwindling to nothing
but a town in the colourful area now known as the Plaka. It emerged
as independent Greece's capital in 1834.

Today, the city is bustling. And though the pollution, frantic
gridlock and dingy buildings are a striking contrast to the open
beauty of Greece's coast and islands, Athens is truly the country's
beating heart. Ancient wonders like the Acropolis, the Parthenon,
and the Temples of Zeus and Hephaestus ensure that the city will
always lure travellers.

Monemvasía

Monemvasía, located in the country of Greece, is a small town that bewitches travelers with its charm and historical significance. Perched on a rocky hillside on the southeastern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, this coastal fortress town boasts breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Monemvasía is often referred to as the "Gibraltar of the East" due to its imposing stature and strategic positioning.

The town is divided into two parts: the Lower Town and the Upper Town. The Lower Town, also known as the "Gefyra," is nestled at the base of the rock and is where most of the local population resides. Here, visitors can wander through narrow, cobblestone alleyways, lined with traditional stone houses and charming tavernas that serve delicious local cuisine. One can also find a variety of shops selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products, such as olive oil and honey.

The Upper Town, or the "Kastro," which means castle, is the medieval fortress that gives Monemvasía its distinct identity. Accessible only by a narrow causeway, the Kastro offers a glimpse into the town's rich history. As you pass through the imposing fortified gate, you'll find yourself transported back in time. Explore the labyrinthine streets that wind their way through the age-old buildings, where remnants of the past are evident at every turn. Stroll along the town’s defensive walls, which offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the shimmering waters of the Aegean Sea.

One of the highlights of a visit to Monemvasía is exploring the Byzantine churches scattered throughout the town. The most notable one is the Church of Agia Sofia, an architectural masterpiece dating back to the 13th century. Its awe-inspiring frescoes and intricate mosaics are a testament to the region's Byzantine heritage. Another must-visit is the Church of Elkomenos Christos, located in the Upper Town, which houses a collection of religious artifacts and offers a peaceful respite from the bustling streets.

For beach lovers, Monemvasía doesn't disappoint. A short drive away from the town, you'll find Limanaki Beach, a secluded sandy cove surrounded by cliffs. The crystal-clear turquoise waters make it an ideal spot for swimming and sunbathing. Kaladi Beach, another popular choice, offers a more family-friendly atmosphere with its shallow waters and pebbly shoreline. Both beaches are well-equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds, and there are a few beachside tavernas where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal.

When it comes to gastronomy, Monemvasía showcases the rich culinary traditions of the region. Seafood is a highlight, with octopus and fresh fish being popular choices. Don't miss the opportunity to try the traditional local dish called "Goges," a kind of handmade pasta served with grated cheese and a tomato-based sauce. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, as the region is known for its excellent vineyards.

Whether you're a history buff, a beach enthusiast, or a food lover, Monemvasía offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the town's rich history, relax on its beautiful beaches, and savor the flavors of the local cuisine. Monemvasía is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories of a truly unique Greek experience.

Agios Nikólaos, Kríti

Agios Nikolaos is a beautiful, historic and bustling town built around the picturesque Mirabello Bay, on the northeastern coast of the Greek island of Crete. It is a popular and cosmopolitan destination, offering visitors a wide range of attractions, activities and facilities, as well as a charming and friendly atmosphere.

Agios Nikolaos is best known for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches. The town’s waterfront is lined with cafes, restaurants, bars and shops, providing the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a coffee break or a romantic dinner. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports and activities, such as swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking and sailing.

One of the most popular attractions in Agios Nikolaos is the Voulismeni Lake, a beautiful natural lagoon situated in the heart of the town. According to legend, the lake is bottomless and was once believed to be the entrance to the underworld, making it a popular site for spiritual rituals and festivities. Today, visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake, sit in one of the cafes or bars in the area and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding hills and the sea.

Another must-see site in Agios Nikolaos is the Kitroplateia Beach, a golden sand beach on the east side of the town. It is a vibrant and busy beach, offering plenty of sun loungers, umbrellas and water sports facilities. It is a beautiful spot to enjoy the sun and the sea, and also provides easy access to the town’s restaurants and cafes.

For those interested in history and culture, an afternoon at the Archeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos is a must. The museum is home to a vast collection of ancient artifacts and relics, dating back to the Minoan civilization that inhabited Crete more than 3,500 years ago. Visitors can also take a stroll through the picturesque old town of Agios Nikolaos, admire the Venetian architecture and explore the many charming shops, cafes and restaurants that line the narrow streets.

Agios Nikolaos is also a popular destination for foodies, offering visitors a wide range of delicious and authentic dishes, including fresh fish and seafood, grilled meats and vegetables, and traditional Cretan specialties such as Dakos, Cretan salad and dolmades.

Overall, Agios Nikolaos is a wonderful and diverse destination, perfect for those seeking beautiful beaches, rich history, charming culture and gastronomic delights. With its stunning scenery, friendly people and relaxed atmosphere, it is a place of great cultural and natural beauty, and a perfect getaway destination for anyone looking for an authentic Mediterranean experience.

Mykonos

Mykonos is upmarket, fashionable and a favourite among gay
travellers. It's quite possibly Greece's most expensive island.
Designer shops, perfect beaches, colourful tavernas and throbbing
dance clubs are all on offer. That said, trendy crowds and nude
beaches have not erased the destination's enchanting traditional
flavour.

Sightseers can visit the island's archaeological museum, which
displays finds from the necropolis (cemetery) on nearby Rhenia. Day
trips to the uninhabited island of Delos are also highly
recommended. The UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site was the
Aegean's religious centre during ancient times, and features in
some captivating myths. Its history is almost as interesting.
Visitors can explore the temples and the Avenue of the Lions, and
see stunning archaic sculptures in the museum.

Bodrum

The popular holiday resort of Bodrum, called
Halicarnassus in ancient times, is the South Aegean's most
attractive resort, described by Homer as the 'Land of Eternal
Blue'. The hillside is covered in painted villas adorned with
bougainvillea, narrow streets wind their way down to the sea, and
the peaceful setting of its twin harbours offer shelter for
yachts.

Bodrum is a mustering point for local boats offering
tailor-made daytrips to nearby islands or the pristine beaches and
seaside restaurants along the magnificent coastline. From its
position between the two harbours, the 15th century crusader Castle
of St Peter dominates every part of the town, now home to the
fascinating Museum of Underwater Archaeology. The other Bodrum
holiday attraction is the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, the crumbling
remains of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

As Turkey's leading seaside holiday destination,
Bodrum is packed with foreign visitors in summer. Yet it remains
unspoilt and retains its charming Turkish character, perfecting the
balance between authenticity and tourist comforts. Here, exotic
bazaars, the wailing cry of the muezzin, and ancient history
seamlessly blend with popular water sports, sunbathing, and a
nightlife that is notorious throughout Turkey.

Kusadasi

Kusadası is a large resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast, and the centre of the seaside district of the same name within Aydın Province. Kusadası is 95 km (59 mi) south of İzmir, and about 60 km (37 mi) from Aydın. The municipality's primary industry is tourism. Kusadası is a hugely popular tourist destination due to its perfect combination of culture, amazing beaches and fantastic things to eat and do. The area features several well-known local beaches, including Ladies Beach, the beach at the centrum, the beaches between the Batıhan Hotel and the Nazilli Site, the beach at Güzelçamlı, and the Dilek Peninsula National Park beach, referred to by locals as simply Milli Park.

Istanbul

The splendid city of Istanbul has many unique and fascinating
features. It is the only city in the world reaching across two
continents, with its old city in Europe and modern Istanbul
situated in Asia, separated by the Bosphorus Strait. It is also
unique in having had capital status during two successive empires,
Christian Byzantine and Islamic Ottoman, and the legacy from both
is visible in the modern city today.

Istanbul's location on the water made it a much coveted site as
a commercial shipping port and military lookout, and as capital of
the Roman Empire, Constantinople, as it was known, became extremely
desirable as a centre of world trade, until Mehmet the Conqueror
claimed it for the Ottoman Empire in 1453 and it became the
imperial seat of the sultans. After the War of Independence the
capital was moved to Ankara, but Istanbul still remains the
commercial, historical, and cultural heart of Turkey today.

The charm and character of Istanbul lies in its endless variety
and jumble of contradictions. Its fascinating history has
bequeathed the city a vivid inheritance of Byzantine ruins,
splendid palaces, ancient mosques and churches, hamams
(bath-houses), and exotic bazaars. Modern Istanbul exudes trendy
bars and nightclubs, western boutiques, office blocks, and elegant
suburbs.