7-Day Grecian & Roman
Gems

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.

Náfplion

Nafplion's streets pass by bright flowers and look up at wooden
balconies, and its lively cafes invite travellers to take a break
from wandering. The romantic seaport town's relaxed atmosphere,
fascinating mosques and gorgeous churches more the make up for its
lack of classical ruins.

Katakolon

Located on the western coast of the Peloponnese Peninsula in Greece, Katakolon is a charming and picturesque port town that attracts numerous visitors from around the world. Known primarily as the gateway to the ancient ruins of Olympia, Katakolon offers much more than just its historical significance. Boasting a laid-back atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and a range of recreational activities, this small town has something to offer for every type of traveler.

One of the main highlights of Katakolon is its proximity to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the archaeological site of Olympia, which includes the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, and the ancient stadium where the original Olympic Games were held. Walking through the historical ruins is like stepping back in time, and it is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and lovers of ancient Greek culture.

Beyond the historical attractions, Katakolon itself offers a picturesque waterfront adorned with colorful buildings and charming seaside cafes. Strolling along the promenade, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the crystal-clear waters and might even catch a glimpse of docking cruise ships. The town square, known as Plateia, is a perfect spot to relax and soak up the local atmosphere, while enjoying a cup of coffee or a delicious meal at one of the traditional tavernas.

Nature lovers will be delighted by the natural beauty surrounding Katakolon. The town is nestled amidst olive groves and vineyards, offering a serene and peaceful setting. Tourists can embark on scenic hikes through the countryside, exploring the rolling hills and taking in the fragrant aroma of wildflowers and Mediterranean herbs. Numerous trails are available, catering to all levels of fitness and providing opportunities to discover hidden gems of nature.

For those seeking a unique experience, Katakolon offers wine tasting tours at local vineyards, where visitors can sample traditional Greek wines and learn about the winemaking process. The region is renowned for producing high-quality wines due to its favorable climate and fertile soil, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts.

If relaxation is what you seek, take a short trip to the nearby sandy beaches, where you can bask in the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or enjoy water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding. The beaches in Katakolon are not as crowded as some of the more popular tourist destinations in Greece, providing a peaceful and tranquil environment.

Katakolon also offers a variety of shopping opportunities, with numerous souvenir shops and local artisans selling traditional Greek handicrafts. Visitors can browse for unique items such as olive oil products, handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and local artworks to take home as mementos of their visit.

In terms of cuisine, Katakolon boasts a wide range of tavernas and restaurants serving traditional Greek dishes. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with a variety of fish, calamari, and prawns on offer. Local delicacies such as moussaka, souvlaki, and spanakopita are also widely available, ensuring a culinary feast for food lovers.

Overall, Katakolon provides a delightful blend of history, natural beauty, and authentic Greek culture. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or someone seeking relaxation, this charming port town has something to offer for everyone. With its warmth and beauty, Katakolon is sure to leave a lasting impression on every traveler.

Corfu

The island of Corfu, best known of the seven Ionian islands that
lie off the northwest coast of Greece, differs markedly from the
other popular Greek islands because not only is it green and lush,
but also very developed with tourist resorts and hotels. Summertime
is busy, with charter flights arriving daily from European cities,
ferries disgorging travellers from Italy, and cruise ships
docking.

There is plenty to draw visitors to this magical island, also
known as Kerkyra. Modern Corfu Town is upbeat and cosmopolitan,
offering an exciting conglomeration of Greek, Italian, French and
British influences. The old town was laid out by the Venetians in
the 14th century and features narrow alleys lined with
multi-storied, pastel-coloured buildings with red tiled roofs,
creating a scene reminiscent of Italy. The hub of activity in the
town centre is the Liston, an arcaded row of touristy cafes and
restaurants, copied from the Rue de Rivoli in Paris.

Most tourists stay in one of the popular beach resorts like
Sidari and Roda in the north, or the party capital, Kavos, on the
southern tip of the island. Quieter resorts include Gouvia and San
Stefanos. Those wishing to escape from the melee can head for the
interior to enjoy some spectacular scenery and greenery. Corfu has
43 different kinds of orchids growing wild in the countryside, and
there are countless olive groves. There are dozens unspoilt coves
with beaches washed by the sparkling, warm Ionian Sea. It is still
possible to search out a secluded bay even in the busy season when
the package holiday resorts are awash with tourists.

Sarandë

Sarandë is a beautiful coastal town located on the southern coast of Albania, overlooking the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea. Known for its stunning beaches, historical sites, and vibrant nightlife, Sarandë has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Albania.

One of the main attractions in Sarandë is its gorgeous beaches. With a shoreline stretching about 15 kilometers, visitors have plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most popular beaches include Mirror Beach, Santa Quaranta Beach, and Ksamili Beach. These beaches offer golden sands, shallow turquoise waters, and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Apart from its natural beauty, Sarandë is also known for its rich history. The town has been inhabited since ancient times, and remnants of its past can be seen in the archaeological sites scattered throughout the area. One of the most significant historical sites is the ancient city of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Butrint showcases the ruins of a once-thriving Roman city, featuring a theater, temples, and an impressive acropolis.

Another historical attraction worth visiting is the Lekursi Castle. Located on a hilltop overlooking Sarandë, this castle offers panoramic views of the town, the Ionian Sea, and the nearby Greek island of Corfu. It's a perfect spot to watch the sunset and capture breathtaking photos.

For those interested in immersing themselves in the local culture, Sarandë has a vibrant nightlife scene. The town is filled with bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for dancing the night away or enjoying a romantic dinner by the sea, Sarandë has you covered. The main promenade, known as Rruga Mitat Hoxha, comes alive at night, offering a variety of entertainment options.

If you're looking to explore beyond Sarandë, there are plenty of day trip options available. Just a short boat ride away is the beautiful Blue Eye, a natural spring with stunning blue waters that resemble an eye. The UNESCO-protected Gjirokastër, a historic town known for its Ottoman-era architecture, is also within reach. Additionally, the nearby Albanian Riviera offers breathtaking landscapes, secluded beaches, and charming villages waiting to be discovered.

Sarandë also hosts various cultural events throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Butrint Summer Festival, a series of concerts and performances held at the ancient theater of Butrint. This event attracts both locals and tourists alike and showcases a mix of traditional and contemporary music and dance.

In terms of accommodation, Sarandë offers a wide range of options to suit every budget. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, cozy guesthouses, or self-catering apartments, many of which are located along the waterfront or within walking distance to the town center.

Overall, Sarandë is a hidden gem on the Albanian coastline, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're seeking relaxation on the beach, exploration of ancient ruins, or an exciting nightlife experience, Sarandë has something to offer everyone.

Naples

Italy's third-largest city thrives on the
chaos that prevails amid its busy streets. This is the place where
pizza was allegedly invented, its restaurants continuing to serve
some of Italy's finest cuisine.

Sheltered by the Bay of Naples and
dominated by the slopes of Mount Vesuvius, Naples is imbued with
the best of nature's bounty. The city juxtaposes superb museums,
Renaissance structures and Baroque churches, against crumbling
tenement blocks and poor neighbourhoods. Noisy markets sell a
collection of items, from high-quality fresh produce to fake
designer goods.

Roads are characteristically hectic with
gung-ho moped drivers weaving wildly through the streets and
frustrating traffic jams clogging the city's arteries. Despite
these less refined elements, Naples is a fascinating destination
and a great base from which to explore popular attractions like the
Amalfi Coast, Pompeii and Herculaneum.

The city's transport hub is located around
the immense Piazza Garibaldi, on the east side of Naples. Southwest
from here is the Piazza Bovio, and branching to the left of it, the
Piazza Municipio and nearby Piazza del Plebiscito. On the watery
edges are the Molo Beverollo and the Stazione Marittima, the point
of departure for ferries. From the reaches of Spaccanapoli, one can
explore the historic part of Naples with its numerous palaces and
churches.

Civitavecchia

Rome is like a living museum, liberally
dotted with fascinating ruins, ancient relics and archaeological
sites. Centuries are peeled back from the Eternal City with each
new vista in this great metropolis of fearsome gladiators and
gorgeous art. Vespas, sports cars and nippy Fiats speed past trendy
sidewalk cafes, bistros and nightclubs, revealing the Rome of
Fellini's La Dolce Vita, while the stark facades of the Stadio
Olimpico reminds visitors of Mussolini's attempts to reinvent the
architecture of the Caesars.

For a taste of the Baroque, visitors need
only climb the famous Spanish Steps, walk through the Piazza Navona
or toss a coin into the beautiful Trevi Fountain. Renaissance
splendour is best revealed in the Vatican Palace, specifically
Michelangelo's efforts on the roof of the Sistine Chapel. From
early Christian Basilicas and the Roman Forum to the Colosseum and
the Pantheon, the sequence of history trails back to the dizzying
heights of the empire.

It may sound like a city of contrasts, but
Rome's timeless magic lies in its ability to blend the old with the
new. Empires have risen and fallen, old gods have been replaced
with the new, but Rome nonetheless remains.