From $7,499 per person
10 days
Ship: Wind Star
Delve into the ancient wonders of early Western Civilization on this 10-day journey featuring Meteora and Delphi and delve into the islands of Greece. Stroll the monument-lined Sacred Way toward the Grand Temple of Apollo in Delphi. Savor a moonlit Turkish dinner and romantic concert among the broken columns and weathered walls of Ephesus in Turkey during Windstar’s complimentary Destination Discovery Event. Imagine the sense of adventure among Medieval Turkish raiders as you stare skyward at distant monasteries topping foreboding cliffs and natural sandstone pillars throughout Meteora Valley. Sip tangy, bright citrus flavors of local Assyrtiko wine paired with freshly caught calamari while relaxing on a whitewashed patio high above Santorini’s steep volcanic slopes. Relax by the crystal clear waters of Acropolis, Mykonos and Santorini beaches. Gaze across the Baroque-styled parapets of Palamidi Castle at Nafplio’s red-tiled roofs and the azure Argolic Gulf. Scale the marble steps leading to the Acropolis high above the city of Athens and lose yourself amid the iconic Parthenon’s limestone blocks and marble columns.
Visit the UNESCO site of Delphi, once considered the center of the world.
Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.
Athens, Greece
Welcome to Athens! After landing at Athens International Airport, you'll be transferred to the stunning St. George Lycabettus Hotel. Known for its warm Greek hospitality, this hotel is your perfect base for exploring the city. Spend your afternoon and evening as you please. You're right in the heart of Athens, surrounded by charming shops, intriguing museums, stylish galleries, and delightful dining spots in Kolonaki. Relax, wander, and enjoy!
Delphi
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off to explore Delphi, a site revered in ancient Greece as the heart of the world. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, nearly 2,000 feet above sea level, this historic sanctuary captivates visitors with its timeless allure. Delphi was home to the oracle of Apollo, widely respected in antiquity, where predictions that shaped history were made. Wander through landmarks like the Castalian Spring, where worshippers once purified themselves, and the Sacred Way, lined with treasures and statues in ancient times. Marvel at the Grand Temple of Apollo, home to the famed Pythia, as well as the remarkably preserved theater boasting excellent acoustics and the ancient stadium where marble starting blocks still stand. The Delphi Museum offers a closer look at artifacts such as the Omphalos, believed to mark the world’s center, and the stunning bronze Charioteer, a masterpiece from the 5th century BC. For lunch, enjoy traditional Greek delicacies—tzatziki, olives, dolmades, and fresh salads—at a local village tavern. Afterward, journey onward to Kalambaka, a charming town tucked at the base of Meteora’s majestic rock formations. Settle into your accommodations at the elegant Divani Meteora Hotel, where you’ll have the evening to relax and unwind.
Athens, Greece
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before journeying to the awe-inspiring region of Meteora, home to one of Greece’s most breathtaking sights. Imagine ancient monasteries perched high atop towering rock formations, a marvel shaped by nature’s mysteries. With its UNESCO recognition, this place stands as a unique cultural treasure in Greece's rich history. Back in the 11th century, monks seeking solitude lived in caves here. As times grew turbulent, they moved higher, braving the steep rock faces to build their monasteries on seemingly unreachable peaks. Long ago, the only way up was on rickety wooden ladders or in nets hoisted by ropes. Thankfully today, you can reach the summit using modern roads, pathways, and stone steps. You’ll have the chance to visit two of the remaining six active monasteries and even view the traditional nets still used to lift supplies. After exploring Meteora, continue to the nearby town of Kalambaka for a delightful lunch and some well-deserved relaxation. Your return journey to Athens brings one more unforgettable moment as you pass the iconic monument of Leonidas at Thermopylae—an exceptional reminder of Greece’s valiant past. The evening is yours to enjoy some leisure time at the St. George Lycabettus Hotel, a perfect end to your extraordinary day. Breakfast, lunch, and your overnight stay are included in this experience. Please note that appropriate attire is required when visiting the monasteries. Ladies should wear skirts that cover their knees and avoid trousers, while gentlemen should opt for long trousers. Both should ensure their shoulders are covered.
Athens, Greece
Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast before embarking on a captivating visit to the Acropolis, Athens' "Sacred Rock." Follow the footsteps of history as you climb the marble steps to the Propylaea, a masterpiece of classical design that serves as the grand gateway to the ancient complex. You'll experience timeless beauty as you encounter the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion, with its unforgettable Caryatids—the graceful maidens who seem to bring the past to life. Stand in awe before the majestic Parthenon, once a shrine to the goddess Athena and home to a magnificent gold-and-ivory statue. The adjoining museum gathers the Acropolis' treasures, showcasing items from the Parthenon's glory days through the Roman era. Don't miss the Parthenon Frieze on the top floor—a true highlight. After immersing yourself in this incredible history, transfer to the port of Piraeus, where your luxurious yacht awaits to whisk you away on your next adventure.
Athens, Greece
Athens is a city where you can feel history in every step. With over 3,000 years of heritage, it offers sights you simply can’t miss, like the iconic Acropolis, the charming Plaka district, and the state-of-the-art Acropolis Museum. As the sun sets, take a moment to climb Pnyx Hill for breathtaking views of the Parthenon. Embrace Greek traditions by picking up your own worry beads, known askomboloi, or uncover ancient wonders in Athens’ surprising metro stations, which double as mini-museums. Athens is a place where the past and present beautifully intertwine.
Nafplio
Nestled on the sun-kissed Peloponnese, Nafplio effortlessly charms visitors with its romantic ambiance. Wander through its medieval old town, where cobblestone streets wind past neoclassical mansions adorned with vibrant bougainvillea blooms. Take a stroll through Syntagma Square, a lively hub surrounded by history and culture. For a touch of grandeur, explore Palamidi Castle, perched high above the town, where 999 stone-carved steps lead to breathtaking views of the shimmering coastline. History enthusiasts will delight in optional excursions to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the ancient theater of Epidaurus and the storied ruins of Mycenae, home to the iconic Lion’s Gate. Nafplio is a picturesque getaway that offers the perfect blend of history, beauty, and romance.
Mykonos
Awaken to the picturesque charm of Mykonos, a classic Greek gem adorned with stunning whitewashed churches and iconic windmills. Here, the harbor sparkles with a lively mix of traditional fishing boats and sleek luxury yachts. For those seeking deeper exploration, an optional ferry ride whisks you to the island of Delos, an enchanting UNESCO World Heritage site and the legendary birthplace of Apollo. This journey takes you back through millennia of history to uncover the magic of ancient Greece.
Kusadasi
Kusadasi presents a stunning blend of incredible history and captivating views. Journey to Ephesus, an open-air treasure where the past comes alive through its iconic landmarks and ancient streets. Nearby, marvel at the unique homes of Bulbul Mountain, where rooftops transform into terraces for the homes above. As the sun sets, indulge in a truly magical experience—a Destination Discovery Event featuring moonlit dining and an enchanting concert beside the famed Celsus Library or along Harbour Street. This is more than a visit; it’s an unforgettable moment among ancient wonders.
Patmos
Known as the sacred isle where St. John penned the Book of Revelation, Patmos offers an unforgettable mix of spirituality and natural beauty. Its dramatic cliffs and volcanic soil create a stunning backdrop for exploration. Be sure to visit key highlights like the mystical Cave of the Apocalypse and the revered Holy Monastery of the Apocalypse. A perfect retreat for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, this UNESCO World Heritage Site delivers both serenity and inspiration.
Santorini
As our yacht gracefully glides towards Santorini, the striking cliffs take your breath away, rising dramatically from the shimmering blue waters. This is a land of legend, often whispered as home to the fabled ruins of Atlantis. Here, explore the timeless charm of Oia, where whitewashed buildings and iconic blue domes create perfect postcard moments. Stroll through the ancient streets or delve into history with a guided tour of the Akrotiri Bronze Age excavation, a UNESCO World Heritage marvel. End your day savoring the flavors of Santorini with a chilled glass of Assyrtiko wine, a local delight. Discover the wonders only small ships can truly uncover.
Monemvasia
Discover a secluded paradise steeped in history! Monemvasia, joined to the mainland by a narrow causeway, is a magical town untouched by time. Stroll along ancient streets enclosed by walls aged over eight centuries. The upper town showcases Agia Sophia, a stunning Byzantine church, and impressive medieval castle ruins. Meander through lower town’s picturesque Venetian mansions, now beautifully restored. Relax on the shoreline while the sun dances on the charming pebble beach.
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