Aegean Odyssey: Athens to Istanbul: 11 days Athens (Piraeus) to Istanbul

Your enthralling voyage begins in Athens, the historic capital of Greece. The birthplace of democracy and Western civilisation, Athens is renowned for its iconic ancient landmarks and rich culture, as well as a modern vibrancy.

From here, you’ll be transferred to your Emerald Cruises luxury yacht to embark on an incredible odyssey through Greece and Turkey.

Please book your flight to arrive into Athens prior to 02:00 PM.

Docked: 19:00

Famous for its beautiful architecture, historical sites, and stunning sea views, Nafplion is a popular destination for both Greek and international guests. The town is characterised by its narrow cobblestone streets, neoclassical buildings, and charming Venetian and Ottoman architecture. The iconic Palamidi Fortress, perched on a hill overlooking the town, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Today choose between our Included Excursion or DiscoverMORE option. 

Included Excursion
Ancient Corinth and Canal View
Travel through the scenic Peloponnese to Ancient Corinth, one of the most prosperous and influential cities of the ancient Greek and Roman world. Enjoy a guided walk through the archaeological site, where you will visit the Bema, the platform from which St. Paul addressed the Corinthians, and admire the impressive Temple of Apollo, with its seven surviving Doric columns. Continue through the remains of the Agora, the Fountain of Peirene, and the ancient Lechaion Road, once the city's principal route to the port. The excursion concludes with a stop at the spectacular Corinth Canal, one of Greece's greatest engineering achievements. Carved through solid limestone and completed in 1893, the canal links the Ionian and Aegean Seas, creating a dramatic passage through the narrow isthmus.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes 

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Tour to Mycenae with wine tasting (extra expense, must be pre-booked)
Journey through the heart of the Argolis region on an excursion combining ancient history with the celebrated wines of the Peloponnese. A scenic drive across the fertile Argos Plain brings you to the legendary citadel of Mycenae, dramatically set above two rugged ravines. Enter the archaeological site through the monumental Lion Gate, Europe's oldest surviving monumental sculpture, and explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, once the centre of the Mycenaean civilisation. Visit the impressive Treasury of Atreus (Beehive Tomb), admire the massive Cyclopean Walls, and learn about the discoveries made by Heinrich Schliemann, including the famous Mask of Agamemnon. Continue to a local winery, where you will discover the traditions of winemaking in one of Greece's oldest wine-producing regions. Tour the vineyards and cellar, including the impressive barrel room, before enjoying a tasting of five local wines accompanied by regional snacks.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00 – 22:00 

Monemvasia is a hidden gem on the Peloponnese coast of Greece. Step back in time as you explore the medieval fortress town perched atop a rocky peninsula, with its labyrinth of narrow streets and Byzantine churches. Wander through the Lower Town, where charming stone houses and quaint cafes line the cobblestone streets. Climb to the Upper Town for panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding countryside.

Monemvasia walking tour (extra expense)
Step into the medieval world of Monemvasia, the remarkable fortified town often referred to as the ‘Gibraltar of the East.’ Connected to the mainland by a narrow causeway, this beautifully preserved settlement offers a fascinating journey through centuries of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman history. Enter through the castle gate and follow your guide along the main cobbled street to the Main Square, where an old ship's cannon recalls the town's strategic maritime past. Visit the impressive Cathedral of Christ Elkomenos, dating from the 13th century, and admire its treasured 14th-century icon. Continue to the Archaeological Museum, housed within a restored 16th-century Ottoman mosque, where exhibits trace the history of Monemvasia from the Early Christian and Byzantine periods. Following the guided tour, enjoy free time to wander the maze of narrow stone alleyways, browse artisan shops, sample local delicacies, or relax at a café overlooking the Aegean Sea. 
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

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Monemvasia Cooking Class (extra expense)
Discover the flavours of Greek cuisine during a hands-on cooking class led by experienced local chefs in a beautiful traditional setting. Upon arrival at Sterna Restaurant, you will be welcomed before learning to prepare a selection of authentic Greek dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients, many sourced from the restaurant's own organic garden. Throughout the class, your hosts will share the history and traditions behind the recipes, highlighting the influences of ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Ottoman culinary heritage. Following the cooking session, relax and enjoy the meal you have helped prepare, accompanied by local wines in the restaurant's charming courtyard.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00 – 18:00

Rethimno is a beautiful city located on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete. It is a charming destination that offers a unique blend of traditional Cretan culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. The city's historic centre is filled with narrow streets, picturesque alleys, and beautiful Venetian architecture. The buildings are adorned with intricate stone carvings, ornate doorways, and brightly colored shutters.

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4x4 Adventure (extra expense)
Discover the rugged beauty of Crete on an exciting 4x4 adventure through mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and historic landmarks. Begin with a panoramic photo stop overlooking Rethymnon and the picturesque village of Maroulas before travelling along scenic off-road tracks with spectacular views of the White Mountains, Psiloritis, and Potamon Dam. Continue to the historic Arkadi Monastery, one of Crete's most important cultural and religious landmarks, where you will have time to explore its beautiful grounds and learn about its significant role in the island's history. The journey continues through traditional Cretan villages to Margarites, renowned for its centuries-old pottery tradition. Enjoy free time to browse the artisan workshops before visiting a traditional olive mill, where you will learn about olive oil production and enjoy a tasting of local products.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes 

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Taste of tradition – Organic Farm experience (extra expense)
Experience authentic Cretan hospitality during a visit to a traditional organic farm, where local flavours, history, and rural traditions come together. Enjoy a guided walk around the estate, visiting the historic watermill, wine press, Chapel of St. Nicholas, mini-zoo, and the farm shop while learning about sustainable farming and traditional Cretan life. Join a hands-on cooking demonstration as you prepare authentic local specialities, including homemade bread, before sampling freshly baked bread with organic extra virgin olive oil, local goat's cheese, sfougato, Cretan cheese pies, and traditional raki. Your visit concludes with a delicious organic Cretan lunch prepared using fresh seasonal ingredients from the farm.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00 – 21:00

This picturesque Greek island is famed for its iconic, blue-domed churches, transparent azure waters, and charming villages dramatically perched on cliffs overlooking the sea. Santorini’s main town, Fira, precariously rests on the edge of a caldera cliff, presenting jaw-dropping vistas of the Aegean Sea. Oia, one of Santorini’s traditional villages, is particularly renowned for its quaint narrow streets and stunning sunset and panoramic caldera views.

Included Excursion
Round-trip cable-car ticket to Thira
Experience one of Santorini’s most iconic journeys with a roundtrip cable car ride between the Old Port of Gialos and Fira, offering spectacular views over the island’s dramatic caldera. After tendering from the ship, proceed to the Old Port of Gialos, where the Santorini Cable Car (Teleferico) provides a quick and scenic ascent up the steep caldera cliffs, connecting the port with Fira, the island’s lively capital. As the gondola rises, enjoy sweeping views of volcanic rock faces, whitewashed villages perched high above the cliffs, and the deep blue Aegean Sea below. Upon arrival in Fira, time is available to explore independently—stroll along the caldera rim, browse local shops, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, or relax at a café overlooking the breathtaking scenery. When ready, use the return cable car ticket to descend comfortably back to the Old Port and tender back to the ship.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: At your leisure 

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Akrotiri, Winery & Oia (extra expense)
Journey through the history, flavours, and iconic landscapes of Santorini as you discover one of the Aegean's most captivating islands. Begin with a visit to the remarkable archaeological site of Akrotiri, often referred to as the ‘Greek Pompeii.’ Buried beneath volcanic ash following the island's great eruption, this exceptionally preserved Bronze Age settlement reveals sophisticated multi-storey buildings, advanced drainage systems, and fascinating insights into one of the ancient Mediterranean's most advanced civilisations. Continue to a traditional Santorini winery, where you will learn about the island's unique volcanic viticulture and enjoy a tasting of locally produced wines while overlooking the spectacular caldera. Complete your excursion in the picturesque village of Oia, famous for its whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and breathtaking views across the volcanic caldera and Thirassia Island. Afterwards, continue to Fira, where you may either return with the group or remain to explore the island's capital independently before taking the cable car back to the Old Port at your convenience.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00 – 18:00

The lovely Greek island of Rhodes harbors a rich history, boasting fascinating landmarks such as the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, the Palace of the Grand Master in Rhodes Town, and the medieval Old Town, which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rhodes also entices visitors with its stunning natural scenery, boasting sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters, and lush green hillsides.

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Guided tour of Lindos (extra expense)
Discover the timeless beauty of Lindos, where ancient history, breathtaking coastal scenery, and traditional island charm combine in one of Rhodes' most iconic destinations.Travel along the island's picturesque east coast, passing fragrant citrus groves, vineyards, and ancient olive trees before arriving at the beautiful village of Lindos. From here, make the ascent on foot to the magnificent Acropolis of Lindos, dramatically perched above the village and overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea. Explore the impressive archaeological site, including the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia, the remains of a Byzantine church, and the fortifications built by the Knights of St. John, while enjoying spectacular panoramic views across the coastline.Afterwards, descend through the charming whitewashed village to the picturesque St. Paul's Bay, traditionally associated with the Apostle Paul's arrival in AD 51.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 4 hours 20 minutes 

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Walking Tour of Medieval Rhodes and Grand Master’s Palace (extra expense)
Step into the medieval heart of Rhodes, where imposing fortifications, grand palaces, and centuries of history await within one of Europe's best-preserved walled cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a guided walk from the quayside into the historic Old Town, where narrow cobbled streets and medieval architecture reveal the legacy of the Knights of St. John. Visit the magnificent Palace of the Grand Master, originally built in the 14th century as the residence of the Knights before later serving as an Ottoman fortress and an Italian royal residence. Today, it stands as one of Rhodes' most important historical landmarks. Continue along the famous Street of the Knights, lined with beautifully preserved inns representing the different nationalities of the Order, before concluding your guided tour with free time to browse the lively Socrates Street bazaar, where local shops offer souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional products. Following the guided tour, participants may either return to the ship with the group or remain in Rhodes Old Town to explore independently before making their own way back to the ship.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 

Docked: 09:00 –18:00 

Today, you’ll arrive in Patmos, a small Greek island in the Aegean Sea renowned for its beautiful scenery, crystal-clear water, delicious local cuisine and picturesque villages. According to local legend, Patmos is also famous for where the Apostle John wrote the ‘Book of Revelation’. Explore the island’s capital, Chora, an enchanting place revealing whitewashed buildings and narrow cobblestone streets lined with traditional Greek tavernas and family-run shops. Today choose between our Included Excursion or EmeraldACTIVE option.

Included Excursion
Chora, Monastery of St John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse
Discover the spiritual and cultural heritage of Patmos, one of Greece’s most sacred islands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a visit to the revered Cave of the Apocalypse, where, according to tradition, St. John the Theologian received the visions that inspired the Book of Revelation. Continue to the hilltop town of Chora, where a guided walk through its narrow cobbled streets reveals elegant mansions, panoramic views, and timeless island charm. Visit the impressive Monastery of St. John the Theologian, founded in the 11th century, and explore its museum housing priceless manuscripts, religious icons, and ecclesiastical treasures. Complete your experience at the beautifully preserved Simandiris Mansion, offering a fascinating glimpse into traditional Patmian life, before enjoying free time to browse Chora’s boutique-lined streets. 
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

EmeraldACTIVE
Downhill Hike to The Monastery of St. John and Cave
Journey through the spiritual heart of Patmos, one of Greece’s most sacred islands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring its most revered religious landmarks and centuries of monastic tradition.Travel to the hilltop village of Chora, where whitewashed houses surround the imposing Monastery of St. John the Theologian, founded in 1088. Explore the monastery’s peaceful courtyards and remarkable museum, home to rare manuscripts, ancient icons, religious treasures, and priceless ecclesiastical artefacts. Continue on foot through the atmospheric streets of Chora to the revered Cave of the Apocalypse, where, according to tradition, St. John received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation. Along the way, admire the island’s timeless architecture and experience the tranquil atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims for centuries.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 3 hours

Docked: 08:00 – 22:00 

Set along Turkey's western Aegean coast, Kusadasi blends ancient heritage with lively beach resort charm. This former Ionian Greek port flourished under Byzantine and Ottoman rule, its bazaars still echoing centuries of trade. As gateway to Ephesus—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—Kusadasi offers easy access to one of the antiquity's grandest cities, where the Library of Celsus, Great Theatre, and Temple of Artemis foundations reveal the splendor of Greco-Roman civilization. Today choose between our EmeraldPLUS or DiscoverMORE option.

EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Ephesus with folkloric show and tasting
Step back in time at the extraordinary ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travel along the scenic Aegean coastline before entering Ephesus through the historic Magnesia Gate. Follow your guide through magnificent ruins, including the grand Forum, the iconic Library of Celsus, and the impressive Great Theatre, while learning about the city’s importance as one of the greatest centres of the ancient world. Continue to the remarkable Terrace Houses, where beautifully preserved mosaics, frescoes, and luxurious private residences provide a fascinating insight into the lives of Ephesus’ wealthy citizens. Before returning, enjoy a visit to a local cooperative featuring a traditional Turkish folklore performance, accompanied by a selection of regional delicacies, local drinks, and wine in a relaxing garden setting.
Activity Level: Active, Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes

DiscoverMORE
Priene, Miletus and Didyma (extra expense)
Discover the Treasures of Ancient Anatolia: Priene, Miletus, and Didyma. Embark on a journey through time as you explore the captivating ancient cities of Priene, Miletus, and Didyma, each brimming with rich history and architectural marvels. Board your comfortable coach and set off on a picturesque drive through lush fields and vineyards, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Anatolia. Relax as you journey for approximately 40 minutes to the ancient city of Priene, a true gem of Ionian civilization. Step back in time as you wander the streets of Priene, one of the first cities to be meticulously planned with a grid system. Admire the stunning mountain backdrop and panoramic views overlooking the Meander River, soaking in the ambiance of this ancient Ionian settlement. Continue your odyssey with a 45-minute drive to the ancient city of Miletus, once a thriving metropolis on the Anatolian trade routes. Explore the legacy of renowned philosophers and architects such as Thales, Anaximandros, and Hippodamos, whose brilliance shaped the city's destiny. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant with panoramic views of the magnificent Temple of Apollo in Didyma. Marvel at the awe-inspiring scale of this sacred site, where ancient worshipers sought divine guidance and inspiration. Explore the grandeur of the temple, rebuilt with the assistance of Alexander the Great after destruction by the Persians in 494 BC.
Activity Level: Active, Duration 6 hours 30 minutes

Docked: 08:00 – 17:00 

The Aegean Island of Chios is famed for its medieval mastic villages, fragrant with the resin that made the island wealthy, and for its well-preserved monasteries. Stroll the narrow alleys of Pyrgi, admire intricate geometric façades, and end the day with fresh seafood at a local taverna.

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Medieval Villages of Pyrgi & Mesta (extra expense)
Explore the unique Mastichochoria, the medieval villages of southern Chios, where the island’s world-famous mastic has been cultivated for centuries. Travel through the island’s mastic-producing region while learning about the cultivation of this rare natural resin, prized since antiquity for its culinary, medicinal, and cosmetic uses. Your first stop is Pyrgi, a beautifully preserved 13th-century village renowned for its narrow streets, fortified architecture, and distinctive black-and-white geometric façades. Enjoy a guided walk and admire the Church of the Holy Apostles, one of the island’s finest Byzantine monuments. Continue to Mesta, one of Greece’s best-preserved fortified medieval villages. Wander its maze of stone-paved alleys, discover the impressive Church of Agia Paraskevi, and enjoy free time to explore the village square, browse local shops, or relax at a traditional café before returning to Chios.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Nea Moni Monastery & Villages (extra expense)
Travel through Chios’ mountainous landscapes to discover three of the island’s most historic and picturesque sites. Begin at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monastery of Nea Moni, founded in the 11th century and renowned for its exceptional Byzantine mosaics, considered among the finest in Greece. Learn about the monastery’s rich history and admire its remarkable architecture. Continue to the medieval village of Avgonima, a charming hilltop settlement with traditional stone houses and sweeping views across the Aegean Sea. Enjoy time to wander its narrow streets or relax at a local café at your own expense. The final stop is Anavatos, a dramatic stone-built village perched high on a rocky hillside. Often called the ‘Mystra of the Aegean,’ this abandoned medieval settlement offers striking scenery and a fascinating past. It also gained international recognition as one of the filming locations for the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes 

Anchored: 08:00 – 17:00

Continue along Turkey’s stunning northwest coast to Kepez, the port gateway to the ancient city of Troy and the World War I battlefields of Gallipoli. Spend time exploring these historically significant sites or enjoying local culture ashore. Later, your luxury yacht sails through the storied Dardanelles Strait, linking the Aegean Sea to the Sea of Marmara, with dramatic views of coastal fortresses and serene hillsides bathed in golden light.

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The Legendary City of Troy (extra expense)
Journey into the world of myth and archaeology with a visit to Ancient Troy, one of history's most legendary cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Travel to the archaeological site where the excavations of Heinrich Schliemann revealed that the city immortalised in Homer’s Iliad was more than legend. Explore the remarkable ruins as your guide explains the fascinating history of Troy, a city rebuilt nine times over more than 3,000 years. Admire the ancient defensive walls, learn about the famous Trojan War, and see the modern replica of the iconic Wooden Horse, symbolising the legendary Greek strategy that led to the city’s fall.Continue to the award-winning Troy Museum, located beside the archaeological site. Through its impressive collection of artefacts, interactive displays, and multimedia exhibits, discover over 5,000 years of history and the civilizations that flourished in this region, highlighting Troy’s role as a meeting point between Eastern and Western cultures.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes 

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Guided Tour of ANZAC Cove and Gallipoli Peninsula (extra expense)
Follow the story of one of the First World War’s most significant campaigns with a moving visit to the Gallipoli Peninsula Historical National Park, where the courage and sacrifice of thousands are remembered. Your journey begins at Anzac Cove, where Australian and New Zealand forces came ashore on 25 April 1915. Continue to Lone Pine Cemetery, overlooking the historic battlefield, where your guide will recount the events that unfolded across these hills and the enduring legacy of the ANZAC campaign. The tour continues to Beach Cemetery, the resting place of many of the campaign’s fallen, and the 57th Regiment Memorial and Cemetery, dedicated to the Ottoman soldiers who defended the peninsula. Finally, visit Chunuk Bair, one of the campaign’s most strategically important positions, where the New Zealand Memorial stands alongside a statue of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, whose leadership during the battle marked a defining moment in Turkish history. Throughout the excursion, your guide will provide insight into the events, personal stories, and lasting significance of the Gallipoli Campaign for both Türkiye and the ANZAC nations.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours

Docked: 07:30 –17:00 

Your luxurious yacht cruise concludes in the timeless Turkish city of Istanbul, where you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight home or to continue your holiday. 

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Tour and Transfer: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar (extra expense, must be booked on board)
Explore the timeless treasures of Istanbul on a guided journey through the heart of the historic Sultanahmet district before continuing to Istanbul Airport. Begin at the site of the ancient Hippodrome, once the social and sporting centre of the Byzantine Empire. Admire historic monuments including the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpentine Column from Delphi, and the German Fountain, while learning about the city’s fascinating past. Continue to the magnificent Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque), celebrated for its elegant domes, six slender minarets, and beautiful interior adorned with thousands of blue Iznik tiles. Nearby, visit the iconic Hagia Sophia, the masterpiece of Byzantine architecture that has served as a cathedral, mosque, museum, and now mosque once again, standing as one of the world’s greatest architectural achievements. Conclude your tour at the legendary Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Wander its bustling lanes filled with carpets, ceramics, jewellery, spices, textiles, and traditional handicrafts before departing either for Istanbul Airport or returning to the ship, depending on your travel arrangements.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes

Notes: This excursion is available for participants continuing on to the next cruise, as well as debarking participants with flights departing after 5:00 pm. Luggage will be stored securely on the coach during the excursion. Arrival at the airport may be earlier than airline check-in times.

Please book your flight to depart out of Istanbul after 02:00 PM.

Docked: 07:00 

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Emerald Cruises cannot guarantee the cruise will operated unaltered from the itinerary states above.