As you stroll through the Agora beneath the towering Acropolis, it's easy to imagine the voices of Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle debating who was the greatest philosopher. Athens, the ancient birthplace of democracy and the heart of Western civilization, remains a city timeless in its influence.

Nafplio, a picturesque seaport town in the Peloponnese, is often considered one of Greece's most beautiful and romantic destinations. Nestled beneath the imposing Palamidi fortress, the town is home to charming Venetian houses, neoclassical mansions, and fascinating museums. Visitors can unwind at the numerous quayside cafés or browse the delightful boutiques. Nafplio also serves as a perfect base for exploring nearby ancient sites and is a favorite getaway for Athenians, especially bustling during peak season.

From the shore, it's a big rock sticking out into the sea. Then you pass over the causeway, and through an iron fortress gate, and suddenly, the town of Monemvasia is before you, a perfectly preserved Byzantine fortified port, once 60,000 strong, now home to just a few hundred. You can readily see why the name Monemvasia means single entrance! In the rocky hills above, ancient Byzantine ruins loom over the town, while below a maze of red-tiled roofs and twisting alleys hide tavernas and cafes and the home of revered Greek poet Yannis Ritsos.

Homer's “Wise King Nestor” was very wise indeed to build his magnificent palace near Pilos, for the city's harbor of Navarino Bay and the land-locked lake that was the original harbor were a perfect refuge from storms – and invaders. It was at this site on October 20, 1827, with the help of Britain, Russia, and France, that modern Greece attained independence, defeating the Turkish navy in the Battle of Navarino Bay.

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time onboard, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, a revitalizing spa (Royal Clipper only), and a peaceful library.

Barreling under full sail through the narrow Strait of Messina past Scylla and Charybdis, where rock and whirlpool almost claimed Ulysses, you arrive in lovely Taormina. Perched on the shoulder of Mt. Etna, Taormina inspired Goethe to say that's is the greatest work of art and nature.'

Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily that's known for its ancient ruins. It was once the largest city in the world, bigger than Athens and Corinth, and as you can imagine it's steeped in history. Visit Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, one of Sicily's greatest archaeological sites. Relax in one of its stylish little cafes that surround its beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down its medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.

The charm of Malta's sister island Gozo is immediately apparent. Steeped in myth, Gozo is thought to be the legendary Calypso isle of Homer's Odyssey. It's green, rural, and calm, relying on fishing and agriculture as well as tourism. It is one of the Mediterranean's top diving destinations with an incredible range of shore and boat dives including reefs, caves, and wrecks. There are also knight's watchtowers, tiny chapels, and beautiful peaceful beaches to explore.

Valletta, the small capital of Malta, was founded in the 1500s by the Knights of St. John, a Roman Catholic order, on a peninsula. Steeped in history, it is recognized as both a European Art City and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city offers a wealth of museums, palaces, and impressive churches, with its stunning gardens being a must-see. After breakfast, disembark and continue your journey home independently.