From the City of the Gods to the Dalmatian Coast

Athens, the capital of Greece, sits along the Saronic Gulf in the eastern part of the country. Its name reflects the many ancient villages that once surrounded the Acropolis. This historic hill, home to UNESCO-listed monuments, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Greece’s rich past.

Below the Acropolis, the city’s vibrant neighborhoods await. Plaka, with its charming maze of colorful streets, comes alive in the evenings with the enticing scents of moussaka and garlic prawns. For history lovers, the National Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Cycladic Art showcase Athens’ deep cultural heritage, making them must-visit attractions.

The charming town of Nafplion is built on the green hillsides overlooking the Argolic Gulf, east of the Peloponnese. Its rich cultural heritage is reflected in its diverse architecture and historic sites.

Key attractions include the ancient agora on the Akronafplia plateau, the elegant Italian-style arcades in Syntagma Square, and the impressive baroque fortress of Palamidi, perched on a hill of the same name. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the gulf and surrounding mountains.

For a relaxing stroll by the water, follow the Arvanitia promenade to a scenic cove shaded by cedar and cypress trees.

Included Excursion - Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built-in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.

• This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps that could be slippery. It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.

Kythira, the birthplace of Aphrodite according to mythology, has inspired poets and painters. Today, it is a charming port of call at the crossroads of Greece’s three seas: The Ionian, the Aegean, and the Sea of Crete. From the deck of your vessel, let your gaze travel over the pine forests of the North of the island, the wild gorges in the South, and the red sandy beaches of Firi Ammos to the East. Villages of dazzling whiteness and unique architecture including Kythira, the capital, as well as the ruins at Milopotamos and Paleohora, are also worthy of a visit.

Included Excursion - History & Captivating Beauty on the Island of Kythira
Take a coach tour around this island of wild beauty brimming with history and influenced by many civilizations and cultures.
You start by visiting the monastery of Panagia Myrtidiotissa, The Lady of the Myrtle. Constructed on a natural rocky opening in the middle of trees, it symbolizes the Kytherians’ Orthodox faith. According to tradition, the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary was found here by a shepherd, guided by a vision, in the 14th century. The church is built in the style of a three-nave basilica and you be able to admire icons from the 17th and 18th centuries.
You then go to the village of Mylopotamos, known as the “river of mills” because of the 22 watermills built along a small stream for grinding wheat. These days, only Phill's Watermill remains in working order. These mills are to be found in a gorge, which starts from the magnificent Fonisa waterfall. In summer, the stream above the waterfall flows from the mountain in the middle of town, near Platea Square. You be able to quench your thirst in a cafe in the shade of the plane trees.
First, you discover Chora, the island’s striking capital, with its narrow streets, its whitewashed houses, its old residences, and its Venetian buildings. You also visit its Venetian castle, constructed in 1503; it is called “the eye of Crete” due to its strategic position overlooking the Ionian, Aegea,n and Cretan Seas. It has captivating views of the sea and Chora. The castle houses Kythira’s historical archives. In the surrounding area of Mesa Vourgo, you discover some preserved churches, such as Panagia Orfani, Agios Ioannis, and Agia Triada.

• Level of difficulty: medium (about 2.5 hours' walk over flat, uneven terrain with a few steps). Clothing advice: warm clothing, comfortable shoes for walking. Protection: hat, sun cream, sunglasses.

The picturesque port of Pylos is located in the southwest of the Peloponnese. Backed against the lush green hills of Messenia, it looks out onto the Navarino Bay. You can admire the gorgeous view as you walk uptown amid pink oleanders that cascade over the jetty. A stone’s throw away, the historical center’s winding streets plunge you into a maze of houses with whitewashed facades and terracotta roof tiles. On the attractive main beach, you be able to relax in the shade of the age-old plane trees and taste the delicious local biscuits made of sesame and honey.

Included Excursion - Ancient Treasures of Messene
At the southwestern tip of the Peloponnese, a few kilometers from the village of Mavromati, lies Ancient Messene, one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Greece. Temples, gymnasiums, ancient theatre, Asclepieion, Agora… the vestiges present here – as well as the museum – invite you to encounter what was once a great city.
Coveted by Sparta, which waged three wars against it before taking control of it in 464 BC, Messenia was the second-largest State of the Peloponnese for a long time. A century later, in 369 BC, the Theban general Epaminondas liberated the region, enabled the return of its inhabitants, and founded the fortified city of Messene, the capital of Messenia, famous for its military architecture.
At the foot of Mount Ithome, you be able to admire the vestiges of its old fortified wall, which is more than 9 kilometers (5.6 miles) long, as well as the Arcadia Gate, the only one of the two monumental entrances to the city to have survived.
At the neighboring archaeological museum, discover very fine sculptures, including the marble statue of the goddess Artemis Laphria restored from fragments, as well as the six statues of the priestesses of the Artemis Orthia temple, small bronze objects, and a model of the Asclepieion.
After visiting the museum, explore the archaeological site and dive into the history of the ancient city, via its exceptionally well-preserved vestiges.

• This excursion involves walking around two hours on uneven surfaces, with some steps. It is recommended for you to wear comfortable shoes and sun protection.

Included Excursion - Pylos and Niokastro Castle
Constructed as an amphitheater to enable all its inhabitants to admire Navarino Bay, Pylos can be discovered on foot via its main square and its little streets leading to the fortress.
Your walk begins on the lively Square of the Three Admirals and continues along the narrow streets starting in the square. You then reach the top of the hill, where Niokastro Castle can be found. Constructed by the Turks in 1573, it is one of the best-preserved castles in Greece. It is now home to the center of the underwater archaeology department. You observe the Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, with its impressive square temple featuring an octagonal dome resting on four massive pillars and surrounded on three sides by an outer wall. A former mosque, the church has been renovated and has many architectural features. You visit the Archaeological Museum of Pylos, which can be found inside the site. The objects exhibited go back to a period covering prehistory to Roman times.

• Difficulty level: low. Clothing advice: appropriate clothes for visiting the church, comfortable shoes for walking.

Nestling in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos is a Greek island, where the azure blue mixes with the emerald of the olive groves. Imagine yourself on Navagio beach, its majestic cliffs surrounding a solitary wreck, bathed by crystal-clear waters. Explore mysterious caves and breathtaking natural landscapes, where the light of the sun creates bewitching plays on color. Discover picturesque villages, steeped in history and culture, where the welcoming inhabitants share their heritage with passion. Zakynthos promises an authentic escape, where each moment becomes a memory.

Included Excursion - Panoramic Zakynthos and Anafonitria Monastery
Get ready to explore the enchanting island of Zakynthos, a jewel of beauty and culture, and discover the Anafonitria Monastery.
 
From the harbor, you head towards the Bochali square, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and the Ionian Sea. On a clear day, you can even see the mainland and Kefalonia.
 
Your next stop be the famous Anafonitria Monastery, a Byzantine complex founded in the 15th century. The island's patron saint, Agios Dionysios, spent his last years there. Marvel at its remarkable architecture and ancient frescoes.
 
Finally, you arrive at the picturesque village of Exo Chora, where you can admire a centuries-old olive tree and browse through the handicraft shops to soak up the authenticity of Zakynthian rural life.

• This excursion involves walking around 500 meters (0.3 miles) on flat and cobbled ground. It is recommended to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

An ancient port in the Epirus region, picturesque Parga is located on the western coast of the Greek mainland. Ancient classical ruins and the Venetian citadel bear witness to the town's colorful history and the diverse influences that shaped it. Take the time to discover this ancient fishing village built like an amphitheater, by strolling along the picturesque maze of pedestrian streets lined with small, typical Greek houses decorated with flowers and many lively taverns.

Included Excursion - City of Arta & Its Archaeological Museum
Set off to discover Arta, one of Greece's lesser-known gems, a mix of ancient history, captivating legends, and Byzantine splendor. This excursion off the beaten track promises to leave you enchanted and in awe.
 
Arta appears before you as you round a bend in a winding road through the hills. A “fortress” by name, the city built on the ancient site of Ambracia seems to be standing guard over time. This ancient Corinthian settlement was founded in the 7th century BC. Later, in 295 BC, it became the capital of Pyrrhus' kingdom.
 
Its stone bridge, a 17th-century masterpiece, is one of its symbols. According to the legend, whispered to anyone who listens, its builder sacrificed his beloved on the advice of a mysterious bird, in order to anchor the foundations to the riverbed.
 
Your exploration of the city continues at the Archaeological Museum of Arta, a treasure trove where each room tells a story. From funerary stelae and ancient tombs to objects discovered in the surrounding caves, this site reveals the secrets of a civilization thousands of years old. Whispers of the past echo between the walls, transporting the imagination from the Bronze Age to the splendor of the Roman Empire.
 
But there is more to Arta than its ancient remains. Its Byzantine heritage shines through in the Church of the Parigoritissa, a 13th-century architectural masterpiece. The interior of this church crowned with towers and domes is adorned with frescoes over a hundred years old which you can discover during your visit. The walk then takes you through the bustling streets of the city. With its lively stalls, shops, and cozy cafés, Arta's vibrant atmosphere invites you to stroll and chat with the locals, immersing yourself in the authentic spirit of Greece.
 
This excursion involves walking for one hour on flat and cobbled ground. It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. Appropriate clothing covering the shoulders and knees is required to enter religious sites.

Included Excursion - Ancient Nikopolis & Preveza
Set off to discover Nicopolis, a thriving ancient city rich in Roman and Byzantine monuments, then visit the picturesque town of Preveza.
 
Founded by Emperor Augustus in 31 BC to celebrate his victory over Antony and Cleopatra, Nicopolis grew and prospered in Roman times, establishing itself as a major urban center with a population of up to 300,000 in Christian times. Today, it is the most extensive archaeological site in Greece.
 
Immerse yourself in the history of this city and, as you admire the Roman and Byzantine mosaics, the theatre, the baths and aqueducts, the remains of ancient churches, and much more, imagine the daily life of those who dreamed of building a great civilization. For an even better sense of the splendor that once was, continue your adventure with a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Nicopolis, which houses collections of architectural pieces, sculptures, and funerary offerings from this ancient city.
 
Then, take a short bus ride to Preveza. Stroll along its charming little port and through the narrow streets of the old town. Continue your walk to the Metropolitan Church of Saint Charalambos and the clock tower, a typical example of architecture from the time of Venetian rule.

• It is recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. The number of places available for this excursion is limited.

During your journey at sea, make the most of the many services and activities on board. Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in the spa or stay in shape in the fitness center. Depending on the season, let yourself be tempted by the swimming pool or a spot of sunbathing. This journey without a port of call also be an opportunity to enjoy the conferences or shows proposed on board, depending on the activities offered, or to do some shopping in the boutique or to meet the PONANT photographers in their dedicated space. As for lovers of the open sea, they are able to visit the ship’s upper deck to admire the spectacle of the waves and perhaps be lucky enough to observe marine species. A truly enchanted interlude, combining comfort, rest, and entertainment.

You sail towards the popular island of Hvar, for a day in Stari Grad, an intimate port of call that is off the beaten track. Let your feelings guide you and discover this pretty city located at the end of a fertile plain, planted with vines and olive groves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The organization of its parcels, marked out by dry stone walls that punctuate the landscape, goes back to ancient times. Wander around the small streets at your leisure, discovering the town’s pretty boutiques and gourmet restaurants. 

Emblem of the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is magnificently positioned on a rocky spur. History is sovereign here, in this ancient city, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. You perhaps be surprised by the proportions of La Placa, the central drag through the city. The sheer width of it can be explained by the fact that it straddles a former lagoon. The elegant houses along La Placa are built in the legendary travertine stone. At Pile Gate, you be greeted by the statue of the patron saint of Dubrovnik, and you can admire the coastline as you walk along the ramparts. But what’s inside Fort Saint John, adjoining the outer walls? A maritime museum and an aquarium featuring rare fish from the Adriatic.