Grecian Fables
Care-free voyages of discovery around Turkey and the Greek Islands with 8 Days' Premium Cruising.
Overview
Care-free voyages of discovery around Turkey and the Greek Islands with 8 Days' Premium Cruising.
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Day 1: Your Journey Begins.
Board your overnight flight (not included). -
Day 2: Welcome to Athens!
You are met at the airport and transferred to your hotel where there is time to settle in and relax. Later, join your Tour Director for a Welcome Reception, and an opportunity to get to know each other over a delightful evening of dinner and wine.
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Day 3: Athens, City of Gods
Your exploration reveals the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Wingless Victory and Hadrian’s Arch. Next, your Local Expert takes you to the Parthenon, built atop the Acropolis to Thermopylae to see the memorial to Leonidas and his courageous Spartans, then continue to your hotel in Kalambaka for dinner.
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Day 4: Pinnacles of Meteora
With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning ‘in the air.’ The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a futuristic science-fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a leisurely walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum.
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Day 5: Sacred Way and on to Olympia
Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert, passing the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall. You’ll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words.’ Continue to Olympia where dinner is served in your hotel.
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Day 6: Ancient Olympia
It’s all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C. in dedication to the god Zeus. See the Temple of Zeus, the athletes gymnasium and the stadium of Olympia. The starting and finishing markers for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef for an entertaining cooking demonstration, followed by a dinner of authentic Greek flavors.
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Day 7: Mycenae and Nafplio
Visit the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones used to build the city walls. Later, meet the artisans and view beautiful works of art at a family-run pottery studio. Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio, known for its beautiful architecture, colorful shops and cafes. Your journey continues, following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal, dividing the Peloponnese and mainland Greece, and arriving in Athens.
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Day 8: At Sea from Athens
This morning is at leisure. In the afternoon, board your cruise ship and set sail for the blue waters of the Mediterranean. While cruising, enjoy an exquisite variety of Mediterranean dishes as well as flavors, aromas and spices from around the world. Once you embark, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are served on board daily. Your cruise includes complimentary drinks package including a selection of alcohol, soft-drinks, tea and coffee.
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Day 9: Mykonos
The day is yours to relax and explore Mykonos, with its dazzling white-washed windmills. In the evening, a maze of walkways and welcoming tavernas are yours to discover.
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Day 10: Milos.
After a pleasant morning cruising the Aegean, arrive in Milo where you enjoy plenty of time at leisure. Venture through this gorgeous island, admire its sheer white cliffs, before departing for Santorini.
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Day 11: Santorini
Wake up in Santorini, famous for its white cuboid houses that cling to the sheer cliffs. Enjoy the day at leisure exploring the capital Thira, or relaxing on its black volcanic beaches. Later join a Local Expert for a visit to the Cycladic village of Oia, one of the most authentic villages on the island.
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Day 12: Santorini free time.
Enjoy another full day at leisure on this magnificent island.
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Day 13: Cruise to Crete.
Cruise to Crete, home to the birthplace of Zeus according to the Greek mythology. There is time at leisure to explore the capital, Heraklion, site of King Minos' Palace of Knossos.
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Day 14: Kusadasi or Samos
Today you may choose to explore the Turkish port of Kusadasi and journey to the ruined city of Ephesus where your Local Expert will guide you through one of the world's finest archaeological sites. Alternatively, spend the day on the Greek island of Samos, birthplace of the mathematician Pythagoras. In the evening sail back to Athens
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Day 15: Athens Free Day.
Disembark this morning and transfer to your hotel where you are at leisure. Relax, shop or bargain in the flea market. Perhaps ask about an optional excursion to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.
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Day 16: Depart Athens.
Your journey ends with transfers to the airport.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
The prices shown above include Port Taxes of $373, Tips & Fuel Surcharge and are accurate as of August 8, 2017.
This tour does not use base category cabins, all cabins are outside.
Price is per person and is based on two people twin share in a Premium (XD) Cabin. Single rooms are available at a supplement. Standard (XB) cabins are available at a lesser price, and upgrades to Premiere (XF) cabins are also available for an additional charge; please inquire for full pricing details.
Single Room Supplement: from $870 p.p.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
Included Quality Dining
6 Breakfasts (BB), and 5 Dinners (D) all with tea or coffee.
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners on board the cruise are included, as well as a beverage package of select alcohol and soft drinks.
Signature Experiences
Athens:
- Ascend the ‘Sacred Rock', the Acropolis, to admire the Parthenon built in 5th century BC as well as the smaller Temple of Athena Nike and ‘Porch of the Maidens'.
Mycenae:
- Walk through the Lion Gate past the royal ‘beehive' tombs where Schliemann uncovered golden treasure, hearing tales of Agamemnon (hacked to death in his bath by his wife Klytemnestra!).
Argolis:
- View beautiful works of art during your visit to a family-run pottery studio, which embraces traditional methods.
Epidaurus:
- Visit the Sanctuary of Asklepios. In the centre of the enclosure stood the temple dedicated to the god of medicine. Visit the museum, as well as the best preserved open-air theatre in the whole of Greece.
Olympia:
- Olympia was the original location of the Olympic Games, held every four years during a 1,000-year period as a celebration of the Hellenic spirit. Here lie the ruins of temples and treasures dedicated to Zeus, King of the Gods.
Delphi:
- Ascend the Sacred Way, once lined with offertory temples. See the reconstructed Athenian Treasury and pass the superb Polygonal Wall to reach the Temple of Apollo, where the people would seek divine wisdom from the mysterious Oracle.
Meteora:
- Visit one of the remarkable, centuries-old monasteries of Meteora, teetering on towers of rock, and arguably the most spectacular place to visit in Greece.
Ephesus
- Visit one of the best preserved ancient cities in the world, Ephesus, with a local specialist. See the famous temple to the goddess Artemis, and the house of the Virgin Mary, an important pilgrimage site. At the height of its power in the 2nd century AD, the city was home to almost 300,000 people.
Cruise:
- Visit Mykonos, Milos, Santorini, Crete, Kusadasi (or Samos).
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Kalambaka
Majestic Metsovo
Adult Price: € 47.00
Travel through the beautiful countryside of Thessalia, towards Epirus and on to the stunning Greek mountain village of Metsovo. We'll visit the Katogi Averoff winery and explore the cellars boasting over 1200 oak barrels in which their red wine matures. Our host shares their passion and knowledge of the winery and its production, before inviting us to savour a meal of local delicacies at the winery’s restaurant. Afterwards stroll through the charming village and perhaps sit in one of picturesque leafy shaded square and try a “tsipouro” a feisty traditional digestive liquor!
Mykonos
Mykonian Countryside Tour With Hora & Little Venice
Adult Price: € 67.00
We set off from Mykonos town (Chora) with our local expert and stop at the beach of Ornos, a picturesque fishing harbour and then on to the small beaches of Agia Anna and Kalafatis. Afterwards we'll visit the traditional village of Ano Mera and the monastery of Panagia Tourliani, founded in 1542. The pretty village square is a perfect spot for a short break. Returning to Chora, we'll stop at Paraportiani, a famous whitewashed church complex. A few metres down we'll meet the Mykonos Folklore Museum, which is housed in an old two-storied merchant baron’s house. We continue towards the “Little Venice” of Mykonos, Alefkandra, with its windmills and the almost otherworldly sunsets where our trip culminates.
Milos
Nostalgic Milos - Land and Sea
Adult Price: € 110.00
A short drive from the harbor takes us to famous Sarakiniko beach and its landmark white rocks. Naturally sculpted by volcanic eruptions, the sea and strong Aegean winds, it’s the ideal backdrop for your snapshots. No wonder it’s one of the most photographed subjects in the Cyclades. We’ll walk down to the inlet for photo opportunities of this almost lunar landscape and swimming. The picturesque village of Plaka, at the feet of the Venetian castle, comes next. We’ll stroll through its cobblestone alleys, pass by traditional houses and blooming bougainvillea. We also have time to savor karpouzopita and koufeto, the local sweet delicacies at pastry shops, or head to the marble courtyard of Korfiatissa church for the best panoramic views – it’s next to the Folklore Museum, which we can visit optionally. Last but not least, we’ll drive to Kipos, passing by Papikinos beach and the Salt fields to board our “Delfinia” boat and start our journey towards Kleftiko. Once a pirate lair, its greyish rocks arise from the turquoise sea. We’ll also have the chance to swim through the sea caves. On the way to Kleftiko, the boat will make a shorter swimming stop at Gerondas beach.
Milos
Step Back In Time
Adult Price: € 74.00
Step back in time with us on the incredible volcanic island of Milos, one of the most beautiful places on earth. A short drive takes us to Sarakiniko, an inlet of pure white almost lunar stone. This startlingly otherworldly spot is one of the island’s many wonders and one of the most photographed places in the Cyclades. We'll continue along the dramatic coastline to the cobblestone streets and alleys of Plaka, a classic Cycladic village of white stone houses and bougainvillea flowers. Then, it's off to the ruins of ancient Melos and its Roman amphitheater, which is cut into a rocky slope near the ancient agora. Finally, we'll visit the award-winning Mining Museum to understand how the rich geology of Milos shaped the island’s history.
Heraklion
Minoan Palace Of Knossos - 1st European Civilization
Adult Price: € 74.00
The ancient city of Knossos the residence of the wise King Minos and the Minotaur, with constant habitation from the Neolithic era until the 5th century A.D., is beyond doubt the land that “gave birth” to the first civilization of Europe, the Minoans. The palace of Knossos spreads around a large Central Court. You will reach the awe inspiring Throne Room, the fresco of the “Prince of the Lilies”, the imposing Grand Staircase, the Queen’s Megaron. Walking through the apartments of the Knossos palace and observing the finds even as passers-by, you will feel part of this cultural heritage.
Samos
Pythagoras Island: Culture, Scenery, Winery
Adult Price: € 67.00
Starting from Pythagorio and heading towards Vathy, the capital of the island, our first stop is the Samos Wine Museum. We'll discover the tradition, procedure and artistry of the local wine production processes. We'll also learn about the vats and the process behind creating the local white Muscat variety, which reigns supreme over this land. Next, after navigating an amazing, verdant route, is the seaside village of Kokkari. It is one of the most developed villages of Samos and its picturesque qualities are seen through its alleyways and houses, its little port and its enviable beaches. Here you will have the free time to stroll around and search out interesting shops and places.
Athens
Dinner "Meze" Style In Psiri
Adult Price: € 50.00
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at a wonderful restaurant located in the lively area of Psiri. Dining is “meze style”, giving you the opportunity to taste many Greek cuisine dishes, which are served in the centre of the table. Also enjoy the local free-flowing wine! (Casual dress).
Athens
Cape Sounion
Adult Price: € 40.00
Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, thereby giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
Athens
Traditional Greek Taverna Meal With Entertainment
Adult Price: € 55.00
This is an evening excursion to a taverna in the centre of Athens. Excellent traditional Greek food in a lively atmosphere, entertained through dances and music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are also included. Although the venue does have an official ending time, guests are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in with the local residents! (Casual dress)
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
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Currency
The currency in Greece is the Euro (€) and in Turkey is the Lira (₺). While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive on your trip, you can use your debit and credit card to pay in most places and will usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in Greece. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
One of the most enjoyable parts of traveling is sampling the local cuisine. Mediterranean food is simple, delicious, and centered on a variety of fresh seafood, produce, cheeses and baked goods. Try Greek salad prepared with tomatoes, feta, olive oil and herbs as well as other popular dishes including grilled lamb, octopus, eggplant and spanakopita. Olives, cheese and flatbread make a tasty snack paired with a glass of chilled white wine.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Keep in mind that your shoulders and knees should be covered while visiting religious sites. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
Tipping at restaurants is less common than in the U.S. It is appropriate, although not required, to leave an extra euro or two for good service.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
The cruise portion of your guided vacation will be operated by our award-winning partner company, Celestyal Cruises. With 30 years of experience, Celestyal Cruises is the preeminent cruise line for the Greek Islands and Turkey, and visits more Greek ports than any other cruise operator. On all of our cruises, you will enjoy authentic Greek hospitality, savor local flavors, and admire the diverse and beautiful landscapes of the eastern Mediterranean.
Click HERE to view a PDF of the ship's deck plan.
Price is per person and is based on two people twin share in a Premium (XD) Cabin. Single rooms are available at a supplement. Standard (XB) cabins are available at a lesser price, and upgrades to Premiere (XF) cabins are also available for an additional charge; please inquire for full pricing details.
Please note that Celestyal Cruises reserves the right to change vessels at short notice for operational purposes.
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
