Sailing the Greek Isles is a dream for many cruisers and knowing the ins and outs of cruising to Greece can help you plan this once-in-a-lifetime trip as smoothly as possible. One of the best aspects of a European cruise is tasting local cuisine in each port and country you visit, and Greece will certainly not disappoint when it comes to food. We recommend allotting 1-2 hours per port day to sit down for a nice Greek meal. Not only will it offer much-needed rest in the shade on hot summer days, but you’ll be able to taste local and regional specialties.
While the scenery can change from port to port, expect to see tall, rugged mountains and some of the most turquoise water you’ll ever see. Nature lovers will appreciate the sheer variety of choices available on a Greek Isles cruise. If lounging by the beach is your idea of fun, you’ll find countless beautiful beaches to choose from. A Greek Isles cruise also offers plenty of hiking, kayaking, 4-wheeling, snorkelling & more.
ATHENS
Athens is a common embarkation port for a Greek Isles cruise. Your pre-cruise stay starts in Athens so you can have plenty of time for sightseeing over the next 2 days! The capital of Greece is a far cry from the quaint island villages you’ll find on a Greek Isles cruise, but it’s well worth a visit. With over 3 million people, Athens is a bustling city with a unique blend of ancient history and modern influences.
THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki is not an island; it’s located in mainland Greece and is the second biggest city in the country. Don’t let this deter you, though, as the city offers plenty of activities for all interests. Consider a day trip to Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece, which was regarded as the home of many Greek gods in Greek mythology. If you’d prefer to stay close to the port, the city’s cafe-lined waterfront is sure to be a relaxing place to dine as you watch Thessaloniki’s bustling city life pass by.
KUSADASI
Often included on a Greek Island cruise is the Turkish port of Kusadasi, where a visit to the classical ruins at nearby Ephesus is a must. Excavations of this ancient city has uncovered centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire. Its paved streets wind past squares, baths and monumental ruins including The Library of Celsus dating back to 110 A.D. and the Temple of Hadrian built not long after, for Emperor Hadrian’s visit.
HERAKLION & CRETE
Heraklion, also known as Iraklio, is a port city and the capital of the Greek island of Crete. It’s known for the Palace of Knossos, just outside the city. The huge archaeological site dates back thousands of years to the Minoan civilization and includes frescoes and baths. Guarding the city’s Venetian port is the 16th-century Koules fortress. Located on the Greek island of Crete, Chania is known for its colorful Venetian Harbor, which was built in the 14th century. Chania’s Old Town is a picture-perfect place to spend the day, but if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, don’t hesitate to book an excursion to discover Crete’s mountains and valleys.
SANTORINI
Santorini is perhaps the most well-known of the Greek Isles. The island is famous for its white buildings topped with blue domes, dramatic sunsets, and romantic atmosphere. Popular activities for a day in Santorini include exploring the town of Oia, visiting the Red Beach, and taking a catamaran tour through the island’s underwater volcano.
MYKONOS
Mykonos is another of Greece’s most popular islands, known for its beaches, villages, and nightlife. Cruise ships tender right off the coast of the Old Town, home to a maze of picturesque white stone buildings with cobalt blue doors. Don’t miss the historic Mykonos Windmills, where you can enjoy views of the island with a cool summer breeze. In Mykonos you’ll get to see the famous Mykonos windmills, constructed in the 1500’s to grind grain but which are now houses, museums and exhibition halls.
MILOS
To many, Milos is the most exotic island in the Aegean Sea because of its extraordinary colours and landscape and it is, without doubt, one of the most impressive in the Cyclades. Volcanic rocks paint the beaches red, pink & orange sunsets. In the afternoon, take a stroll in the quaint, colourful hamlet above the water known as Little Venice, where the ancient port of Milos used to be. What makes it special? The 35 sirmata – cave-like structures once used to store boats and now holiday homes. Wander around the little town, level with the water, and wait for sunset.
Click here for our Mediterranean & Greek Isles cruises. Alternatively you can call us on 1300 854 897 or email holidays@holidaysofaustralia.com.au
