Enjoy two nights in Athens at the NJV Athens Plaza Hotel (or similar) on a bed-and-breakfast basis, with private transfers between the airport, hotel, and port, plus a half-day guided tour of Athens’ highlights, including the Acropolis and its museum.
Then, set sail on a 14-night Mediterranean Icons Celestyal cruise where history, culture, breathtaking scenery, and mouthwatering cuisine come together in perfect harmony. Journey through Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, Turkey, Greece, and its islands, discovering world-famous sights and hidden gems along the way. Admire natural wonders in Kefalonia, explore architectural marvels in Dubrovnik and Kotor, and savour Italian delicacies in Bari. Relax in the cafés of Corfu and Thessaloniki, step back in time at Olympia, Athens, and ancient Ephesus, and hear the legends of Crete.
Feel the buzz of modern life with late-night stays in Santorini and Mykonos, and a full day in the enchanting landscape of Milos.
Welcome to Athens the birthplace of Western Civilization, the Capital of Greece!
Upon arrival at Athens International Airport meet with your English-speaking escort and transfer to your hotel.
Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Athens at NJV Athens Plaza Hotel or similar.
After breakfast, enjoy a Half Day Tour including Athens sightseeing, Acropolis site & Acropolis Museum.
Drive past key city landmarks such as the Temple of Zeus, the Old Stadium, Syntagma Square, the Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the National Library, and the National Gardens.
On the Acropolis, admire the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion with its Caryatids, and the iconic Parthenon. Nearby, the Acropolis Museum—designed with modern materials and bioclimatic features—offers a striking view of the Acropolis and a world-class display of ancient treasures.
The remaining of the afternoon is at leisure.
Overnight in Athens at NJV Athens Plaza Hotel or similar.
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy a private transfer to the port to start your cruise.
Depart 13:00
The ultimate voyage for those craving history, culture and beauty, our 14-night Mediterranean Icons Celestyal cruise invites you to soak up the serene atmosphere of spellbinding destinations across the islands and beyond. Uncover secrets behind the turquoise coastline that have been cherished for centuries. Unearth the legends of ancient Olympia, see for yourself Kefalonia’s mesmerizing cave and taste the treasures grown in Montenegro’s verdant lands. As you scale ancient city walls, stroll along charming fishing harbors and climb volcanic peaks, you’ll get a unique glimpse into the wonders of the natural world and lives from long ago.
Arrive at 09:00 | Depart at 16:00
Fir covered lands dotted with charming villages meet a sparkling coastline on Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island. Delve further into this jewel’s beauty. See nature’s best work in the Melissani Cave where sublime colors reflect off lake within. Or watch yachts jostle as you sip a drink and enjoy the sunset on the harbor of one of the fishing villages.
Depart at 12:00
As we draw closer to Dubrovnik, all eyes will be on the towering city walls. Take the chance to walk along them to gain a unique perspective of the limestone streets, baroque architecture and the shimmer of turquoise beckoning beyond. Then head further into the city’s myriad streets to soak up the atmosphere in seemingly endless bars, cafes and restaurants
Depart at 17:00
Where red rooftops contrast with crystal blue waters and towering peaks. Kotor’s spectacular bay is an awe inspiring backdrop to a medieval maze of stunning architecture, Venetian palaces, ornate churches, museums and squares sprinkled with cafes, bars and restaurants.
Kotor is a UNESCO world heritage site with a 2,000 year history that can be traced back all the way to its ancient Roman beginnings. This historic city is absolutely mesmerising. Explore the monumental city walls built in the Middle Ages and criss-cross the narrow streets to the most recognisable symbol of the city, the Cathedral of St Tryphon, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.
Depart at 17:00
Transport yourself to the captivating port town of Bari, nestled in the stunning region of Puglia, Italy. Immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant charm, as you explore its ancient streets and marvel at its architectural wonders. As you wander through the bustling local markets, let the scent of freshly baked focaccia and the lively chatter of locals embrace you, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the authentic Puglian lifestyle
Depart at 18:00
Corfu Town is cosmopolitan, charming and friendly. You can easily lose yourself here as you explore the narrow alleyways, soak up the atmosphere and meet the locals at one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants. You may be surprised by the Italian feel, largely thanks to the Venetian architecture, but you won’t be surprised by the Greek warm welcome
Depart at 15:00
As you dock in the sleepy fishing village of Katakolo, you would never imagine the secret gem it guards. Nearby, the ancient city of Olympia bears a wealth of priceless artefacts and sculptures. Feel the awe that remains in the world-famous home of the Olympic Games. Here you also have the chance to unwind on a 50-mile sandy beach with crystalline blue waters
Arrival 7:00
Depart 17:00
You will leave the historic and classical capital of Greece and set sail to Kusadasi.
Arrive 08:00 | Depart 18:00
Enjoy a guided tour of ancient Ephesus, including the Temple of Artemis. Stroll the scenic seafront promenade and browse the Grand Bazaar before returning to the ship.
MONDAY - Arrive 08:00 | Depart 18:00
Visit the Acropolis of Lindos and explore the medieval Old Town with its Ottoman and Italian architecture. Discover dramatic landscapes and charming hillside villages.
Arrive 08:00 | Depart 20:00
From one evocative island to another. Crete is Greece’s largest island and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean, a place of myths and legends. There will be the opportunity to visit the capital Heraklion and absorb some of its extraordinary history.
Arrive 08:00 | Depart 22:00
Santorini is instantly recognisable and we are sure she will take your breath away, with her soaring landscapes, clusters of whitewashed houses in the capital, Fira, incredible sunsets and, of course the iconic blue-domed church at Oia. And don’t forget to try one of the many restaurants jostling for position at the edge of the caldera. In the evening you can explore at leisure or simply relax on the deck sipping cocktails or a glass of fine wine.
* Tendering weather permitting.
Arrive 08:00
Depart 02:00am
The Island of the Winds awaits. We have a full day for sightseeing or just strolling through the atmospheric Old Town with its immaculate whitewashed houses, winding alleys, lovely little churches and delightful restaurants. You will undoubtedly recognise the picture postcard white windmills sitting side by side, overlooking the sea. You may also want to see the ancient temples on neighbouring Delos.
* Tendering weather permitting.
Arrive 08:00 | Depart 18:00
You may be asleep when we depart Mykonos but we will be in Milos, the Island of Colours, at breakfast time. You will have time to explore the capital, Plaka, 2,000-year-old catacombs or simply soak up the sun on the flat rocks of stunning Sarakiniko Beach. The real beauty of this truly gorgeous island is to be found in its stunning landscapes, wind and sea-sculptured rock formations, soft sandy beaches, secluded coves and crystal-clear aquamarine waters. The island’s most famous export is the Venus de Milo.
* Tendering weather permitting.
SATURDAY - Arrive 08:00
Arrive back in Athens at 7am.
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