Greece, Egypt & Turkey Cruise: Athens, Alexandria & Antalya

You could spend a lifetime in Europe’s oldest city and still not see everything it has to offer. Settled over 3,500 years ago, Athens is like a mythological crossroads of the past and present, where modern buildings share the skyline with spectacular ruins like the Parthenon. To see a veritable “greatest hits” line-up, make your way to Vasilissis Amalias Street for the archaeological walk. Winding through the heart of the ancient city, the route leads to landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Ancient Agora, Arch of Hadrian, and of course, the Acropolis.

History is very much alive in Iraklion. The Fountain of the Lions, built by Morozini in 1628 during the Venetian occupation of Crete, dominates the central square. Today, the city's Town Hall is located in the Venetian Loggia, a building from the same era. Stroll among the shops and cafes surrounding the central square, or follow the old Venetian walls to Koules, a bastion overlooking the old harbor. Explore the archaeological site at Knossos and walk among Minoan findings displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Iraklion. Don't miss the Historical Museum of Iraklion, which houses findings from the early era of the Christian religion.

Alexandria is Egypt's second-largest city and its largest seaport. Known as "The Pearl of the Mediterranean," it's found by many to have an atmosphere and culture that is more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern. In ancient times, Alexandria was the capital of Greco-Roman Egypt; today, its a city synonymous with commerce and sophistication.

Alexandria is Egypt's second-largest city and its largest seaport. Known as "The Pearl of the Mediterranean," it's found by many to have an atmosphere and culture that is more Mediterranean than Middle Eastern. In ancient times, Alexandria was the capital of Greco-Roman Egypt; today, its a city synonymous with commerce and sophistication.

Built between the ancient towns of Amathus and Kourion during the Byzantine period, Limassol is Cyprus' major port and second-largest city. It offers a variety of activities, museums and castles. The medieval castle built around 1000 AD is the most famous. Legend has it that Richard the Lionheart married his fiancée, Princess Berengaria, with its walls. The city is also known for its local wines; stop by a local taverna and try a glass.

With its strategic position on a small peninsula, Alanya was once a stronghold for a multitude of empires over the centuries. You’ll experience this at the 13th century Alanya Castle, with walls that overlook the city and split the town’s sandy beach into two—Cleopatra Beach on one side and the Eastern Beach on the other.

This beautiful, ancient resort city settled in the 2nd century B.C. is home to many Byzantine churches and inspirational mosques. Take a step back in time into 130 A.D. and explore Hadrian's Gate and the symbol of the city, “Yivla Minare”.

Rhodes, the friendliest city in the Mediterranean, welcomes you with seemingly eternal sunshine thanks to more sunny days than any other place in Europe. Situated at the island's most northern point, Rhodes' only neighbors on the east and west are gleaming blue seas. This sunny retreat is also home to many historic sites ranging from the ruins of the Temple of Venus to the medieval Street of Knights.

You could spend a lifetime in Europe’s oldest city and still not see everything it has to offer. Settled over 3,500 years ago, Athens is like a mythological crossroads of the past and present, where modern buildings share the skyline with spectacular ruins like the Parthenon. To see a veritable “greatest hits” line-up, make your way to Vasilissis Amalias Street for the archaeological walk. Winding through the heart of the ancient city, the route leads to landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Ancient Agora, Arch of Hadrian, and of course, the Acropolis.

You could spend a lifetime in Europe’s oldest city and still not see everything it has to offer. Settled over 3,500 years ago, Athens is like a mythological crossroads of the past and present, where modern buildings share the skyline with spectacular ruins like the Parthenon. To see a veritable “greatest hits” line-up, make your way to Vasilissis Amalias Street for the archaeological walk. Winding through the heart of the ancient city, the route leads to landmarks like the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Ancient Agora, Arch of Hadrian, and of course, the Acropolis.