From Istanbul To Athens With Europa 2 2014

This is the time to personalize your cruise experience—you can participate in any or all the activities scheduled onboard or do nothing more strenuous than lift an umbrella drink while reading a book poolside.

 

The town of Mitilini spreads upwards from the harbor into the hills, and is crowned by an enormous castle whose foundations were laid during the time of the Byzantine emperor Justinian. It is an excellent starting place for visits to picturesque mountain villages, their cobbled streets and pastel-hued houses set on pine and olive covered slopes, This is the real Greece, where life revolves around the village square, and much local flavor can be absorbed by spending time in the cafes that surround it. This is best accomplished over a glass of ouzo, the anise flavored spirit that is Greece’s most popular drink, and for which Lesbos is famous.

 

Near Volos you can see some amazing constructions: the Meteora monasteries* were built several centuries ago hundreds of metres high up on huge rock pillars. Visit the nuns and monks in their breathtaking homes, and you will be given some exclusive insights into life behind the monastery walls. Or you can take a hike on Mount Pelion*. If you prefer to travel in comfort, the 100-year old narrow-gauge railway* will take you over viaducts and through the magnificent mountain scenery.

 

With its popular beaches and European-style shops and restaurants along the waterfront, Kusadasi is primarily regarded as a resort town frequented by cruise ships and populated by European holiday-goers. Kusadasi is a lively resort that has something to offer everyone. Whether you like exploring, relaxing on one of the many beautiful beaches or snapping up a bargain, Kusadasi has it allPigeon Island, also known as Bird Island, is the symbol of Kusadasi and where the name Kusadasi (meaning Bird Island) originated from. Visit the ancient city of Ephesus and the Virgin Mary’s House The large set of Aegean ruins at Ephesus—including the House of Virgin Mary, Basilica of St. John, and Temple of Artemis—lure travelers away from the city, as do the smaller but equally important sites at Priene, Didyma, and Miletus.

 

Located on the eastern borderline of the Aegean Sea, Patmos is the northernmost island of the Dodecanese island group.Its interesting landscape features low barren hills succeeded by small plateaux, while its lacy coastline is deeply intended by tens of promontories forming countless picturesque bays and coves.

 

Idra is a true gem amongst Greek islands. The inhabitants have done a great deal to maintain this traditional idyll. You will find neither cars nor illuminated advertising on the island. Idra port is enchanting with its mules, captain’s mansions built in natural stone and the historic harbour. Walk through the narrow streets, try a mocha coffee and allow yourself to be captivated by the serene charm of the place.

 

Piraeus is the main port of Athens, the biggest in Greece, and one of the most important in the Mediterranean Sea. Piraeus is walking distance from Kastella, a hill strewn with beautiful houses that offers a majestic view of the Saronic Gulf. Other points of interest include an archaeological museum, Mikrolimano, where you can enjoy an ouzo accompanied by seafood mezedes.