Greek Odyssey + Greece & Turkey Cruise (outside cabin)
Admire the fascinating ancient and modern marvels of Greece before joining a seven night cruise around the beautiful Greek Islands and Turkish coast.
Your Itinerary
DAY 1: UK - Athens.
Fly to Athens where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for one night.
DAY 2: Athens - Kalambaka.
Dominated by its stunning Acropolis, Athens ranks alongside Rome as one of Europe's most historic cities. This morning's included sightseeing tour features a good introduction to the highlights of Athens. This afternoon, drive to Kalambaka in the Meteora region for one night. (B, D)
DAY 3: Kalambaka - Meteora - Delphi.
Today's included trip is sure to be a highlight of your tour. Head to the heart of Meteora, where a cluster of monastic buildings sits perched atop natural pillar-like rock formations, hundreds of metres above the valley floor. Their spectacular and seemingly inaccessible position provided an ideal retreat for the hermit monks who live here and today, the unusual rock spires topped by well-preserved monasteries provide an unforgettable sight. This afternoon, drive to Delphi for one night. (B)
DAY 4: Delphi - Olympia.
Start your day in Delphi with a fascinating archaeological site visit. Set close to the village, the ancient site, backed by imposing Mount Parnassus, is in one of the most beautiful natural settings in the country. Your visit with a local guide takes you along the Sacred Way to see the Temple of Apollo, some of the Treasuries and the Theatre. This afternoon follow the Gulf of Corinth through Nafpaktos to Antirion. Journey over the spectacular bridge to Rion before reaching Olympia for one night. (B, D)
DAY 5: Olympia - Epidaurus - Nauplia.
Olympia is the original home of the Olympic Games, which were first held in 776BC, and was considered to be a sacred precinct to the God Zeus, whose temple once housed one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This morning's visit with a local guide includes the ancient stadium where the Games were held and the temples of Zeus and his wife Hera. Later, head to Epidaurus to visit the world famous theatre (entrance fee included) before continuing to Nauplia for one night. (B)
DAY 6: Nauplia - Mycenae - Corinth - Athens.
Enjoy a guided visit to the imposing ruins of Mycenae, an ancient city once dubbed the 'city rich in gold' by Homer. The Golden Mask of Agamemnon was unearthed here as well as many other treasures that exactly matched Homer's descriptions in the Iliad. Enter the city through the magnificent Lion's Gate and admire Agamemnon's Royal Palace. This afternoon, stop at the impressive Corinth Canal before continuing to Athens. (B)
DAY 7: Athens - Piraeus - embarkation.
Transfer to Piraeus to board your Louis cruise ship. Set sail and cruise overnight towards Istanbul. (B, L, D)
DAY 8: Istanbul.
Arrive in Istanbul this evening in time to catch the sunset over the Bosphorus. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: Istanbul - Izmir.
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Istanbul, home to some of the world's greatest historic treasures such as the Blue Mosque, with it's precious Iznik tiles, and the Topkapi Palace, containing the treasures of Ottoman sultans. This evening, set sail for Izmir. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: Izmir - Patmos.
Reach Izmir and spend an afternoon at leisure. Leave in the evening and sail towards Patmos. (B, L, D)
DAY 11: Patmos - Mykonos - Rhodes.
After an early morning arrival and a short stop in Patmos, travel to traditional yet sophisticated island of Mykonos this afternoon, enjoy free time to wander the winding, white-washed lanes or join the optional to the nearby island of Delos, the birthplace of the god of the sun, Apollo, and a sacred island in ancient times. In the evening, leave for Rhodes. (B, L, D)
DAY 12: Rhodes.
Explore Rhodes town, a beautifully preserved and UNESCO-protected walled town, just a short walk from the port. Stroll down the Street of Knights, or visit the Palace of the Grand Masters. Don't miss the optional excursion to town and Acropolis of Lindos. This evening, sail for Crete. (B, L, D)
DAY 13: Crete - Santorini.
Two beautiful islands on the agenda today; spend the morning in Heraklion on Crete and the afternoon in Santorini. (B, L, D)
DAY 14: Piraeus - Athens.
Disembark in Piraeus and return to Athens where the remainder of the day is at leisure. (B)
DAY 15: Athens - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)
Accommodation on Tour
Athens: Acropolis Select (B category); Kalambaka: Famisi (B category); Delphi: Acropole or Parnassos (B category); Olympia: Olympia Palace (A category); Nauplia: Rex (B category).
Your Holiday Map
Greek Odyssey + Greece & Turkey Cruise (outside cabin)
Louis Cruise Ship
Well-designed and comfortable, Louis Cruise ships are compact yet comfortable, combining modern facilities with high standards of personal service. All Louis Cruise Line ships offer a range of facilities, a friendly atmosphere, good dining options and a choice of on board entertainment. The capacity of each ship varies from approximately 650 to 1,000 passengers, making them ideal for cruising the Greek Islands.
Public Room & Facilities
Swimming pool; restaurant; bar; lounge; evening entertainment; casino, cinema or disco; gift shops; card room or library; gym; lifts.
Dining
Your cruise includes full board. There is one main restaurant; breakfast and lunch are open seating with dinner taken at two sittings. There is no dress code during the day in the restaurant, but most passengers choose smart/casual attire for dinner (shorts and vests are not permitted in the dining room). During your cruise there will usually be a welcome and farewell gala dinner, a Greek night and a late night snack buffet. Vegetarian meals or special dietary requirements should be requested at the time of booking.
Cabins
All cabins are air-conditioned, simply furnished and have en suite shower and wc. Your holiday price is based on a 2 berth inside cabin with private facilities or you may choose to upgrade to an outside cabin.
Tipping
For your convenience, an automatic tipping system operates on board the ship. Approximately 8 euros per person per day will be added to your account. This amount can be adjusted at your own discretion, should you wish.
Optional Excursions
To help you plan and make the most of your holiday, below is a list of optional excursions available to you.
BY NIGHT
Late afternoon take a small caique to the little island of Bourtzi with free time to explore. Then sail back to Nauplion to enjoy a dinner in a typical small Greek restaurant in the old part of town.
€30 (Euro)
A TASTE OF ATHENS
First by coach into the centre of Athens where you will pick up the "train" which will take you at a leisurely pace for about 20 minutes around the old part of Athens, the "Plaka" - a good way to get a first impression of the layout, shops and points of interest. Re-board your coach to continue to a Taverna for a Greek feast with unlimited local wine. On the way back to the hotel view the illuminated Acropolis.
€55 (Euro)
ACROPOLIS MUSEUM
A guided tour of the new Acropolis Museum, which was opened in 2009 and has been cited as one of the most important museums in the world. All the finds from the Acropolis have been collected here - more than 4000 art crafts are on display.
€30 (Euro)
PALACE OF KNOSSOS
Crete is the largest and the most rugged of the Greek islands. It is also the home of the great Minoan Civilization and the mythological home of Zeus. After a short drive through the town of Heraklion the tour will arrive at the Knossos excavations. Your guide will lead you on a journey of discovery to learn of the sophisticated culture that flourished thousands of years ago on this island.
€59 (Euro)
A TASTE OF CRETE
rney continues through rural villages and hilly countryside, with a photo stop to view one of the oldest farmhouses. The tour continues through the island's. At the quaint market town of Archanes, you can sample an assortment of Cretan snacks and locally produced wine, while listening to typical Greek live music.
€56 (Euro)
SANTORINI SAILING & VOLCANO
Sail along the strange formations of the volcanic shores, where black lava rocks and white pumice are combined beautifully with the red colour of lava. Take a walk to the top of the volcanic island where sulphur is spewed into the air by one of the craters. In the distance, admire the breathtaking sight of Thira town with its white washed houses clinging precariously on the rim of the Caldera. Take time to swim in the warm waters heated by Hot Springs.
€57 (Euro)
THIRA & OIA VILLAGE
Travelling along the road you will have the unique opportunity to admire the panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the neighbouring islands. Built on the Caldera rim, Oia Village is an excellent example of Cycladic architecture. Explore the village walking along the cobble-stone streets, then proceed to the town of Thira, an attractive town perched on the Caldera rim. Time to stroll through the lanes or relax over a coffee.
€57 (Euro)
ST. JOHN MONASTERY & GROTTO
Enjoy a short drive to the village of Chora, where the Monastery of St. John is built within the walls of a strong fortification then continue to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse and the Monastery of the Apocalypse above it. Afterwards, return back to the port of Scala for some free time in this quaint and picturesque town.
€52 (Euro)
SCENIC ISLAND TOUR
An interesting tour has been designed for those passengers who prefer to discover the beauties of Patmos by coach. Drive to the central part of the island "Chora" and continue around the island to see its landscape of outstanding natural beauty. The tour ends at the port of Scala with free time in the quaint and picturesque little town. A refreshment will be offered at Arion Café, the oldest and most beautiful café of the town.
€41 (Euro)
HIGHLIGHTS OF ISTANBUL
Begin the excursion with a drive through the business centre of the modern city. Continue around the mighty citywalls. In the Old City, the first visit will be to the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once one of the largest chariot race arenas in the Byzantine Empire, the Sultanahmet Mosque decorated with 21,000 blue Iznik tiles from where it gets its name, the "Blue Mosque". Walk to the world famous monument of Hagia Sophia. Return to the ship for lunch on board. After lunch continue the tour with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans. During the tour you will also have the opportunity to get a cultural taste of Turkey with an exhibition of oriental carpets, jewellery or leather goods.
€99 (Euro)
HIGHLIGHTS OF ISTANBUL+LUNCH
Begin the excursion with a drive through the business centre of the modern city. Continue around the mighty citywalls. In the Old City, the first visit will be to the Byzantine Hippodrome, which was once one of the largest chariot race arenas in the Byzantine Empire, the Sultanahmet Mosque decorated with 21,000 blue Iznik tiles from where it gets its name, the "Blue Mosque". Walk to the world famous monument of Hagia Sophia, then through the large gardens to Konyali Restaurant and experience typical Turkish cuisine. After lunch continue the tour with a visit to the Topkapi Palace, the official residence of the Ottoman Sultans. During the tour you will also have the opportunity to get a cultural taste of Turkey with an exhibition of oriental carpets, jewellery or leather goods.
€107 (Euro)
ISTANBUL BY NIGHT
A short drive through the illuminated streets of Istanbul you will arrive at one of the best known Night Club of Istanbul. Enjoy a variety of Turkish specialties while you are entertained by Turkish musicians, belly dancers and folk dancers, performing dances from different regions of Turkey. At the end of the show, join in the singing of popular and favourite songs.
€78 (Euro)
SECRET TREASURES OF ISTANBUL
This tour is designed to give you a glimpse of the best and the most famous monuments in Istanbul remaining from the Byzantine Empire era. First an interesting tour of Istanbul with a drive through the business centre of the modern city. Continue with a drive along the ancient Byzantine city walls. Visit the ancient church of St. Sergius and Bachus. The tour continues with a visit to an Underground Cistern and to Balat area, another historical part of Istanbul, for lunch at a restaurant. After lunch, drive to Rustem Pasha Mosque, located at Eminonu close to the Spice Market.
€62 (Euro)
SCENIC BOSPHORUS
Start the tour with a short drive through the modern city of Istanbul. The impressive Süleymaniye Mosque can be seen on the way. Then board on a boat for your exciting trip on the Bosphorus. You will have the chance to take amazing photographs sailing between the European shore and the Asian shore.
€57 (Euro)
RHODES & LINDOS
Drive along the picturesque south-eastern coastline, dotted with white-washed villages, to Lindos, one of the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. From the Acropolis, marvel at the breathtaking views covering the great expanse of the Aegean Sea. After the guided tour of the Acropolis, enjoy some free time on your own in Lindos village. Return to Rhodes city for a short visit to a ceramic factory.
€55 (Euro)
OLD CITY & PHILERIMOS
Drive along the medieval walls to the summit of Mount Smith, the Acropolis of ancient Rhodes. The view encompasses the nearby Temple of Apollo, the stadium of Diagoras and the port, once protected by the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The drive continues across the island to Philerimos to the restored Byzantine Church. After the visit and some free time, return to Rhodes for a guided walk of the old walled city.
€56 (Euro)
MYKONOS-APOLLO SANCT OF DELOS
Delos, once a Sacred Island, is the legendary birthplace of the Sun God Apollo. Depart by boat, to the ancient harbour of Delos where you begin the guided walking tour. See Agora and the Sacred Way, which leads to the Temple of Apollo and the remains of a Hellenistic Quarter with its harbour and many interesting buildings. Continue and admire the spectacular Avenue of the Lions, vigilantly guarding the now dry sacred lake.
€57 (Euro)
BUTTERFLIES VALLEY & WALKING
Drive along the western side of the island of Rhodes, where lies the Valley of the Butterflies, one of the most attractive destinations on the island. Driving back to Rhodes Town continue the tour on foot, following the guide through the narrow, cobblestone streets. The most imposing building of medieval Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Masters, dominates the end of the Street of the Knights that goes through colorful shops to the 15th century Hospital of the Knights which now houses the Archaeological Museum.
€51 (Euro)
IZMIR CITY TOUR
Izmir is Turkey's third largest city. It has always been famous for its port, which is one of the most important in the country for trade and exports of dried figs, sultanas and hazelnuts, and at first glance looks like an extremely modern city. But traces of Izmir's ancient past will appear before your eyes in all their magnificence amidst the skyscrapers and concrete apartment blocks. Indeed, right in the heart of the city you can admire the remains of the ancient agora. Many of the exhibits on display at Izmir's New Archaeological Museum, another remarkable stop on your itinerary, were discovered in the agora. The Museum's three large galleries (dedicated to statues, objects and ceramics respectively) are equipped with a modern lighting system that will guide you through the numerous precious exhibits on an evocative journey through history.
€56 (Euro)
IZMIR-PERGAMUM
Depart from the port of Izmir for an itinerary of great historical interest which will take you, in more or less 1 ½ hours, to Pergamum. The main centre, together with Alexandria, of the Hellenistic civilisation in the East and capital of the Roman province of Asia, Pergamum enjoyed over three centuries of economical prosperity which resulted in exceptional cultural and artistic development.You will visit the "ASKELEPION" complex built to honour ASCLEPIO, god of medicine (ESCULAPIO for the Romans), former place of worship and therapeutical centre among the most celebrated in the ancient world. After a short drive you will board the cable car and where en-route you will enjoy an awesome scenery. You will then reach the ACROPOLIS which dominates the surrounding plain from a height of 275 m. Originally fenced by three walls, of which few traces remain, on this rocky spur many temples, palaces, public and private buildings were erected. After this wonderful visit you will re-board the cable car and reach the parking lot. Return to Izmir and the ship.
€69 (Euro)
Please note that optional excursions and prices are subject to change.
Greek Odyssey + Greece & Turkey Cruise (outside cabin) 14 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and departure month, update the calendar then select your holiday.
Greek Odyssey + Greece & Turkey Cruise (outside cabin) 14 nights
Availability and our best prices for all dates
Select the number in your party and accommodation options. Then select your holiday from the grid.

| Earlier Dates | Date | Depart From | Price from PP | Later Dates | |||||
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| 23 Jun 2012 |
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| 23 Jun 2012 | Aberdeen |
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| 23 Jun 2012 | Birmingham |
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| 23 Jun 2012 | London Gatwick |
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| 23 Jun 2012 | London Heathrow |
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| 23 Jun 2012 | Manchester |
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Greek Odyssey + Greece & Turkey Cruise (outside cabin)
Price from £1689.00
What's Included
- Flights: UK - Athens - UK
- Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities in hotels and as per cruise ship details
- Meals 14 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L) and 9 dinners (D)
- Services of a tour director on tour
- Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
- Individual Audio System you will be given headphones and a receiver so you can always hear the tour director/local guides on the coach and on visits (tour only).
- Transfers between overseas airport, hotels and cruise ship
- All local, port and airport taxes/service charges
All this included
- Athens City sightseeing
- Meteora Visit
- Delphi Archaeological site with local guide and museum visit
- Olympia Archaeological site with local guide and museum visit
- Peloponnese Scenic drive
- Epidaurus Theatre visit
- Mycenae Archaeological site with local guide and museum visit
- Corinth Canal View
- Istanbul
- Mykonos
- Patmos
- Kusadasi
- Rhodes
- Crete
- Santorini
Departures from
- Aberdeen
- Birmingham
- London Gatwick
- London Heathrow
- Manchester
Departures between
23 Jun 2012 to 20 Apr 2013
NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable). Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our air-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme
© Copyright 2012. All rights reserved. All holidays and offers are subject to availability.
