Let the warm summer breeze from the Aegean Sea reach you while you walk through a Greek village. Book this bucket list European holiday and travel back to mythical times and the origins of the Minotaur, Olympian gods and goddesses, while enjoying a tour-and-cruise experience like no other.
Start your trip in Athens, a capital city where history and culture are alive in every corner, and where delicious cuisine, a traditional Greek coffee or a drink of ouzo are easy to find. Travel to Delphi, the centre of the world in ancient times, where the most important oracle in the ancient Greek world was located: the Oracle of Apollo. Stroll the archaeological site and museum to immerse in classical history. Encounter another ancient wonder in Meteora, where the rock formation hosts a surprising complex of Eastern Orthodox monasteries at the top. For quaint Greek villages in breathtaking locations, you’ll visit Kalambaka and Ioannina before returning to Athens for your cruise.
Onboard NCL’s “Norwegian Viva’ ship, travel like ancient royalty: Take a stroll on Ocean Boulevard, swim up to the horizon on Infinity Beach or delight in culinary excellence at Indulge Food Hall. Feel the rush of the fastest slides on the open ocean and then zoom around a three-level race track at sea. Enjoy a craft cocktail while listening to live music at The Local Bar & Grill. Enjoy ‘Beetlejuice The Musical’ straight from Broadway, then dance the night away at Ocean Music Fest, the ultimate jam session at sea.
This deal includes a premium beverage package and a speciality dining package, onboard wifi plus a $50 USD shore excursion credit while at sea, as part of NCL’s ‘Free At Sea’ package.
Sail to Thessaloniki in the north of Greece, where Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history collides with a relaxed, modern metropolis. Then cruise to Turkey, for a visit to Izmir, a rich archaeological site with 5000 years of history turned modern city. An overnight visit to Istanbul will allow you to get acquainted with landmarks such as the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque at your own pace.
Leave Turkey behind and return to Greece, where iconic islands await: Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes. Enjoy their buzzing nightlife, iconic whitewashed villages and sandy beaches, perfect for a summer ‘Mamma Mia’ moment. Special mention for Heraklion, on the island of Crete, a place that offers Venetian-style architecture and the Minoan Palace of Knossos, immortalised in Greek mythology by the legend of the Minotaur.
With an extra day of travel, Itinerary 2 offers a visit to Volos, a beautiful port, home to the Centaur’s Path and the Orthodox Church of Agioi Konstantinos and Eleni.
This fantastic package offers return international full-service flights, a 9-night NCL cruise on the 'Norwegian Viva’ ship, 6 nights in 4 & 5-star hotels, 32 meals, a Premium Beverage Package while cruising and much more.
Tailor this package to suit your needs. Add extra days in Athens pre or post-tour at checkout.
Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.
Today depart from Australia to Athens, Greece!
Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some customers may be required to depart on day 2, to arrive on day 2. Some customers may depart on Day 0. Flight times will be indicated on your final documentation, which you will receive 4-6 weeks prior to departure.
Meals included: In-Flight
Upon arrival into Athens International Airport, be met by a tour representative and transferred to the hotel. If it is too early for check in then luggage can be stored while you explore this magnificent city.
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city steeped in history and culture. Modern Athens is a bustling metropolis that blends ancient history with the pace and amenities of a contemporary city. It is rich in museums, including the National Archaeological Museum and the new Acropolis Museum.
Overnight: Ibis Styles Routes Hotel or similar
Meals included: None
After breakfast, pass through Arachova, a picturesque mountain town located in the region of Viotia and continue to Delphi, an ancient site in Greece, famously regarded throughout the classical world as the center of the universe and home to the most important oracle in the ancient Greek world—the Oracle of Apollo. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this UNESCO World Heritage site holds a unique place in Greek history and mythology. Visit of the archaeological site and the museum where you can see among archaeological treasures, the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos, the tyrant of Gela, in 478 B.C. when he won the chariot-race at the Pythian Games.
Travel distance is approximately 185 kilometres.
After the tour, check into the hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Amalia hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, drive to Kalambaka. Kalambaka is a small town in Thessaly, central Greece, situated at the base of the Meteora cliffs, one of the country's most extraordinary natural and historical sites.
This town serves as the gateway for visitors to the Meteora monasteries, combining natural beauty with rich cultural and religious history. Enjoy the afternoon at Meteora to watch the beautiful sunset. Marvel the supernatural mix of natural landscape and human-made constructions. Meteora is one of the most striking and unique landscapes in Europe, if not the world.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its towering rock formations and ancient monasteries perched atop them, creating a surreal and majestic environment that blends natural beauty with spiritual heritage. Travel distance today is approximately 220 kilometres.
Overnight: Meteora hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Leaving Kalambaka behind, drive through Metsovo village, a popular winter vacation destination before arriving in the beautiful city of Ioannina. Ioannina, often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Greece, is nestled on the western shore of Lake Pamvotida in the region of Epirus. This city combines historical significance, diverse cultural influences, and breathtaking natural surroundings, making it a unique and compelling destination. Enjoy a tour of the city, including the historic centre, view the castle, the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece, with its foundations laid in the 6th century and the Fethiye Mosque.
You will also have the opportunity to hop on one of the lake's boats (not included) and visit the islet within the lake to admire some beautiful monasteries. Be sure to taste and experience some local delicacies! The cuisine in Ioannina reflects its diverse history and geographical location, featuring a mix of Greek and Balkan influences. Local specialties include dishes such as pies (pita), grilled trout (fresh from the lake), and sweets like baklava and kataifi. The area is also known for its dairy products, particularly its cheeses like metsovone and feta.
Travel distance today is approximately 105 kilometres.
Overnight: The Lake hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, continue the journey back to the city of Athens, enjoying a short stop at the Corinth Canal on route.
The Corinth Canal is a crucial engineering marvel that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It separates the Peloponnese peninsula from the Greek mainland, effectively making the former an island. The canal is not just a significant navigational route that allows ships a quicker passage; it is also a tourist attraction due to its impressive construction and historical importance.
Then continue to Athens and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Travel distance today is approximately 415 kilometres.
Overnight: Ibis Styles Routes Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Departing at 17:00
Today, enjoy a morning at leisure before being transferred to the cruise port in time to board your 9-night NCL All-Inclusive Greece & Greek Island Cruise.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner
Docked: 08:30 - 16:00
Touring the impressive historic sites of Thessaloniki is akin to rolling back history to the times of sweeping empires, mighty fortresses and imposing palaces. Dating back to 315 BC, the city is considered the cultural hub of Greece.
Weaved in among the ancient ruins are vibrant streets lined with a diverse selection of delicious restaurants, boutique shops, popular festivals and beautiful beaches and scenic views of the sea. Whether you're looking to dive into the region's storied past, explore the modern-day culture or soak in its natural beauty, Thessaloniki truly offers something for everyone.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 07:00 - 16:00
Archaeologically rich, historic Izmir dates back over 5,000 years. Virtually rebuilt from scratch in 1922, Izmir is a booming city today. The ancient city of Ephesus, home to the Artemis Temple and the Zeus Altar, is one of the world's best preserved archaeological sites.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 10:00 - Overnight
Istanbul, straddling the Bosporus Strait that separates Europe and Asia, is a city rich in history and cultural diversity. Formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, it has served as the capital of several empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. This unique historical layering adds to the city's vibrant character and architectural splendor, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Departing at 16:00
There's a new aura of excitement in Istanbul these days, as this centre of the Ottoman empire has become one the world's focal points for art, fashion, cuisine and nightlife. Of course there's always an abundance of ancient monuments and grand mosques with stunning frescoes to see here, like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Head to any park and you'll see why tulips have long been the symbol of this city.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Tender: 11:30 - 21:00
Mykonos is one of the most famous islands in the Aegean Sea and is part of the Cyclades group. Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and the iconic white-washed architecture, Mykonos is a popular destination for both international celebrities and tourists seeking a lively holiday spot. The island's capital, Chora, is an enchantingly picturesque town with narrow, winding streets, beautiful churches and chic boutiques.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Tender: 08:00 - 22:00
Santorini, officially known as Thira, is one of the most iconic and picturesque islands in the Cyclades group of the Aegean Sea in Greece. Renowned for its dramatic views, stunning sunsets, unique white-washed buildings with blue domes, and volcanic-sand beaches, Santorini is one of the most widely photographed places in the world.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 09:00 - 19:00
Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands in Greece, is renowned for its rich history, archaeological sites, medieval architecture and beautiful beaches. Situated in the southeastern Aegean Sea, close to the coast of Turkey, Rhodes blends historical treasures with a vibrant contemporary lifestyle, making it a compelling destination for travellers.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 08:00 - 18:00
Although located on the Greek Island of Crete, Heraklion offers a wealth of Venetian architecture from their rule in the 13th century, including magnificent fortified walls. Don't miss the Minoan Palace of Knossos, immortalized in Greek mythology by the legend of the Minotaur.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Disembark: 07:00
This morning, dock back into Athens. Enjoy an Athens city highlights tour, including a visit to the world-famous Acropolis. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. It’s home to several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. Whilst here, enjoy a visit to the new Acropolis Museum.
Spend your last night in this vibrant, magical city while reminiscing about the amazing memories from the trip.
Overnight: Ibis Styles Routes Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and be transferred to the airport in time for your international flight back to Australia (or New Zealand).
Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight
Please note: Some customers may arrive +1 day.
Today depart from Australia to Athens, Greece! Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some customers may be required to depart on day 2, to arrive on day 2. Some customers may depart on Day 0. Flight times will be indicated on your final documentation, which you will receive 4-6 weeks prior to departure.
Meals included: In-Flight
Upon arrival into Athens International Airport, be met by a tour representative and transferred to the hotel. If it is too early for check in then luggage can be stored while you explore this magnificent city.
Athens, the capital of Greece, is a city steeped in history and culture. Modern Athens is a bustling metropolis that blends ancient history with the pace and amenities of a contemporary city. It is rich in museums, including the National Archaeological Museum and the new Acropolis Museum.
Overnight: Ibis Styles Routes Hotel or similar
Meals included: None
After breakfast, pass through Arachova, a picturesque mountain town located in the region of Viotia and continue to Delphi, an ancient site in Greece, famously regarded throughout the classical world as the center of the universe and home to the most important oracle in the ancient Greek world—the Oracle of Apollo. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this UNESCO World Heritage site holds a unique place in Greek history and mythology. Visit of the archaeological site and the museum where you can see among archaeological treasures, the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos, the tyrant of Gela, in 478 B.C. when he won the chariot-race at the Pythian Games. Travel distance today is approximately 185 kilometres.
After the tour, check into the hotel and enjoy an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Amalia hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, drive to Kalambaka. Kalambaka is a small town in Thessaly, central Greece, situated at the base of the Meteora cliffs, one of the country's most extraordinary natural and historical sites.
This town serves as the gateway for visitors to the Meteora monasteries, combining natural beauty with rich cultural and religious history. Enjoy the afternoon at Meteora to watch the beautiful sunset. Marvel the supernatural mix of natural landscape and human-made constructions. Meteora is one of the most striking and unique landscapes in Europe, if not the world.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its towering rock formations and ancient monasteries perched atop them, creating a surreal and majestic environment that blends natural beauty with spiritual heritage. Travel distance today is approximately 220 kilometres.
Overnight: Meteora hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Leaving Kalambaka behind, drive through Metsovo village, a popular winter vacation destination before arriving in the beautiful city of Ioannina. Ioannina, often considered one of the most beautiful cities in Greece, is nestled on the western shore of Lake Pamvotida in the region of Epirus. This city combines historical significance, diverse cultural influences, and breathtaking natural surroundings, making it a unique and compelling destination. Enjoy a tour of the city, including the historic centre, view the castle, the oldest Byzantine fortress in Greece, with its foundations laid in the 6th century and the Fethiye Mosque.
You will also have the opportunity to hop on one of the lake's boats (not included) and visit the islet within the lake to admire some beautiful monasteries. Be sure to taste and experience some local delicacies! The cuisine in Ioannina reflects its diverse history and geographical location, featuring a mix of Greek and Balkan influences. Local specialties include dishes such as pies (pita), grilled trout (fresh from the lake), and sweets like baklava and kataifi. The area is also known for its dairy products, particularly its cheeses like metsovone and feta.
Travel distance today is approximately 105 kilometres.
Overnight: The Lake hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, continue the journey back to the city of Athens, enjoying a short stop at the Corinth Canal on route.
The Corinth Canal is a crucial engineering marvel that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. It separates the Peloponnese peninsula from the Greek mainland, effectively making the former an island. The canal is not just a significant navigational route that allows ships a quicker passage; it is also a tourist attraction due to its impressive construction and historical importance.
Then continue to Athens and enjoy an evening at leisure. Travel distance today is approximately 415 kilometres.
Overnight: Ibis Styles Routes Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
Departing at 17:00
Today, enjoy a morning at leisure before being transferred to the cruise port in time to board your 9-night NCL All-Inclusive Greece & Greek Island Cruise.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner
Docked: 08:30 - 16:00
Touring the impressive historic sites of Thessaloniki is akin to rolling back history to the times of sweeping empires, mighty fortresses and imposing palaces. Dating back to 315 BC, the city is considered the cultural hub of Greece.
Weaved in among the ancient ruins are vibrant streets lined with a diverse selection of delicious restaurants, boutique shops, popular festivals and beautiful beaches and scenic views of the sea. Whether you're looking to dive into the region's storied past, explore the modern-day culture or soak in its natural beauty, Thessaloniki truly offers something for everyone.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 07:00 - 16:00
Archaeologically rich, historic Izmir dates back over 5,000 years. Virtually rebuilt from scratch in 1922, Izmir is a booming city today. The ancient city of Ephesus, home to the Artemis Temple and the Zeus Altar, is one of the world's best preserved archaeological sites.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 10:00 - Overnight
Istanbul, straddling the Bosporus Strait that separates Europe and Asia, is a city rich in history and cultural diversity. Formerly known as Byzantium and later Constantinople, it has served as the capital of several empires, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. This unique historical layering adds to the city's vibrant character and architectural splendor, making it a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Departing at 16:00
There's a new aura of excitement in Istanbul these days, as this centre of the Ottoman empire has become one the world's focal points for art, fashion, cuisine and nightlife. Of course there's always an abundance of ancient monuments and grand mosques with stunning frescoes to see here, like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. Head to any park and you'll see why tulips have long been the symbol of this city.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked 12:00 - 21:00
Step into the bustling city of Volos, one of Greece's largest cities and top tourist destinations. Located at the northern end of the Pagasetic Gulf, this city embodies living like a local to the fullest.
From riveting archaeological sites, to historical and mesmerizing museums, to shopping on Ermou Street and learning about its mythical background, you'll leave Volos feeling like a true Greek. And for all the foodies at heart, indulge in mouthwatering recipes originating from the Pelion mountain villages.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Tender: 10:00 - 21:00
Mykonos is one of the most famous islands in the Aegean Sea and is part of the Cyclades group. Known for its vibrant nightlife, beautiful beaches, and the iconic white-washed architecture, Mykonos is a popular destination for both international celebrities and tourists seeking a lively holiday spot.
The island's capital, Chora, is an enchantingly picturesque town with narrow, winding streets, beautiful churches, and chic boutiques.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Tender: 08:00 - 22:00
Santorini, officially known as Thira, is one of the most iconic and picturesque islands in the Cyclades group of the Aegean Sea in Greece. Renowned for its dramatic views, stunning sunsets, unique white-washed buildings with blue domes, and volcanic-sand beaches, Santorini is one of the most widely photographed places in the world.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 09:00 - 19:00
Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands in Greece, is renowned for its rich history, archaeological sites, medieval architecture, and beautiful beaches. Situated in the southeastern Aegean Sea, close to the coast of Turkey, Rhodes blends historical treasures with a vibrant contemporary lifestyle, making it a compelling destination for travellers.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Docked: 08:00 - 18:00
Although it's on the Greek Island of Crete, Heraklion offers a wealth of Venetian architecture from their rule in the 13th century, including magnificent fortified walls. Don't miss the Minoan Palace of Knossos, immortalized in Greek mythology by the legend of the Minotaur.
Overnight: NCL's 'Norwegian Viva' ship
Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner
Disembark: 07:00
This morning dock back into Athens. Enjoy an Athens city highlights tour, including a visit to the world-famous Acropolis. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. It’s home to several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. Whilst here, enjoy a visit to the new Acropolis Museum.
Spend your last night in this vibrant, magical city while reminiscing about the amazing memories from the trip.
Overnight: Ibis Styles Routes Hotel or similar
Meals included: Breakfast
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and be transferred to the airport in time for your international flight back to Australia (or New Zealand).
Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight
Please note: Some customers may arrive +1 day.
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