Athens
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Where the Phoenician princess Europa gave her name to the continent
Greece is not only the cradle of Western civilization, but also a source of inspiration for many travellers. Indeed, it is a treasure trove of archaeological and historic gems and features breathtaking landscapes.
Overview
Athens and the Peloponnesus
The sprawling, modern city of Athens is built around the Acropolis ("upper city"), an imposing natural fortress selected by the city's first inhabitants, the Pelasgians, back in the Neolithic age for its strategic elevated position. The symbol of Athens since time immemorial, the Acropolis is crowned by the legendary Parthenon. In the northern part of the city, the National Archaeological Museum houses impressive collections of antiquities.
Nestled on the Peloponnesus, Greece's southernmost peninsula, connected to the mainland by the Isthmus of Corinth, is the mythical city of Mycenae, from which King Agamemnon set out to conquer Troy. Also here are Nauplia (or Nafplion), with its two museums; Epidaurus, known for its glorious theatre; Sparta, which is home to an interesting archaeological museum; Mistra (or Mystras) and its Byzantine monuments; Messenia, with its back to the slopes of Mount Taygetos and fringed with magnificent beaches; and Olympia, site of the original Olympic Games.Crete Crete is the largest island of Greece, with which it was united in 1913. Moreover, the island is a history lesson in itself. Over the centuries, Crete's strategic yet vulnerable geographical position in the Mediterranean made it a prime target for repeated invasions, which left their mark on the island's architecture. The centre of the ancient Minoan civilization, Crete fell under the yoke of the Romans, who left behind an assortment of public and religious buildings. It then became part of the Byzantine Empire, as evidenced by the numerous chapels from the period, then fell into the hands of the Venetians in 1204 and remained so for more than 400 years. It was then absorbed into the Ottoman Empire and remained under Turkish rule for two centuries, as manifested by its houses with wooden balconies, as well as its handful of minarets and mosques.The Cyclades Consisting of 40 islands, of which 25 are inhabited, the Cyclades derive their name from the circle (kyklos) they seem to form around the sacred Isle of Delos. A group of islands scattered across the Aegean Sea, the Cyclades are one of Greece's most popular tourist destinations.
The archipelago was inhabited as early as 7000 BC and is the birthplace of the Cycladic civilization (3000 to 1000 BC), which is distinguished by particularly modern-looking, geometric-shaped idols and statues. Today, the Cycladic Islands' architecture is characterized by blue-shuttered, whitewashed houses, Byzantine churches crowned with bright-blue domes, and windmills.The Dodecanese Islands A 12-island archipelago (hence its Greek name, meaning "12 islands") located in the Aegean Sea, along the southeastern coast of Turkey, the Dodecanese notably comprise the islands of Patmos and Rhodes. The Dodecanese Islands were ceded to Greece in 1947-1948.
Patmos was made famous by St. John the Evangelist, who wrote the Apocalypse while in exile here. Chora, the island's main town, is very appealing, with its medieval-style mansions, Byzantine churches and narrow alleyways.
The largest of the Dodacanese Islands, Rhodes, has something for everyone, from lush vegetation and beautiful beaches to a rich history and impressive monuments.
Where on earth
Located in southeastern Europe, Greece occupies the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula and a series of small, paradisiacal islands. Athens and its port, Piraeus, encompass close to a third of the country's population.
Useful information
CURRENCY & MONEY EXCHANGE
The local currency is the Euro (). Exchange desks can be found in your hotel. Banks and exchange offices are located throughout the city. Bank hours are Monday to Thursday 8:00 am to 2:30 pm; Friday, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday closed. Branches of the National Bank in Athens can be found at Syntagma Square and Omonia Square. They are opened from Monday to Friday 8:00 am to 6:30 pm. ATMs can be found throughout Athens.
TIPPING
Tipping is discretionary, but customary.
Aboard ship: 8 per adult (4 per child) is automatically added to each account per day to cover gratuities. This amount may be increased or decreased according to your discretion.
Excursion guides/drivers: It is customary to tip and we recommend about 4 to 6 per person/day or so to cover both.
Restaurants: 10 to 15% will be added to your bill but may not make its way to the serving staff, so you might wish to leave another 5 to 10% in cash on the table.
TELEPHONE
Direct calls can be made from your hotel room. Local phone booths take phone cards that you may purchase from hotel shops and kiosks. These cards are valid for local and overseas calls and cost approximately 5 and last approximately 3 to 5 minutes. The actual duration of any card varies according to the company issuing it. Please inform yourself accordingly.
The country code for Canada is 001.
Canada Direct: 0800161
MCI: 08001211
AT&T: 08001311
TAXIS
All taxis in Athens work on meters. The meter starts at approx 1.05 and there are two fares:
Zone 1: 5:00 am until midnight.
Zone 2: Midnight until 5:00 am.
Minimum fare approx 2.80.
NOTE: Always make sure meter is turned onbefore proceeding on your journey.
TRAM & METRO
Completed in 2003, it features three lines: the Red Line (Agios Antonios - Agios Dimitrios), the Blue Line (Egaleo - Athens airport) and the Green Line (Le Pirée - Kifissia). The price of a one-way fare is approximately 1, but you can purchase a one-day pass for around 3. The city is linked to the coast by a 28.9 km tramway line that provides easy access to Falio, Alimos and Glyfada.
BARGAINING IN BAZAARS
In bazaars the social ritual of bargaining is the rule. Begin by offering about 60% of the asking price and be prepared to go up to about 70% to 75%. Be prepared to leave in order to bring down the price, and never let anyone know how much you like something. Its great fun once you get the hang of it and a smile goes a long way!
FOOD & DRINK IN GREECE
Ouzo, a spirit with a licorice flavour, is the traditional aperitif. Tasty wines are found just about everywhere (the rugged Retsina, however is an acquired taste).The best known appetizers are taramosalata, a delicious fish roe spread, tzatziki (yogurt with cucumber and garlic) and melitzanosalata (eggplant and garlic dip). Seafood is very popular here and fish can be chosen personally and will be gladly trotted out for inspection. The most popular meat courses include arnaki (lamb), gourounopoulo (suckling pig) and souvlaki, meat kebabs grilled on a skewer. For those with a sweet tooth, dessert shops feature pastries, cookies, ice creams, chocolate and sticky buns of flaky filo pastry filled with honey and nuts, known as baklava and kataifi.
EXCURSION TIPS
In all cases, comfortable, nonslip walking shoes, a sun hat and bottled water are recommended. Religious sites, such as monasteries and the like, have appropriate dress codes.
Bare shoulders and knees are not permitted (a light covering for bare arms is advised), as well as shorts of any kind. In some instances, excursions are not suited to elderly persons or those with restricted mobility.
SCHEDULING OF EXCURSIONS
All tours depart from and return to the hotel and/or pier adjacent to the ships berth. Should you choose to leave the tour en route, it will be your responsibility to secure transportation back to your hotel or ship. Passengers should be on board the ship no later than 30 minutes prior to the scheduled sailing time. The ships departure cannot be delayed for late returning passengers.
hotels Information
ATHENS
ACROPOL
1 Pireos
Omonia Square, 10552
Tel: (011 30210) 528 2100
Fax: (011 30210) 523 1361
AMALIA HOTEL ATHENS
10 Amalia Ave.
Constitution Square
Syntagma, 10557
Tel: (011 30210) 323 7301
ATHENS IMPERIAL
2-4-6 Ahilleos
& Meg. Alexandrou
Karaiskaki Square
Tel: (011 30210) 520 1600
Fax: (011 30210) 522 5521
N.J.V. ATHENS PLAZA
Constitution Square
Syntagma, 10564
Tel: (011 30210) 335 2400
Fax: (011 30210) 323 5856
DIVANI APOLLON PALACE
10 Ag. Nikolaou & Iliou St.
Vouliagmeni-Kavouri, 16671
Tel: (011 30210) 891 1100
Fax: (011 30210) 965 8010
DIVANI CARAVEL
2 Vass. Alexandrou Ave.
Kessaiani, 16121
Tel: (011 30210) 720 7000
Fax: (011 30210) 723 6683
(011 30210) 725 3770
DORIAN INN
15-17 Pireos St.2
Omonia, 10552
Tel: (011 30210) 523 9782/17537
Fax: (011 30210) 522 6916
GRANDE BRETAGNE HOTEL
Constitution Square
Syntagma, 10563
Tel: (011 30210) 333 0000
Fax: (011 30210) 333 0200
KANINGOS 21 HOTEL
21 Kaningos & Chalkokondili St.
Kaningos, 10677
Tel: (011 30210) 330 0775
Fax: (011 30210) 330 0771
KINETTA BEACH
57th KM Old National Road
Athens-Corinthos, Kinetta, 19100
Tel: (01130) 22960 650805
Fax: (01130) 22960 65086
KING GEORGE II PALACE
3 Vas. Gerogiou A St.
Syntagma Square, 10564
Tel: (011 30210) 322 2210
Fax: (011 30210) 325 0504
METROPOLITAN
385 Syngrou Ave.
Palero Faliro, 17564
Tel: (011 30210) 947 1000
Fax: (011 30210) 947 1010
POLIS GRAND
19 Patision & 10 Veranzerou St.
Omonia Square, 10432
Tel: (011 30210) 524 31569
Fax: (011 30210) 523 3688
POSEIDON
72 Posidonos Ave.
Paleo Faliro, 17562
Tel: (011 30210) 987 2000
Fax: (011 30210) 982 9217
STANLEY
1-5 Odysseos
Karaiskaki Square, 10437 Metaxourgio
Tel: (011 30210) 524 161118
Fax: (011 30210) 524 4611
(011 30210) 523 8450
TITANIA
52 Panepistimiou Ave.
Omonia, 10678
Tel: (011 30210) 332 6200
Fax: (011 30210) 330 0700
CRETE
ALBATROS
1 Deadalou St.
Limenas Hersonissou, 70014
Tel: (01130) 28970 22144
Fax: (01130) 28970 23250
ALDEMAR ROYAL MARE VILLAGE
Limenas Hersonissou, 70014
Tel: (011302 8970) 27725
Fax: (011302 8970) 27503
BLUE PALACE
Elounda, 72053
Tel: (011 302 8410) 65500
Fax: (011 302 8410) 89712
CASA DELFINO SUITES
9 Theofanus St.
Chania, 73130
Tel: (011 302 8210) 87400
Fax: (011 302 8210) 96500
ELOUNDA MARE
Elounda, 72053
Tel: (011 302 8410) 68200
Fax: (011 302 8410) 68220
GRAND HOTEL HOLIDAY RESORT
Hersonissos
Limenas Hersonissou, 70014
Tel: (011 302 8970) 26300
Fax: (011 302 8970) 26350
HERSONISSOS MARIS
Hersonissos
Limenas Hersonissou, 70014
Tel: (011 302 8970) 22400
Fax: (011 302 8970) 22874
MOVENPICK RESORT & THALASSO CRETE
Amoudara
Gazi, 71414
Tel: (011 302 8103) 77000
Fax: (011 302 8103) 50669
NEPTUNO BEACH RESORT
3 Vagias
Amoudara, 71414
Tel: (011 302 810) 370227
Fax: (011 302 810) 250888
PEARL BEACH
Beach Road
Rethymnon, 74100
Tel: (011 302 8310) 51513
Fax: (011 302 8310) 54891
PLAZA SPA SUITES
60 ar. Velouchioti Ave.
Rethymnon, 74100
Tel: (011 302 8310) 51505
Fax: (011 302 8310) 35738
PORTO ELOUNDA
Elounda, 72503
Tel: (011 302 8410) 68000
Fax: (011 302 8410) 41889
PORTO VENEZIANO
Akti Enosseos - Old Venetian Harbour
Chania, 73132
Tel: (011 302 8210) 27100
Fax: (011 302 8210) 27105
SILVA MARIS
Limenas Hersonissou, 70014
Tel: (011 302 8970) 228506
Fax: (011 302 8970) 21404
IOS
IOS PALACE
Mylopatas, 84001 - Ios
Tel: (011 302 2860) 91224
(011 302 2860) 91269
(011 302 2860) 91317
Fax: (011 302 2860) 91082
KOS
RAMIRA BEACH
Psalidi. 85300
Tel: (011 302 2420) 228915
Fax: (011 302 2420) 28489
MYKONOS
ACROGIALI
Platys Gialos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 22125
Fax: (011 302 2890) 24341
KAMARI BEACH
Platys Gialos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 23424
Fax: (011 302 2890) 24414
KOUROS
Mykonos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 253813
Fax: (011 302 2890) 25379
MANOULAS BEACH
Agios Ioannis, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 22900
Fax: (011 302 2890) 24314
MYCONIAN AMBASSADOR & THALASSO CENTRE
Platys Gialos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 24166
Fax: (011 302 2890) 24233
MYCONIAN K-COMPLEX
Mykonos Town, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 22107
(011 302 2890) 23415
Fax: (011 302 2890) 23455
ROYAL MYCONIAN
Elia Beach, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 72000
Fax: (011 302 2890) 72027
MYKONOS BEACH
Megali Ammos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 225723
Fax: (011 302 2890) 24524
MYKONOS BLU
Psarrou, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 27900
Fax: (011 302 2890) 27783
MYKONOS GRAND
Agios Ioannis, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 25555
Fax: (011 302 2890) 25111
MYKONOS IMPERIAL
Elia Beach, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 79500
Fax: (011 302 2890) 79595
MYKONOS PALACE
Platys Gialos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 22118
Fax: (011 302 2890) 26984
PELICAN BAY
Platys Gialos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 26620
Fax: (011 302 2890) 26438
PETASOS BEACH RESORT & SPA
Platys Gialos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 23437
Fax: (011 302 2890) 24101
PORTO MYKONOS
Mykonos Town, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 22454
Fax: (011 302 2890) 26741
SANTA MARINA
Ornos Bay
Ornos, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 23220
Fax: (011 302 2890) 23412
YIANNAKI
Ornos
Cyclades Islands, 84600
Tel: (011 302 2890) 23393
Fax: (011 302 2890) 24628
PAROS
ASTERIAS
Parikia, 84400
Tel: (011 302 2840) 21797
Fax: (011 302 2840) 22172
ERI
Parikia, 84400
Tel: (011 302 2840) 23360
(011 302 2840) 24796
Fax: (011 302 2840) 24562
HIGH MILL
Parikia
Tel: (011 302 2840) 23581
(011 302 2840) 22992
Fax: (011 302 2840) 23488
PAROS AGNANTI
Parikia
Krios-Marcello Beach, 84400
Tel: (011 302 2840) 23205
Fax: (011 302 2840) 23206
RHODES
ALDEMAR PARADISE ROYAL MARE
Kallithea, 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 66060
Fax: (011 302 2410) 60066
BELAIR BEACH
Ialyssos Ave.
Ixia, 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 23731
Fax: (011 302 2410) 33625
EDEN ROC RESORT HOTEL AND BUNGALOWS
Kallitheas Ave.
Reni Koksinou, 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 67067
Fax: (011 302 2410) 66700
OLYMPIC PALACE
Iallysos Ave.
Ixia, 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 77444
Fax: (011 302 2410) 30434
RODOS PALACE
Trianton Ave., 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 25222
(011 302 2410) 26222
Fax: (011 302 2410) 25350
RODOS PALLADIUM
Faliraki, 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 57300
Fax: (011 302 2410) 86424
THE IXIAN GRAND
Ixia Beach, 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 924466
Fax: (011 302 2410) 94413
THE MEDITERRANEAN
35 Kos St., 85100
Tel: (011 302 2410) 24661
Fax: (011 302 2410) 22828
SANTORINI
ARESSANA
Fira, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 23900
Fax: (011 302 2860) 23902
ASTIR THIRA
Fira, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 22585
Fax: (011 302 2860) 22525
BELVEDERE VILLAS
Firostefani, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 24946
Fax: (011 302 2860) 24539
CANAVES OIA TRADITIONAL HOUSES
Oia, 87402
Tel: (011 302 2860) 71453
(011 302 2860) 71427
(011 302 2860) 71128
Fax: (011 302 2860) 71195
CLIFFSIDE SUITES & STUDIO
Firostefani, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 22141
Fax: (011 302 2860) 22187
DANA VILLAS
Firostefani, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 22566
Fax: (011 302 2860) 22985
EL GRECO
Fira, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 249467
Fax: (011 302 2860) 24945
HONEYMOON VILLAS
Imerovigli, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 28950
Fax: (011 302 2860) 28951
ICONS
Imerovigli, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 28950
Fax: (011 302 2860) 28951
KALLISTI THERA
Fira, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 22317
Fax: (011 302 2860) 22962
KATIKIES
Oia, 84702
Tel: (011 302 2860) 71401
Fax: (011 302 2860) 71129
KING THIRAS
Fira, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 238823
Fax: (011 302 2860) 22155
MAISTROS VILLAGE
Karterados, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 24517
(011 302 2860) 23081
Fax: (011 302 2860) 22898
ON THE ROCKS
Imerovigli, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 23889
Fax: (011 302 2860) 22721
PHENIX
Imerovigli, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 22007
Fax: (011 302 2860) 23809
SANTO MIRAMARE
Perivolos, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 834404
Fax: (011 302 2860) 83445
SANTORINI PALACE
Fira, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 22771
Fax: (011 302 2860) 23705
THE MAJESTIC
Fira, 84700
Tel: (011 302 2860) 25972
Fax: (011 302 2860) 25971
COACH TOUR GREECE
HOTEL FAMISSI
103 Trikalon
Kalambaka
Tel: (011 30243) 202 4117
Fax: (011 30243) 202 4615
HOTEL ORFEAS
58 Pindou
Kalambaka
Tel: (011 30243) 207 7444
Fax: (011 30243) 207 7445
ANEMOLIA
Arachova
Tel: (011 30226) 703 1640
Fax: (011 30226) 703 1642
KING INIOHOS
9 Osioulouka
Delphi
Tel: (011 30226) 508 2151
Fax: (011 30226) 508 2764
HOTEL PORTO RIO CASINO
Rio
Patras
Tel: (011 30261) 099 2102
Fax: (011 30261) 099 2115
AMALIA NAFPLION
Nafplion
Tel: (011 30275) 202 4401
Fax: (011 30275) 202 4400
COACH TOUR TURKEY
PAM THERMAL HOTEL
Pamukkale
Tel: (011 90258) 271 4140
Fax: (011 90258) 271 4097
PERI TOWER
Adnan Menderes Bulvari 13/1 Nar
Nevsehir, Cappadoce
Tel: (011 90384) 212 8816
Fax: (011 90384) 213 9028
RADISSON SAS
Istiklal Caddessi, No:20 Ulus
Ankara
Tel: (011 90312) 310 4848
Fax: (011 90312) 309 3690
AZIYADE HOTEL PIYERLOTI CAD.
No. 6234490 Gedikpaba Sultanahmet
Istanbul
Tel: (011 90212) 638 2200
Fax: (011 90212) 518 5065
ONTUR HOTEL IZMIR
Gazi Boulevard No. 130
Cankaya/Izmir
Tel: (011 90232) 425 8181
Fax: (011 90232) 425 8787
Destinations
GREECE
ATHENS
Majestic and Modern. Everywhere you turn in Athens, you will be awestruck by the way the past and the present work together to create a city that is alive, bustling, and exciting. Athens, the capital city of Greece once thought to be protected by the goddess Athena, remains a magical, romantic place.
MYKONOS
The Quintessential Greek Island. As romantic as it gets, Mykonos is the most popular of all the Greek islands. The characteristic dazzlingly white cube-shaped houses contrast strikingly with the intense blue and green of their wooden doors and shutters. Little winding streets, windmills, and smooth sand beaches complete the picture of the perfect island paradise.
SANTORINI
Rejuvenates the Soul. It is what many of us envision when we dream of Greece and this fashionable island frequently surpasses the fantasy. Days on the island give way to nights of dramatic sunsets enjoyed from pleasant open-air cafés. Few sights are more memorable than the dazzling whitewashed buildings that sit perched on the rim of black volcanic cliffs.
CRETE
A Wondrous Isle. Zeus and his son Minos, legendary king of Crete, both sprung from this marvelous place. The ecosystem of Crete is unique, encompassing varied flora as well as animal species found only on this island. Vacationers adore its boundless beaches, numerous tavernas, and fascinating museums, and the more adventurous will try raki, a strong spirit made from grape must.
PAROS & IOS
The Wonderful Cyclades. Well-known for its nightlife, visitors to Ios bask in a festive atmosphere, as evident on the islands golden beaches as it is in the nightclubs and open-air tavernas. Picturesque Paros abounds in pretty coves, miniature churches, narrow cobblestone streets and Byzantine monuments.
RHODES, PATMOS & KOS
The Dodecanese Legacy. Kos was the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine. The island also witnessed the march of civilization from ancient Greece, to the Byzantine Empire, the Crusades and the Ottoman Empire. Patmos, where John of Patmos wrote Revelations, is a key Christian pilgrimage site and a very pleasant place to visit. Finally, majestic Rhodes, whose port was once guarded by the Colossus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, offers a cosmopolitan atmosphere enriched by an astonishing blend of ancient and modern.
TURKEY
Land of sunshine and history, with immaculate beaches and lively, cosmopolitan cities, Turkey gracefully straddles two continents. Statues, temples, theatres, agora, churches, mosques and palaces tell the tale of its storied past and refined people. Irresistibly exotic, Turkeys awe-inspiring, multifaceted culture impresses all visitors, yet it is also a modern country that has much in common with its European neighbours. Savour this fascinating land and its way of life, the charming mysteries of the seraglio, and all the opulence of its rich Oriental heritage.
EGYPT
PORT SAID
Among the most beautiful cities of Egypt, Port Said presides over the mouth of the Suez Canal and the passage to the East. Characterized by houses that feature huge balconies jutting out from every floor, this city possesses a unique charm.
ISRAEL
ASHDOD
Greek legends, ancient civilizations, and biblical tales come to life in this city, home of Israels most important port. Ashdods natural beauty, archeological discoveries, and booming tourism industry make it an exciting destination for travellers.
CYPRUS
LIMASSOL
The second biggest city on Aphrodites Isle occupies the territory between the ancient kingdoms of Curium and Amathus. The surrounding countryside is home to historical treasures such as the sanctuary of Apollo Hylates that dates back to the 8th century B.C.
Excursions
You can believe us when we tell you that no matter how magnificent you have imagined Greece to be, the reality will far exceed the fantasy.
Chronicled by a galaxy of Olympian gods hewn in lustrous alabaster, Greece has a history counted in millennia. A virtual museum of Mediterranean civilization, this lyrical land of philosophers, lovers, legends and warriors welcomes travellers with an intricate mosaic of unique culture and bountiful heritage.
To help you make the most of your holiday, Transat Holidays has arranged a varied program of exciting land and shore excursions at excellent prices. In this section you will find information on each of the excursions available as well as additional useful information.
ATHENS
ATHENS ONE DAY CRUISE (new)
FULL DAY (98 per person)
(INCLUDING LUNCH)
The classic 1-Day cruise takes you to the three enchanting islands of Aegina, Poros & Hydra. Enjoy the marvelous Mediterranean atmosphere as you visit the intriguing historic sites of the Saronic Gulf and sample traditional Greek food and you listen to delightful folk music.
ARGOLIS FULL DAY TOUR (new)
FULL DAY (96 per person)
(INCLUDING LUNCH)
Travel along the coastal road along the Saronic Gulf to the Corinth Canal, before driving to Mycaene and the Homeric city of Atreides, the city rich in gold of the ancient poets. Visit the Lions Gate, the Cyclopean Walls, the Royal Tombs, etc. Then, depart for Nafplion, the picturesque town nestled at the foot of a cliff crowned by the mighty ramparts of the Palamidi Fortess (short photo stop). Leave for Epidaurus, to visit the Theatre (4th century B.C.) famous for its astonishing acoustics. Return to Athens by the national road connecting Epidaurus with Mycenae.
ATHENS & THE ACROPOLIS
3 HOURS MORNING (52 per person)
See the Panathenaic Stadium en route to the Acropolis, where youll visit the Museum, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and the Parthenon. Next, tour the city centre and view the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the House of Parliament, the Presidential Palace, the National Library and Omonia and Syntagma (Constitution) Square.
CAPE SOUNION*
HALF DAY / AFTERNOON (80 per person)
(INCLUDING DINNER)
Drive along the beautiful coastal road past the wonderful beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni and Varkiza to the southernmost point of Attica, Cape Sounion. Here, the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand atop a cliff rising from the sea. Youll enjoy a walk along the rocky promontory of Sounion before dinner at a seaside taverna and your return to Athens.
DELPHI*
FULL DAY (96 per person)
(INCLUDING LUNCH)
Enjoy a scenic drive to Delphi via the picturesque mountain village of Arachova before arriving at the legendary Castalian Springs. From here, walk a few minutes to the archaeological site of Delphi, where you will visit the Temple of Apollo, the ruins of the Senate of the Delphi Oracle and the Delphi Museum.
CRETE
JEEP SAFARI*
FULL DAY (73 per person)
Depart towards Archanes, on dirt trails passing through the vineyards and olive groves of authentic, picturesque Cretan villages. Continue on to Assites, at the foot of Ida Mountain and enjoy the breathtaking scenery while exploring the caves and surrounding area.
ELOUNDA / SPINALONGA*
FULL DAY (59 per person)
(INCLUDING DINNER)
Once you arrive in the fishing village of Elounda, board a caique to sail to the Island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony. Here youll find grand Venetian fortresses, houses and churches that are well preserved. Continue by boat to the Island of Kolokytha and enjoy some free time by the Gulf of Mirabello.
KNOSSOS & HERAKLION
HALF DAY (47 per person)
After the Parthenon, Knossos is the second most visited site in Greece. The ruins of the ancient cities of Knossos, Phaistos and Mallia demonstrate the incredible wealth and sophistication enjoyed by the Minoan civilization. Visit the ancient Palace of King Minos and the Archaeological Museum filled with original frescoes from the palace, artifacts and other unique and priceless treasures of the ancients. Also visit Heraklion and see the Church of St. Titus, the Lotzia and St. Mark Church. (Entrance fee at the museum not included.)
MYKONOS
APOLLO SANCTUARY ON DELOS
4 HOURS (48 per person)
Visit Delos, the legendary birthplace of the Sun God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. Go on a guided walking tour to see the Agora, the Sacred Way, the Temple of Apollo and the remains of a Hellenistic Quarter that contains the houses of Cleopatra and Dionysos as well as the ruins of other notable quarters.
PATMOS
ST. JOHN'S MONASTERY & THE GROTTO OF REVELATIONS
2 HOURS (49 per person)
Drive to the village of Chora, where the Monastery of St. John was built and view the courtyard, the Monks dining room, the old bakery, the main church and the priceless treasures housed in the museum. Continue on to the Grotto of Revelations, where the Church of the Apocalypse still stands.
Note: this excursion is not recommended for those with reduced mobility.
RHODES
OLD CITY & PHILERIMOS
4 HOURS (47 per person)
Drive to the Acropolis of ancient Rhodes and view the nearby Temple of Apollo, the Stadium of Diagoras and the port. Continue to Philerimos and see the restored Byzantine Church of Our Lady of Philerimos, a chapel with 15th century frescoes and a ruined castle of the Knights. In the Old City of Rhodes, go on a guided walk of the medieval walled city to the Porte dAmboise. Stroll the Street of the Knights and visit the impressive Grand Masters Palace.
RHODES & LINDOS
4.5 HOURS (52 per person)
Visit Lindos and its historic Acropolis, where youll have breathtaking views of the great expanse of the Pelagus and St. Pauls bay. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour of the old medieval city of Rhodes.
SYMI & PANORMITIS*
FULL DAY (42 per person)
Depart by boat for Symi and enjoy a guided walk along the harbour promenade and a short demonstration on the history of sponge diving on the island. Depart later in the afternoon for Panormitis where you may visit the Church of Michaelangelo and the small museum. (Entrance fees extra.)
RHODES ISLAND TOUR*
FULL DAY (45 per person)
First stop at the village of Archangelos for a ceramic pottery demonstration, before continuing on to the villages of Lindos where you may visit the Acropolis (entrance fee extra), Apolakkia, Sianna and Embona where you will visit the Emery Winery for a wine tasting. Lastly, visit the city of Philerimos (or Butterfly Valley).
SANTORINI
THE VOLCANO
3 HOURS (50 per person)
Cruise around the active crater of Nea Kameni islet and along its volcanic shores. Walk to the top of the volcano and enjoy the surreal landscape and a swim in the warm waters heated by hot springs. Sail to Athinios port, then return to the ship.
THIRA & OIA VILLAGE ISLAND TOUR
3 HOURS (53 per person)
Our destination this afternoon is Oia Village, the crowning glory of peace and tranquillity. Stroll through the village along cobble-stoned streets marvelling at the wonderful panoramic views before continuing on to Fira. Enjoy the town at your own leisure and return to the port by cable car or mule.
WINERY TOUR IN SANTORINI
4 HOURS (25 per person)
A pleasant tour of the picturesque villages surrounded by green vineyards. Visit the Profitis Elias Monastery and its folk museum, then visit the dark beach of Perissa for some free time before continuing on to one of the island wineries to taste three glasses of the most famous Santorini wines.
TURKEY
HIGHLIGHTS OF ISTANBUL
FULL DAY (86 per person)
(INCLUDING LUNCH ON BOARD)
Drive through the business centre of the modern city, cross the Galata Bridge and continue along the banks of the Golden Horn and under the Byzantine Aqueduct of Valens. See the Suleyman Mosque and visit the Byzantine Hippodrome, the Sultanahmet Mosque, the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, where you will see the famous treasury that includes the Spoonmakers Diamond, the worlds seventh biggest diamond.
ISTANBUL BY NIGHT
3.5 HOURS (75 per person)
Drive through the illuminated streets before arriving at the Kervansaray Night Club, a well-known establishment. Enjoy a variety of Turkish specialties and be entertained by Turkish musicians, belly dancers and folk dancers.
ANCIENT EPHESUS
3 HOURS (59 per person)
Drive through the colourful town of Kusadasi to the ancient city of Ephesus. Enter through the Magnesian Gate and discover numerous monuments such as the Forum, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the Thermal Baths of Scolastika and the Great Theatre of Antiquity. Walk along the Arcadian Way, where Mark Antony and Cleopatra once rode in procession. On the way back to Kusadasi, view the Basilica of St. John. Enjoy free time for shopping.
EGYPT
CLASSIC CAIRO
FULL DAY (120 per person)
From Port Said, head toward Cairo and the Egyptian Museum, where you will discover 5,000 years of human history, and have an opportunity to admire the treasures of Tutunkhamen. Next, its off to Giza where the Great Pyramids are still guarded by the mighty Sphinx, whose mysterious expression remains an enigma to this day. Next, visit the Papyrus Institute, followed by free time to do some shopping before returning to Port Said.
THE PYRAMIDS & THE RIVER NILE IN STYLE
FULL DAY (120 per person)
Arrive in Cairo, and stop at the Citadel of Saladin and the Alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali. Admire the skyline of Old Cairo from the top of the hill before boarding a luxurious cruise boat. Enjoy a traditional folklore and belly dancing presentation during lunch. Continue on to view the Great Pyramids and the mysterious Sphinx and stop near the Pyramid of Chephren to explore the site on your own. Visit a Papyrus Institute and enjoy free time for shopping before returning to Port Said.
ISRAEL
JERUSALEM & BETHLEHEM
(116 per person)
Head over the mountains of Judea to Jerusalem. See the Israeli Parliament, the Monastery of the Cross, and the Mount of Olives. Take a walking tour of the Old City and follow the Way of the Cross. See the Jewish Quarter, the Wailing Wall, and the Arab Bazaar. In Bethlehem, visit the Basilica of the Nativity, whose grotto houses the traditional site of the Nativity. Later, take advantage of free time to do some souvenir shopping.
* Available as a land excursion only. Not available to cruise passengers due to time restrictions in port.
GENERAL CONDITIONS
RESERVATIONS
The information on excursions contained in this section is indicative only. These excursions are available through the Transat Holidays Representative at the hospitality desk of your hotel or cruise ship. Please ask your representative for hours of operation. Other excursions than those outlined in this section are available.
SCHEDULING OF EXCURSIONS
All tours depart from the hotel and/or pier adjacent to the shipss berth. Please note that all passengers should be onboard the ship no later than 30 minutes prior to the scheduled sailing time. The scheduling of all shore excursions conforms with this requirement. At the completion of the tour you will be returned to the hotel or pier unless you elect to leave the tour en route. In this case it will be your responsibility to secure transportation back to your hotel or ship, at your own cost, and it is your responsibility to return to the ship on time. The ships departure cannot be delayed for late-returning passengers. Passengers must be aware that there is a possibility their ship may be unable to berth in inclement weather.
REFUNDS & CANCELLATION
Your booking for any excursion is confirmed immediately with the excursion operator in each resort. Therefore, no refunds can be given for any unused or partially-used tour.
PRICES, INCLUSIONS & ITINERARIES
Excursion prices and/or itineraries and/or tour inclusions in this section are all subject to change without prior notice. Meals and/or beverages are not included unless otherwise specified. Excursions may be offered in one language or be bilingual. Excursion content may vary slightly depending on the service provider. Any of the described excursions may be cancelled for any reason, including if there are not enough participants, and with or without prior notice. In such circumstances, Transat Holidays sole responsibility shall be to refund in full all monies paid.
RESPONSIBILITY
The travel services described in this section are provided by service providers independent of Transat Holidays and Tour Greece. Some excursions or activities may not be suitable for everyone. Participation is left to your appreciation and is at your own risk of loss, damage or injury. Transat Holidays and Tour Greece make no representation as to the quality or safety of any excursion provided by these service providers, who are a third party, and over whom Transat Holidays and Tour Greece do not have any control. Consequently, Transat Holidays, and Tour Greece cannot be held responsible for the acts, representations, omissions, fault or negligence, of these service providers or that of their employees, nor for any loss or damages suffered as a result of thereof, nor for any loss, injury, accident you may suffer or any costs, delays or expenses resulting from, or in connection with, your participation in these travel services. The travel services provided are subject to the terms and conditions imposed by the service providers. By purchasing these tour services and other activities you signify your agreement to the Terms and Conditions contained in this section.
