Land Tours in Greece during the cruises of Louis Cruises

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

Knossos Palace (AGH-01)

Half day tour

 

Archaeological site of KnossosCrete 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. Taking the National Road along the North coast you will get to Heraklion where the tour will start with the visit of Knossos excavations. Here, Sir Arthur Evan’s archaeological discoveries revealed a civilization dating back to 4000 B.C., when a great empire flourished on the island of Crete. Based on the wealth of artefacts that were found, Evans theorized that this was the site of the ancient Minoan Kingdom. These findings will be viewed in detail, as 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. The Palace, decorated with frescoes and shields houses the Hall of the Royal Guard, the Hall of the Double Axes, the King's Chamber with the alabaster throne, the Queen's Apartment, beautiful courtyards and shrines. After the visit of Knossos Palace, the tour will go back to Agios Nikolaos to embark your ship and continue the trip in the Aegean Sea.
REMARKS: Walking in the archaeological site of Knossos will be on uneven gravel surfaces.
Passengers may not be allowed to enter the site with big bags/rucksacks.
Please note that the journey from Agios Nikolaos to Heraklion is approx. 1 hour.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise

A Taste of Crete from Agios Nikolaos (AGH-02)

Half day tour

 

FarmLeaving Agios Nikolaos, capital city of Eastern Crete, and its cosmopolitan atmosphere your bus will drive you to Elounda, located in a gorgeous natural bay. Elounda is famous not only on the island of Crete but also in the entire Aegean Sea, much acclaimed for its outstanding hotels and tourist establishment in a magnificent natural environment. The combination of the landscape and the sea it is something you will never forget! Enjoy a panoramic view of the bay of Elounda with Spinalonga historic island (Venetian Fortress) on your feet, on the way to Aretiou Monastery, visit of this fascinated Orthodox Monastery. On completion of your visit, you will drive via the the Fourni plateau passing small typical Cretan villages to a local Olive Oil Farm. In a marvellously designed space of 2,000 square meters, the facility has endeavoured to embrace traditional Cretan everyday life in its entirety. The production of olive oil takes place using the most traditional of method and giving you the opportunity to experience Cretan life is the early 20th century. Agios Nikolaos (St. Nikolas)On arrival you will be welcomed with a "raki", the traditional drink of Crete and "meze". Here you will have the chance also to enjoy Cretan traditional music and dance with local performers. After visiting the Farm you continue your journey to Ag. Nikolaos. The landmark of the city is a small lake, known as "Voulismeni" that is located in the centre of the city, at the foot of the cliffs. According to the mythology, the goddess Athena used to take her bath in this lake. It is an especially picturesque site with many open-air cafes and restaurants along the bank. Here you will be given free time to browse in this beautiful town before you re-embark to your ship.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise

 


Spinalonga (AGH-03)

Half day tour

 

View of the Spianlonga islandLeaving Agios Nikolaos, capital city of Eastern Crete, and its cosmopolitan atmosphere you will drive north and enjoy a wonderful view of both Mirabelo and Elounda Bay. Elounda is the most renowned cosmopolitan location, not only in the island of Crete, but also in the entire Aegean Sea, much acclaimed for its outstanding hotels and tourist establishments in a magnificent natural environment. The combination of the landscape and the sea is something you will never forget! At the Northwest entrance of Elounda Bay lies the island of Spinalonga, impressive for its well preserved Venetian Fortress yet tragic due to its past role as a leper colony. It is notable for being one of the last active leper colonies in Europe, existing for this purpose until 1957. It is truly amazing to imagine the presence of an entire community hidden within the imposing fortification and isolated from the rest of the world. After visiting Spinalonga, you will continue your journey to Agios Nikolaos. The landmark of the city is a small lake, known as "Voulismeni" that is located in the centre of the city, at the foot of the cliffs. According to mythology, the goddess Athena used to take her bath in this lake. It is an especially picturesque site with many open-air cafés and restaurants along the waterfront. Here you will be given free time to browse in this beautiful town before you return to the ship.
REMARKS: This tour is subject to weather conditions.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise

Picturesque Crete (AGH-04)

Half day tour

 

Elounda Bay, CreteLeaving Agios Nikolaos, capital city of Eastern Crete, and its cosmopolitan atmosphere your bus will drive you to Elounda, located in a gorgeous natural bay. Elounda is famous not only on the island of Crete but also in the entire Aegean Sea, much acclaimed for its outstanding hotels and tourist establishment in a magnificent natural environment. The combination of the landscape and the sea it is something you will never forget! Your tour continues to a local Olive Oil Farm. In a marvellously designed space of 2,000 m², the facility has endeavoured to embrace traditional Cretan everyday life in its entirety. The production of olive oil, wine & raki takes place using the most traditional of methods and giving you the opportunity to experience Cretan life in the early 20th century. On arrival you will be welcomed with a "raki", the traditional drink of Crete and "meze". Here you will have the chance also to enjoy Cretan traditional music and dance with local performers. After visiting the Farm, you will continue your journey to Agios Nikolaos. The landmark of the city is a small lake, known as "Voulismeni" that is located in the centre of the city, at the foot of the cliffs. According to the mythology, the goddess Athena used to take her bath in this lake. It is an especially picturesque site with many open-air cafes and restaurants along the bank. Return to the ship.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise

Ports of call in Turkey

 

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

The Palace of Knossos (HER-02)

Half day tour

 

Archaeological site of Knossos in Heraklion, CreteCrete 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. Here, Sir Arthur Evan’s archaeological discoveries revealed a civilization dating back to 4000 B.C., when a great empire flourished on the island of Crete. Based on the wealth of artifacts that were found, Evans theorized that this was the site of the ancient Minoan Kingdom. These findings will be viewed in detail, as 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. The Palace, decorated with frescoes and shields houses the Hall of the Royal Guard, the Hall of the Double Axes, the King’s Chamber with the alabaster throne, the Queen’s Apartment, beautiful courtyards and shrines. Having visited this remarkable site your coaches will take you back to the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion to rejoin your ship.
REMARKS: Walking in the archaeological site of Knossos will be on uneven gravel surfaces.
Passengers may not be allowed to enter the site with big bags/rucksacks.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

3-Day
Aegean Legends
4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Greece & Turkey

A Taste of Crete (HER-04)

Half day tour

 

Knossos frescoThe tour begins from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion with a drive through the city to the famous wine producing area of Peza, south of Heraklion. The drive is through breathtaking landscape of countryside and vineyards as old as Minoan times. The first stop is a modern winery, where you will see the updated methods of wine making and sample some of the delicious Cretan wines. The drive continues through rural villages to the village of Archanes, the municipality in the area. On the way, a photo stop is made at Vathypetro to view one of the oldest farmhouses in Crete, dating to the Minoan period 16th Century B.C.. The tour continues through the island’s hilly countryside where olive groves and vineyards existed from as far back as 4,000 years. Arriving at the village of Archanes, which is situated 10 km south of the Palace of Knossos, you will visit the quaint market town of Archanes characterized by many restored sandstone houses dating from the Turkish period. At a taverna in the village’s tree-shaded square, you will sample an assortment of Cretan snacks and locally produced wine, and have a chance to mingle with many of the locals themselves while listening to typical Greek music. You will have free time to browse before the return drive to the port of Heraklion and the ship.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

3-Day
Aegean Legends
4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Greece & Turkey

Cretan experience (HER-06)

Full day tour

 

This is a unique combined tour to discover the mountains and the coast of the island of Crete. Departure from Heraklion port. On the way our first stop is at Panagia Kera Kardiotisa Monastery, a Byzantine monastery of the 14th century famous for its beautiful frescoes. In the middle of the mountains we will discover a magnificent plateau situated at a height of 820-850m. It is surrounded by precipitous mountain peaks, all more than 1.000m high, forming a strong natural fortification that has only eight relatively accessible passes. Lassithi Plateau is well known for the thousands of white sailed windmills,Windmills in Lassithi 10.000 in all, designed by Venetian engineers in 1464 and used for irrigation. Although very few windmills are in use today, it still makes a splendid sight against the mountains and sky. Photo stop at Seli to enjoy Panoramic view of the Plateau. Continue drive to Psichro. The mountains hide many caves, but we will visit the most important. The cave Dictaion Andron was one of the most important cult places of Minoan Crete and the birthplace of Zeus according to Greek Mythology. The cave was only rediscovered in 1880, it contained relics from middle Minoan up to archaic times. Afterward your journey will bring you to Lassinthos Eco ParkLassinthos Eco Park where visitors can get in contact with nature and the cultivation of land. Guest learns the secrets of the Cretan cuisine by enjoying a pure village style lunch with Cretan Specialties. After lunch you will have the possibility to visit different workshops of the Cretan art & culture (workshop of woodcarving, aromatic plants standardization, honey standardization, workshop of weaving art, workshop of waxwork, workshop of ceramic art) or the Eco Park with different animals of the Cretan countryside. Departure from Lassinthos via Mochos village, a unique route where one can enjoy a superb breathtaking panoramic view of the whole north coast as far as Hersonissos, a little port town and holiday area offering a nice promenade full of shops, cafes, bars etc. Here you will have free time for shopping before your return to Heraklion port.
REMARKS: Drinks are not included in the meal.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey cruise

Ports of call in Turkey

 

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

Mykonos Walking Tour (MYK–01)

Half day tour

 

Mykonos: Little VeniceMykonos is world famous. It is the most cosmopolitan of the Greek Islands and attracts many visitors from all over the globe, including large numbers of artists and intellectuals. Your coach will take you to “Hora” the island’s capital where you will enjoy a walking tour in the narrow cobbled streets of the town, passing by chic boutiques, elegant nightclubs and white–washed houses until reaching Alefkandra. Alefkandra is a charming corner of Chora, known also as the "Little Venice" of Mykonos. The houses are built on the sea, with wooden balconies that evoke Venice. These were built from the mid. 18th Century onward and were homes of wealthy merchants and captains. At Louis Theoxenia Hotel, you will enjoy the atmosphere while drinking your refreshment accompanied by Greek "meze". You will return then to Mykonos Town (Chora) from where you will take the ship’s shuttle service back to the port to meet your ship.
REMARKS: During the low season the refreshment will take place in a local tavern.


 

Above shore excursion is available during the:

3-Day
Aegean Legends
4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Greece & Turkey

Delos Apollo Sanctuary (MYK–03)

Half day tour

 

DilosDelos, once a Sacred Island, is the legendary birthplace of the Sun God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. For 500 years, tiny Delos was the religious & commercial hub of the entire Aegean. Today, the only remaining inhabitants are the keepers of its treasured ruins. Depart from the port of Mykonos by boat, and sail along the western coast of the island, through Diles & Rhenia Islands, to the ancient harbour of Delos where you begin the guided walking tour. First you see Agora and beyond it, the Sacred Way, which leads to the Temple of Apollo. Next, you see the remains of a Hellenistic Quarter with its harbour, water house and luxurious villas, such as the House of Cleopatra, the House of the Dolphins, the House of the Masks, the House of Dionysos, and many other interesting buildings. Note the architecture and the mosaic floors, which have survived over 2,500 years. Continue and admire the spectacular Avenue of the Lions, where five Naxian marble lions from the 7th Century B.C. crouch, vigilantly guarding the now dry sacred lake. Re-board the boat for the return journey to Mykonos town. Here you will have the chance to walk along the cobblestone streets of this famous island with its numerous shops, cafés and restaurants before you return to the port to re-join the ship.
REMARKS: Please note that the cruise from Mykonos to Delos is approx. 45 minutes.
Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties and it is subject to sea conditions.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Ports of call in Turkey

 

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

St. John Monastery & Grotto (PAT–01)

Half day tour

 

MonasteryDepart from the port of Scala and enjoy a short drive to the village of Chora, where the Monastery of St. John is built within the walls of a strong fortification. As you walk uphill towards the entrance of the monastery marvel at this magnificent structure, which was built 900 years ago. View the courtyard, the monks’ dining room and the old bakery before you visit the main church noted for its outstanding frescoes and interior decoration. Next, visit the small museum where priceless ecclesiastical treasures, books, manuscripts, mosaics, icons, splendid medieval textiles, vestments and jewellery are housed. Return to your motor coach and continue to the nearby Grotto of the Apocalypse. Walk down the steps to the Grotto of the Apocalypse. Here you will see the niches in the wall that mark the pillow and ledge used as a desk by the author of the Book of the Revelation and the crack in the rock made by the voice of God honouring the Holy Trinity. Afterwards, drive back to the port of Scala and enjoy some free time in this quaint and picturesque town.
REMARKS: Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.
Includes visit to religious sites, knees and shoulders must be covered.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

3-Day
Aegean Legends
4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean
7-day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Scenic Island Tour (PAT–02)

Half day tour

Patmos

An interesting scenic island tour has been designed for those passengers who prefer to discover the beauties of Patmos from the comfort of an air-conditioned motor coach. Start the tour from the port of Scala and drive to the central part of the island "Chora" which is the location of the Majestic Byzantine Monastery of St. John the Divine, built in 1088. Your sightseeing will first bring you to the Grotto of the Apocalypse, and then to the windmills of Chora, once upon a time the landmark of all Aegean Islands, from where you will enjoy a beautiful view and have the chance to take photos. Afterwards, continue around the island to see its landscape of outstanding natural beauty comprising of rocky hills, dozens of tongues of land reaching out into the sea, tranquil beaches and many picturesque inlets. Before arriving at the port, a stop of 10 minutes is made at the square at Kambos in the north part of island. The tour ends at the port of Scala to enjoy free time in the quaint and picturesque little town. A refreshment or a coffee will be offered at Arion Café, the oldest and most beautiful café of the town.
REMARKS: Includes visit to religious sites, knees and shoulders must be covered.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

3-Day
Aegean Legends
4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean
7-day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Ports of call in Turkey

 

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

Athens & the Acropolis (PIR–01)

Half day tour - only for passengers who are not embarking/disembarking in Piraeus

 

View of the Acropolis of AthensThis tour is an introduction to the splendour of the Golden Age of Athens and the modern 21st century city. The port of Piraeus itself is one of the finest examples of city planning in antiquity. On arrival in Athens you visit the Acropolis on which stands the Parthenon, the symbol of classical architecture. The entrance to the top of the hill is through the Propylea, the ‘gates’ through which the Panathinea processions used to enter. Built totally of white marble covers an area of 50 m across the whole western face of the Acropolis. Next to them is the temple of Athena Niki also known as the "Wingless Victory". The Parthenon is the main temple, built in honour of Goddess Athena. Her statue decorated the centre of the temple and it was made of ivory and gold. Next to the Parthenon is the smaller Temple of Erechthion with lovely sculptured young maidens supporting the roof of the porch. From the top of the Acropolis you can admire the ancient theatre of Herodes Atticus with its remarkable acoustics. Performances are still held here each summer being the highlight of cultural events in the Eastern Mediterranean. Leaving the Acropolis the tour takes you by the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the "evzones" dressed in their traditional costume, the Parliament and the Panathinaikon Stadium where the first Olympics of modern times were held in 1896.The entire stadium is built of pure white marble. Your drive continues by the Library - Academy – University, three buildings representing 19th century architecture blended with the classical influence. The tour then passes by Omonia Square, the commercial centre of the city and Syntagma Square, which is the business, and cultural centre. There will be time during the tour for you to browse and do a little shopping at the stores located at the base of the Acropolis.
REMARKS: Handicapped passengers may join the tour but will have to remain at the base of the Acropolis as the visit to the Acropolis involves approximately 80 steep steps.
Passengers may not be allowed to enter the site with big bags/rucksacks.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Athens & the picturesque Plaka (PIR–03)

Half day tour - only for passengers who are not embarking/disembarking in Piraeus

 

The Evzones at SyntagmaLeaving the port of Piraeus, one of the finest examples of city planning in antiquity, the coach takes the coastal road leading to the city that hosted the 2004 Olympic Games. On arriving in Athens, you start the city sightseeing driving past the Temple of Zeus, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, guarded by the "evzones" dressed in their traditional costume, the Parliament and the Panathinaikon Stadium where the first Olympics of modern times were held in 1896. The whole stadium is built of pure white marble. The drive continues by the Library – the Academy – the University, three buildings representing 19th century architecture blended with the classical influence. The tour then passes by Omonia Square, the commercial centre of the city and Syntagma Square, which is the business and cultural centre. Your Athens’ city sightseeing ends at a leading café at the foot of the Acropolis, from where you can view all the majestic monuments of the amazing Acropolis while enjoying your refreshment. The tour continues to the old part of the city called Plaka where you can explore its mainly pedestrian streets with picturesque houses, shops and numerous cafés. After the free time in Plaka you will board your coach for the return journey to Piraeus port.
REMARKS: The Acropolis will only be viewed from a distance.
The Plaka area will be explored on foot. A refreshment or a coffee will be offered at a café located at the base of the Acropolis.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Corinth Canal, Ancient Corinth & Mycenae (PIR–05)

Full day tour with lunch boxes - only for passengers who are not embarking/disembarking in Piraeus

 

You will leave the port of Piraeus and after approx. 1 hour and half drive you will reach Corinth where you will have a photo stop at a vantage point to enjoy a great view of the Corinth Canal. Constructed between 1881 and 1893, the four mile long waterway cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth and follows much the same line as a canal planned in Roman times. The waterway is 21 m wide, 8 m deep and 51 m high. From a point high above the canal, you have excellent photo opportunities. Your tour will continue to Ancient Corinth. During the 6th Century B.C., Corinth was one of Greece’s richest cities. Located in the northeast corner of the Peloponnese and at the head of the Gulf of Corinth, the city controlled the narrow isthmus and the two seas on each side. Excavations, begun in 1896 and still ongoing, revealed the Temple of Apollo and Roman ruins. You will then continue to Mycenae to visit the site of this ancient city, which gave its name to an entire civilization. The modern world was introduced to Mycenae thanks to archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, who started excavations in the 19th Century. History reveals Mycenae as a great power in the 12th Century B.C., when King Agamemnon commanded the Greek forces in the Trojan War. Part of Schliemann’s excavations uncovered a large grave circle, which yielded such spectacular finds as gold masks, cups, jewellery, bronze and ivory weapons. All are now on display in the Archaeological Museum in Athens.
REMARKS: Tour involves a considerable amount of walking at sites visited, much of it uphill and on uneven paths. Shade is limited; sun protection is recommended.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Ports of call in Turkey

 

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

Rhodes & Lindos Combined (RHO–01)

Half day tour

 

Rhodes townDrive along the picturesque south-eastern coastline, dotted with white-washed villages, to LindosLindos in Rhodes, one of the most important of the three great cities of ancient times. See how this entire city is guarded by medieval walls which were constructed by the knights of St. John in the 13th Century. Within them stands the ancient Acropolis of Lindos, on the brink of a precipice 122 m above the sea. From the Acropolis, marvel at the breathtaking views covering the great expanse of the Aegean Sea and St. Paul’s Bay, where the apostle cast anchor during his historic voyage to Ephesus. Proceed on foot uphill, to the great staircase leading from the Hellenistic Portico to the Acropolis and Temple of Athena. Should you wish to make your way up by mule, a fee must be paid to the local muleteer. After the guided tour of the Acropolis, enjoy some free time on your own in Lindos village before meeting up with your motor coach. Return to Rhodes city and enjoy a panoramic drive through the new part of the city before continuing to Mount Smith to see the ruins of ancient Rhodes, the Temple of Apollo and Diagoras Stadium. Afterwards your motor coach will drop you off at Porte d’Amboise, the start of the walking tour through medieval city of Rhodes. Follow your guide through the northern part where once lived the knights and their attendants. View the Palace of the Knights, continue your walk down Chevaliers Road to the Marine Gate and return back to the ship. A short visit to a ceramic factory is included.
REMARKS: Please note that the journey from Rhodes to Lindos is approx. 50 minutes.
Tour not suitable for passengers with walking difficulties.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean cruise
7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Old City & Philerimos (RHO–02)

Half day tour

 

Rhodes old cityDrive along the medieval walls to the summit of Mount Smith, the Acropolis of ancient Rhodes. From the tumbled massive pillars of the Temple of Athena, 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. The summit of Philerimos was the site of Ialysos, one of the three ancient cities of Rhodes. Later sites include the restored Byzantine Church of Our Lady of Philerimos, a chapel with 15th Century frescoes, and the ruined Castle of the Knights. After the visit and some free time, return to Rhodes and begin a guided walk of the old walled city to the Porte d’Amboise. It is a pleasure to stroll the street of the Knights with its medieval buildings, winding alleys, towers, turrets and emblazoned façades. You will then visit the impressive Grand Master’s Palace and have the chance to see the superb mosaics. The pleasant walk passes through the Marine Gate before you return to the ship.
 

Above shore excursion is available during the:

4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean cruise
7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Valley of Butterflies and walking tour (RHO–06)

Half day tour

 

Butterflies in the Valley og Butterflies in Rhodes islandDepart from the pier and drive along the western side of the island of Rhodes, where lies the Valley of the Butterflies ("Petaloudes"), one of the most attractive destinations on the island. During August, thousands of butterflies of the genus Panaxia overwhelm the valley in order to reproduce. During the rainy period, the Butterflies in the caterpillar stage remain in the Mediterranean thicket feeding on the foliage. As the end of the wet season approaches, towards the end of May, the final stage is concluded and the butterfly in all her perfection makes her appearance in the form recognizable to us all. They move constantly towards areas of highest humidity, always following the "water ways", as the dry period progresses, they finally arrive at the valley. Driving back to Rhodes Town you will continue your tour on foot, following your 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. Built in the 14th Century, it astonishes you with its unique architecture and an unrivalled patina of time. Walking down the Street of the Knights and passing through numerous, colourful shops, you can admire the 15th Century Hospital of the Knights which now houses the Archaeological Museum. At the end of the walking tour, you may choose to browse on your own a little longer and return to the ship on foot or join your coach to return directly to the ship. The ship is within sight and it takes approximately 10 minutes walking.
REMARKS: It is not allowed to disturb butterflies in any way (i.e. clapping hands, talking loud, etc).
The tour does not include inside visit of the Grand Master Palace.
The tour will be available only from July to mid September.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean cruise
7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey cruise
7-day
Greece & Turkey cruise

Ports of call in Turkey

 

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

Oia Village (SAN–01)

Half day tour

 

View of Fira townDriving along the road you will have the unique opportunity to admire the panoramic view of the Aegean Sea and the neighbouring islands. A unique sight is the various layers of lava that can be seen on the face of the rock, each layer being another phase of the activity of the volcano. Built on the Caldera rim, Oia Village is an excellent example of Cycladic architecture. Explore the village walking along the cobble-stone streets and the white washed houses with blue shutters where one gets the impression that they are a beautiful travel poster. Your coach will bring you back to the port of Athinios, where you will embark your tender boat.

On Sundays calls (3-day cruise) and on Wednesdays calls (7-day Highlights of Greece & Turkey): your excursion will end in Fira where your guide will show you the way to the cable car and you will make your own way back to the ship.
 

On Thursdays calls (4-day cruise, 7-day Splendours of Greece & Turkey and 7-day Greece & Turkey): the coach will bring you back to the port of Athinios, where you will embark your tender boat - it will also be possible to remain in  and reach the port by cable car; passengers will have to purchase the ticket at the cable car station.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

3-Day
Aegean Legends
4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean
7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Greece & Turkey

Santorini Sailing & Volcano (SAN–02)

Half day tour

 

View of the Caldera and KammeniEnjoy a cruise (on motorboat) around the active crater of Nea Kameni islet. Sail along the strange formations of its 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. Enjoy this surreal landscape as your guide narrates the creation and history of the volcano and the last eruption leading to the destruction of the island of Santorini. The tidal wave created by the eruption was of such an immense magnitude, it destroyed the thriving city of Knossos on the island of Crete. As your caique enters the narrows of the two lava islets, Palea and Nea Kameni, the colour of the water changes from dark blue to sulphur green. In the distance, admire the breathtaking sight of Fira 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 on the sea floor. Your excursion will end in the town of Fira where your guide will show you the way to the cable car and you will make your own way back to the ship.
REMARKS: The tour will be available from April to September and is subject to weather conditions.
Please note the water at the hot springs is reddish brown in colour and may stain light coloured swimsuits.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

3-Day
Aegean Legends
4-Day
Jewels of the Aegean
7-Day
Splendours of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey
7-day
Greece & Turkey

The best of Santorini (SAN–05)

Full day tour

 

You will board you coach and head towards the magical town of Oia, protagonist of the post cards of this unforgettable island. Your panoramic drive will allow you to have breathtaking views of the lava rocks of the islets of Nea Kameni and the Caldera below you. You will have free time to enjoy the landscape of Oia and the colourful shops and cafes with terrace overlooking the Aegean Sea.View of Fira and the Caldera After Oia visit, you will drive to the highest point of the island, the view point of Prophetes Elias, from here you will be able to take marvellous pictures of all the different aspects of this unique island. Afterwards you will be taken to the black sand beach of Perivolos. A long and volcanic beach will be at your disposal to swim and to relax with a landscape one of its kind. Here you will find bars and taverns where you will have the chance to taste the typical food or just to hire a sun bed and enjoy the warm sun of the Mediterranean Sea. Perivolos beachYour journey will continue to one of the most exclusive wineries of Santorini, where you will have the possibility to taste three kinds of local wine, especially the Vin Santo, specialty of the Island and the best product of the Factory. Your excursion will end in Fira where your guide will show you the way to the cable car and you will make your own way back to the ship.
REMARKS: The tour is subject to weather conditions.
It is recommended to bring your swimsuit and a towel, sun beds and umbrella are not included in the tour, but you can find all kind of facilities on the beach.

Above shore excursion is available during the:

7-day
Highlights of Greece & Turkey

Ports of call in Greece:

Ag. Nikolaos, Crete Heraklion, Crete Mykonos
& Delos
Patmos Piraeus (Athens) Rhodes Santorini

 

Ports of call in Turkey

 

 

 

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