Greek Isles Cruises: Kusadasi & Athens
9 Days From R52,200 per person sharing
Itinerary:
Day 1: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy
Rome sets the tone with two and a half thousand years of history, art, and culture packed into one endlessly walkable city. You can gaze at the masterpieces of the Vatican, step into the past among ancient relics and legendary museums, or simply people-watch over an espresso in a quiet café. It's little wonder Rome remains one of the most visited cities on the planet.
Day 2: Salerno, Italy
Salerno's history runs as deep as its landscapes are lovely, from Neolithic settlements to the site of medieval Europe's first medical school. Sitting where the mountains meet the sea at the southeastern edge of the famed Amalfi Coast, it rewards you with sun-drenched beaches, nature reserves, and historic sites in equal measure. Add the local cuisine, and you'll quickly understand why so many have been drawn to the Gulf of Salerno.
Day 3: Catania, Italy
Catania sits in the shadow of Mount Etna, Europe's most famous active volcano, whose presence is woven through the city's entire story. Explore its squares, cathedrals, and open-air markets on a guided tour, then pause at a friendly café for a taste of modern Sicilian life. For something more adventurous, you can head beyond the city to the surrounding lava fields, or hike, bike, and go off-roading on the trails that criss-cross the volcano.
Day 4: Valletta, Malta
Though marked by the scars of World War II, Valletta takes justified pride in its magnificent Baroque palaces, piazzas, gardens, and churches. The Magisterial Palace, built between 1571 and 1574, now houses the Maltese Parliament and the offices of the President of Malta. It's a compact, walkable capital where centuries of history reveal themselves at every turn.
Day 5: At Sea
Today belongs to the ship. Unwind on deck, indulge in gourmet dining, and let the Mediterranean drift by as you recharge for the days ahead.
Day 6: Athens (Piraeus), Greece
Athens is the cradle of civilisation and the oldest city in Europe, home to the Acropolis and some of the most important architectural landmarks in the Western world. Yet it's also thoroughly modern, an urban blend of extraordinary art, culture, cuisine, and shopping. You can spend the morning among ancient monuments and the afternoon exploring galleries and stylish neighbourhoods.
Day 7: Santorini, Greece
Santorini's whitewashed villages cling to sheer sea cliffs, an image so striking it's become one of the most photographed places in the world. The volcanic island carries a subtle mystery too, with some speculating it was once the site of the lost city of Atlantis. Between the caldera views, cliffside dining, and celebrated local wines, you'll see exactly why it captivates so completely.
Day 8: Kusadasi, Turkey
Kusadasi opens the door to ancient Ephesus, once a great Greek city and home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Built, destroyed, and rebuilt across several historical eras, Ephesus rewards you with some of the finest archaeological remains anywhere. Look out for the Roman Library of Celsus, the Gate of Augustus, the Tomb of John the Apostle, and the Basilica of St. John.
Day 9: Istanbul, Turkey
There's a fresh sense of excitement in Istanbul these days, as this former heart of the Ottoman empire has become a global focal point for art, fashion, gourmet cuisine, and nightlife. Of course, the ancient monuments and grand mosques remain, with the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque among the most spectacular sights you'll see. Wander into any park and you'll understand why the tulip has long been the city's emblem.
Day 10: Istanbul, Turkey
A second day in Istanbul gives you time to dig deeper into the city's remarkable layers of history and culture. Return to the great mosques and frescoes, browse the bazaars for treasures, or lose an afternoon in its lively cafés and waterfront restaurants. It's the perfect finale to a voyage that spans empires, coastlines, and cuisines.
Terms and Conditions
INCLUDES: 50% early booking discount, accommodation in an inside cabin aboard the Norwegian Jewel, all meals and entertainment onboard, Free at Sea Upgrade: premium beverages, speciality dining, excursions discounts, wi-fi package, tax, port charges and fees, KIDS SAIL FREE!
9 Days From R52,200 per person sharing
The Small Print
These offers are brought to you by Travel Counsellors (Pty) Ltd. Offer is per person sharing. Offer based on 2 July 2027 departure date. Offer is subject to availability, seasonal surcharges and currency fluctuations. Offer subject to change without prior notice. Supplier's terms and conditions are available on request. Package excludes flights, transfers, laundry, meals and drinks not specified, travel insurance and anything of a personal nature. Additional information available on request. Terms and conditions apply. Valid for South African Residents only. Prices and information are correct at time of publishing. E&OE.
