9 DAYS • 14 MEALS Step into history at the crossroads of cultures in Greece, the very cradle of ancient civilization. Discover a place where the mythical Greek gods ruled the world and add your own footprints in the sands of time!

Athens
Named after the goddess of wisdom Athena, the capital city of Greece has a history that dates back almost four millennia. The highlight of Athens is the Acropolis which stands tall, overlooking the city. You’ll take a guided tour of the Parthenon (UNESCO World Heritage site) see the Acropolis Museum, visit the site of the 2004 Olympics and stand in awe at the Temple of Zeus. But Athens is more than ancient ruins. The picturesque neighborhood of Pláka features a unique mix of Turkish, Neoclassical and Greek-island architecture along with fascinating museums. As with all Mayflower Tours, you’ll have ample opportunity to explore Athens on your own for a visit to the National Archeological Museum, lively markets and ornate monasteries.

Cruising the Greek Isles aboard the MV Aquamarine
Cruising is the best way to see the Greek Islands. Mayflower Tours has arranged with the majestic MV Aquamarine a four day cruise of the Greek Islands. When you’re not out exploring the ancient cities of the Aegean, the ship provides an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation. From shows, disco and a casino to international cuisine, you’ll find the ship an ideal haven and perfect base from which to enjoy the islands.

Mykonos
Often called the “Jewel of the Aegean,” Mykonos is the most popular of the Greek Islands. Well-preserved windmills, red-roofed churches and whitewashed buildings make the island a joy to behold. Stroll the esplanade by night filled with restaurants and shops.

Kusadasi, Turkey
Shop to your heart’s content among the colorful markets in the bazaar. Or, join us for an optional excursion to Ephesus, one of the most fascinating archeological sites in the world. An ancient city that dates back to 2000 BC, Ephesus still possesses a mystical atmosphere. See the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and the theatre that could hold more than 24,000 people.

Patmos
A majestic fortress monastery stands high atop the hill, surrounded by dazzling whitewashed houses, grand sea captain’s mansions and flowering courtyards. Spend time exploring the narrow streets and shops in Patmos. Or take an optional excursion to the Monastery and Cave of the Apocalypse (UNESCO World Heritage site) where St. John wrote the Book of Revelations.

Heraklion, Crete
Heraklion is the capital of Crete - the largest of the Greek islands, and the birthplace of Zeus - king of the ancient gods. Close by are the fantastic ruins of the Palace of Knossos. Discovered in 1899 and partially reconstructed, the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos and the seat of ancient Minoan culture.

Santorini
The island of Santorini "Black Pearl of the Aegean” is perhaps the most breathtaking of all the Greek Islands. History and nature combine to make this one of the most unforgettable places in the world. The town of Thira with its white-washed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes and glittering boutiques cling to steep cliffs, accessible by cable-car or mule. It is said that Santorini is all that is left of the lost city of Atlantis.

Delphi and Temple of Apollo
After the Acropolis, Delphi (UNESCO World Heritage site) is the most popular archaeological site in Greece, considered the center of the world, the place where heaven and earth met. Recognized as the center of worship for the god of Apollo, son of Zeus, people today believe the “Oracle of Delphi” still creates a spiritual experience. The Doric Temple of Apollo was the home of Pythia the priestess who channeled the spirit of the gods, predicting the future. Before the fire which destroyed the temple, the walls were inscribed with the ancient wisdom of “Know Thyself” and “Nothing in Excess,” still meaningful today.

Optional Tour to Argolis
To get a better understanding of the Greek Empire, take an optional trip to the Argolis region, the oldest continually inhabited city in Greece. See the Corinth Canal, a narrow passageway carved out of solid rock and the city of Mycenae, best known from Greek Mythology and its ruler King Agamemnon of The Iliad fame. See the Lion’s Gate, the imposing entrance to the city. The open-air theater of Epidaurus (UNESCO World Heritage site) is known for its outstanding acoustics and is the best preserved in all of Greece. Today it is still used for live performances.