Classic Greece and Iconic Aegean Islands Cruise

This escorted tour by Travelsphere follows a route through both ancient and island Greece, starting with two days in Athens. There’s a city sightseeing tour that takes in the Acropolis, the Panathenaic Stadium and the Acropolis Museum, with a chance to pause in the Plaka’s narrow streets and cafés.

The itinerary moves from mainland Athens to three nights aboard a ship calling at Mykonos, Kusadasi in Turkey, Patmos, Heraklion and Santorini. Mykonos has its whitewashed houses and windmills, while Santorini offers views of the volcanic caldera from Oia. Heraklion’s 16th-century fortress stands by the waterfront and the Palace of Knossos nearby invites a look at Minoan history.

The final leg takes you to the Peloponnese, with a visit to the ancient theatre at Epidaurus and a walk through an olive grove before settling in Nafplion for three nights. Here, there is time to explore on foot or by boat, with a climb up to Palamidi castle providing a commanding view of the town and bay.