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Are you looking for an unforgettable
tour-cruise vacation to the Mediterranean at a discount?
Check it out now, and if you see a cruise
vacation there that interests you, don't delay!
GREECE & GREEK ISLES
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GREECE
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Piraeus/Athens, Greece
Piraeus is the seaport for Athens, the capital of western civilization,
which boasts a fantastic mix of classical ruins and vivacious modern life.
In a single day, you can climb the hill of the
Acropolis to wonder at the Parthenon, join the lively Athenians in Constitution
Square, and then find a welcoming taverna for some spirited bouzouki music,
plenty of ouzo to drink, and with luck, energetic Greek dancing.
Corinth Canal, Greece
Few ships are able to navigate this narrow passage between mainland Greece
and the Peloponnesian peninsula. A 19th century engineering feat, you can
almost reach out and touch the walls of the Canal--and where else will you
find a drawbridge that actually sinks into the water to let ships pass over
it?
Itea/Delphi, Greece
Itea is the port for
Delphi, one of the ancient wonders of classical Greece. A short drive
there reveals the Sacred Way and the famed Shrine of Delphi, where the mythological
Oracle was said to foretell the future. An amazing bronze charioteer is
among the many treasures in the
Delphi Museum.
Katakolon/Olympia, Greece
Katakolon is your gateway to Olympia, where the ancient Greeks flocked every
four years for more than a millennium to celebrate the sacred games dedicated
to Zeus. Visit the ruins of the Sanctuary, with its athletic quadrangles,
stadium-temples and treasuries; then browse in the modern Archaeological
Museum, a treasure house of Archaic, Classical and Roman sculptures, including
the famous Niki "Winged Victory."
Parga, Greece
On the west coast of Greece lies the enchanting town of Parga. The brightly
painted boats in its beautiful harbor offer trips to secluded sandy beaches
nearby. The scent of jasmine fills the air as you stroll along the waterfront
past open-air tavernas, restaurants and cafes. Take a tour to the ancient
Necromandion (oracle of the dead) or to Nikopolis, a Roman city built by
the emperor Octavian to celebrate his victory over Mark Antony and Cleopatra.
Thessaloniki, Greece
The capital of Macedonia, a rich experience awaits you in this wealthy,
energetic and youthful Greek city. Revel in cosmopolitan pleasures: sophisticated
shops and cafes, markets hidden away beyond historic city squares, and the
superlative Archaelogical Museum are but a few. Explore the castlebound
Old City and a sampling of fine Byzantine churches. Or, spend the day touring
the ruins of the ancient city of Pella, birthplace of Alexander the Great,
or Vergina-where the intact tomb of Philip II, Alexander's father, was recently
discovered.
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GREEK ISLES
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Corfu, Greece
Though once ruled by Venetian doges, Turkish sultans and French invaders,
today's Corfiot citizen is as Greek as they come. Marvel at the 17th-century
icons in St. George's Church, the medieval Palace of Phrourio or the 19th-century
Achilleion Palace. The greenest of the Greek Isles, Corfu also boasts thriving
vineyards and olive orchards among its rugged mountains.
Delos, Greece
The uninhabited island of Delos is one of the finest archaeological sites
in Greece. Considered a sacred island since the 7th century B.C., the famous
Terrace of the Lions stands guard over the "sacred lake" and the remains
of the Temple of Apollo.
Herakleion, Greece
Herakleion, the capital of Crete and its principal commercial port,
is just three miles away from the fantastic ruins of the Palace of
Knossos. Discovered in 1899 by Sir Arthur Evans and partially reconstructed,
the elaborate Palace is believed to be the mythical Labyrinth of King Minos
and the seat of ancient Minoan culture. The Archaeological Museum in Herakleion
displays many of the treasures found during the excavations.
Kos, Greece
Kos is known as the home of Hippocrates, father of medical science. The
town is an archeological repository of Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic,
and Roman ruins. Take a tour to the ancient Asklepeion and the island's
archaeological museum.
Mykonos, Greece
The narrow passageways of Mykonos are a twisted maze of whitewashed houses,
miniature churches, lazy windmills, and tiny cafes serving up Greek specialties.
Sample the freshest squid or lobster just snatched from the blue Aegean
Sea, or shop for typical flokati rugs.
Mytilini, Lesbos, Greece
The birthplace of Sappho, a famous poet in ancient Greece, Lesbos is a charming
island of picturesque villages like Agiassos. The Byzantine Monastery of
Limonos and its beautiful frescoes are of special interest.
Patmos, Greece
This island is known as the site of the apocalyptic Revelations of St. John
the Divine, written here during his exile from the Roman Empire. The cave
where he lived is near the site of the Monastery of the Apocalypse. The
Monastery of St. John, built on one of the island's highest points, houses
priceless icons and manuscripts in its Treasury.
Rhodes, Greece
Legend has it that Apollo blessed this isle with sunshine and beauty. True
to the myths, the "Island of Roses" is rich in magnificent scenery and umbrella-lined
beaches. Take an excursion to Lindos, where high on a hill rises an ancient
acropolis dedicated to the goddess Athena. You will also want to see the
medieval Old Town, once home to the Crusading Knights of St. John, and tour
the Grand Master's Palace, an Italian restoration famed for its superb mosaic
floors.
Santorini, Greece
With its steep volcanic flanks looming straight up from the sea, and the
tiny white village of Thira clinging high atop the cliffs,
Santorini
is perhaps the most breathtaking and legendary of all the Greek Isles. To
the south is Akrotiri, where recent Minoan excavations support the theories
that Santorini might be the fabled lost continent of Atlantis.
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EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN & BLACK
SEA
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BULGARIA
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Nessebur, Bulgaria
Nessebur is one of the oldest and most picturesque towns existing in the
Balkans. It was founded by Thracians and colonized by Greek settlers from
Megara in the 6th century to which they gave the name of Messemvria. Nessebur
today has a rich cultural heritage seen either in numerous Byzantine churches,
beautiful old houses or Roman ruins.
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CYPRUS
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Limassol, Cyprus
The birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, is nearby on
this island — the third largest in Europe. Explore what is now called the
Medieval Museum, a restored castle where Richard the Lionheart married in
1191. Visit a mosque, browse the local artisan shops and take in the natural
and architectural delights of Cyprus.
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ISRAEL
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Ashdod (Jerusalem), Israel
Perched on sand dunes, Ashdod is a gateway to the Holy Land. From here,
you can journey to Jerusalem and Bethlehem and walk the Via Dolorosa and
see the stations of the cross. Among the many other sites of interest are
the Western Wall, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and, in Bethlehem, the
Church of the Nativity.
Haifa, Israel
A lovely seaport in its own right, Haifa is a departure point for Tel Aviv
and Holy Land sightseeing. Jerusalem beckons with the Mount of Olives and
the Western Wall. Jericho, Nazareth, Bethlehem, and the crusader city of
Acre are also within reach.
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ROMANIA
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Constanta, Romania
The most important seaport on the Black Sea, Constanta is also a gateway
to history. Take a walk among the fascinating ruins of Histria, the oldest
of Romanian towns. Or drive through such resort towns as Mamaia, Eforie
and Mangalia, which best reflect the country as it is today. Venture off
on a sightseeing tour to explore a mosque, the famed Roman mosaics, or the
Archaeological Museum, one of the finest in all the Middle East.
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TURKEY
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Antalya, Turkey
This fortified seaport was already centuries old when St. Paul and St. Barnabas
left its harbor on their journey to Antioch. Explore the superb museum in
a converted Byzantine church, visit the ancient Roman Theatre, or simply
relax amid the pleasant scents of orange groves and pine forests. Those
hungry for more history can venture to the ancient towns of Side and Perge.
Bodrum, Turkey
Built upon the remains of the city of Halicarnassus, Bodrum is now a beautiful
resort village on the Aegean Coast with intriguing sights. Visit the ruins
of the Mausoleum, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, or the
Crusader Castle that guards the harbor.
Canakkale, Turkey
On the Asian shore, guarding the Dardanelles, is the quiet Turkish port
town of Canakkale. History enthusiasts will want to venture to legendary
Troy. Canakkale's Archaeological Museum boasts exhibits originally belonging
to Frank Calvert, aide to the discoverer of the lost city, Heinrich Schliemann.
Visit the vast memorial at Galipoli Peninsula, site of the notorious World
War I campaign. Be sure to sample the culinary delights of a meze, a spectacular
array of Turkish hors d'oeuvres.
Dikili, Turkey
Dikili is the port for the ancient mountain citadel of Pergamum where you
can visit Asklepeion, the site where psychiatry was first practiced. Also
see the Sacred Pools, the Altar of Zeus, the Library, and the Serpent Altar
which still serves as the symbol of the medical profession.
Istanbul, Turkey
Once called Constantinople, the former capital of the Byzantine Empire is
the only city in the world to straddle two continents: Europe and Asia.
This is the Golden Horn, the door between East and West, and your first
vision of its domes and minarets is unforgetable. Hagia Sophia, the Blue
Mosque and Sultan treasures in Topkapi Palace await - as does the Grand
Bazaar, laden with carpets, beaten brass and spices from afar.
Kusadasi/Ephesus, Turkey
This charming, picturesque resort where Antony and Cleopatra used to vacation
is best known as the port for the ancients ruins of Ephesus - one of the
world's most wondrous archaeological sites. Explorations should include
such masterpieces as the Great Amphitheatre, where St. Paul addressed the
Ephesians, the Library of Celsus, and the temples of Athena and Apollo -
all connected by marble streets rutted by the wheels of countless chariots.
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UKRAINE
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Odessa, Ukraine
Known for its cultural and historical attractions, Odessa is often referred
to as the "Pearl of the Black Sea". Founded by Catherine the Great in the
late 18th century, it later thrived under refugee Cardinal Richelieu. This
Ukrainian town is now a center of industry and shipping as well as a popular
coastal resort where visitors come to experience its "curative muds." Start
your exploration at the top of Potemkin Steps and enjoy a magnificent harbor
view. Plan to visit the Odessa Opera Theatre where famous Russian ballets
are performed.
Yalta, Crimea
This popular resort town on the Crimean Peninsula is sure to please both
beach and mountain lovers alike. Yalta is also the home of the Chekhov Museum,
the place where the author once lived. But it is perhaps best known as the
site for the famous Yalta Conference, where Roosevelt, Churchill and Stalin
met during World War II. While there, be sure to tour the White Livadia
Palace, which was built by Alexander II and served as a summer residence
for the Czars.
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WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN & RIVIERAS
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CROATIA
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Dubrovnik, Croatia
Jewel of the Dalmatian coast, girded in ninth-century walls that rise sheerly
from the water's edge, Dubrovnik is one of the best-preserved medieval towns
in Europe. Within the ancient fortifications is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways
and a striking Renaissance boulevard called the "Stradun."
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FRANCE
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Ajaccio, Corsica, France
On the French island of Corsica, Ajaccio is famous as the birthplace of
Napoleon. Visit the Bonaparte family home and the 16th century church where
he was baptized. Or, take a tour into the wild and rugged outback countryside
they call the maquis.
Bonifacio, Corsica, France
With its spectacular cliff-top setting, this ancient Corsican citadel has
withstood many sieges. The 15th-century steps, cut high in the rock face,
are evidence of this history. Today, medieval buildings crown the slopes
leading to a fortress which overlooks the sea.
Nice, France
Known as the "Queen of the Riviera" this cosmopolitan resort city is abundant
in boutiques, nightclubs and museums, including the fascinating Chagal Museum.
Browse along the elegant beachside Promenade des Anglais. Or, venture further
along the Cote d'Azur to witness the galleries of Vence, Monte Carlo's glamorous
casino, or Monaco's royal allure.
Portoferraio, Elba, France
Portoferraio, with its lemon-yellow buildings, is among the most elegant
of the old Mediterranean ports. Beyond the town lies an island of great
natural beauty. The hills are covered with pine forests and the scent of
wildflowers fills the air; discover the island's medieval and Napoleonic
history on a countryside tour.
Sete, France
Nearby the charming port of Sete is Carcassonne, the best surviving example
of a medieval walled city which dates back to the time of the Roman Empire.
While the knights and their horses have long been gone, their presence can
still be felt as you walk along Carcassonne's winding streets. Explore the
town's boutiques and cafes. Be sure to sample "cassoulet," a delightful
combination of meats cooked with beans which is the city's specialty.
St. Tropez, France
No introduction is needed for what is perhaps the world's best known and
most fashionable resort on the Riviera. Immerse yourself in the splendid
scenery of the Cote d'Azur with an excursion to the hilltop villages of
Gassin and Il Ramatuelle, and the new town of Port Grimaud, built to resemble
an old Mediterranean fishing village.
Villefranche, France
This village of 7,000 inhabitants is hidden among wooded slopes, above the
crystalline waters of the Cote d'Azure. The town itself is delightful, with
medieval chapels and an impressive hilltop fortress built by the Duke of
Savoy in 1560. And, just up the coast are the luxuries of Nice and the extravagance
of Monte Carlo.
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GIBRALTAR (UNITED KINGDOM)
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Gibraltar, United Kingdom
One of the "Pillars of Hercules," Gibraltar is an historic landmark with
British and Spanish influences. Guarding the entrance to the Atlantic, the
great rock still serves as Britain's threshold to the Mediterranean. Take
a cable car to the top of the rock for a spectacular view of two continents
as well as the famous Barbary apes.
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ITALY
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Capri, Italy
Known as the "Island of Love" since the days of the Roman Empire, Capri
offers stunning views, dozens of international cafes, fine Mediterranean
restaurants and sophisticated resort shopping. Enjoy a boat trip around
the coast to witness the hypnotic beauty of the Blue Grotto.
Civitavecchia/Rome, Italy
The port of Civitavecchia is the gateway to The Eternal City, where all
roads lead. Mad traffic careens past monuments of the great civilizations
of the past. You will want to see it all: the soaring inspiration of St.
Peter's, the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel; the flow of life along the
Spanish Steps, the Coliseum, the Via Veneto and Trevi Fountain. Be sure
to leave time for la dolce vita in one of the piazzas.
Genoa, Italy
Christopher Columbus hailed from Genoa "the Proud," which enjoys one of
the most illustrious maritime histories in all of Italy. It also features
the largest medieval city center in Europe as well as Renaissance palaces
that once enthralled Rubens and Van Dyck. From here, you can take an excursion
to Milan, Italy's vibrant epicenter of fashion, business and the arts, to
feast your eyes on The Last Supper and tour the grand opera house of La
Scala. Or, enjoy a trip to Portofina, the most picturesque resort on the
Italian Riviera. Cruises from Genoa.
Livorno/Florence, Italy
From Livorno, your path leads through the rolling green hills of Tuscany
to Florence, the flower of the Renaissance. The creative explosion happened
right here, with masterworks by Michelangelo, Brunelleschi and Botticelli
now landmarks of daily life. Ufizzi, Academmia, il Duomo: the art treasures
of a golden age are commonplace to blessed Florentines.
Isole Ponziane, Italy
Discover the largest and most beautiful of the Ponziane Islands. This island
haven in the Tyrrenhian Sea has been a resort since ancient times: Cicero
had a summer palace here, and the emperors Caligula and Nero were born nearby.
Isole Ponziane boasts the Chiaia di Luna beach and a magnificent shoreline
composed of bays, cliffs and grottoes.
Naples, Italy
One of the most spectacular bays in the world lies in the shadow of Mt.
Vesuvius. Visit the San Carlo Opera House and the cathedral of San Janarious,
or tour the ancient ruins in the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum.
Portofino, Italy
Often called the "Pearl of the Riviera," this charming hideaway on the Ligurian
Sea is a favorite vacation spot of many wealthy Europeans. Once a quiet
fishing village, Portofino is now best known for its chic boutiques, wonderful
outdoor restaurants, and beachside cliffs that are speckled with pastel-colored
villas. An optional day trip by boat lets you explore the picturesque coastline
villages of Paraggi and Santa Margherita.
Sorrento, Italy
Some of Italy's most romantic villages cling to the dramatic slopes of the
ruggedly beautiful Amalfi Coast. Sorrento's one so beautiful it inspired
a song. Take a drive along the scenic coastal road. Or venture further,
to the amazing ruins of Pompeii, uncovered from the ashes of Vesuvius, or
to Capri, known as the "Island of Love."
Venice, Italy
Venice enchants you from your first glimpse as your ship glides through
the Grand Canal. A world power in the middle ages, its affluence lives on
in its beautiful old buildings like those surrounding Piazza San Marco.
Be sure not to leave without a romantic ride along the canals in a gondola.
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SARDINIA (ITALY)
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Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy
As Sardinia's capital, Cagliari is both a thriving modern city and a fine
example of the varied history of this Italian island. Explore the Roman
amphitheater, Spanish townhouses, and Pisan watchtowers. Antiquities from
the native Nuraghi culture and from the Phoenician era onward are well-displayed
in the National Archaeological Museum.
Porto Cervo, Sardinia, Italy
Secreted among the inlets of Sardinia's rugged northern coast is the Costa
Smeralda, a carefully planned retreat with Porto Cervo at its heart. The
Costa Smeralda was conceived and implemented by the Aga Khan in 1962 and
is still the exclusive resort that he envisioned. A scenic drive into the
mountains takes you past elegant private homes and resort hotels that look
out over hidden coves and sparkling beaches.
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SICILY (ITALY)
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Catania, Sicily, Italy
Steep, rugged Sicily had bred a race of fierce, funny and passionate people.
From this important port, drive up the coast to visit Taormina. First Greeks,
then Romans used this as a place of worship and reward. View the temples
and the theater, Mt. Etna in the distance, or take a stroll and shop in
the little village before you leave.
Messina, Sicily, Italy
The setting for Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing, Messina has much to
offer in the way of history. Its dramatic, boulder-filled harbor has challenged
navigators since the days of Ulysses. Try to visit the city's Bell Tower
at the stroke of noon--the hour when one of the world's largest and most
fanciful mechanical clocks springs into action. Messina's museum is also
noteworthy for its Renaissance masterworks.
Palermo, Sicily, Italy
Once regarded as Europe's grandest, most beautiful city, Palermo is still
quite impressive. The Four Corners of Palermo, where each 17th-century Spanish
Baroque facade is adorned with a statue, is one of the city's most memorable
sights. The Fontana Pretoria, often called the Fountain of Shame because
of its nude Florentine figures, is also worth noting. Tour the famous Norman
Cathedral and Capuchin catacombs. A day trip to Monreale to see the famous
12th-century cathedral is also recommended.
Taormina, Sicily, Italy
With the smoking cone of Mt. Etna as a backdrop, the chic resort of Taormina,
is absolutely stunning. The town's ancient Greek theater is a wonder. Built
in the third century B.C., with apparently perfect acoustics, it is still
used today for open-air concerts. Spend some leisurely time along the Corso
Umberto, where there are many interesting places to shop and dine.
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MALTA
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Valletta, Malta
The Knights of St. John made this their base in the Mediterranean Sea. The
castles, cathedrals and fortresses they built still are their remaining
legacy. But Phoenicians, Romans, Carthaginians and Arabs preceded them and
left their marks as well. Take a drive to M'dina, the former capital, and
wonder at Europe's third-largest dome in Mostra.
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SPAIN
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Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is the cultural heartland of Spain, yet its first language is
Catalan, the native tongue of the proudly independent Catalonia region.
Stroll down the shady, tree-lined Ramblas between street musicians and elegant
bistros. Then perhaps visit the venerable Gothic cathedral, Picasso Museum
or enjoy the architectural genius of Antonio Gaudi's Church of the Holy
Family.
Mahon, Menorca, Spain
Menorca is considered the gem of the Balearic Islands. Mahon, its most important
port, is also its capital. Journey to the top of Monte Toro, the highest
mountain on the island, and savor a most spectacular view—occasionally as
far as Majorca. Explore Binibeca, a fishing village rich in vacation homes
and villas built in the old Catalan style. Or escape to the lighthouse at
Favoritz and enjoy a secluded beach.
Palma de Mallorca, Spain
The major island in the chain known as the Balearics, Mallorca is Spain's
sunny outpost in the Mediterranean. The town of Palma boasts a shady plaza
near the Gothic Cathedral. Visit the Roman ruins and the Drach Caves nearby,
or journey to the enchanting village of Valledemosa. Leave time to shop
for lovely majolica faux pearls and hand-made lace.
Puerto Banus, Spain
This golden beach hideaway in Spain's famed Costa del Sol region is known
to be favored by well-heeled Europeans. Stroll the yacht-filled harbor with
its sophisticated shops and restaurants. Take a hot-air balloon ride from
a nearby beach. Or, venture into the mountains on a day trip to the noble
old town of Ronda. Set high above the Guadalevin River, the town is known
for its spectacular views and amazing bridges spanning the river gorge,
and for its beautifully restored old Moorish town.
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Choose from Sailings covering the
Greek Isles
and Turkish Coast
or Red Sea:
from
$2,995
Visit some of the most fascinating
and picturesque ports of the Greek Islands while being pampered in casually
elegant style.
Yacht
Cruising:
April
to
October
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Contact
Anemos Tours Reservations
for booking and additional information!
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