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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.
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
$1,995
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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