Greece, Turkey & The Med

overnight stopover

We depart New Zealand today bound for our magnificent destination of Istanbul, the only city in the world to span two continents, Asia, and Europe. Our overnight stay will help you to arrive in the best condition possible to make the very most of the exciting days ahead. (B)

three nights Istanbul

Day 3 On arrival in Istanbul we’ll make our way to our hotel, where the remainder of the day is yours to relax and get settled in. Our hotel is perfectly positioned in Istanbul’s historic Sultanahmet district with many famous sites within easy walking distance. (D)

Day 4 After breakfast we head off on a sightseeing tour to the fabulous Topkapi Palace (a walled city perched above the Bosphorus and the Golden horn) entrance to the Blue Mosque with its beautiful tiles, the underground Cistern, and the Hippodrome where chariot races were held. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. (B,D)

Day 5 Start the day with the chance to see the Hagia Sophia, explore the city on foot and pick up some souvenirs at the Grand Bazaar before a delicious lunch in a local specialty restaurant. This afternoon, get your cameras ready for a superb highlight cruise by private boat along the Bosphorus Waterway. Travelling towards the Black Sea, the scenery complements the grandeur of the Ottoman Palaces, old mansions, and fortresses. (B,L)

one night Canakkale

Day 6 Drive along the shores of the Sea of Marmara to the peninsula of Gelibolu, better known in the west as Gallipoli. Here are the battlefields where, for nine disastrous months during the Great War, ANZAC troops fought to gain control of the strategic Dardanelle straights. Visit Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery, final resting place of soldiers who gave their lives over the entire Gallipoli campaign, before we visit Chunuk Bair. From Eceabat, a 30-minute sea crossing of the Dardanelle Strait to Canakkale takes us from one continent to another as we leave Europe for Asia. (B,D)

one night Izmir

A short hop to start the day as we head firstly to Troy, where archaeological excavation has established nine levels of habitation. See an enormous reconstruction of the famous Trojan wooden horse before continuing to Pergamum via scenic farmlands and fig plantations, and tour its famous acropolis, followed by a stop to visit the Asklepion, the seat of an ancient kingdom. (B,D)

two nights Pamukkale

Today we visit two stunning sights. Travelling predominantly across fertile farmland we skirt the ancient city of Ephesus, the third church visited on this trip that is mentioned in the Book of Revelations. Our first stop is at the House of the Virgin Mary. It is believed St John brought Mary to Ephesus after the crucifixion, where she spent her remaining years. We continue to the archaeological sight of Ephesus itself, entering the city via ancient Agora. We walk the famous Marble Road, see the stunning Library of Celsus, Temple of Hadrian, Hercules Gate, and the magnificent Stadium. We continue to Pamukkale, to enjoy the wonderful facilities on offer at our thermal spa resort. (B,D)

This morning we visit the ancient Hierapolis to see the famous white travertine terraces and pools. After bathing our feet in the soothing thermal springs there is ample time to visit the Agora, the magnificent Theatre, and the Martyrium of St Philip, one of the twelve apostles who died here in 87 AD. For those interested in old bones and ornate crypts, this afternoon you will be fascinated when we visit the elaborate Necropolis (ancient cemetery). (B,D)

two nights Antalya

As we cross the Taurus Mountains and pass pine forests today, enroute we’ll visit Aphrodisias, home to one of a few remaining Tetrapylon Gates in the world, a magnificent theatre, the Temple of Aphrodite and one of the best-preserved examples of an early stadium you’ll find. (B,D)

A day at leisure today. Explore more of the Old Town, relax by the pool for a while, or perhaps make your way down to the beautiful blue Mediterranean for a refreshing swim. Our hotel is perfectly positioned to make the most of this tremendous coastal location. (B)

one night Konya

We climb the Taurus Mountains again today and view some of the prettiest scenery in Turkey. Our destination is Konya, origin of the Whirling Dervishes of Mevlana. We’ll visit the Mevlana museum, with its beautiful fluted turquoise dome, containing the tomb of the whirling Dervishes founder before continuing to our hotel, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. (B,D)

three nights Cappadocia

Today we travel across the Anatolian Plain following the route of the old Silk Road, destination Cappadocia. We see several Caravanserai along the route, an ancient hotel and haven for the camel caravans during their long journey. Words cannot do justice to the region of Cappadocia, a landscape dotted with fairy-chimneys, underground dwellings and monasteries carved out of hillsides. Entire cities exist underground, some as deep as 12 floors down! Our accommodation tonight is in a cave hotel. (B,D)

Day 14 For those who have elected to, we start the day early with an incredible flight over the sparse plains and fairy chimneys of the Urgup/Goreme region in our Hot Air Balloon. Then we have an underground city tour. In this unique region of volcanic landscapes and ‘fairy chimneys’, visit Goreme’s Open Air Museum, rock carved churches and see ancient frescoes. (B)

Day 15 Today is yours to enjoy as you please. (B)

one night Athens

Day 16 This morning we depart Cappadocia and bid farewell to Turkey, flying to Istanbul and on to Athens, where an overnight stay awaits before we join our Greek Island cruise.

Day 17 Athens today is at leisure until mid-afternoon when we transfer to Piraeus to join our cruise ship.

seven nights Celebrity Infinity

Days 17-24 Celebrity Infinity. Step aboard Celebrity Infinity and let the magic of the Mediterranean unfold as we sail between some of the region’s most iconic destinations. The charming white & blue architecture of Mykonos, Santorini’s dramatic cliffs and famous sunsets, the ancient history of Rhodes, and the vibrant shores of Kusadasi, as the warm Mediterranean sun sets the scene for an unforgettable journey.

Our home for this voyage is a destination in its own right, carrying just 2,100 guests and striking the perfect balance between elegance and energy. Relax in your outside cabin or upgrade to a veranda and wake up to stunning sea views every morning. With some 13 dining options spanning everything from sushi to fine dining, a rooftop garden, multiple pools, spa, sauna, gym, pickleball, a library, café, lively bars, clubs and entertainment venues — there is truly something for everyone.

Intimate enough to feel personal, yet rich enough in choice to keep you discovering something new every day, Celebrity Infinity is far more than just a way to get from port to port. (B,L,D)

Few cities on earth can match Athens. The birthplace of drama, philosophy, poetry and democracy, this extraordinary city was once home to the world’s most powerful civilisation and its legacy is everywhere you look. The iconic columns of the Parthenon still crown the Acropolis, keeping watch over the city below just as they have for thousands of years.But Athens isn’t just about the past. Scenic beaches, bustling markets, and restaurants serving superb Mediterranean cuisine make this vibrant modern city just as compelling as its legendary history. (B,L,D)

A vibrant blend of art and culture and carefree Mediterranean lifestyle is an apt description of Mykonos. The town is easy to navigate, its cobbled whitewashed streets brimming with fabulous boutiques and galleries. The area of town referred to as Little Venice has the iconic windmills, and an abundance of quaint taverna, cafés and restaurants specialising in local fare. Beautiful beaches, ancient ruins and a photographer’s paradise, Mykonos has it all. (B,L,D)

This former seaside village is now a popular Aegean resort town. The streets bustle with vendors of carpets, leather goods and books, and the customary ice-cream sellers. There’s a shopping mall with sleek jewellery stores and European fashion boutiques. For the energetic, consider a walk along the peninsula to see the castle on Güvercinada (Pigeon Island). (B,L,D)

While at sea, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation before your next adventure. Unwind by the pool, pamper yourself at the spa, savour exquisite cuisine, or discover some of the many entertainment and recreational activities on board. (B,L,D)

Warm, welcoming, and endlessly captivating, Rhodes is widely regarded as the friendliest city in the Mediterranean and it’s easy to see why. The largest of the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes offers a stunning mix of golden beaches, wooded landscapes, and some of the most remarkable ancient history in the Greek archipelago.

Lose yourself in the winding cobblestone streets of the medieval Old Town, where the Knights of St. John once built a mighty Christendom stronghold. Explore the restored Palace of the Grand Masters, walk the legendary Street of Knights, and discover the ruins of the Temple of Venus — history quite literally surrounds you at every turn. (B,L,D)

No image captures Greece quite like Santorini, and in person it’s even more spectacular. Whitewashed houses cascade down dramatic clifftops above a deep blue caldera, formed thousands of years ago by one of history’s most powerful volcanic eruptions. It’s a breathtaking setting unlike anywhere else on earth.The island’s volcanic soil also produces some exceptionally distinctive wines — well worth exploring in the charming villages of Pyrgos, Megalochori, and Oia.

Oia is incredible, perched on the island’s highest point, it offers what many consider the most spectacular sunset view in the entire Mediterranean. (B,L,D)

In a world of noise and endless connectivity, Hydra is a revelation. Cars, scooters, and even bicycles are banned on this small, exquisite Aegean island — leaving nothing but peaceful cobblestone lanes, the clip-clop of donkeys, and the gentle lap of the sea. Getting around on foot, by donkey, or by water taxi is all part of the charm.

The picturesque harbour town is a delight to explore, its red-tiled houses and flower-filled gardens tumbling down to the waterfront, where port side tavernas and welcoming restaurants are perfect for whiling away a lazy afternoon. Boutique gift shops and beautiful beaches — some lively, some wonderfully secluded — complete the picture.

Romantic, unhurried, and utterly unspoilt, Hydra is unlike anywhere else in Greece — and once you’ve been, you’ll understand exactly why. (B,L,D)

two nights Athens

Day 24 On arrival back in Athens we’re met by our local guide.

Athens, the ancient centre of the arts, learning and philosophy, and regarded as the cradle of Western civilisation and democracy. Upon disembarkation we visit highlights of this famous Olympic city including the original Olympic Stadium, the Acropolis and Pantheon atop Temple of Athena Nike and see Hadrian’s Gate, plus many points of interest along the way. This evening to really immerse ourselves in the Greek way of living we’re going to dine in a local restaurant located in the narrow cobbled streets of Athens old town, the Plaka. (B,D)

Day 25 Today is yours at leisure to explore on foot. There is still so much to see in very close proximity to our hotel. We’ll take you sightseeing, shopping, or exploring whatever you have on your to do list! The Plaka area has many fascinating things to see and experience and is worth exploring during the day. There are also many fabulous museums one can see, none more so than the wonderful Acropolis Museum. Tonight, we celebrate our time together on this inspiring adventure at a local restaurant. We’ll be entertained by local singers, musicians & dancers and enjoy a wonderful night of traditional Greek fare accompanied by fine wines and ouzo, the local Greek drink of choice. (B,D)

We bid farewell to our wonderful Greek hosts and transfer to Athens International Airport for our flights homeward to New Zealand. After an overnight stop en-route, we arrive home, heads full of wonderful memories, time spent with newfound friends, experiences beyond expectation and a greater appreciation for this fascinating part of the world.