Crossroads of the Ancient World: Exploring Greece and Turkey

Arrive in Athens, the capital city of Greece, and transfer to Lavrio, where you'll embark <i>National Geographic Orion</i> in the afternoon. Settle into your cabin and take in your first Aegean sunset at sea. Or explore more on a pre-voyage extension in Athens or Crete.

The island of Delos is one of the most important mythical and historical sites in Greece and a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. In myth, it’s the birthplace of the twin immortals Artemis, goddess of animals and the hunt, and Apollo, god of healing, music and light. Spend a morning discovering the Terrace of the Lions and exquisite Temple of Apollo, two of the many incredible ruins preserved here.

In 1999, UNESCO designated three landmarks on the Greek isle of Patmos as World Heritage sites: the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian, the Cave of the Apocalypse and the town of Chora—all for their significance in Christianity. Patmos is believed to be the island where Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation, and the 11th-century monastery has been a pilgrimage site ever since. Tour the monastery and the cave, where Saint John dictated his gospel to his disciple, Prochoros. Later, there are options to explore the island’s whitewashed alleyways and lush courtyards, meet local artisans or simply relax while enjoying a coffee in a local café.

For centuries, Chios has exported mastic—a type of plant resin—throughout the world. Cultivated exclusively on the island, the resin is used in liqueurs, beauty products and chewing gum. The product was once highly sought after by pirates and smugglers, and island villages were fortified with walls and watchtowers to protect the supplies. These medieval villages are uniquely beautiful, and you will have the opportunity to visit Pyrgi, known as the painted village for the black and gray geometric patterns adorning its buildings.

Step back in time as you wander through UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ephesus, one of the world’s best preserved ancient cities and once home to the Temple of Artemis, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Peer up at the intricately carved ceiling of the iconic Library of Celsus, and marvel at the Temple of Hadrian, where the main keystone arch still holds in place nearly 2,000 years after its construction. After lunch at a weaving center, partake in a Turkish coffee experience. Later, enjoy a performance of whirling dervishes—mystical Sufi dancers who spin themselves into a spiritual trance.

Travel to the eastern shores of Lake Bafa, where the ancient city of Herakleia rests at the foot of Mt. Lamos. Once a thriving Carian port, the site is home to atmospheric ruins, including the Temple of Athena and the Roman Agora. The lake also offers a chance to enjoy birdwatching in its serene natural setting or a hike on the same paths used by 8th century hermits and Byzantine monks.<br /> <br />After lunch onboard, continue to Didyma, home to the renowned Sanctuary of Apollo, followed by a visit to Miletus—a significant hub of commerce, culture and innovation from the Bronze Age through the Roman era.

Gracing Bodrum’s magnificent waterfront is the Castle of St. Peter, a 15th-century crusader fortress that now houses the Museum of Underwater Archaeology—an impressive collection of antiquities recovered from ancient shipwrecks along the Turkish coast. <br /><br />In the afternoon, set sail on a traditional Turkish wooden sailing gulet to discover the area’s tranquil, hidden bays. Take time to relax and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear, blue waters of the Aegean Sea.

Laid-back Leros, one of the Dodecanese Islands, is dotted with picturesque windmills and medieval castles that make great photography subjects. Set out on a photo walk as the early sun rises above the hillcrests.

This morning, hike to the crater on the uninhabited island of Nea Kameni and swim in the hot springs of Palea Kameni, or choose to visit a Santorini farm for a tour and tasting. After lunch, go ashore to the main island of remarkable Santorini—an island archipelago formed from a single volcanic cone that erupted 3,600 years ago, burying the resident Minoan culture in ash. Plan your day with a visit to the Archaeology Museum or visit the stunning excavations at Akrotiri, an important Minoan town preserved under volcanic ash much like Pompeii, with remarkably intact houses, streets, pottery and more. This evening, have dinner ashore, taking in the breathtaking sunset.

This morning, choose to go on an early hike on Naxos, visit an olive press museum and meet the fifth-generation owners while sampling cake, oil and marmalades, or enjoy a self-guided tour of the Kastro. Alternatively, join a local artisan for a marble carving experience. <br /><br />Over lunch, the ship repositions to Paros, where you can spend the afternoon exploring the charming Kastro, visiting a winery or walking the land with a local farmer to hear how they make dry-land farming work. Afterward, taste the fruits of their bounty. The natural beauty, incredible food and less-touristy vibe of Naxos and Paros provide an authentic Greek experience.

Arrive in Lavrio this morning. Enjoy a farewell breakfast on board before disembarking and transferring to the Athens airport for your flight home or explore more on a post-voyage extension in Athens or Crete.