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 National Geographic Orion 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.

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.

Samos is the home of the Temple of Hera (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the birthplace of ancient philosopher Pythagoras, and the remarkable Eupalinos Tunnel, an ancient engineering marvel. Spend the morning visiting ancient sites with an optional wine excursion in the afternoon.

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.

Didyma is home to the renowned Sanctuary of Apollo and Miletus—a significant hub of commerce, culture and innovation from the Bronze Age through the Roman era. Or visit Priene, one of the most charming ancient sites in the Mediterranean that offers stunning vistas overlooking the Meander Delta.

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. 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, 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. This afternoon, choose to explore on your own, or join an optional marble carving class.

In Paros, explore the charming Kastro, visit a winery or join an optional excursion with a local farmer to hear how they make dry-land farming work. Afterward, taste the fruits of their bounty. Visit charming villages along the harbor like Parikia and Naoussa that offer a maze of streets and alleyways to explore.

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 Crete.