The best of the Aegean
Greek island hopping has rarely been so popular, with the Aegean archipelago in particular playing host to iconic locations. One of the best ways to discover the region is on a cruise and, even if you don’t consider yourself a ‘cruise’ person, it’s worth exploring for the ease, convenience and value of all-inclusive travel.
On this itinerary, you’ll set off from Athens and weave your way to some of the best known islands; perhaps you’ll go for classic experiences like watching the sunset from Oia’s caldera edge or castle ruins; stopping at boho-chic Scorpios Mykonos; or exploring the Byzantine and the Bosphorus in Istanbul, where you’ll have an overnight stay. All in all, you’ll have visits to eight of the Aegean’s finest spots and get to explore two contrasting countries.
This suggested voyage is aboard one of the most exclusive and newest ships sailing the Med, but there’s a huge choice available and your Travel Counsellor can guide you to the best to suit your tastes. Nor will you be confined to ugly, busy docks – this mid-sized ship can get into ports in close proximity to many of the key sites for easy day tripping.
Experience this...
The Cyclades and Dodecanese
Rhodes and Mykonos are some of Greece’s most iconic islands, each offering a unique experience. Rhodes is steeped in history, with medieval castles, ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches to explore while Mykonos, which you’ll reach later in the cruise, is known for its lively nightlife, windmills, glamorous resorts, and picturesque old town. You’ll get to explore all ‘big hitters’ on this wonderful itinerary.
Kusadi
The next few days will be spent exploring the stunning Turkish Aegean. Your first stop is Kusadasi, with a lively harbour and beautiful beaches including ‘Ladies Beach’, which welcomes everyone although its name from a bygone era has stuck.
The main event, however, is a day trip to the ancient ruins of the city of Ephesus, around half an hour away. One of the world’s most significant archaeological sites, you’ll see the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World; the Great Theatre, an impressive 25,000 seat amphitheatre; and the Terrace Houses, well-preserved homes with beautiful mosaics and frescoes.
Istanbul
You’ll have a couple of days to experience Istanbul, and you’ll need them! Choose to explore its two iconic mosques, the domed Hagia Sophia, blending Byzantine and Ottoman styles, and the Blue Mosque, where you’ll see its unprecedented six minarets and the thousands of handmade blue ceramic tiles that give its nickname. Explore the royal treasures and lush courtyards of the opulent Topkapi Palace, the Ottoman sultans’ residence for some 400 years, or shop for antiques, spices and textiles at the Grand Bazaar.
Take the weight off your feet at a rooftop restaurant like Mikla, for the best views of the Bosphorus and delicious New Anatolian dishes, or unwind with a luxurious Turkish bath at the historic hammam, Çemberlitaş.
Thessaloniki
Next, to Greece’s mainland, stopping first in the North at Thessaloniki, its second-largest city. Start your day with sunrise views from the White Tower, the city’s landmark, and explore its Byzantine artworks, or head to the Archaeological Museum nearby which displays more Greek, Roman, and Byzantine treasures.
Take the waterfront promenade, Nukis Avenue, to explore the main city square and the Modiano or Kapani markets, where you can grab a bite to eat. In the afternoon, follow the Byzantine Walls to the UNESCO-listed Rotunda and Arch of Galerius or hike to Ano Poli, the old town, for the most panoramic views. As night falls, enjoy rooftop cocktails or live music in the lively Valaoritou district.
Volos
One of the joys of this voyage is the chance to see a lesser-known part of Greece. Volos, nestled at the foot of Mount Pelion, is a gateway to picturesque villages and scenic hiking trails. The city has a close connection to the myth of Jason and the Argonauts, and is believed to be the ancient city of Iolcos, Jason’s legendary homeland.
Enjoy a traditional tsipouro lunch at a waterfront mezedopoleio, with sharing dishes of grilled octopus, mussels saganaki, spetsofai and marinated anchovies. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque village of Makrinitsa on Mount Pelion, known for its stone mansions and breathtaking views, returning to Anavros Park, lined with pine and eucalyptus trees and a great spot to watch the sunset over the Pagasetic gulf.
Travel Style
Your Aegean journey will be aboard Silver Nova, Silversea’s first Nova class ship which launched in summer 2023. Through Nova’s bang-up-to-date design, the feeling on board is one of space and light, with the ship never feeling busy, even at its full complement of 728 guests.
She’s one of the most spacious ships ever built, with lots of open spaces and extensive use of glass for uninterrupted views in every direction, and made Conde Nast Traveller’s Hot List, with its culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), noted as “the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea”. All suites have ocean views, and most feature a private teak veranda, great for leisurely breakfasts and to hear the ship slip through the water. Regardless of your suite category, you’ll be looked after by an attentive butler.
Your handcrafted journey starts here
Prices for this 11-day itinerary start from £6,900 per person, based on two people sharing and departure on 26 October 2025. The price includes one shore excursion per guest per day excluding ‘days at sea’, all meals onboard, 24-hour room service, beverages in-suite and throughout the ship, and butler service in all suites.
Savings are currently available when booking before 28 February 2025.
Ask your Travel Counsellor to arrange your flights and a few days in Athens before or after your Aegean adventure. They’ve some of the best hotels to choose from, including recent arrivals One&Only Aesthesis in Glyfada or The Dolli at Acropolis, a boutique hotel with scene-stealing rooftop infinity pool and views of the Parthenon. For something unique, stay at a members-only luxury cabana beach club at 91 Athens Riviera, the ultimate glamping experience with access to the Soma spa and an exclusive tennis club.
Flights, hotels, transfers and superior suites aboard Silver Nova are available on request.
Contact your Travel Counsellor today to get things started.
All holidays are subject to availability, T&Cs apply. Shore excursions are subject to limited availability and are first-come, first-served, usually bookable two days before travel. Additional excursions are also available at extra cost.
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