Deluxe Stateroom
30% Ponant Bonus
204 ft²
2
European spring in the Aegean Sea
Athens - Athens
Dates:
4/16/2025
to
4/23/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
From Athens, set sail for an 8-day cruise in the heart of Greece. From the Thessaly region to the Peloponnese via Macedonia, discover ports nestling in gulfs, unspoiled islands, and ancient monasteries that seem to be hanging from the sky. From the sheer coastlines bordered by paradisiacal turquoise waters to the archaeological sites that are as emblematic as they are monumental, let yourself fall under the spell of these jewels of the Aegean Sea.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. On this cruise, discover the royal tombs of Vergina in Thessaloniki, visit the Meteora monasteries from Volos, or immerse yourself in the history of Hydra through its historic monuments. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab). The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
Discover the charming and verdant island of Skiathos, its beaches, its hiking trails, and its lovely port where some of the scenes in Mamma Mia! were filmed. You will then sail to the port of Volos, nestling in the curve of the Pagasetic Gulf. From there, access Meteora, home to a complex of Orthodox Christian monasteries that blend into the rock and are seemingly suspended in the sky.
Your ship will set a course for Thessaloniki, a big city that is pleasant to wander through and bears the traces of several peoples and civilisations. Your ship will then sail along Mount Athos, a rocky peninsula to which cling twenty imposing monasteries surrounded by superb forests of chestnut trees.
Your ship will then take you to the capital of Limnos, Myrina, whose Venetian castle, built on a rocky outcrop, overlooks the sandy shore. From the port, follow the long shopping street lined with houses and shops with small gardens characteristic of the Thracian style.
Athens, the mythical city dominated by the Acropolis and its monuments, which form the most extraordinary architectural and artistic ensemble bequeathed to the world by Ancient Greece, will mark the end of this exceptional odyssey.
Ref : ER160425
Your itinerary
A brand-new cruise to discover some of Greece’s most beautiful ancient sites in early autumn, while also enjoying the sandy beaches. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments...
View detailed itinerary
Your trip in detail
Choose your stateroom
Choose your stateroom
Complete your trip
Complete your trip
Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE LYRIAL
LE LAPÉROUSE
LE CHAMPLAIN
LE SOLÉAL
11/1/2024 to the 11/16/2024
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A brand-new cruise to discover some of Greece’s most beautiful ancient sites in early autumn, while also enjoying the sandy beaches.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments and the Vergina site in Thessaloniki; the Acropolis in Athens; the Meteora monasteries from Volos, Mount Athos.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- Two brand-new ports of call : Skiathos and Thessaloniki.
- A unique sailing experience, with commentary by our guides, along the monasteries of Mount Athos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although visible to the naked eye, these are even better viewed with binoculars.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
April 16, 2025 - Athens
Embarkation 4/16/2025 from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Departure 4/16/2025 at 6:00 PM
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
April 17, 2025 - Skiathos
Arrival 4/17/2025 midday
Departure 4/17/2025 evening
The small island of Skiathos is one of the treasures of the Aegean Sea, particularly appreciated for its magnificent beaches with turquoise waters, and also famous as one of the sites where the film Mamma Mia! was shot You will immediately fall under the charm of the main town, Skiathos, with its white houses, narrow streets and typical restaurants. You will have the possibility of discovering the former house of the famous novelist and poet Alexandros Papadiamantis, now a museum, as well as the Monastery of the Annunciation, commonly known as the Evangelistria Monastery, a post-Byzantine jewel with magnificent wall paintings. The many hiking trails will take you from coves to shady forests in an idyllic Mediterranean setting.
April 18, 2025 - Volos
Arrival 4/18/2025 early morning
Departure 4/18/2025 late afternoon
Volos, one of the biggest port cities in Greece, is located at the foot of Mount Pelion. According to mythology, Mount Pelion was a place of celebration for gods and heroes, and the home of the centaurs. The beauty of the place and the magical atmosphere that reigns here can indeed only have been inspired by the gods: the clear water that flows from a multitude of sources bathes the plane trees, apple trees, oaks, beech trees, gardenias, camellias, and hydrangeas that thrive in the fertile soil of Thessaly. Do not miss your chance to visit picturesque village of Milies in the hills, and to discover its traditional architecture.
April 19, 2025 - Thessaloniki
Arrival 4/19/2025 early morning
Departure 4/19/2025 late evening
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city after Athens, is in the Macedonia region, on the shores of the Aegean Sea. Visiting its historic centre means exploring the entire history of ancient civilisations and peoples: Roman, Greek, Ottoman, Jewish, Byzantine, and so on. Cultures have come together and left their mark on many monuments in the city and in its architecture. No fewer than 15 monuments are on the UNESCO World Heritage list, such as the magnificent Byzantine church, the Hagia Sophia, with its splendid 8th-12-century mosaics. Thessaloniki is also a modern and lively city, animated during the day as well as night, with its many seafront bars and its markets.
April 20, 2025 - Sailing along Mount Athos
Arrival 4/20/2025 early afternoon
Departure 4/20/2025 late afternoon
Mount Athos, a peninsula measuring 50 km (31 miles) long and 12 km (7 miles) wide and which rises to an altitude of 2,030 metres (6,660 feet), is also called “Holy Mountain” because of the twenty or so orthodox monasteries and the 2,000 monks that it shelters. It was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1988 thanks to its long religious history, the well-maintained agrarian architecture of the monasteries and the preservation of the flora and fauna around the mountain. Sailing around the peninsula, you will admire the majestic monasteries clinging to the rock face and overlooking the Aegean Sea.
April 21, 2025 - Limnos Island
Arrival 4/21/2025
Departure 4/21/2025 late afternoon
A volcanic island located near the Dardanelles Strait, Limnos was venerated during Antiquity. Legend has it that Hephaestus, the god of fire, had his forge here. Now one of Greece’s major seaside resorts, Lemnos offers its visitors many superb sandy beaches. It is also home to several archaeological sites, such as the towers of Kastro, an ancient acropolis fortified by the Venetians, or the neolithic site of Poliochni and the city of Hephaestia. Renowned for its olives, fruits, wheat and honey, and for the authenticity of its inhabitants, Lemnos is also known for the quality of its restaurants, ideal for tasting typical Greek dishes.
April 22, 2025 - Hydra
Arrival 4/22/2025 early morning
Departure 4/22/2025 late afternoon
This unusual gem belonging to the Saronic islands is located to the east of the Peloponnese. There are no cars here. Named after the island, the harbour town is layered up the slopes of a mountainous bay. You may be surprised to see beautiful stone mansions. These are traditional here, as are the multi-coloured caïques along the quays. Further along the shore, you will discover the Historical Archives Museum. Collections from Athens National History Museum are exhibited in the elegant villa Koundouriotis.
April 23, 2025 - Athens
Arrival 4/23/2025
Disembarkation 4/23/2025 at 8:00 AM
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
Walking tour of Skiathos town
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Walking tour of Volos
After disembarking, you will board your coach for a short transfer to "Athanasakeion", the archaeological museum of Volos, housed in a neoclassical building built in 1909.
The Archaeological Museum of Volos houses numerous exhibits: Palaeolithic finds, vases and figurines from the Neolithic era, jewellery and painted funerary steles.
Following your visit, you will start your walking tour through Anavros park. The park, along the shore, is a lovely relaxing area in the city. It was laid out in 1920 by the architect N. Kitsikis and provides recreation and a breath of cool air to residents and visitors alike.
Then, you will go to the Agios Konstantinos & Eleni Church. The church, towering over the waterfront of Volos, is an elaborate piece of architecture, designed and built by the architect A. Zachos. Ever since its construction in 1936, the church has been a reference point in the city.
Before reaching your local restaurant where you will have the opportunity to taste local sea "mezedes" along with a glass of the famous local spirit "tsipouro", you will meet the Statue of Liberty dedicated to freedom, peace, and human rights.
You will finish your visit with some free time before following your guide for a walk back to the pier.
- This excursion involves 2 hours of walking on uneven streets with some steps. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing must be worn when visiting the religious buildings: trousers for men and skirts covering the knees for the ladies. You will return to the ship on foot. This tour is limited to 75 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Mythical villages of Pelion
According to Greek mythology, Mount Pelion was the place where the ancient Greek gods and heroes were entertained. It was also the home of the Centaurs.
You can easily understand why this place was chosen by the gods, once you have visited its picturesque villages (24 in total, only 2 villages are included on your tour). The villages are spread out along the slopes among chestnut and apple trees, with many springs of crystalline waters. Most of the villages have remained untouched over the centuries and the architecture of their houses is unique.
From the pier, embark your coach for a 30-minute drive to Portaria. Like many villages in Pelion, Portaria was developed around a monastery: the Monastery of Panagia Portarea (13th century). During your walking tour, you may admire the natural landscape, the cool springs, the mansion houses, the picturesque paths and the churches.
You will then continue to Makrinitsa, perhaps the most beautiful village in Pelion, and one of the prettiest in Greece. There you will stroll along the traditional houses, the old churches and the little shops with local delicacies. Afterwards you can rest and have a cup of coffee in the central square, under the shade of the plane trees. Apart from the view offered from here, you may also admire the frescoes painted by the famous painter Theophilos in one of the cafes in the square.
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This excursion involves between 30 and 45 minutes of walking on paved, narrow and climb streets with some steps. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 120 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Spectacular Meteora monasteries
Meteora is one of the most imposing sights in mainland Greece: giant rocks in bizarre shapes, ranging in height from 100 to 150 metres.
After disembarking, you will board your coach for a two hours and a half drive, leaving the port of Volos to head Northwest crossing the agricultural plains of Thessaly. You will pass provincial towns such as Larissa and Trikala before reaching Kalambaka, a small town nestled at the footsteps of the Meteora rocks.A short restroom stop with refreshments will take place there before continuing to the "monasteries in the sky" of the Meteora.
Once a monastic community with 24 monasteries, Meteora now consists of only five active ones. They were first built in the 14th century by monks who searched for a place where they could stay isolated and pray undisturbed from the rest of the world. Until 1920 most of the Meteora monasteries could only be reached by getting into a net and hauled up by a rope. Fortunately, steps were cut afterwards to all of the monasteries.
You will visit two of the most beautiful and representative Monasteries of the valley, where you will admire icons, mosaics and frescoes, old manuscripts, domed roofs as well as breathtaking views of nearby monasteries and of the surrounding area.
After your visit to the monasteries, proceed to a local restaurant in Kalambaka for a Greek lunch.Then, via the same road passing Trikala and Larrisa, you will return to the port of Volos to join your ship, a 2h30 drive.
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This excursion involves two hours of walking and standing with many steps. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing must be worn when visiting the religious buildings: trousers for men and skirts covering the knees for the ladies. The lunch and refreshment are included in your tour. This tour is limited to 150 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Thessaloniki, a journey back in time
As you explore Greece’s second city, Thessaloniki, you will be making a real journey through the ages and cultures. Its 1,000 architectural treasures bear Byzantine, Roman, Jewish and Ottoman influences… No fewer than 15 monuments are UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
You will begin your bus excursion with a stop in front of the White Tower of Thessaloniki, a symbol of the city and witness to the 400-year Ottoman occupation. This historic landmark was constructed near the sea under the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent and has served in turns as a fort, barracks and prison. The afternoon will continue with a visit to the Archaeological Museum, which tells the history of Ancient Macedonia. The “Gold of Macedon” exhibition is teeming with exceptional treasures from the surrounding necropolises.
Travelling up to the Acropolis located on the city’s heights, you will be able to observe the vitality of the city streets edged with cafes, elegant building façades and various boutiques, as well as the Aristotle University, founded in 1926 and the largest university in Greece today. Once you arrive at the Acropolis in the highest part of the city, a spectacular panorama will open before you, with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background.
Your excursion will continue with a guided visit of the Basilica of Hagios Demetrios, a masterpiece of the Byzantine era and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Partially damaged in 1917, it was restored in 1948, unveiling its full splendour, including magnificent mosaics as well as its thousand-year-old crypt.
On the way back, you will take the ancient Roman road Via Egnatia and admire the Arch of Galerius, which celebrates the victory of the Roman army over the Persians, as well as the Rotunda of Saint George, the city’s emblematic monument.
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The level of difficulty of this excursion is medium. The ground is flat, with uneven surfaces and some stairs.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Poliochni archaeological site & winery
From the pier, board your coach and start your 50-minute drive to the east coast of Limnos, where you will find the archaeological site of Poliochni.
Here, in 1930, Italian archaeologists discovered seven different layers of civilisations, one on the top of the other. The Neolithic town predates Egyptian dynasties, the Minoan Kingdoms of Crete and even Troy, but was destroyed by an earthquake in 2100 BC and was never rebuilt. Poliochni is considered one of the largest early urban centres of the Early Bronze Age and the first city in Europe with a basic social and civic structure. It is believed to have welcomed a number of craftsmen as many gold jewels were discovered during the excavations.
Following your visit to Poliochni, you will proceed to a Limnos winery for a wine tasting accompanied with local snacks.
Finally, you will board your coach and return to the pier, a 30-minute drive.
- This tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking on uneven terrain with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended for guests in a wheelchair or with mobility difficulties. The wine tasting is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 60 participants. If your ship calls at Limnos on the weekly closing day of the archaeological site, it will specially open for PONANT guests only.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.History of Hydra
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, port and waterfront unspoiled by motorised vehicles. This island offers a rugged charm and many scenes to discover.
From the pier, follow your guide on a walking exploration through the island's historical landmarks. Your first stop will be the Hydra Museum - Historical Archives where you may admire 19th century paintings of considerable artistic value as well as rich documental and photographic material detailing the long maritime tradition and history of the island.
Continuing your walk around the port, you will visit the Church of the Dormitian, which houses icons, chandeliers and other offerings from the wealthy seafarers of the island. It is even said one of the chandeliers was stolen from Louis XIV and given to the church.
Enjoy a coffee break or a refreshment together with Hydra's local sweet "amygdaloto".
Next, reach Koundouriotis Mansion, one of the finest examples of the traditional 18th and 19th century architecture of Hydra. Built in 1780 by the ship owner Lazaros Koundouriotis, it now houses various items from the National Historical Museum of Athens, such as traditional costumes, jewellery, fine embroideries, pottery and wood-carvings.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Hydra's little alleys and stone houses before your return to the port.
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This tour is entirely on foot, walking over uneven ground, cobble stone streets and steps (70-80 steps). You must be in relatively good physical condition to participate. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. The refreshment is included on your tour.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Le Lapérouse
Environmentally friendly, fitted with innovative equipment and complete with lounges designed to be largely open to the exterior, this new and intimately sized yacht offers a unique type of cruise experience.
Onboard this ship sailing under the French flag, you'll experience the incomparable pleasure of a cosily intimate cruise offering the possibility of exploring an ever-increasing range of destinations in an ethnic chic ambiance.
The Blue Eye, an underwater lounge offering a unique experience unlike anything else in the world.
Decks
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
4/16/2025 - PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS
$60
Find out more
PANORAMIC TOUR OF ATHENS BEFORE BEING TRANSFERRED TO THE PORT OF PIRAEUS
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between the airport and your port of embarkation.
Athens
Meet at Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos - Arrival Hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.
You will depart the airport by coach for a scenic tour of Athens en route to the port of Piraeus.
When you will reach Athens, you will make your first stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, a 19th-century reconstruction on Roman foundations, in which the first modern Olympic Games took place. This stadium is also known as the Kallimármaro which means “the beautiful marbled” because it is the only major stadium in the world built entirely of white marble. It was also restored to host some competitions during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.
You will enjoy a photo stop at the bottom of the Acropolis Hill with its spectacular view of the Parthenon before being transferred to the port of Piraeus where you will embark on your ship.
Your programme includes:
- Transfer by air-conditioned coach.
- Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
- Tips for the driver and local guide.
- Personal expenses.
- Other services not mentioned in the programme.
Note:
- Optional photo stops depending on embarkation time and traffic conditions.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $60
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.ATHENS CITY BREAK (2 NIGHTS)
Enhance your cruise and extend your trip with a carefully designed programme.
Day 1 - Athens
Meet at Athens Airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT or any other flight (provided that you have previously communicated your flight schedule to your travel agent).
You will be transferred to the hotel Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5*, perfectly located at Syntagma Square in the heart of Athens.
Official check-in at 15 :00.
Afternoon at leisure.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 2 - Athens
After breakfast, your walking guided visit will be first focus on Anafiotika district.
This picturesque old quarter is located under the Acropolis. This very typical architecture looks like to the Cycladic islands, with narrow streets and white-washed houses with colorful shutters.
You will learn more about its history with your guide. And you will have the perfect opportunity to take the most beautiful photos, through the lens of a professional photograph at your disposal to give you tips and help you..
Later, you will walk until a local tavern in the Plaka district and you will enjoy a traditional Greek lunch followed by a short time at leisure in Plaka.
During the afternoon, you will visit the Acropolis Museum, which is an archaeological museum focused on the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens. The museum was built in order to house every artifact found on the rock and at its foot, covering a large period of time from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine Greece. Nearly 4,000 objects are exhibited over an area of 14,000 square metres.
After the Museum visit, time at leisure to strool around the Museum area (about 1 hour), or to visit on your own, the Acropolis site (this visit is not accessible to disabled people). Then short drive back to your hotel (about 15 minutes).
Evening and dinner at leisure.
Overnight at the hotel.
Day 3 - Athens
Breakfast followed by hotel check-out procedures.
You will walk with your guide until Benaki Museum located in Kolonaki Square (about 10 minutes).
The Benaki Museum ranks among the great benefactions which have enriched the material assets of the Greek State. It is also the oldest museum in Greece. The Museum houses a set of collections comprising many distinct categories and totalling more than 30,000 items that illustrate the Greek world through a spectacular historical panorama: from Antiquity and the age of Roman domination to the medieval Byzantine period, from the fall of Constantinople (1453) and the centuries of Frankish and Ottoman occupation to the outbreak of the struggle for independence in 1821, and from the formation of the modern state of Greece (1830) to 1922, the year in which the Asia Minor disaster took place. Board your vehicle again for a short drive to your hotel.
Following your visit, board your vehicle for a short drive to the meeting point where your local chef will await for you.
Combine the best flavors of Athens has to offer, in a master class that involves putting together a menu, shopping for the ingredients in the vibrant central markets of Athens, and actually preparing it, all under the care of a professional chef and expert on Mediterranean cuisine.
After collecting everything, you will head to a venue with all the necessary equipment to turn the fresh ingredients into delicious delicacies. With the guidance of the chef, you will enjoy the best meal prepared by yourselves.
You will then be transferred to the pier of Athens to embark on board your ship.
Your hotel:
The Athens Capital Center Hotel - MGallery Collection is a boutique hotel ideally located in the heart of Athens, in the upscale Kolonaki neighbourhood, two minutes from Syntagma Square. Its contemporary interior houses works of art celebrating Greek culture. The fully-appointed Deluxe rooms offer a tranquil haven with an elegant atmosphere. From the rooftop terrace with swimming pool, the view of the Acropolis is uninterrupted and cloaked in magic at nightfall. Greek and Mediterranean specialities are served at MFlavours, the first of the hotel’s restaurants, while creative cuisine awaits guests at the second, Mappemonde.
Upgraded rooms are also available depending on availability and on a supplement basis. Contact your travel professional for further detail.
Your programme includes:
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2-nights accommodation in Deluxe room at Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery 5* (local standard) or similar, breakfast included.
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Meals as mentioned in the programme.
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Beverage package during meals (bottled water + 1 soft drink or 1 glass of wine or 1 local beer and 1 coffee or tea).
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Welcome drink voucher of 20 € to enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop Mappemonde during open hours (non refundable)
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Transfers, visits, and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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The services of a local English-speaking escort on the day of arrival.
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The services of a local English-speaking guide during visits.
Your programme does not include:
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Dinner on days 1 & 2.
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Personal expenses.
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Visa if necessary.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Early check-in and late check-out.
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Other services not mentioned in the programme.
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Entry fees and guided visit of the Acropolis.
Please note:
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It is imperative that the details of your departure flight are provided to your travel agent, no later than 30 days before the start date of your cruise, to secure the proper private transfer.
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On day 2, the photo tour of the Anafiotika district requires about 2 hours of walking on flat and uneven ground with uneven level.
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The visit of the Acropolis Museum (day 2), the Benaki Museum and the walk at Central Market (day 3) require moderate walking on flat or uneven ground (paved terrain and a few steps).
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The Acropolis visit site is not included to the program and is not recomanded for disabled people.You can visit it on your own during leisure time.
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The Benaki Museum is closed on Tuesday.
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The Central Market is closed on Sunday.
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The official check-in in room at 15:00.
Contact of your hotel:
Athens Capital Centre – Collection Mgallery
4 Eleftheriou Venizelou Avenue and 2 Kriezotou street Syntagma Square,
Athens 105 64,
Greece
Telephone number: +30 21 4444 2000
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
Total : $2,310
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.Walking tour of Skiathos town
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Walking tour of Volos
After disembarking, you will board your coach for a short transfer to "Athanasakeion", the archaeological museum of Volos, housed in a neoclassical building built in 1909.
The Archaeological Museum of Volos houses numerous exhibits: Palaeolithic finds, vases and figurines from the Neolithic era, jewellery and painted funerary steles.
Following your visit, you will start your walking tour through Anavros park. The park, along the shore, is a lovely relaxing area in the city. It was laid out in 1920 by the architect N. Kitsikis and provides recreation and a breath of cool air to residents and visitors alike.
Then, you will go to the Agios Konstantinos & Eleni Church. The church, towering over the waterfront of Volos, is an elaborate piece of architecture, designed and built by the architect A. Zachos. Ever since its construction in 1936, the church has been a reference point in the city.
Before reaching your local restaurant where you will have the opportunity to taste local sea "mezedes" along with a glass of the famous local spirit "tsipouro", you will meet the Statue of Liberty dedicated to freedom, peace, and human rights.
You will finish your visit with some free time before following your guide for a walk back to the pier.
- This excursion involves 2 hours of walking on uneven streets with some steps. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing must be worn when visiting the religious buildings: trousers for men and skirts covering the knees for the ladies. You will return to the ship on foot. This tour is limited to 75 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Mythical villages of Pelion
According to Greek mythology, Mount Pelion was the place where the ancient Greek gods and heroes were entertained. It was also the home of the Centaurs.
You can easily understand why this place was chosen by the gods, once you have visited its picturesque villages (24 in total, only 2 villages are included on your tour). The villages are spread out along the slopes among chestnut and apple trees, with many springs of crystalline waters. Most of the villages have remained untouched over the centuries and the architecture of their houses is unique.
From the pier, embark your coach for a 30-minute drive to Portaria. Like many villages in Pelion, Portaria was developed around a monastery: the Monastery of Panagia Portarea (13th century). During your walking tour, you may admire the natural landscape, the cool springs, the mansion houses, the picturesque paths and the churches.
You will then continue to Makrinitsa, perhaps the most beautiful village in Pelion, and one of the prettiest in Greece. There you will stroll along the traditional houses, the old churches and the little shops with local delicacies. Afterwards you can rest and have a cup of coffee in the central square, under the shade of the plane trees. Apart from the view offered from here, you may also admire the frescoes painted by the famous painter Theophilos in one of the cafes in the square.
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This excursion involves between 30 and 45 minutes of walking on paved, narrow and climb streets with some steps. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. A refreshment is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 120 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Spectacular Meteora monasteries
Meteora is one of the most imposing sights in mainland Greece: giant rocks in bizarre shapes, ranging in height from 100 to 150 metres.
After disembarking, you will board your coach for a two hours and a half drive, leaving the port of Volos to head Northwest crossing the agricultural plains of Thessaly. You will pass provincial towns such as Larissa and Trikala before reaching Kalambaka, a small town nestled at the footsteps of the Meteora rocks.A short restroom stop with refreshments will take place there before continuing to the "monasteries in the sky" of the Meteora.
Once a monastic community with 24 monasteries, Meteora now consists of only five active ones. They were first built in the 14th century by monks who searched for a place where they could stay isolated and pray undisturbed from the rest of the world. Until 1920 most of the Meteora monasteries could only be reached by getting into a net and hauled up by a rope. Fortunately, steps were cut afterwards to all of the monasteries.
You will visit two of the most beautiful and representative Monasteries of the valley, where you will admire icons, mosaics and frescoes, old manuscripts, domed roofs as well as breathtaking views of nearby monasteries and of the surrounding area.
After your visit to the monasteries, proceed to a local restaurant in Kalambaka for a Greek lunch.Then, via the same road passing Trikala and Larrisa, you will return to the port of Volos to join your ship, a 2h30 drive.
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This excursion involves two hours of walking and standing with many steps. We recommend you to wear comfortable shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing must be worn when visiting the religious buildings: trousers for men and skirts covering the knees for the ladies. The lunch and refreshment are included in your tour. This tour is limited to 150 participants.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Thessaloniki, a journey back in time
As you explore Greece’s second city, Thessaloniki, you will be making a real journey through the ages and cultures. Its 1,000 architectural treasures bear Byzantine, Roman, Jewish and Ottoman influences… No fewer than 15 monuments are UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
You will begin your bus excursion with a stop in front of the White Tower of Thessaloniki, a symbol of the city and witness to the 400-year Ottoman occupation. This historic landmark was constructed near the sea under the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent and has served in turns as a fort, barracks and prison. The afternoon will continue with a visit to the Archaeological Museum, which tells the history of Ancient Macedonia. The “Gold of Macedon” exhibition is teeming with exceptional treasures from the surrounding necropolises.
Travelling up to the Acropolis located on the city’s heights, you will be able to observe the vitality of the city streets edged with cafes, elegant building façades and various boutiques, as well as the Aristotle University, founded in 1926 and the largest university in Greece today. Once you arrive at the Acropolis in the highest part of the city, a spectacular panorama will open before you, with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background.
Your excursion will continue with a guided visit of the Basilica of Hagios Demetrios, a masterpiece of the Byzantine era and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Partially damaged in 1917, it was restored in 1948, unveiling its full splendour, including magnificent mosaics as well as its thousand-year-old crypt.
On the way back, you will take the ancient Roman road Via Egnatia and admire the Arch of Galerius, which celebrates the victory of the Roman army over the Persians, as well as the Rotunda of Saint George, the city’s emblematic monument.
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The level of difficulty of this excursion is medium. The ground is flat, with uneven surfaces and some stairs.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.Poliochni archaeological site & winery
From the pier, board your coach and start your 50-minute drive to the east coast of Limnos, where you will find the archaeological site of Poliochni.
Here, in 1930, Italian archaeologists discovered seven different layers of civilisations, one on the top of the other. The Neolithic town predates Egyptian dynasties, the Minoan Kingdoms of Crete and even Troy, but was destroyed by an earthquake in 2100 BC and was never rebuilt. Poliochni is considered one of the largest early urban centres of the Early Bronze Age and the first city in Europe with a basic social and civic structure. It is believed to have welcomed a number of craftsmen as many gold jewels were discovered during the excavations.
Following your visit to Poliochni, you will proceed to a Limnos winery for a wine tasting accompanied with local snacks.
Finally, you will board your coach and return to the pier, a 30-minute drive.
- This tour involves approximately 1 hour of walking on uneven terrain with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended for guests in a wheelchair or with mobility difficulties. The wine tasting is included on your tour. This tour is limited to 60 participants. If your ship calls at Limnos on the weekly closing day of the archaeological site, it will specially open for PONANT guests only.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.History of Hydra
The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, port and waterfront unspoiled by motorised vehicles. This island offers a rugged charm and many scenes to discover.
From the pier, follow your guide on a walking exploration through the island's historical landmarks. Your first stop will be the Hydra Museum - Historical Archives where you may admire 19th century paintings of considerable artistic value as well as rich documental and photographic material detailing the long maritime tradition and history of the island.
Continuing your walk around the port, you will visit the Church of the Dormitian, which houses icons, chandeliers and other offerings from the wealthy seafarers of the island. It is even said one of the chandeliers was stolen from Louis XIV and given to the church.
Enjoy a coffee break or a refreshment together with Hydra's local sweet "amygdaloto".
Next, reach Koundouriotis Mansion, one of the finest examples of the traditional 18th and 19th century architecture of Hydra. Built in 1780 by the ship owner Lazaros Koundouriotis, it now houses various items from the National Historical Museum of Athens, such as traditional costumes, jewellery, fine embroideries, pottery and wood-carvings.
Enjoy a leisurely walk through Hydra's little alleys and stone houses before your return to the port.
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This tour is entirely on foot, walking over uneven ground, cobble stone streets and steps (70-80 steps). You must be in relatively good physical condition to participate. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. Appropriate clothing is required to enter religious sites: shoulders and knees must be covered. The refreshment is included on your tour.
Included
According to availability, price per passenger.ATHENS, THE BYZANTINE & CHRISTIAN MUSEUM AND PLAKA
Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your day time between your port of disembarkation and the airport.
Athens
After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative. Then, you will depart the port of Piraeus by coach for an exploration of one of the oldest city in Europe, Athens.
On your way to Athens centre, you will pass by the Zea and Microlimano marinas, two of the most attractive spots in Piraeus.
Your next visit will be at the Byzantine Museum & Christian Museum, one of Greece's national museums. Its areas of competences are centred on - but not limited to - religious artefacts of the Early Christian, Byzantine, Medieval, post-Byzantine and later periods which it exhibits, but also acquires, receives, preserves, conserves, records, documents, researches, studies, publishes and raises awareness of. The museum has over 25,000 artefacts in its possession. The artefacts date from between the 3rd and 20th century AD, and their provenance encompasses the entire Greek world, as well as regions in which Hellenism flourished. The size and range of the collections and value of the exhibits makes the museum a veritable treasury of Byzantine and post-Byzantine art and culture.
At the end of the morning, you will be taken to the Plaka Old District located at the bottom of the Acropolis, in the historic heart of Athens. You will have some free time (about 45 minutes) to explore on foot Plaka's pedestrian shopping streets where you will find jewellery stores, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants.
You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.
Your programme includes:
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Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.
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Services of a local English-speaking guide.
Your programme does not include:
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Lunch.
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Tips for the driver and local guide.
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Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.
Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel advisor; they are also shown on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.
In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.
Total : $150
Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.