Aegean Voyage: Istanbul to Athens - Southbound

Explore and set sail on an eight-night odyssey to storied Greek Isles immortalized in legend and lore, from the cultural hub of Turkey, Istanbul, ending with a two-night stay in Athens where you indulge in views of the mighty Acropolis from your luxurious grand hotel…Transit the historic Corinth Canal linking the Ionian Sea with the Aegean, explore archaeologically rich Delphi and succumb to the seduction of Santorini, sun kissed and scenic, cliffs to shore. Bask in the beauty and history of Bodrum by boat and guided walks, have lunch in Kusadasi, meeting rug makers whose work astounds, and dine under the stars in ancient Ephesus, reflecting centuries of history, from classical Greece to the Roman Empire. Make your way to magical Mykonos to do as you choose, viewing the island’s movie settings or the archaeological wonderland on neighboring Delos. A day in Lemnos invites with scenic sights and culinary treats, including a wine and cheese tasting or a walking tour that samples local specialties. And if Istanbul inspires your thirst for discoveries thousands of years in the making, a three-night stay at a landmark luxury hotel wows with expertly guided visits to Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, the Hippodrome, Grand Bazaar and more that speak volumes about Ottoman empires past.