Classic Greece: To Antiquity and Beyond

Welcome to Athens. On arrival at Athens airport make your way to the Arrivals Hall to meet our representative,followed by a transfer to our group hotel. At the hotel, visit our hospitality desk in the lobby to meet our team whowill provide you with useful information regarding pre-embarkation procedures and about your time in Athens. Youwill also receive cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and your cabin number onthe ship. This evening offers time to relax in preparation for tomorrow.Accommodation: Athens Hotel

After breakfast, enjoy a morning ‘Your Choice’ experience. Walk in Socrates' footsteps, explore the ancient wondersof the Acropolis, or immerse yourself in Athens' vibrant food scene with a local guide. You can then rejoin the coachto return to our hotel or take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Plaka district. This charming area is filled with streetsand alleys lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops—ideal for a bite to eat or picking up gifts (lunch at your ownexpense).Tonight, we kick off our journey with a Welcome Event, celebrating Greek style.With a rich recorded history spanning 3,500 years, Athens is a city brimming with stories. Widely hailed as the ‘cradleof civilisation’ and revered as the birthplace of democracy, philosophy and theatre, Athens seamlessly merges itsillustrious past with its vibrant present. This bustling metropolis, home to three million inhabitants, is adorned with awealth of ancient sites that punctuate its landscape like temples, iconic columns and former city centres. Athens’influence in antiquity transcended its borders, ushering in a Golden Age characterised by political discussion,education and philosophy, hosting luminaries such as Socrates, Plato and Aristotle. The democratic principles forgedin Athens laid the groundwork for modern governance systems worldwide.Yet, Athens is more than just a relic of ancient history. As a historical seat of power, it has weathered waves ofinvasions, shaping its contemporary identity with a diverse fusion of architectural styles, culinary delights andcultural traditions. Whether you are wandering amid ancient ruins or indulging in the flavours of modern Greekcuisine, Athens offers a captivating journey through the ages, beckoning travellers from across the globe to exploreits timeless allure.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: A Taste of AthensFor foodie fans, travellers who have visited Athens before, and those who enjoy a personal view of Athens, thisexperience is perfect. We begin our guided walk at Syntagma Square, where Greece’s Parliament building stands,guarded by traditionally attired Evzone guards. Our local expert warmly welcomes you to their home city, leadingyou on an intriguing walking tour through Athens’ historical areas. With passion and knowledge, they unveilauthentic Athens and its secrets.Stroll through Plaka, the charming ‘old quarter’ of Athens nestled at the base of the Acropolis. Admire its eclecticneoclassical architecture, picturesque alleys, and inviting tavernas. Pause at a colourful local cafe to indulge in Greekdelicacies such as olives, fragrant cheeses and cured meats.Continue through Monastir Aki, famous for its bustling flea market and vibrant shops brimming with local crafts andsouvenirs. From there, we wander to Thission, offering the best panoramic views of the Acropolis, Ancient Agora,and the majestic Temple of Hephaestus. Here, we treat ourselves to a traditional Greek coffee, accompaniedperhaps by a sweet delight like baklava, a favourite among Greeks for its rich layers of pastry, nuts and honey. Ourmorning offers us a taste of this fascinating city.Option 2 – Morning experience: Ancient AthensThis comprehensive tour combines a visit to the Acropolis with the city’s major landmarks. Begin with a view of theGreek parliament at Syntagma Square, once a royal residence, where the iconic Evzones still stand guard intraditional attire. Next, enjoy a brief photo stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern OlympicGames in 1896, where athletes revived the ancient Olympic spirit.Continue past the Temple of Zeus and the Zappeion and view the National Library and University of Athens before ascenic drive to the Acropolis of Athens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 5th century BCE, the Acropolisserved as a citadel and religious centre dedicated to Athena, the city’s patron goddess. Explore remarkablestructures like the Parthenon, Propylaia, Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, showcasing the grandeur ofAncient Greece.Perched high above the city, the Acropolis is not only an architectural marvel, but also a symbol of the birthplace ofdemocracy. This ancient citadel stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Greek culture and ideals,representing advancements in art, architecture and political thought that originated in Athens. Feel the essence ofcivic pride and religious devotion in ancient Greek society, at the city’s centre for political and cultural life. TheParthenon exemplifies the height of classical Greek architecture, adorned with Doric columns and intricatesculptures. Built under the leadership of Pericles, the Parthenon symbolised the city’s wealth and power, with friezesand statues depicting various mythological scenes.After touring the Acropolis, take a short walk to the Acropolis Museum. This modern museum houses over 3,000artefacts from the Athenian Acropolis, offering unique insights into ancient Greek life and including anarchaeological excavation beneath it. (Please note: Entrance time to the Acropolis is a local government stipulatedtime slot. The sequence of the above itinerary may change once the specific time slot is allocated.)Option 3 – Morning experience: ‘In the Sandals of Socrates’Blending philosophy with the rich history of Athens', ‘In the Sandals of Socrates’ is the ultimate walking tour of thecity. Our journey begins at the hilltop agora, where Athenians once gathered to freely express their opinions anddebate issues of the day. Ancient Greece birthed Western philosophical ethics, thanks to Socrates, Plato andAristotle, ensuring its place in history. Next, we head to Philopappos Hill, a significant place in the life of Socrates.Here, you’ll find the prison where he was held for corrupting the youth of Athens, and the Pnyx, the birthplace ofdemocratic ideals. The view of the Acropolis from the hilltop is stunning.Strolling down a pedestrian street lined with cafes and vendors, we make our way to Hadrian’s Arch and the Templeof Olympian Zeus. Our walk continues to the Lyceum, Aristotle’s school, passing by the National Garden andZappeion Hall. The tour concludes at the Lyceum, excavated and opened to the public in 2014. Here, we walk in thefootsteps of great philosophers, linking ancient and modern Athens in this fascinating journey.Accommodation: Athens HotelMeals: Breakfast, Welcome Event canapés

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Athens. Revisit your favourite sites, explore the city’s markets and shops, or discoverhidden treasures on an independent exploration. Athens’ extensive metro network makes it easy to navigate thecity, while the warm Greek hospitality ensures you are never far from helpful advice on how to make the most ofyour time.Mid-afternoon, we transfer from our hotel to the port of Piraeus to board the Douglas Mawson and sail towards thefamed Corinth Canal. This evening, we enjoy a ‘Welcome Aboard’ dinner where we meet our crew and AuroraExpeditions team.

Sailing the Corinth Canal is a unique experience. This narrow waterway connects the Gulf of Corinth with the SaronicGulf in the Aegean Sea, cutting through the Isthmus of Corinth and saving vessels a significant 700-kilometre journeyaround the Peloponnese peninsula. Stretching 6.4 kilometres and only 21 metres wide at its base, the Corinth Canalis one of the narrowest lock-free canals in the world. Its towering limestone walls, reaching heights of up to 78metres, create a dramatic passage for vessels, which almost touch its sides as they sail its path.The concept of cutting a canal through the isthmus dates to ancient times, with plans proposed by Periander ofCorinth in the 7th century BCE. Construction finally began under Roman Emperor Nero, only to halt upon his death.It was not until 1893 the canal was finally completed. Its construction was a monumental effort, involving theexcavation of millions of cubic metres of earth and rock, all dug at sea level. It stands as a remarkable achievement inengineering and continues to be a key route for maritime traffic, enhancing Greece’s role as a central hub in theMediterranean.Exiting the canal, we sail the Gulf of Corinth to Itea where our afternoon offers a glimpse into the life of the earlyGreeks, with a visit to the former city of Delphi. Our local guides tell tales of pilgrimage, sacrifice and early faiths aswe take a literal step into the world of ancient Greece.Revered throughout antiquity as a sacred site where pilgrims could glimpse the future, the Oracle of Delphi castcryptic prophecies for over a millennium. Dubbed the ‘navel of the world’ for its pivotal position in the Greek realm,Delphi drew pilgrims from all sectors of society, shaping critical decisions, from civic politics to personal destinies.Perched dramatically on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the Oracle was esteemed as a direct conduit to the divinerealm of Apollo – the sun god. Revered for his beauty and creative prowess, Apollo symbolised order and harmony.As a result, Delphi became integral to Greek identity, reflecting its religious, cultural, and political life. It was aunifying site where people from various city-states gathered, fostering a sense of shared Hellenic heritage.Our journey leads us to the very site of the Oracle, alongside the opulent Treasury of the Athenians – a testament toofferings made. We pause at the ancient theatre, host to the prestigious Pythian Games, and the Castalian Spring,where pilgrims purified themselves before seeking counsel.Today, Delphi stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its influence enduring through the annals of literature,history, and art. It remains a profound emblem of ancient wisdom and cultural legacy, cherished by Greece as abridge to its storied past.

The tale of Zakynthos unfolds from antiquity, with traces of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic Period.Across the ages, Zakynthos has been moulded by various civilisations, including the ancient Greeks, Romans,Byzantines, Venetians and British, each leaving an indelible imprint on the island’s heritage and architecture.Among the island’s most iconic landmarks is Navagio Beach, nestled amid towering limestone cliffs and famed forthe shipwreck that graces its shores. This secluded cove epitomises Zakynthos’s rugged coastline, where hiddencaves, rocky coves and inviting waters beckon exploration.Zakynthos’s capital city, bearing the same name, showcases elegant Venetian architecture, inviting squares and avibrant waterfront promenade. Visitors can meander along narrow cobblestone streets, admiring historical edificesadorned with vibrant bougainvillea, and savour traditional Greek delicacies at local tavernas.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Zakynthos Farm Experience: A Taste of Local LifeDiscover the Greek rural way of life at this organic farm on Zakynthos, set amid lush pine forests and scenic coastalviews. The farm’s olive grove reflects a rich tradition of cultivation. Originally home to just nine olive groves,Zakynthos now boasts over 600, thanks to the dedication of local farmers who have blended traditional methodswith modern techniques to refine the quality of their olive oil.In addition to olives, the farm cultivates syrah, cabernet and robola grapes, and maintains beehives that producefragrant honey. Seasonal fruits such as apricots, figs, cherries, oranges, lemons and mandarins enrich the farm’sofferings. A tour and tasting with a member of the family provides an authentic glimpse into Greek agricultural life,offering an escape from the usual tourist experience and a deeper understanding of Zakynthos’s farming heritage.Option 2 ‒ Full day experience: Zakynthos completeDiscover the hidden side of Zakynthos as our local guide shares the island’s rich history and culture. The tour beginson the western side, passing through Tsilivi, Planos and Katastari, offering a glimpse of traditional village life. Visit alocal winery where experts demonstrate traditional winemaking, allowing you to sample local wines and delicacies.Continuing our scenic drive, we reach the cliffs overlooking the famous Navagio Beach (Shipwreck Beach). Here, youcan admire the azure waters and golden sands, as well as the rusted hull of the MV Panagiotis, a freighter that ranaground in 1980 while allegedly smuggling contraband.We then visit the Monastery of Anafonitria, where Saint Dionysius, the island’s patron, spent the last years of his life.Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local tavern, featuring delicious dishes and local wine. The tour continues to Volimes,one of the island’s oldest villages, renowned for traditional handmade embroidery. We also visit the villages of ExoChora, Kiliomenos, and Agios Leon. The final stop is Maherado, where we visit the Church of Saint Mavra and hear itsfascinating story, before returning to the ship.

Today, our ‘Your Choice’ experiences are truly Olympic in scope, offering you two classic Greek treats. A brief ten-minute walk from our berth, finds a variety of shops and restaurants to explore. Just a short distance away, thepopular pebbled Plakes Beach awaits, and the sandy stretch of Agios Andreas Beach is a mere five-minute taxi ride.Steeped in maritime history, the picturesque port town of Katakolon remains the gateway to the ancient site ofOlympia, and our port for today. One of the most important sanctuaries in ancient Greece, Olympia was dedicated toZeus, the king of the gods. Every four years, athletes from across the Greek world gathered here to compete invarious sports, honouring Zeus and fostering unity among the city states. The busy port town of Katakolon itself is ahub of activity, with its quaint streets lined with shops and cafes, while the Katakolon Lighthouse and the Museum ofAncient Greek Technology offer insights into the region’s rich history.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: An Olympic EncounterRenowned as the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, the 8th-century BCE site of Olympia was the Greekworld’s most revered religious sanctuary, dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods. The site housed numeroustemples, altars, and sporting facilities, with the Temple of Zeus featuring a 40-foot statue of Zeus sitting on anelaborate cedarwood throne adorned with ebony, ivory, gold and precious stones. This statue was one of the SevenWonders of the Ancient World.Held every four years from 776 BCE to 393 CE, the games at Olympia attracted athletes from all over the Greekworld. Over 45,000 spectators cheered on their sporting heroes, who competed in a range of sports such as running,wrestling, boxing, and chariot racing. The games were not only a display of physical prowess, but also a celebrationof Greek unity and religious devotion. Victors were awarded olive wreaths and gained immense prestige and honourin their home cities.Today, Olympia continues to influence the modern Olympic Games. Many of the ancient sports, lost throughout thecenturies, were revived in 1896 by Pierre de Coubertin’s ‘Modern Olympics’. The Olympic flame, a symbol of peaceand unity, is lit in a ceremony at the ancient site of Olympia before every modern Olympics, and then relayed to thehost city. This tradition underscores the connection between the ancient and modern games. A visit to Olympia is alesson not only in its historical and archaeological importance, but also in its lasting impact on global culture throughthe ongoing tradition of the Olympic Games. The site fosters a spirit of unity and excellence that resonates nearly3,000 years after those first games. Our local guide brings the story of Olympia to life with tales of sporting heroes,revered gods, and generations of families who have lived on this land. The museum is a short walk from the site andcontains the 4th-century BCE statue of Hermes by Praxiteles, plus several finds from the excavations, includingPaeonius’ Nike of Victory, who according to Olympic legend, came down from the heavens to hand a palm leaf toevery winner.Option 2 – Half day experience: Farm and FeastNestled among olive trees and vineyards, this 30-acre, family-owned estate lies approximately 45 minutes from theport in the picturesque region of Floka near Ancient Olympia. Embracing traditional farming methods and organiccultivation passed down through generations, the estate exudes a timeless charm. Upon arrival, guests are greetedwith a classic shot of ouzo, a beloved Greek spirit celebrated for its distinct anise flavour and potent clarity. Integralto Greek culture, ouzo is often savoured as an aperitif or paired with meze (small dishes).Accompanying the ouzo is a freshly baked local pie, served as our hosts share insights into the estate’s non-mechanised olive-harvesting techniques. Delve into a captivating history of olive oil and its revered properties,underscoring the profound connection between Greek cuisine and the land. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the farm,interacting with the resident animals. Later, we gather in the charming stone farmhouse, now transformed into acosy dining area. Here, indulge in a feast of traditional flavours sourced from the farm and the local area,complemented by the estate’s wine drawn straight from large oak barrels. Our visit culminates in true Greek stylewith a lively sirtaki dance. Join in the celebration as guests and newfound friends of the estate embrace the joyousspirit of Opa!

Renowned for its famous olives, Kalamata is the capital of the Messenia region. Having withstood the influences ofvarious civilizations—including the Byzantines, Franks, Venetians, and Ottomans—Kalamata invites us to explore aslice of classic Greece on the Peloponnese Peninsula. Today, it serves as our gateway to a coastline dotted withmedieval castles and provides an opportunity to savour the local olives. Sampling the renowned black Kalamataolives and picking up a bottle of extra virgin olive oil from a local producer is highly recommended. Many of theseproducers are small-scale and family-run, offering a genuine experience.This vibrant harbour city is dominated by a rocky outcrop, which, although formerly a Greek Argos, now hosts theFrankish-built 13th-century Castle of Isabeau. The castle offers dramatic panoramic views across the Messinian Gulf.At its base, the Palia Poli, or Old City, provides an eclectic open-air venue for theatre, music, and dance shows. Thecity's charm lies in its blend of historical allure and contemporary vibe. It continues to thrive as a centre ofagriculture, with its famed almond-shaped olives exported worldwide and locally produced olive oil coveted as asymbol of Greek culinary expertise.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiencesOption 1 – Morning experience: Kalamata’s Olives and Ancient MessiniOur morning begins with a journey into the ancient past and present as we explore the ruins of Messini, visit thevillage of Androusa, and discover the essence of the Kalamata olive. Nestled below the village of Mavromati, theextensive ruins of Messini sprawl across a hillside, comparable in scope to sites like Delphi and Epidavros. Foundedaround the 4th century BCE, Ancient Messini thrived as a prominent city-state for 350 years under Spartan rulebefore gaining independence. Explore its expansive theatre and formidable city walls, offering an insight to the city’sformer political, cultural, and religious life. Further down the hill, we find a large stadium, surrounded by a forest ofrestored columns. Invading Romans transformed part of the athletics track into a gladiator arena, complete with VIPseats adorned with lion backs and paw-shaped legs. Nearby, by the rebuilt gate of the immense gymnasium, discoverround holes in stone slabs—Roman public toilets ingeniously positioned over a stream.No visit to Kalamata is complete without a nod to its famed olives. Afterward, immerse yourself in the timelesstradition of olive oil production in Androusa village. Visit a traditional olive mill to observe the meticulous processfrom olive cultivation to oil extraction, followed by an exclusive tasting session to savour the rich flavours of locallycrafted olive oil, celebrated for its quality and distinctive Mediterranean character.Option 2 – Morning experience: Medieval Methoni and PylosOur drive follows the scenic coast for an exploration of two magnificent Venetian castles and their waterfrontvillages. Methoni Castle, built in the early 13th century on a rocky promontory, ranks among the Mediterranean'slargest. It boasts a stone bridge with 14 arches and houses relics of Ottoman bathhouses and immured reliefs.Adjacent is Bourtzi, once a prison during Turkish rule.Pylos Castle, constructed by the Turks in 1573, showcases sixteenth-century military architecture fortified byEuropean engineers against land and sea attacks. Venetian enhancements from 1686 to 1715 added the Zematistragateway, Evdomos and Santa Maria bastions, and cannon embrasures on the south wall, flanked by towers like theMakrygiannis Tower. The castle encloses a hexagonal citadel with a moat.Immersing ourselves in the rich history of these Venetian fortresses and experiencing their strategic significance is atrue insight into the everlasting importance of the coastline of the Peloponnese.

Gytheio enchants visitors with its coastal charm and fascinating traditions. Surrounded by nearby historical sites,including the scant ruins of the infamous Sparta, Gytheio is steeped in myth and said to be the birthplace of the seagod Poseidon. As a small ship we dock at the quay, gifting us direct access to Gytheio’s waterfront.The town’s charm is evident in its mix of neoclassical buildings, traditional stone houses, and Byzantine churches.The Tzanetakis Tower, a notable feature of Gytheio’s skyline, offers views over the harbour and hints at the town’smedieval history. Gytheio’s harbour is lively, with colorful fishing boats bobbing in the clear waters and waterfronttavernas serving fresh seafood and Greek dishes. Along the promenade, you’ll find cafes and shops, while the oldtown’s winding streets reveal quaint courtyards and pleasant squares. Gytheio provides a genuine taste of thePeloponnese, perfect for those seeking an authentic Greek experience.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: A Morning in the ManiEmbark on a captivating journey through the villages of the Mani Peninsula, renowned for its rugged landscapes andunique cultural heritage. Often described as the ‘Wild West’ of Greece, this region boasts dramatic scenery withmountains plunging into the sea; ancient stone towers and secluded coves.As we travel from village to village, we capture the essence of Greek village life. Wander through the snug alleys ofAeropoli, enjoy the panoramic vistas of Itilos, and stroll the streets of Limeni. Water levels permitting, we mayventure into the iconic Diros Cave, known for its stunning underground lake and intricate stalactites and stalagmites.Throughout the tour, we gain insight into how the Greeks in this region maintain a traditional lifestyle, with family atits core, preserving customs and values in a landscape both timeless and deeply rooted in history.Option 2 – Morning experience: The Ghost Town of Mystras and Sparta’s Liquid GoldWe visit two of the Peloponnese peninsula’s most unique sites, beginning with Mystras, a UNESCO World HeritageSite famed for its Byzantine architecture. Founded in the 13th century by the prince of Achaia, Mystras flourished as akey Byzantine city serving as the seat of the Despotate of the Morea. Abandoned in 1832 after the Greek War ofIndependence, it stands today as a ghost town. Stepping through its ancient streets offers a rare glimpse into thepast, with landmarks like the majestic Palace of the Despots and the Monastery of Pantanassa still adorned withoriginal frescoes that reveal medieval life. Our guide brings the city’s rich history to life with engaging stories andinsights.Next, we visit Sparta, known for its legendary warrior society and pivotal role in ancient Greek history. While ancientSparta’s grandeur is now in ruins, we delve into its historical impact at the Olive Oil Museum. This unique museumexplores the cultural and economic significance of olive oil, and uses interactive exhibits to provide an in-depth lookat the region’s olive oil heritage, from traditional to modern-day production techniques.Option 3 – Morning experience: MonemvasiaAn hour’s drive from Gytheio we encounter the unique town of Monemvasia. With its buildings gathered like jewelsin a jewellery box cut from rock and stone, the town of Monemvasia sits 15 metres above the sea, protected by anatural fortification of cliffs. As we stroll the streets of Monemvasia with our local guide, we learn it was founded inthe 6th century BCE, and how the rockface separated from the surrounding land during a violent earthquake twocenturies later, divided the old town from the mainland, enhancing its dramatic location.Wandering its labyrinthine of streets on a sunny Greek day is a real treat. Its eclectic mix of stone houses, courtyardgardens, whitewashed churches and golden-tiled roofs is mesmerising, while the sea lapping at its fortified wallspresents a unique insight into life on the edge of the Peloponnese.

Sitting on the northeastern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula, this historical town overlooks the Argolic Gulf,framed by surrounding mountains. Serving as the first capital of independent Greece, between 1833 and 1834,Nafplion boasts a wealth of historical landmarks that bear witness to its illustrious past. Serving as the gateway tomajor UNESCO World Heritage Sites Epidaurus and Mycenae, Nafplion offers visitors a memorable day out.Personalise your exploration with our included ‘Your Choice’ experiences.Option 1 – Morning experience: Nafplion Walking Tour with Ouzo Factory Tour and TastingOur locally guided walking tour begins as soon as we disembark, at the old port, where we begin our exploration ofthe town’s most important sites. From here we can view the iconic Palamidi Fortress, perched atop a rocky hilloverlooking the town, standing as a testament to Nafplion’s strategic importance throughout the ages. Meanwhile,the old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets, Venetian mansions, and neoclassical buildings, invites visitors tostep back in time and immerse themselves in centuries of Greek history and culture. Karonis Distilleries, a family-runbusiness in Nafplion, has been crafting ouzo, tsipouro, and masticha for 145 years. Managed by Fotis and YiannisKaronis, this distillery uses modern copper stills to produce high-quality spirits. Just two minutes from the towncentre, we tour the distillery, taste the products, and explore a museum filled with artefacts from 1870.No visit to the Peloponnese is complete without a taste of Greece’s most popular brew. Ouzo, a beloved Greekspirit, is an integral part of Greek culture and social life. It is often enjoyed at gatherings and celebrations,symbolising Greek hospitality and tradition. Visitors can also sample the Karonis’s distinguished cherry liqueur, madefrom Arcadian cherries. Both drinks, shared with friends and family, highlight the rich flavours and heritage ofGreece, making a visit to Karonis Distilleries a delightful and educational experience.Option 2 – Morning experience: UNESCO World Heritage Site of MycenaeThis morning, we journey through time and explore the remains of the ancient city of Mycenae, which was a majorcentre of Greek civilisation from 1600 BCE to 1100 BCE and one of the most important cities of Ancient Greece.Our local expert guides us through time, bringing daily life in this ancient city alive among its relics and ruins.This sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site brings the Bronze Age city of Mycenae to life, as our curiosity travelsbeyond archaeology, fuelling our fascination for the heroic age of Greek mythology. Renowned for its impressivefortifications, monolithic architecture, and rich archaeological finds, Mycenae has played a crucial role in shapingancient Greek history and mythology. Ruled by legendary figures such as King Agamemnon, who according to mythled the Greeks in the Trojan War and was later murdered upon his return to Mycenae, the city’s story is central toHomer’s epic poems, the ‘Iliad’ and the ‘Odyssey’.Archaeological excavations at Mycenae have unearthed a wealth of artefacts, including intricately decorated pottery,gold jewellery, and the famous ‘Mask of Agamemnon’, a gold funeral mask discovered in a royal tomb. Thesediscoveries provide insights into the wealth, artistry, and sophistication of the Mycenaean civilisation. The site’ssignificance extends beyond archaeology, as it continues to inspire artists, writers and scholars, fuelling fascinationwith the heroic age of Greek mythology and the legacy of ancient civilisation.Option 3 – Morning experience: UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Sanctuary of Asklēpiós and EpidaurusThis morning we tour one of Greece’s most revered sites and the world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Asignificant centre of healing, Epidaurus remains a symbol of humanity’s quest for self-preservation, with Asklēpiós’staff and wrapped snake recognised as a sign of the medical profession even today. Acknowledged as the legendarybirthplace of Apollo’s son, Asklēpiós – the god of medicine – Epidaurus’s fame spread as pilgrims seeking cures fortheir ailments flocked to the site, and particularly the temple of Asklēpiós, which is today a UNESCO World HeritageSite. Treatments, combining religious rites with practical medical practices, ranged from herbal medicines totherapeutic snake licks. Clients travelled great distances to reach the site, which included a hospital, a guest house,mineral springs and a gymnasium.The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BCE to accommodate the crowds, is considered one of themost well-preserved ancient theatres in Europe. With a capacity of around 14,000 spectators, the theatre hosteddramatic performances that were an integral part of the healing rituals, as the Greeks believed in the therapeuticpower of the arts.Today, Epidaurus continues to influence the world through its contributions to both medicine and the arts. Theancient theatre still hosts performances during the annual Epidaurus Festival, while the site’s emphasis on holistichealing resonates with modern integrative medicine approaches, blending physical treatments with psychologicaland spiritual well-being. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its legacy as a centre for healing and culture highlightsthe enduring influence of ancient Greek civilisation on modern medicine and the arts.

After breakfast, disembark the ship and say farewell to your fellow passengers before being transferred to theairport for your onward journey.We strongly recommend scheduling your departure for after 1:00 pm today to ensure you have sufficient time tocatch your flight.