From Baroque Sicily to the Colorful Cyclades

This strategically important location has always attracted foreign conquerors. More than 7,000 years ago, a civilisation existed here, leaving behind enormous temple complexes. Just like proud Valletta, these are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Jean Parisot de la Valette, Grand Master of the Order of St John, founded a modern fortified city on a rock in 1566, between the two splendid natural ports of Marsamxett and Grand harbor. Long rows of facades made from golden-yellow blocks of chalk stretch along the straight streets. Splendid Renaissance and Baroque buildings are evidence of riches and power, such as the Palace of the Grand Master and the impressive St John's Co-Cathedral.

The municipal area of Syracuse boasts relics from cultural history going back more than three millennia. In ancient times, the city was the most powerful in the known world and was famed for its splendour. The island of Ortigia, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was where Syracuse began its rise as an ancient city. The huge cathedral is at the heart of the old town, magnificent palaces line the Piazza and wide promenades invite you to take a stroll. The archaeological park brings Greek and Roman history back to life. Yet Syracuse exudes southern Italian charm, with washing drying outside the windows.

Spend the day sunbathing, enjoy the fresh wind breeze, and relax into the day!

Pylos, an attractive fishing village with a beautiful marina and some nearby beaches, is situated in a picturesque location in the Bay of Navarino. There has been a settlement here since ancient times and it has always been of great strategic importance. The Neo Kastro fortress was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century and this former lookout point for enemy fleets is now the best place to catch a fantastic view. In 1952, the ruins of a Mycenaean palace were discovered near Pylos. Though it is debatable whether the imposing Nestor's Palace really belonged to the legendary King from Homer's Iliad, the former multi-story building is certainly impressive.

The little town of Monemvasia nestles closely against a rock that lies just off the coast. This impregnable fortress was an important trading center in Byzantine times. Today it is a retreat for wealthy Athenians who spend their weekends here. Behind its walls you can discover the beautifully restored lower town, where you simply want to drift along the tranquil narrow lanes. This picturesque little town on a rock transports you back in time to the romantic Middle Ages, when it was exceptionally modern and lively.

The unique character of Milos' landscape was formed by volcanic activity. Hot springs, spectacular cliffs and distinctive rock formations give the various beaches their own individual character. The colors of Milos are most obvious where the water meets the stone and forms the coastline. Minerals have colored the sand and stones and each rock along the coastline seems to glow in a different color. Plaka, the picturesque old capital with its typical dazzling-white houses, is overlooked by a mighty castle which offers a superb view over Adamos Bay and the surrounding islands.

Yperia, Platagy, Pagali, Psichia, and Karkisia are some of the names given to Amorgos throughout history. Amorgos is home to the ruins of several ancient civilizations. There were three autonomous city-states in Archaic Greece during the time. According to mythology, they had separate constitutions yet used the same currency. The size and quality of the walls around Arkesini, the historic towers strewn across the island, ancient graves, stone tools, inscriptions, vases, and other items distinguish Amorgos.

In the south of Naxos lies the idyllic fishing village of Agia Anna, with its secluded tavernas and beach bars on the small promenade. On both sides, lovely bays and beaches entice you to swim in the crystal-clear water. The huge Venetian castle in the island's capital, only a few kilometers (miles) away, once protected the city from attackers. Nowadays it offers you a stunning view over the whole island in all its glory. Even the gods loved the island. The German opera "Ariadne auf Naxos" was based on the myth of Dionysus and the Cretan king's daughter.

Although the capital of the Cyclades is situated on the tranquil and traditional island of Syros, outside of the town this seems the most remote island of them all. Ermoupoli, one of the most beautiful island towns in Greece, was built majestically on two hills. Its architecture is exceptional and the numerous monumental neo-classical buildings give the impression of a large, elegant town. Passing over the hill, the spaciousness and vastness transform into a maze of lanes and give a medieval impression.

Although the capital of the Cyclades is situated on the tranquil and traditional island of Syros, outside of the town this seems the most remote island of them all. Ermoupoli, one of the most beautiful island towns in Greece, was built majestically on two hills. Its architecture is exceptional and the numerous monumental neo-classical buildings give the impression of a large, elegant town. Passing over the hill, the spaciousness and vastness transform into a maze of lanes and give a medieval impression.

"A ship will come...", declared the singer Melina Mercouri to the port of Piraeus. Later, as Greek Minister for Culture, she made Athens the first European Capital of Culture in 1985. The city is considered the birthplace of Europe, of philosophy and of democracy, and is the embodiment of the Olympic ideal. World-famous and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, its landmark is the magnificent Parthenon temple, lying high up on the Acropolis in all its glory. At the foot of the Acropolis hill is the Plaka, the oldest quarter of Athens, and the world's most modern archaeological museum, the new Acropolis Museum, has been here since 2009. Disembark after breakfast to explore Athens, return home, or continue on your independent travels.