Athens to Rome

Strolling through the ancient Agora beneath the towering shadow of the Acropolis, you can almost hear the echoes of Plato, Socrates, and Aristotle fiercely debating the title of the greatest philosopher. Recognized universally as the birthplace of democracy and the true epicenter of Western civilization, Athens stands out as a city of eternal significance. When arranging your travel logistics, note that Piraeus functions as the primary port for this historic destination, situated exactly 15 kilometers from the city center and 45 kilometers from the airport.

Discover Hydra, a remarkable town lined with stately mansions constructed around 1800. Daring blockade runners originally built these impressive homes after amassing vast fortunes by outwitting the British throughout the Napoleonic Wars. Because cars are entirely absent from this tranquil island, experiencing the spectacular views from the Monastery of Ilias requires you to take a charming donkey ride all the way to the summit.

From the shore, it's a big rock sticking out into the sea. Then you pass over the causeway, and through an iron fortress gate, and suddenly, the town of Monemvasia is before you, a perfectly preserved Byzantine fortified port, once 60,000 strong, now home to just a few hundred. You can readily see why the name Monemvasia means single entrance! In the rocky hills above, ancient Byzantine ruins loom over the town, while below a maze of red tiled roofs and twisting alleys hide tavernas and cafes and the home of revered Greek poet Yannis Ritsos.

Located in the Peloponnese region of Greece, Gythio is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant harbor. It offers a mix of traditional Greek culture and modern amenities, with picturesque streets lined with neoclassical buildings. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront tavernas and explore nearby ancient sites like the ruins of Sparta. The scenic views and relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal destination for a coastal getaway.

A charming port town on Greece's Peloponnese peninsula, Katakolon serves as a gateway to the ancient site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Passengers can explore the ancient ruins with the optional tour. Katakolon itself offers a picturesque waterfront lined with shops and cafes, providing a relaxing prelude or conclusion to the historical exploration of Olympia.

Each Star Clippers ship offers a traditional and elegant way to see the world. Feel the wind fill the sails and gently carry you from one gorgeous destination to the next. During your time on board, you can choose to relax on a sun lounger or cool off in one of the pools on the top deck, while more adventurous passengers may enjoy the opportunity to climb the rigging or even have a go at steering the ship. Alternatively, you can wander the interior areas of the ship and discover relaxing lounges, and a peaceful library.

Syracuse is a city on the Ionian coast of Sicily that's known for its ancient ruins. It was once the largest city in the world, bigger than Athens and Corinth and as you can imagine it's steeped in history. Visit Parco Archeologico della Neapolis, one of Sicily's greatest archaeological sites. Relax in one of it's stylish little cafes that surround it's beautiful baroque piazzas before wandering down it's medieval lanes towards the sparkling blue sea.

Barreling under full sail through the narrow Strait of Messina past Scylla and Charybdis, where rock and whirlpool almost claimed Ulysses, you arrive in lovely Taormina. Perched on the shoulder of Mt. Etna, Taormina inspired Goethe to say that'It is the greatest work of art and nature.'

The Aeolian archipelago is made up of 7 islands of volcanic origin, of which only Stromboli and Vulcano are still active volcanoes. The main island is Lipari, which offers travellers arriving by boat a beautiful panorama of its Acropolis, presided over by the Cathedral. Its marina is bustling with shops, boutiques and stalls... it's an island where life is good.

During the Middle Ages, Amalfi was a powerful republic of 70,000 people, rivalling nearby Ravello. For a sense of Amalfi's medieval glory, wander through the grand Duomo, containing the remains of St. Andrew. Amalfi is a magnificent coastal town offering an enchanting blend of natural beauty, rich history and Mediterranean charm.

The pastel houses of Ponza Town rise in neat terraced rows from the busy harbor where sleekly groomed yachts and ramshackle fishing boats moor side by side. Happily, there are few tourists here, so it's a delight to wander through the unspoiled town.

Civitavecchia is an important seaport serving Rome, the Italian capital. As a key entry point for Mediterranean cruises and ferries crossing the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia offers a gateway to a variety of destinations in Italy and beyond. The city is 70 km from Rome and 62 km to Fiumiccino airport.

Disembark after breakfast and continue your independent trip back home.