Athens to Monte Carlo

A city of legend, civilisation and enduring culture, Athens is a majestic and magical urban sprawl. Extraordinary elegance and grace combine with grit and graft in Greece's capital, where highways encase ruins from antiquity, and gleaming museums and galleries stand beside concrete sprayed with edgy street art. These contrasts enhance and elevate the wonders of this 2,500-year-old city, however, which can count notable contributions to philosophy, drama and democracy, among its global legacy. Piraeus' giant port and naval base welcome you to the edge of the Athens' urban area. From there it's a simple jaunt to the centre. The majestic ancient citadel of the Acropolis dominates an elevated platform and is a constant presence as you explore the city. The wonderful remains of the columned temple of the Parthenon - which date back to the 5th century BC - stand here, representing the pinnacle of classical architecture. The nearby Acropolis Museum adds context to your visit and frames the broad views from its giant glass windows. Or rise up Mount Lycabettus, to be rewarded with perhaps Athens' best panorama of the Acropolis sitting high over the city on its grand stage. See the marble horseshoe of the Old Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, for more of the city's enduring legacy. Elsewhere, golden beaches and temples stretch out along the coastline, should you wish to explore a little further afield. Coffee is an art form to the Greeks, and it's an unwritten rule that coffee time must never be rushed. So prepare to settle down for a couple of hours and lose yourself in a good chat. Feeling hungry - try traditional souvlaki made with sauces handed from generation to generation.

Milos, one of the thousands of Greek islands, is to be found in the SW Cyclades, a large island group in the Aegean Sea. It is 86 nautical miles from Piraeus and approximately half way between Piraeus and Crete. Its surface area is 151 square kilometres and its varied coastline is 125 kilometres long. Adamas is the main port of Milos and also a seaside village of white houses shimmering on the blue waters of the Aegean. This village was founded in 1835 by refugees from Sfakia who came from Crete after the failure of their rebellion against the Turks From these times and on, Adamas became increasingly important historically because of its large, safe, naturally made harbour, and its strategic position in the eastern Mediterranean Adamas is surrounded by many beaches and offers various touristy facilities such as banks, post-office, doctors, tourist agencies, port police. Many old churches as well as mining and ecclesiastical museums are worth visiting. The geographical bearing of its capital, Plaka, is 36o 44' 35'' longitude, 24o 25' 28'' latitude. In general terms, it is a low island, whose highest peak is Prophet Elias in the north-west, rising to 751 metres. The Small Mountain in the same area is 636 metres high, while no other peak reaches over 400 metres. Its’ most characteristic feature is its magnificent gulf, providing a natural harbour, which is possibly the largest in the Mediterranean. This, in combination, with the island’s vast mineral wealth, has played and is still playing, a major role in the history, economy, culture and development of the island society throughout the last 7,000 years. Most of the inhabitants live in the 8 villages, which are in the flat, northern part of the island. These are the capital Plaka, Plakes, Triovassalos, Pera Triovassalos, Tripiti, Pollonia, Zefiria, and Adamas. Officially, Milos is part of the county of the Cyclades, whose capital is the town of Ermupolis, on the island of Syros. However, de-centralisation of the administration has been achieved by sub-dividing the county into four provinces. One of these is Milos province, incorporating the Western Cycladic islands, Kimolos, Siphnos and Seriphos and with its administrative capital on Milos. Its geological make-up, which will be dealt with later, is volcanic. However, this formation, which is different from that of the rest of the Cyclades group (with the exception of Kimolos), is the reason for the island's lack of forests, rich vegetation, natural water supplies and rivers. Never the less, it has given it colour. This unique Milos colour, is dazzlingly evident in its multitude of beautiful beaches - more than 75- with their glistening silver sand and clear blue waters. Also in the chalky white, terracotta, ochre and jet black rocks, the like of which can be seen nowhere else in the whole of Greece. CRUISE SIGHTS Church Of Agia Triada The church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) is located in the centre of Adamas, the port of Milos. This church dates from the 17th century and it houses a small ecclesiastical museum. Mineralogical Museum This museum was established to help promote the effects of mining in the history of Milos and to display the mineral wealth of the island. It is located at the waterfront in Adamas. Ancient Theatre This theatre was probably constructed in the Hellenistic times. However, today only the Roman phase of this monument survives. It is located close to Catacombs. CRUISE SHOPPING There are quite a few souvenir shops in Adamas and Plaka, where you can get your own copy of Aphrodite and some Greek souvenirs and local products. CRUISE ACTIVITIES Beaches: Sarakiniko - Location: 4 km east of Plaka - Location: 4 km east of Plaka Description: This beach is one of the most beautiful beaches of Milos and surely the most particular one. It is located along the coastal road east of Adamas, north-east of Milos. It is the most photographed spot of the island. Its particular landscape is very impressive and surely unforgettable: long horizontal rocks bent over the sea; those rocks are eroded by time and salt water, and have small and huge hollows all over them. The entire landscape formed by the volcanic rocks doesn't show any signs of vegetation and is coloured entirely in a bright white, which makes an interesting contrast with the deep blue and turquoise of the surrounding waters. This amazing scenery gives one the impression of standing on the surface of the moon. Agia Kiriaki- Location: 14 km south east of Plaka - Location: 14 km south east of Plaka Description: From Zefiria a road leads to the beautiful coast of Agia Kyriaki, an organized beach with pure white sand and emerald crystal-clear waters. Firiplaka – Location: 15 km south east of Plaka – Location: 15 km south east of Plaka Description: Firiplaka Beach Milos: Right next to the lovely beach of Tsigrado lies the superb beach of Firiplaka. It is a long beach with silver sand and huge coloured rocks forming its coastline. The waters in Firiplaka are really exotic: crystalline and shallow green-blue, they never fail to enchant anyone who had the chance to swim in them. Papafragas - Location: 10 km east of Plaka - Location: 10 km east of Plaka Description: After Kapros one can find the idyllic landscape of Papafragas, one of the most impressive sites of Milos. From the top of the rock, it resembles a huge natural swimming pool, an enormous cave carved out of the cliff’s side. A tiny path leads to the tiny strip of sand that forms the beach. Crystalline waters of changing colours, depending on the weather and the light, welcome the visitor and invite him to enjoy their coolness. Deep dark sea caves surround the place. The most ancient site of Milos is just a few metres away: the amazing Papafragos, the ancient town of Phylakope,. The few remaining ruins of walls, buildings and tombs are now almost entirely covered by the water, but still bear witness of the life and civilisation existing there during the Neolithic period. Provatas - Location: 13 km south east of Plaka - Location: 13 km south east of Plaka Description: The beautiful beach of Provatas is located in the south-western side of Milos. Small hotels, good restaurants and the beauty of the place are more than enough to attract many visitors every summer. Huge multi-coloured rocks, golden sand and limpid waters complete the superb image of Provatas. Tsigrado - Location: 14 km south east of Plaka - Location: 14 km south east of Plaka Description: Tsigrado is one of the most beautiful southern beaches of Milos. Located right next to Firiplaka, Tsigrado is a small sandy cove with crystal water. Going down this beach is a bit difficult as visitors have to pass through a rocky passage to get there. The surrounding environment with the rocky cliffs is quite impressive.

Greece’s first capital remains the escape of choice for Athenians, who weekend here to indulge in the town's gorgeous seaside setting. One of the country's most romantic towns, the warm colour palette and tempting, island-sprinkled waters, pull on plenty of heartstrings. With perfect beaches, crystal clear waters for swimming, and evocative fortress-capped mountains, Nafplion is a sun-soaked Greek beauty. A gorgeous blend of Greek, Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman influences, stroll the seafront promenade and soak up the ambience in tavernas and bars. Head into the warren of an old town, which is full of narrow streets, neoclassical architecture and pink-flowered trees drooping over walls. Located on the hill that towers over Nafplion, Palamidi Fortress is a Venetian castle built in 1714, and its steep walls flow dramatically down the slope. If you're feeling brave, a slog of 857 steps will take you to the top to see beautiful views across Nafplion and the Argolic Gulf. Acronafplia fortress is Nafplion's oldest castle, and its walls enclosed the entire town until the 13th century. Just offshore, the Venetian Bourtzi fortress rises on a tiny islet, a short boat ride away across the glistening waters. Venetians built this harbour fortress to protect the town before it later housed the official executioner. Today its hardy walls shake to music, during its summer festival, and the castle enjoys a gorgeous view back over the waves to the town's humming waterfront. Ancient cities like Corinth lie close by, recovered and unearthed after being wiped from history by immense earthquakes.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

Perched high on the imposing Sciberras Peninsula, Valletta immediately presents its massive, protective walls and vertical bastions to visitors arriving by sea. Rising to 47 metres in places, the fortifications protect lavish palaces, grand domes and illustrious gardens. Built by the Knights of St John on the narrow peninsular, Valletta is a compact, richly historical treasure trove of Baroque wonders. Ascend to reach the restful, flower-filled Upper Barrakka Gardens, where cannons fire and boom in salute at noon each day, sending echoing cracks of noise out across the waves below. Recognised as 2018’s European Capital of Culture, Valletta is a fascinating and dense haven of history and intrigue. A busy, bustling capital, the breathtaking St John’s Cathedral - commissioned in 1572 - is almost concealed among its narrow streets. The relatively modest exterior is counterpointed by a staggeringly opulent, gold-leaf bathed interior, containing a Caravaggio masterpiece - the shadowy vision of the Beheading of St John. Cinematic and magnificent, Valletta has served as a filming location for Game of Thrones - but real epic history abounds on this rocky isle too. From the prehistoric and megalithic sites of the Hypogeum of Paola and Tarxien, to the fascinating War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Mdina also waits nearby, and the former medieval capital is a striking contrast to the island’s main city. Cars are barred from its streets, and it offers endlessly atmospheric old-time wanders. With a strategic positioning in the Mediterranean, Malta is a jewel that many have wrestled for over the centuries. Independence from Britain was finally achieved in 1964, but the close allegiance remains evident, with English recognised as an official language, cars driving on the left, and red post boxes and telephone gleaming in Malta’s sunshine.

Florally-painted buildings line cobbled plant-pot decorated streets - and glow attractively in the ever-present sunshine. The laid-back island atmosphere immediately washes over you as you breathe in your first taste of the salty sea air. With tastebud-jangling pizza palate-satisfying wines and sparkling blue waters to behold - Lipari Island is a little slice of sensory heaven. Head straight to the shore to soak up the rich blue hues of spots like Havana Beach. Hike the scenery and look out across the archipelago to the fiery cone of Stromboli - one of three active volcanoes in Italy - which looms from the blue waters. Visit a winery to admire the neat rows of vines and taste the subtle flavours the grapes acquire from these fertile soils. Sip the wines alongside fresh curls of ham and cheese. Explore the town’s charms - such as the archaeological museum which tells of a turbulent history in the clutches of major empires - before climbing the stone-stepped incline to the salmon pink Cathedral of San Bartolomeo. Beautiful frescoes spread across the roof and you can admire the Norman cloisters and silver statue of the island's patron saint Saint Bartholomew. This statue is said to perform the miracle of changing its weight when required - notably when the fascist regime attempted to sell it - only to discover it was mysteriously featherlight and worthless. Lipari Castle's steeply banked walls add a crowning glory to this island of volcanic wonder.

Days at sea are the perfect opportunity to relax unwind and catch up with what you’ve been meaning to do. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, whale watching, catching up on your reading or simply topping up your tan these blue sea days are the perfect balance to busy days spent exploring shore side.

The Tower of Matilde is an iconic structure of the city of Livorno. This medieval tower is said to have been built by the famous mathematician and astronomer Galileo Galilei. It is named after Matilde di Canossa, an influential noblewoman who played a key role in the political and religious conflicts of the 11th century. Matilde was a powerful figure in medieval Italy, and her legacy is still felt in Livorno today. The tower was built on her orders as a defensive stronghold to protect the city against invaders, and its strategic location on the coast made it an important part of the city's defenses. Over the centuries, the Tower of Matilde has been restored and renovated several times, but it still retains its original medieval charm. The tower is a classic example of medieval architecture, with its thick walls, narrow windows, and imposing structure. The tower was later used as a watchtower during World War II and is now a popular tourist attraction as visitors can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Tower of Matilde is also an important cultural landmark in Livorno. It is often used as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions, and its unique atmosphere and ambiance make it a popular destination for artists and writers.

The Tower of Matilde is an iconic structure of the city of Livorno. This medieval tower is said to have been built by the famous mathematician and astronomer Galileo Galilei. It is named after Matilde di Canossa, an influential noblewoman who played a key role in the political and religious conflicts of the 11th century. Matilde was a powerful figure in medieval Italy, and her legacy is still felt in Livorno today. The tower was built on her orders as a defensive stronghold to protect the city against invaders, and its strategic location on the coast made it an important part of the city's defenses. Over the centuries, the Tower of Matilde has been restored and renovated several times, but it still retains its original medieval charm. The tower is a classic example of medieval architecture, with its thick walls, narrow windows, and imposing structure. The tower was later used as a watchtower during World War II and is now a popular tourist attraction as visitors can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The Tower of Matilde is also an important cultural landmark in Livorno. It is often used as a venue for cultural events and exhibitions, and its unique atmosphere and ambiance make it a popular destination for artists and writers.

Glitzy glamorous and unashamedly luxurious – live the high life in Monte Carlo. From the super-yachts jostling for position in the harbour to the lavish bars splashing out iced champagne tiny Monaco’s only city is a high rolling decadent affair - and a gloriously indulgent sun-soaked taste of the good life. Famed for its low tax status - and the Formula One race that roars through its hairpin bends and tight streets each year - Monaco is the ultimate playground of the rich and famous. Monaco may be the world’s second-smallest country - only the Vatican has a smaller footprint - but Monte Carlo has a confidence impact and appeal that few can match. The gilded Royal Palace adds an air of regal glory and whether you want to soak up the culture at the opera or raise the stakes at a casino - doing your finest 007 impressions - you’ll feel very much at home here. Soar above the high-rise hotels and glorious casinos in a helicopter to see the city from above and admire landmarks like the cathedral where Grace Kelly married the Prince of Monaco in 1956. High-end fashion fragrances and fancy adornments await in the gold-label shops of Monte Carlo's lavish shopping streets while the old town’s pink and lemon floral facades offer an authentic balance of historic character to counterpoint the well-heeled excesses. A wonderful escape revel in old-world glitz and glam as you admire twinkling chandeliers and wander between palatial architecture while enjoying your time in Monte Carlo's abundant wonderland.