Deluxe Stateroom Deck 3
30% Ponant Bonus
19 m²
2
Jewels of the Aegean Sea in music
Athens - Antalya
Dates:
07/11/2025
to
16/11/2025
Other available dates
days
nights on board
Sail the Greek and Turkish shores during an exceptional journey, an 10-day cruise aboard Le Dumont-d’Urville, during which you will fall under the spell of these island jewels and secular cities, featuring ancient ruins and splendid scenery, which people the Eastern Mediterranean.
Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, visit the archaeological site of Ephesus from Kusadasi, discover the monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse where the last book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle,from Patmos, or admire the sumptuous archaeological sites, from the Temples of Zeus, Apollo and Athena to the Terrace of the Lions, from Delos. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab). The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).
From the Greek capital Athens, you will sail south to reach the legendary Cyclades archipelago. The authenticity and neoclassical architecture of the island of Syros will surprise you. Then, Delos, a veritable open-air museum, offers a unique testimony of the succession of different civilisations during the Aegean period. Your next stop is Paros, renowned for its sublime white marble, the island offers a real concentration of Greek beauty, between olive groves and ancient monuments.
Further north, you will arrive in Nafplio, the departure point for discovering the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and the Mycenae archaeological site, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
You will then sail west for the charming Monemvasia. A romantic haven for the Athenians, this magnificent peninsula conserves treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture in the small vaulted streets of its fortified medieval village, which feature thousands of shades of ochre. Then, in the southern Aegean Sea, set off to discover the capital of Crete, Heraklion, built on a hillside overlooking the port and encircled by impressive Venetian walls. Then, the island of Patmos, known as “the Jerusalem of the Aegean Sea”, reveals itself to offer you a moment suspended between unique landscapes of white-sand beaches and rocky bays.
Le Dumont-d’Urville will leave Greece to reach Kusadasi in Turkey. An old fishing village with history going back 5,000 years, not far from the Ephesus site, the town is now one of the country’s most famous seaside resorts. The last stop on your adventure in the Aegean Sea is the mythical island of Rhodes, where you will be captivated by the charm of this medieval city with its gothic architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ref : EU071125
Your itinerary
A cruise to discover the finest ancient sites of Greece, with one port of call in Turkey. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: medieval city of Rhodes, the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Napflion, the...
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Your trip in detail
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Additional services
For more peace of mind, PONANT selects stays and flights then takes care of your transfers for your trip as well as shore visits before and after the cruise.
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LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT
LE DUMONT-D'URVILLE
09/03/2025 to the 19/03/2025
LE BORÉAL
LE BORÉAL
LE PAUL GAUGUIN
19/01/2025 to the 08/02/2025
*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.
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Services provided
- 24-hour room service
- Inclusive Wifi internet access (availability dependent on navigation and latitude)
- Individually-controlled air conditioning
- Dressing room with shelves and closet
- Dressing table and hairdryer
- Diptyque Paris top-of-the-line bath products
- Minibar
- Nespresso coffee maker and boiler
- Electronic safe
- Direct line telephone
- Bose Bluetooth speaker
- Flat screen TV, international channels (availability dependent on navigation) and videos on demand
- 110V American (two flat pins)/220V European (round sockets with two round pins)
- Two ADA staterooms
Select your stateroom category
Ideal clothes for life on board:
During the days spent on board, you are advised to wear comfortable clothes or casual outfits. The entire ship is air-conditioned, so a light sweater, a light jacket or a shawl may be necessary. When moving about in the public areas of the ship and the decks, light but comfortable shoes are recommended.
Informal evening:
In the evening, you are advised to wear smart-casual attire, especially when dining in our restaurants where wearing shorts and tee-shirts is not allowed.
For women:
- Simple dress
- Skirt or trousers
- Blouse
- Polo
For men:
- Pleated trousers or chinos
- Sports jacket
- Shirt
- Polo
Officer’s evening:
For all cruises longer than 8 nights, an Officer’s Evening with a white dress code may be organized. Therefore, we encourage you to bring a stylish white outfit for the occasion (otherwise black and white).
Gala evening:
During the cruise, two gala evenings will be organised on board. Thus, we recommend that you bring one or two formal outfits.
For women:
- Cocktail attire
- Evening dress (if you wish to)
For men:
- Dark suit
- Tie recommended, possibly bow tie (if you wish to)
SHOP:
A small shop is available on board offering a wide range of outfits, jewellery, leather goods and many accessories.
A laundry service (washing/ironing) is available on board, but unfortunately there are no dry cleaning services. For safety reasons, your cabin is not equipped with an iron.
ACCESSORIES:
- Polarized sunglasses
- Swimsuit (for the Spa on board)
- Gym wear (fitness)
- Battery charger and memory cards for your camera
- Mobile phone charger
- Hat/cap
HEALTH CARE:
- Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
- Medications and prescriptions
OUTFITS ON BOARD:
- Casual outfits for the day
- Smarter outfits for dinners
- Elegant outfits for Gala evenings
- White or black and white outfit
PRECAUTIONS:
In your hand luggage, remember to bring any medicines that you need, and possibly a small spare bag of toiletries (in case of delay in the delivery of your baggage by the airline). Remember to always have your travel documents with you in case you need them: hotel vouchers, cruise vouchers, return flight tickets... Never leave them in your hold luggage.
All our cabins have a safe. We recommend not to go ashore with valuable jewellery.
PONANT activities
Highlights
- A cruise to discover the finest ancient sites of Greece, with one port of call in Turkey.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: medieval city of Rhodes, the Mycenae ruins and the Epidaurus theatre from Napflion, the sacred island of Delos, the monastery of Saint John and the Cave of the Apocalypse in Patmos, the historical sites of Ephesus from Kusadasi, the Acropolis in Athens.
- Make the most of an excursion included* per person per port of call during your cruise thanks to the selection made by our destination experts.
- Discover the pearls of the Cyclades: Syros, Delos, Mykonos and their ancient ruins, typical landscapes and beaches.
*Pre-bookings open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests are processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Ports of Call & Excursions
7 November 2025 - Athens
Embarkation 07/11/2025 from 16:00 to 17:00
Departure 07/11/2025 at 18:00
The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.
8 November 2025 - Syros
Arrival 08/11/2025 early morning
Departure 08/11/2025 late afternoon
Located to the west of Mykonos, Syros is an attractive island in the Cyclades. The island has been inhabited since ancient times and Ermoupolis, its capital, built in an amphitheatre, is spread over two hills. You may wish to visit its archaeological museum and the historical district, where the beautiful houses are evidence of the island’s strategic location for trade, between the East and the West. Admire the superb Agios Nikolaos Church or the Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary. Further on, the medieval town of Ano Syros allows to admire charming stairways and arched passageways, as well as small, white houses decorated with bougainvilleas.
9 November 2025 - Delos
Arrival 09/11/2025 early morning
Departure 09/11/2025 midday
This legendary Cyclades island of Delos stands just a few miles southwest of Mykonos. The ceremonial solemnity of this ancient holy sanctuary will not leave you indifferent. The sheer size and importance of this UNESCO World Heritage site which covers over half of the island is thrilling in itself. From the Stoa of Antigonos, the Terrace of the Lions, to the carved marble animal statues, you will make discovery after discovery, against a backdrop of the Aegean stretching to the horizon. The theatre steps on the hillside are a particularly good place from which to enjoy the expansive view.
9 November 2025 - Paros
Arrival 09/11/2025 early afternoon
Departure 09/11/2025 evening
Famous for its white marble, the island of Paros is located in the Cyclades. Along the quays of Parikia, its main town, you’ll see Byzantine churches and neoclassical buildings. To make the most of the turquoise waters, you can stop over in Naoussa. This little fishing port is bounded by a very beautiful cove.
10 November 2025 - Nafplion
Arrival 10/11/2025 early morning
Departure 10/11/2025 late afternoon
The engaging town of Nafplion is staggered up green hillsides of the Argolic Gulf, to the east of the Peloponnese. Do not be surprised by its extremely varied cultural heritage. Some of the must-see visits are the ancient agora on the plateau of Akronafplia, Italianate arcades in Syntagma square as well as the baroque fortress of Palamidi on a hillside of the same name. At the top of the hill, views of the gulf and the surrounding mountains are simply awesome. If you want to chill out by the water’s edge, walk along the Arvanitia promenade to a beautiful creek in the shade of cedars and cypresses.
11 November 2025 - Monemvasia
Arrival 11/11/2025 early morning
Departure 11/11/2025 late afternoon
The jewel of the southern Peloponnese, Monemvasia is the romantic refuge for Athenians. Given the poetic nickname of the “stone ship”, this majestic peninsula is home to an incredible fortified medieval village, lying at the foot of its abrupt cliffs, which seems to have been cast by the gods from the Aegean Sea. Contemplate the horizon from its ramparts, a veritable walkway defying the azure waters, and stroll through its vaulted narrow streets with their thousand shades of ochre. At the crossroads of western and eastern influences and the maritime routes of the continent, Crete and the Cyclades, Monemvasia has preserved in this magical decor the treasures of Venetian and Byzantine architecture.
12 November 2025 - Heraklion, Crete
Arrival 12/11/2025 early morning
Departure 12/11/2025 late afternoon
Heraklion, the capital of Crete, is the island’s most populous city. The hustle and bustle of this seaport is an integral part of its charm. It is built on a hillside overlooking the port and is encircled by impressive Venetian walls. From the top of these, you will be able to enjoy one of the most beautiful views of the city. The old town is teeming with small shops, squares, cafés and vibrant architectural evidence of the city’s long history. The Palace of Knossos illustrates the wealth and power of its legendary sovereign, King Minos. The archaeological museum houses one of the largest collections of Minoan artefacts and is worth a visit.
13 November 2025 - Patmos
Arrival 13/11/2025 early morning
Departure 13/11/2025 evening
Patmos is one of the legendary must-see islands in the Dodecanese. This is where Saint John resided, presumed author of the last book in the Bible. The cave of the Apocalypse and the Saint John Monastery are dedicated to him. These sites, which are listed by UNESCO as World Heritage, are located at the top of a hillside planted with vines and orchards. On the shore, the crystalline coves of Kambos and Lampi offer absolutely gorgeous swimming areas.
14 November 2025 - Kusadasi
Arrival 14/11/2025 early morning
Departure 14/11/2025 late afternoon
The attractive seaside resort of Kusadasi is located in a gulf on the western coast of Turkey. You can bathe there in clear waters or stroll along the coastal walk, in the shade of palms. In the historical district, you can take a mosey down the narrow streets and explore the colourful shops in the bazaar. Close by, the Ephesus archaeological site in the hillsides provides an opportunity to discover the ruins of one of the most famous cities of Antiquity.
15 November 2025 - Rhodes
Arrival 15/11/2025 early morning
Departure 15/11/2025 late afternoon
With its particularly agreeable climate, the island of Rhodes invites you to walk its pathways and discover its immaculate villages and sumptuous medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage site. At the centre of the island the mountains are covered in forest and on the western slopes we find vineyards and crops. Rhodes also owes much of its charm and its character to the Knights of St John who reigned over the island from 1310 to 1522 and built impressive defensive walls punctuated with majestic gateways. Do not miss this delightful island with its peaceful beaches and its large walkways, perpetuating the myth of the famous Colossus, the legendary statue that is one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
16 November 2025 - Antalya
Arrival 16/11/2025 early morning
Disembarkation 16/11/2025 at 08:00
On the Turkish Mediterranean coast, discover the seaside resort of Antalya. While the city sports magnificent fine sandy beaches, it is also known for its significant historical heritage. Many vestiges bear witness to the importance of this former Roman port, such as Hadrian's Gate, built in the year 130 in honour of the visiting emperor. In the old town, it is possible to admire magnificent Ottoman houses with flowery gardens, as well as the broken minaret, built on the ruins of a former Byzantine church. The city’s surroundings also provide an opportunity to discover major archaeological sites, such as that of the ancient city of Aspendos, renowned for its impressive Roman theatre.
The archaeological site of Delos
Delos is considered “the most sacred of all islands” in Ancient Greek culture; according to legend, it is the birthplace of Apollo-Sun and his twin sister Artemis-Moon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is both the oldest and largest open air archaeological site in Europe.
Emerging from a carpet of burned grass, the ruins - of many houses, temples and sacred sanctuaries - are spread across the foot of Mount Cynthus, the island’s only hill, which rises 113 metres (370 feet) high. At its summit stands the sanctuary of Zeus and Athena dating from the 3rd century BC while, on its slopes, you will glimpse a whole series of cultural buildings dedicated to various western divinities. Fixed by two thousand years of neglect, the city forms an impressive white stone maze in which to stroll around, like the pilgrims and merchants of the past, when Delos was significant across the Aegean Sea.
You will then reach the Apollonian sanctuary, known as the Temple of the Athenian, where you will be able to admire the different temples devoted to the gods, their altars, their votive offerings and other buildings. Next, discover the Terrace of the Lions and its famous white marble sculptures overlooking and protecting the city.
You will continue the visit with the Theatre Quarter, the most luxurious of the ancient city with the residences known as the “House of Dionysos”, “House of Cleopatra” and “House of the Dioscuri”. You can appreciate the mosaics decorating the floor of the houses from Hellenistic times, as well as the streets, workshops and shops, which made Delos a very lively city.
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This excursion is all on foot. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. The museum is currently closed for renovation.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
From Parikia to Naoussa
On Paros, the discreet neighbour of Mykonos and Santorini, the charm of the Cyclades can be seen in all its gentleness and timelessness. Between golden beaches and pine forests, discover the historic villages of Parikia, Naoussa and Lefkes, as well as the stunning Byzantine Panaghia Katapoliani basilica.
The Katapoliani church, also known as Ekatontapiliani church, was founded in the 4th century and is one of Greece’s most beautiful Paleo-Christian monuments. Located in the heart of Parikia, the basilica was nicknamed “the Church with the Hundred Doors” in the 7th century, as a nod to the splendour of the Temple of the Hundred Gates (Ekatonpylon) in ancient Thebes in Egypt.
A few kilometres from there, on the island’s heights, explore its former capital, Lefkes, with its labyrinth of little streets and whitewashed stairs overgrown with bougainvillea. You will discover the old wash houses, still used today by some inhabitants, the House of Literature, picturesque Ramnos street, its taverna and boutiques, as well as the superb views over the sea and Naxos in the background.
Then you will head for the north of the island and Naoussa, a fishing village, a perfect picture postcard of the Cyclades. The whitewashed houses here are decorated with blue doors and shutters, the octopus dry on washing lines while the small bars and tavernas have a trendy appearance. However, the real eye-catching site here is the Venetian castle, constructed in the 15th century by the Sommaripa family. Rising out of the sea, behind the port and its traditional boats, it has impressive views over the azure sea.
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This bus excursion involves some moderate walking on flat ground, with some steps up to the Panaghia Katapoliani basilica. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and sun protection. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Ancient Corinth & Corinth canal
From the pier, board your coach for a 1.5-hour ride to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
In ancient times, Corinth was among the richest cities, as evidenced by its remains including the huge Agora (market square) and the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo. The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, continue today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations also extended to the Acrocorinth’s fortress, the prehistoric settlements, the theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepion, the cemeteries, the Potters’ Quarter, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 6.3 km (4 miles) long, 21 metres (70 feet) wide, and has sloping sides up to 52 metres (170 feet) high. It has a water depth of 8 metres (26 feet). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas to provide a shortcut appears to date as far back as Roman times. You will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos from the top.
Following your short stop to admire the canal, you will board your coach for one hour ride back to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 1.5 hours of extensive walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Monemvasia, the medieval town
Monemvasia, often referred as the “Gibraltar of Greece”, is undoubtedly unique with its fortified medieval town built on a reddish-brown rock and surrounded by the blue sea.
Board your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old stone built mansions, the picturesque lanes and the numerous Byzantine churches create an environment of superb beauty.
Monemvasia is split in two: the lower town and the upper town. Walking on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
You will admire the highlights of the medieval town during your walking tour before returning back to the pier and your awaiting ship.
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This excursion involves extensive walking on flat, uneven ground, cobblestones and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility or in a wheelchair.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Phaestos Palace
From the pier, board your coach and drive across Crete and towards the Libyan Sea to Phaestos.
One of the most important centres of the Minoan civilization, Phaestos was the wealthiest and most powerful city in Southern Crete. It was inhabited from the Neolithic Age until the development of the Minoan palaces in the 15th century BC. Upon arrival, proceed to a visit of the Phaestos Palace, also known as the ‘Phaistos Palace’, and commence your guided walking tour.
The Phaestos Palace’s superb architectural design and near-perfect construction is one of the finest and most typical of all Minoan palaces. The ruins of the Old and New Palace are both preserved; the Old Palace is protected under a shed, with some remains dating back to Neolithic times. The New Palace consists of a central peristyle court flanked by storerooms and shrines on the west side, the royal quarters on the north and the workshops on the east. The ‘theatral area’ with the ‘processional ways’ is situated west of the storerooms, and the granaries of the Old Palace are located in the lower strata. The West Propylon, the palace’s monumental entrance, is the most impressive known structure of its kind. The artefacts from the palace are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Following your guided tour, depart the archaeological site of Phaestos for the drive back to the pier.
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This excursion involves approximately 2.4 km (1 ½ miles) of walking on uneven ground and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Minoan Palace & archaeological museum
Crete’s fertile soil and towering peaks witnessed the development of one of the earliest recorded civilizations on earth: the Minoan.
Knossos is the most important of the Minoan palaces and the most famous Cretan site since its discovery in 1878. Occupied for 9,000 years before present and associated with the legend of the palace of King Minos, the site was the capital of Crete during the Minoan period. It was the court of the legendary King Minos, whose wife Pasiphae gave birth to the Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. The excavations on the site were begun in 1893 by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans and his team and lasted 35 years.
From the pier, you will board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Knossos.
During this tour, you will discover the Great Palace through the West Court, where one can easily understand why the legend of the labyrinth grew up here. It takes about one hour and a half to walk around the site and explore all the parts of the Palace. See the Royal Quarters’ Throne room with its antechamber and main throne, as well as the Queen’s Quarters, whose wall above the entrance door is decorated with a copy of the famous dolphin frescos. Your guide will also tell about the Minotaur legend.
You will continue your journey with a visit of the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. The museum houses archaeological finds from all over Crete, covering over 5,500 years of the island's history. With its twenty halls, the museum presents the finds from the Minoan era, including the frescoes from the Royal Palace of Knossos.
After your visit of the museum, you will board your coach and join your ship after a 15-minute drive.
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This excursion involves 1,5 km (1 mile) of walking with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Patmos, island of the Revelation
The minuscule Greek island of Patmos, lost in the middle of the Dodecanese, has something mysterious about it. It was here, in the year 95, that John the Apostle, exiled on the island, had and recorded his vision of the apocalypse, leaving a lasting mark on this jagged piece of land. Centuries later, the fortified monastery devoted to the Apostle and the Cave of the Apocalypse still remains as enigmatic.
Sanctuaries, churches, convents… Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none are as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John, which tops the village of Chorá and its whitewashed walls. Founded in 1088, the monastery looks like a fortress, visible from miles around. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, has frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
The Cave of the Apocalypse is between Chorá and Skala. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist’s house – one can still see the place where he slept and the rock pulpit on which his disciple Prochorus wrote his dictation – and is now surrounded by a monastery as well as a theological school.
The last stop will be the three windmills nestling on Chorá hill, which will give you breathtaking views over the island and the sea as far as the eye can see.
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This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town; access to the monastery is on foot via paved streets. Over the entire excursion, you will have to go up and down around a hundred steps. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Ephesus, an ancient wonder
Listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, the incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges at the heart of its abundant natural environment. Here, temples, villas and streets paved in sparkling marble immerse you into the daily life of those who once lived in this ancient city.
Also known as the Turkish Pompeii, Ephesus is a veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean. Built in two parts due to the geography of the land, the city boasts an administrative quarter on its heights, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
Facing the harbour, the lower town is home to the religious and cultural buildings: the famous Celsus Library, the Roman villas, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Between the two, discover the dwellings of the notables, grouped along the slopes of Mount Pion and Mount Coressos, along with Hercules Gate, the ancient Scholastica Baths, the stunning Marble Road, and the Temple of Hadrian.
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This excursion involves 1.5 hours of walking over uneven ground with some stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Ephesus & Roman Villas
The incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges. During a guided visit, this ancient city, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, will reveal its temples and its sparkling streets of marble, as well as the terrace houses where lived the rich inhabitants of this place also known as the Turkish Pompeii.
A veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean, Ephesus is spread over two parts, the upper and the lower, to adapt to the relief of the neighbouring mountains.
On the heights, discover the administrative quarter, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon, all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
As for the lower city, it houses the religious and cultural buildings that stood facing the ancient port. There, you will discover the famous Celsus Library – which you will have the opportunity to visit –, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Next, head for the Terrace Houses, where recent excavations unearthed the houses of rich Ephesians. Built during the reign of Augustus, and located on the northern slope of Bülbüldag next to Curetes Street and opposite the Temple of Hadrian, these houses were constructed with a peristyle, a courtyard surrounded by Ionic columns, and they are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes.
Finally, after a short walk, you will arrive at the Great Theatre, where Saint Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to abandon the worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith.
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This excursion involves walking for approximately 2.5 hours on uneven ground with steps. The ground may be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
The city of the Knights Hospitaller
Discover the Medieval City of Rhodes during a guided walking tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable for its Gothic architecture, which coexists with mosques and public baths dating back to the Ottoman period.
Wander through the cobbled streets to the impressive Palace of the Grand Master, constructed in the 14th century, and admire the Greek and Turkish mosaics from the island of Kos. Following the palace visit, you will walk along the famous Street of the Knights of Rhodes, edged with old inns, each dedicated to one of the Order’s different “Tongues”. In fact, between 1309 and 1522, the Inns of Provence, Auvergne, France, Germany, Italy, England and Spain all shared power in the city, with each having its own establishment, recognisable by the coat of arms on the building’s façade. Following an old road, the straight line of this street with its austere buildings crosses through the maze of winding little streets that surrounds it.
You will now have some free time to have a drink and stroll around the streets and shops.
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This visit involves walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and bring sun cream.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
The Acropolis of Lindos
Overlooked by its acropolis and enjoying a charming setting, Lindos is one of Rhodes’ natural jewels and has great appeal thanks to its captivating natural environment and its ancient history.
The Acropolis of Lindos, which forms a rocky promontory that towers over the town, has been used since the 6th century BC as a citadel and place of worship successively by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, the Knights of St. John, and the Ottomans. It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Rhodes.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive amidst orange and lemon groves, prosperous vineyards, and fields of gnarled olive trees. You will discover Lindos through the rocky cliffs of the acropolis surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Spread out below you is the village of Lindos and its pretty whitewashed houses; the streets are paved with intricately patterned black and white pebbles collected from the sea.
As you begin your climb up the footpath to the summit, the first ruins you will see are the walls built by the crusaders in the early 14th century atop ancient fortifications. When you reach the top, you will pass through ramparts constructed by the Knights of St. John to defend against the Ottomans, then enter the acropolis complex. Here, making the most of stunning 360° views, you will discover the remains of the 4th-century Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and the imposing columns of the Hellenistic Stoa, as well as a Byzantine church and other ruins of the Knights' citadel.
Returning to the town, you will have some free time to browse the shops brimming with attractive souvenirs.
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This excursion involves up to two hours of walking. The approach to the acropolis is steep. You should be in good physical condition to participate and we recommend you protect yourself against the sun. We recommend you wear walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Le Dumont-d'Urville
Le Dumont-d’Urville belongs to a new generation of ships fitted with innovative equipment and designed to be environmentally friendly, and which come equipped with lounges that are largely open to the exterior, an outdoor swimming pool and a Blue Eye, an underwater lounge. Everything is in place for an extraordinary cruise experience. It's now possible to depart for adventure to the most remote places on the planet onboard a ship offering luxury services.
Decks
Excursions included
During your journey, enjoy an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Whether this is the visit of an emblematic museum or a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an activity in the heart of nature or a tasting of local products, or one of many other highlights, you will benefit from a careful selection of activities throughout your itinerary.
Pre-bookings will open around two months before the start of the cruise; requests will be processed on a first-come first-served basis, subject to availability.
Guest Speaker
Aboard your ship, an English-speaking lecturer will enlighten you about the culture and history of your destination to deepen your knowledge of the origins of local traditions, the history of emblematic sites, and stories involving famous personalities and those of major historical significance. During on-board lectures or on your shore visits, this expert will be there to share their precious knowledge with you throughout your PONANT cruise.
Shore excursions, Pre/Post & Overlands
The archaeological site of Delos
Delos is considered “the most sacred of all islands” in Ancient Greek culture; according to legend, it is the birthplace of Apollo-Sun and his twin sister Artemis-Moon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is both the oldest and largest open air archaeological site in Europe.
Emerging from a carpet of burned grass, the ruins - of many houses, temples and sacred sanctuaries - are spread across the foot of Mount Cynthus, the island’s only hill, which rises 113 metres (370 feet) high. At its summit stands the sanctuary of Zeus and Athena dating from the 3rd century BC while, on its slopes, you will glimpse a whole series of cultural buildings dedicated to various western divinities. Fixed by two thousand years of neglect, the city forms an impressive white stone maze in which to stroll around, like the pilgrims and merchants of the past, when Delos was significant across the Aegean Sea.
You will then reach the Apollonian sanctuary, known as the Temple of the Athenian, where you will be able to admire the different temples devoted to the gods, their altars, their votive offerings and other buildings. Next, discover the Terrace of the Lions and its famous white marble sculptures overlooking and protecting the city.
You will continue the visit with the Theatre Quarter, the most luxurious of the ancient city with the residences known as the “House of Dionysos”, “House of Cleopatra” and “House of the Dioscuri”. You can appreciate the mosaics decorating the floor of the houses from Hellenistic times, as well as the streets, workshops and shops, which made Delos a very lively city.
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This excursion is all on foot. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. The museum is currently closed for renovation.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
From Parikia to Naoussa
On Paros, the discreet neighbour of Mykonos and Santorini, the charm of the Cyclades can be seen in all its gentleness and timelessness. Between golden beaches and pine forests, discover the historic villages of Parikia, Naoussa and Lefkes, as well as the stunning Byzantine Panaghia Katapoliani basilica.
The Katapoliani church, also known as Ekatontapiliani church, was founded in the 4th century and is one of Greece’s most beautiful Paleo-Christian monuments. Located in the heart of Parikia, the basilica was nicknamed “the Church with the Hundred Doors” in the 7th century, as a nod to the splendour of the Temple of the Hundred Gates (Ekatonpylon) in ancient Thebes in Egypt.
A few kilometres from there, on the island’s heights, explore its former capital, Lefkes, with its labyrinth of little streets and whitewashed stairs overgrown with bougainvillea. You will discover the old wash houses, still used today by some inhabitants, the House of Literature, picturesque Ramnos street, its taverna and boutiques, as well as the superb views over the sea and Naxos in the background.
Then you will head for the north of the island and Naoussa, a fishing village, a perfect picture postcard of the Cyclades. The whitewashed houses here are decorated with blue doors and shutters, the octopus dry on washing lines while the small bars and tavernas have a trendy appearance. However, the real eye-catching site here is the Venetian castle, constructed in the 15th century by the Sommaripa family. Rising out of the sea, behind the port and its traditional boats, it has impressive views over the azure sea.
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This bus excursion involves some moderate walking on flat ground, with some steps up to the Panaghia Katapoliani basilica. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and sun protection. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered).
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Epidaurus & Mycenae
From the pier, board your coach for a 45-minute ride to Epidaurus.
Lying 30 km (18.6 miles) east of Nafplion, Epidaurus is known for its ancient theatre. Considered one of the most important sanctuaries in the ancient world, Epidaurus was dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius. The world-famous Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, built in the 4th century BC, is a marvel of harmony and acoustics and the best-preserved ancient theatre in Greece. Built in limestone, it can accommodate 12,000 spectators.
Next, re-board your coach for a ride to the archaeological site of Mycenae. The first in-depth excavations were carried out in 1876 by the German archaeologist Schliemann, who was obsessed with finding the grave of King Agamemnon. His diligent work exposed the famous Lion Gate, the entrance to the city which contains the shaft burial graves of some ancient nobles. A short distance away is the Beehive Tomb, so called due to its unusual shape.
Finally, you will board your coach for a 30-minute ride to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 2 hours of walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Ancient Corinth & Corinth canal
From the pier, board your coach for a 1.5-hour ride to the ancient town of Corinth where Saint Paul lived and preached for two years.
In ancient times, Corinth was among the richest cities, as evidenced by its remains including the huge Agora (market square) and the 6th century BC Temple of Apollo. The systematic excavations of the area, initiated by the American School of Classical Studies in 1896, continue today. They have brought to light the agora, temples, fountains, shops, porticoes, baths and various other monuments. The investigations also extended to the Acrocorinth’s fortress, the prehistoric settlements, the theatre, the Odeon, the Asklepion, the cemeteries, the Potters’ Quarter, and other buildings outside the main archaeological site.
Then, you will discover the famous Corinth Canal. The canal is 6.3 km (4 miles) long, 21 metres (70 feet) wide, and has sloping sides up to 52 metres (170 feet) high. It has a water depth of 8 metres (26 feet). Its construction commenced in 1881, although the idea of connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas to provide a shortcut appears to date as far back as Roman times. You will have the opportunity to take panoramic photos from the top.
Following your short stop to admire the canal, you will board your coach for one hour ride back to Nafplion.
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This tour involves approximately 1.5 hours of extensive walking over uneven surfaces with some steps which could be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Monemvasia, the medieval town
Monemvasia, often referred as the “Gibraltar of Greece”, is undoubtedly unique with its fortified medieval town built on a reddish-brown rock and surrounded by the blue sea.
Board your shuttle bus from the tender point and start your exploration by entering the one and only gate of the city (Monemvasia comes from Moni = sole and Emvasia = entrance). The old stone built mansions, the picturesque lanes and the numerous Byzantine churches create an environment of superb beauty.
Monemvasia is split in two: the lower town and the upper town. Walking on the main alley and admiring the wonderful architecture of the houses on your left and right, you will end up at the square of Elkomenos. The square is dominated by the church of Elkomenos on the left, a mosque converted into a museum on the right and an old Turkish cannon in the middle of it.
You will admire the highlights of the medieval town during your walking tour before returning back to the pier and your awaiting ship.
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This excursion involves extensive walking on flat, uneven ground, cobblestones and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility or in a wheelchair.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Phaestos Palace
From the pier, board your coach and drive across Crete and towards the Libyan Sea to Phaestos.
One of the most important centres of the Minoan civilization, Phaestos was the wealthiest and most powerful city in Southern Crete. It was inhabited from the Neolithic Age until the development of the Minoan palaces in the 15th century BC. Upon arrival, proceed to a visit of the Phaestos Palace, also known as the ‘Phaistos Palace’, and commence your guided walking tour.
The Phaestos Palace’s superb architectural design and near-perfect construction is one of the finest and most typical of all Minoan palaces. The ruins of the Old and New Palace are both preserved; the Old Palace is protected under a shed, with some remains dating back to Neolithic times. The New Palace consists of a central peristyle court flanked by storerooms and shrines on the west side, the royal quarters on the north and the workshops on the east. The ‘theatral area’ with the ‘processional ways’ is situated west of the storerooms, and the granaries of the Old Palace are located in the lower strata. The West Propylon, the palace’s monumental entrance, is the most impressive known structure of its kind. The artefacts from the palace are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Following your guided tour, depart the archaeological site of Phaestos for the drive back to the pier.
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This excursion involves approximately 2.4 km (1 ½ miles) of walking on uneven ground and several steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun. This tour is not recommended to guests with limited mobility.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Minoan Palace & archaeological museum
Crete’s fertile soil and towering peaks witnessed the development of one of the earliest recorded civilizations on earth: the Minoan.
Knossos is the most important of the Minoan palaces and the most famous Cretan site since its discovery in 1878. Occupied for 9,000 years before present and associated with the legend of the palace of King Minos, the site was the capital of Crete during the Minoan period. It was the court of the legendary King Minos, whose wife Pasiphae gave birth to the Minotaur, half-bull, half-man. The excavations on the site were begun in 1893 by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans and his team and lasted 35 years.
From the pier, you will board your coach for the 30-minute drive to Knossos.
During this tour, you will discover the Great Palace through the West Court, where one can easily understand why the legend of the labyrinth grew up here. It takes about one hour and a half to walk around the site and explore all the parts of the Palace. See the Royal Quarters’ Throne room with its antechamber and main throne, as well as the Queen’s Quarters, whose wall above the entrance door is decorated with a copy of the famous dolphin frescos. Your guide will also tell about the Minotaur legend.
You will continue your journey with a visit of the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion. The museum houses archaeological finds from all over Crete, covering over 5,500 years of the island's history. With its twenty halls, the museum presents the finds from the Minoan era, including the frescoes from the Royal Palace of Knossos.
After your visit of the museum, you will board your coach and join your ship after a 15-minute drive.
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This excursion involves 1,5 km (1 mile) of walking with some steps. We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes and protect yourself from the sun.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Patmos, island of the Revelation
The minuscule Greek island of Patmos, lost in the middle of the Dodecanese, has something mysterious about it. It was here, in the year 95, that John the Apostle, exiled on the island, had and recorded his vision of the apocalypse, leaving a lasting mark on this jagged piece of land. Centuries later, the fortified monastery devoted to the Apostle and the Cave of the Apocalypse still remains as enigmatic.
Sanctuaries, churches, convents… Patmos has no shortage of religious sites, but none are as eye-catching as the Monastery of Saint John, which tops the village of Chorá and its whitewashed walls. Founded in 1088, the monastery looks like a fortress, visible from miles around. The compound houses a remarkable collection of Byzantine manuscripts, icons, objects and liturgical works, while the Chapel of Theotokos, next to the monastery, has frescoes dating back to the 12th century.
The Cave of the Apocalypse is between Chorá and Skala. The final book of the New Testament was revealed to John the Apostle between its walls. The cave was the evangelist’s house – one can still see the place where he slept and the rock pulpit on which his disciple Prochorus wrote his dictation – and is now surrounded by a monastery as well as a theological school.
The last stop will be the three windmills nestling on Chorá hill, which will give you breathtaking views over the island and the sea as far as the eye can see.
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This excursion is not recommended for persons with difficulties walking. The coach will drop you off at the foot of the old town; access to the monastery is on foot via paved streets. Over the entire excursion, you will have to go up and down around a hundred steps. Appropriate dress is necessary to enter religious sites (shoulders and knees must be covered). Photos are not allowed in the chapel or the cave.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Ephesus, an ancient wonder
Listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, the incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges at the heart of its abundant natural environment. Here, temples, villas and streets paved in sparkling marble immerse you into the daily life of those who once lived in this ancient city.
Also known as the Turkish Pompeii, Ephesus is a veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean. Built in two parts due to the geography of the land, the city boasts an administrative quarter on its heights, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
Facing the harbour, the lower town is home to the religious and cultural buildings: the famous Celsus Library, the Roman villas, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Between the two, discover the dwellings of the notables, grouped along the slopes of Mount Pion and Mount Coressos, along with Hercules Gate, the ancient Scholastica Baths, the stunning Marble Road, and the Temple of Hadrian.
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This excursion involves 1.5 hours of walking over uneven ground with some stairs. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
Ephesus & Roman Villas
The incredible site of Ephesus holds a concentration of some of the most beautiful and most impressive Roman vestiges. During a guided visit, this ancient city, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO, will reveal its temples and its sparkling streets of marble, as well as the terrace houses where lived the rich inhabitants of this place also known as the Turkish Pompeii.
A veritable open-air museum whose excavation, begun in 1869, brought to light some of the richest Roman vestiges in the Mediterranean, Ephesus is spread over two parts, the upper and the lower, to adapt to the relief of the neighbouring mountains.
On the heights, discover the administrative quarter, with the very beautiful ruins of the city hall, the civil basilica and the Odeon, all lined up on the north side of the Agora.
As for the lower city, it houses the religious and cultural buildings that stood facing the ancient port. There, you will discover the famous Celsus Library – which you will have the opportunity to visit –, the Commercial Agora, the stadium, and the largest amphitheatre of the ancient world, able to hold some 24,000 spectators.
Next, head for the Terrace Houses, where recent excavations unearthed the houses of rich Ephesians. Built during the reign of Augustus, and located on the northern slope of Bülbüldag next to Curetes Street and opposite the Temple of Hadrian, these houses were constructed with a peristyle, a courtyard surrounded by Ionic columns, and they are finely decorated with mosaics and frescoes.
Finally, after a short walk, you will arrive at the Great Theatre, where Saint Paul preached to the Ephesians, imploring them to abandon the worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith.
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This excursion involves walking for approximately 2.5 hours on uneven ground with steps. The ground may be slippery. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and sun protection.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
The city of the Knights Hospitaller
Discover the Medieval City of Rhodes during a guided walking tour. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is remarkable for its Gothic architecture, which coexists with mosques and public baths dating back to the Ottoman period.
Wander through the cobbled streets to the impressive Palace of the Grand Master, constructed in the 14th century, and admire the Greek and Turkish mosaics from the island of Kos. Following the palace visit, you will walk along the famous Street of the Knights of Rhodes, edged with old inns, each dedicated to one of the Order’s different “Tongues”. In fact, between 1309 and 1522, the Inns of Provence, Auvergne, France, Germany, Italy, England and Spain all shared power in the city, with each having its own establishment, recognisable by the coat of arms on the building’s façade. Following an old road, the straight line of this street with its austere buildings crosses through the maze of winding little streets that surrounds it.
You will now have some free time to have a drink and stroll around the streets and shops.
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This visit involves walking on cobblestone streets. We recommend you wear comfortable shoes and bring sun cream.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.
The Acropolis of Lindos
Overlooked by its acropolis and enjoying a charming setting, Lindos is one of Rhodes’ natural jewels and has great appeal thanks to its captivating natural environment and its ancient history.
The Acropolis of Lindos, which forms a rocky promontory that towers over the town, has been used since the 6th century BC as a citadel and place of worship successively by the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, the Knights of St. John, and the Ottomans. It is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Rhodes.
Your excursion begins with a scenic drive amidst orange and lemon groves, prosperous vineyards, and fields of gnarled olive trees. You will discover Lindos through the rocky cliffs of the acropolis surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Spread out below you is the village of Lindos and its pretty whitewashed houses; the streets are paved with intricately patterned black and white pebbles collected from the sea.
As you begin your climb up the footpath to the summit, the first ruins you will see are the walls built by the crusaders in the early 14th century atop ancient fortifications. When you reach the top, you will pass through ramparts constructed by the Knights of St. John to defend against the Ottomans, then enter the acropolis complex. Here, making the most of stunning 360° views, you will discover the remains of the 4th-century Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and the imposing columns of the Hellenistic Stoa, as well as a Byzantine church and other ruins of the Knights' citadel.
Returning to the town, you will have some free time to browse the shops brimming with attractive souvenirs.
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This excursion involves up to two hours of walking. The approach to the acropolis is steep. You should be in good physical condition to participate and we recommend you protect yourself against the sun. We recommend you wear walking shoes.
Included
Subject to availability, rate per passenger.Opening of pre-reservations are happening around 2 months before departure and up to 7 days before the start of the cruise, subject to availability. You can pre-booked them with you travel advisor or by calling your cruise advisor.