Istanbul – Athens · 7–14 July 2027

Kavala is an important port and trading city on the Gulf of Kavala. Its picturesque outline stretches over several hills and along the shores of several inlets. Tremendous views of the sea can be had from the promenade or any other street in the city for that matter. An imposing Roman aqueduct with 60 arches spans the gap between a nearby hill and the old town. The impressive, partly walled historic center on the peninsula is a unique mix of Byzantine and ancient Greek culture. The ancient site of Philippi, the first Christian community in Europe founded by Paul the Apostle in 49 AD, boasts imposing ruins of Roman and early Christian buildings bearing testament to its former splendour.

Skiathos is just a few miles from the Greek mainland and is the smallest inhabited island in the northern Sporades. Olives and wine are grown in the mountainous, interior, part of which is forested and boasts lush vegetation. Towards the coast, rich pastures and colorful wildflower meadows give way to the beach and the sea. Skiathos has the most spectacular beaches in the Sporades. Boasting a sheltered location in the south west, Koukounaries beach is 800 m long and is considered to be the finest of the more than 50 beaches on the island with its beautiful fine white sand. The lively capital in the south-east of the island is also named Skiathos and spans two harbors divided by the Bourtzi peninsula.

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.

At 300 meters above the deep blue sea, the monks are very close to heaven. The white monastery of Panagia Hozovitissa almost seems to grow out of the steep cliffs, so high and narrow is it. Its eight floors are connected by a labyrinth of corridors, and every now and then you catch a breath-taking view of the vastness of the Aegean Sea through a rock window. The magical cliff-top monastery is the best-known highlight of Amorgos, but beyond this architectural marvel, the charm of the Cycladic Island also enchants – with remote little mountain villages, old stone windmills and the scent of wild oregano.

Discover Kythnos – an untouched gem of the Cyclades, known for its golden beaches, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. Away from the crowds, this island offers authentic Greek charm, traditional architecture, and a rich history. Whether you're seeking peace and quiet or adventure, Kythnos has it all – enjoy scenic hikes, relaxing days on secluded coves, and unforgettable sunsets.

"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.