Explora Journeys Greek islands: 20 nights from Il Pireo with Explora II
Nov 9, 2026

Bodrum

Begin your captivating cruise adventure from Bodrum, Turkey, a city where ancient history meets modern charm on the Aegean coast. From its iconic castle to its vibrant marina, Bodrum offers a stunning backdrop for your departure. Explore historical ruins and enjoy the lively atmosphere before embarking on a journey to discover sun-drenched islands and historical sites of the Aegean and Mediterranean.

Marmaris

Limassol

Limassol is the second largest city on the island of Cyprus after the capital, Nicosia. It has a population of around 200,000, and is located on the south coast of the country, in Akrotiri Bay. Its geographical position and its cultural heritage attract many tourists and foreigners every year. It is one of the most important commercial ports in the Mediterranean. Here you will find a wide range of activities and a large number of museums and archaeological sites.

Limassol is one of the most important cities in this country, its economy, as well as tourism, is closely linked to its commercial port, one of the most notable in European Mediterranean. Very important location from an economic and cultural point of view.
The country grew between the cities of Amathus and Kourion, two cities of maximum importance in the Byzantine era. Its geographical position has also been the cause of various conflicts and maritime invasions by Greeks, Egyptians, Ottomans and English, imprinting the city.
In less than 3 decades, they transformed the country into a particularly tourist place. With British influence, starting from the 1970s, they began to develop tourist infrastructures. Beaches, hotels, bars and restaurants are what makes Limassol a top tourist destination in Cyprus, a city whose tourism boom came after the Turkish invasion, as in the countries of Kyrenia or Famagusta, one of the main locations characteristics of the island. In addition to the aspect of tourism, the territory is also known for being an important producer of wines. The city center is renowned for its great cultural tradition.
The port is divided into two areas: the old and the new. The new part is intended for ferries and the transport of passengers and containers, while the old one is aimed at commercial areas, such as bars, restaurants and import and export of wines.
The most important events are various, in particular the carnival and the Wine Festival. The first is celebrated in February or March and lasts about 10 days, where costumes and fun are the order of the day, the second takes place in the month of September, recommended for those who love to taste local wines.
We must not forget some of the most significant municipalities in the area such as: Polemidhia, Agios Athanasios, Geitona or Mesa.

Antalya

Start your unforgettable cruise adventure from Antalya, the jewel of the Turkish Riviera. This vibrant city, with its stunning coastline and ancient ruins, provides a spectacular setting for your departure. Imagine sailing away from golden beaches and historical wonders into the azure waters of the Mediterranean, promising a journey filled with sun, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

Antalya is the largest city on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey. Genuine Turkish Riviera, welcomes millions of visitors every year. This jewel has a myriad of natural and historical finds, many of which date back to the Hellenistic period. Its climate is Mediterranean with mild and very humid winters and dry and very hot summers. Antalya is a dream destination and a breathtaking landscape, with steep cliffs, clean sea, beautiful beaches, adorned by lush vegetation and mysterious caves. The international airport, served by many foreign airlines, has been decisive for the development of tourism. The metropolis is one of the largest cities in southern Turkey. Just over 800,000 inhabitants for an area of ​​141,700 hectares. The history of Antalya began to exist in 150 BC. When King Attalus II, King of Pergamon, founded the city. Romans and Byzantines occupied the city before it fell under Ottoman rule, leaving many traces of their passage found through the numerous ancient ruins. The most fascinating sites to visit are: the best preserved theater of Aspendos, the Termessos site, with a wonderful fauna and the waterfall on the Duden river. Other very interesting monuments to see are: the Yivli mosque, symbol of Antalya, the old city with its alleys, its tower and Hadrian's Roman gate built for the celebration that took place in 130. The city offers activities such as exploring Koprulu Canyon, the ancient ruins of Perge, Hierapolis, Pamukkaleballade, the flea market and Karaalioglu Park. To have a splendid view of the city, go up to the Tünektepe hill, you will appreciate the places you will find nearby. In Antalya, the food offered in restaurants is usually spicy and inexpensive. You will find most of the restaurants based on seafood and fish. The traditional drink is raki, similar to Greek ouzo.

Heraklion

Heraklion is the capital of Cray. It is the largest port and economic center of the island and the third largest city in Greece. This city hosts the archbishop of the Greek Orthodox Church and has religious buildings of great interest.

Heraklion is located in the center of the northern coast of the Greek Islands. With more than 100,00 inhabitants, the city is the capital of Crete, a Venetian fortress during the Middle Ages. The ancient city, with its squares and wide cobbled streets, balconies with wonderful view on the sea, mantains numerous fortifications. In particular there are important and magnificent monuments such as the Church of Agia Ekaterini, dated back to 1555, where the Museum of Sacred Art is hosted. The Archaeological Museum, home to ceramic sculptures, jewellery and frescoes on the Minoan culture. The Historical Museum, home to the only exhibited work of the painter Domenico Theotokopoulos (The Greek), and where you can have a view of Mount Sinai. The Cathedral of St Mena, the patron saint of the city, built between 1862 and 1895 is one of the largest buildings in the area.

Heraklion has an important port and a considerable center for the coastal trade of oil, soap, wine and hides. It has ferry boats and ships with regular itineraries to the islands of Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, Rhodes, Karpathos and Syros. There are also several daily ferry bgoats to Piraeus, south-west of Athens. The Venetian fortress, still in perfect condition, protects the entrance to the port.

The large combination of reality and mythology, tradition and modernity, make Herklion a cosmopolitan center and one of the most important tourist destination in the Mediterranean. Great beaches, lively nightlife, sunny people, excellent cuisine and the strange "interplay" between the old and the new, guarantees to tourists an unforgettable holiday.

Heraklion is located in the center of the northern coast of the Greek island. With more than 100,000 inhabitants, the locality is the capital and largest city of Crete, a Venetian stronghold during the Middle Ages.
The ancient city, between squares and wide cobbled streets, balconies overlooking the sea, preserves numerous fortifications. Particular importance and beauty are its magnificent monuments such as: the church of Agia Ekaterini, dating back to 1555, is where the museum of Sacred Art is housed. The Archaeological Museum, home to ceramic sculptures, jewelry, and frescoes on Minoan culture. The Historical Museum, home to the only work on display by the painter Domenico Theotokopoulos (El Greco), and where it is possible to have a view of Mount Sinai. The Cathedral of Saint Mena, patron saint of the city, built between 1862 and 1895, is one of the largest buildings in the area.
Heraklion has an important port and a considerable center for the coastal trade of oil, soap, wine, and hides. It has ferries and boats with regular routes to the islands of Santorini, Ios, Paros, Mykonos, Rhodes, Karpathos, and Syros. There are also several daily ferries to Piraeus, southwest of Athens. The Venetian fortress, still in perfect condition, protects the entrance to the port.
The great combination of reality and mythology, tradition and modernity, make Heraklion a cosmopolitan center and one of the most important tourist destinations in the Mediterranean. Large beaches, intense nightlife, sunny people, excellent cuisine, and the strange "game" between the old and the new, assures tourists an unforgettable vacation.

Milo

Nafplion

Il Pireo

Embark on a legendary cruise from Piraeus, the historic port of Athens, Greece. This bustling gateway to the Aegean Sea offers immediate access to the ancient wonders of the Acropolis, Parthenon, and countless archaeological sites. Immerse yourself in the cradle of Western civilization before setting sail on a journey to the sun-drenched Greek Islands and beyond, promising a voyage rich in history, culture, and breathtaking beauty.

Mykonos

Mykonos is an extremely fun and fascinating place, where the frenetic mix of vacationers, fashionistas and celebrities is magically subdued to the cubist charm of the old town.

Mykonos is famous for being a cosmopolitan destination among the Greek islands and widely recognized as one of the meccas of great tourism. It is one of the most touristy islands in the Aegean Sea. Mykonos tends to be extremely crowded with visitors in July and August. The best time to visit Mykonos is mid-May through June (early in the season, accommodation is much cheaper and it's not that hot), or from September to mid-October.

Rhodes

Embark on a captivating cruise from Rhodes, Greece, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, steeped in ancient history and medieval charm. From its impressive Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to its beautiful beaches, Rhodes offers a magical departure point for exploring the Aegean Sea. Immerse yourself in its legendary past before setting sail on a journey filled with sun-drenched islands, historical treasures, and serene sea days.

Rhodes is the 3rd largest island in Greece. Its geographical location and beauty have long been a target for many empires. Considered one of the most important centers of ancient Greece, this locality was frequented by wealthy Romans. In the Middle Ages, the city came under the dominion of the Knights of Malta and was later occupied by the Ottomans. Thus, Rhodes is known both for the variety of landscapes and the richness of its historical architecture. The old city, thanks to its imposing fortifications, makes it one of the largest inhabited medieval cities in Europe. The metropolis is divided into three areas. The modern and cosmopolitan city, with its hotels and buildings. The ancient one, built in 408 BC, later restored and where the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, Athena, and Apollo, the stadium, the gymnasium, and the theater are located. Finally, the one characterized by medieval Gothic architecture, built during the Ottoman period. Not to mention the Grand Masters Palace, home to ancient mosaics and a collection of Western-style furniture. Rhodes is the sunniest in Europe, with 300 days of sunshine a year. You will find both modern comfort and vintage style. You can also appreciate the warm hospitality of its people and the traditions that are still alive. After visiting the city, you will notice its beautiful beaches, some of which are equipped for water sports.

Istanbul

An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).

The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Istanbul

An incredible city, huge, vibrant like few others in the world. Where two continents meet, culture and diversity thrive in a unique architectural setting. Istanbul is hot,and we aren’t talking about the weather. These days there are more restaurants,bars,galleries and clubs around the city than Ottoman mosques(which is not a small feat).

The international fashion and design press has talked about Istanbul to the point of exhaustion; the sense of age that fell over the city once the Ottoman empire disappeared, has been replaced by a sense of energy and innovation not seen since the times of Suleiman the Magnificent.

Volos

Volos is a town located in the center of mainland Greece, about 326 km north of Athens and 215 km south of Thessaloniki, the second most important city. Built at the deepest point of the Pagasean Gulf and at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos is a large port city that enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate with rather humid summers and mild winters.

Built at the deepest point of the Gulf of Pagaseo and at the foot of Mount Pelion, Volos is located on the Pelion peninsula in central Greece.
The etymology of the name " Volos ", according to a historical version, is the result of the distortion of the name of the Mycenaean city of Iolkos, where Jason set off with his Argonauts and his ship Argo in search of the Golden Fleece.
Volos is one of the oldest port cities in Greece. Capital of the province of Magnesia, the city belongs to the central region of Thessaly, its only outlet to the sea. It is located on the inner part of the mouth of the Gulf of Pagaseo, at the foot of the mythical Mount Pelion, the legendary country of the centaurs, as mythology tells.
Volos represents the ideal base to discover not only the picturesque mountain villages but also the Sporades islands of Skiathos, Skopelos, and Alonissos, connected by ferries. The city owes its current economic boom and its development to maritime trade, to the industries established in the area, and to the increase in tourism.
Volos is a relatively new city, it began to develop in the mid-19th century in the place where a small Turkish village previously resided. After its annexation to Greece from the Ottoman Empire, in 1881, it grew very rapidly in the following 40 years. In the 1920s there was a large influx of refugees. Merchants, entrepreneurs, artisans, and sailors went to live in Volos and the surrounding areas.
The development of the city has been closely linked to the creation of industrial areas, the restructuring of the port and the increase in tourism thanks to its geographical position, near Mount Pelion, and the fabulous beaches of Magnesia, especially those located in the Sporades.
The city is also known for its variety of " mezedes ", mixed appetizer dishes based on fish or seafood, served with a traditional alcoholic beverage called "Tsipouro".

Thessaloniki

Set sail on a captivating cruise from Thessaloniki, Greece, the vibrant co-capital and a city rich in Byzantine and Roman history. This bustling port offers a dynamic departure point for exploring the historical treasures of Northern Greece and the enchanting islands of the Aegean. Immerse yourself in its archaeological sites and lively culinary scene before embarking on a journey filled with cultural insights and serene sea days.

Il Pireo

Embark on a legendary cruise from Piraeus, the historic port of Athens, Greece. This bustling gateway to the Aegean Sea offers immediate access to the ancient wonders of the Acropolis, Parthenon, and countless archaeological sites. Immerse yourself in the cradle of Western civilization before setting sail on a journey to the sun-drenched Greek Islands and beyond, promising a voyage rich in history, culture, and breathtaking beauty.