Island Hopping the Greek Isles: A Must-Do On Your Cruise

With 227 breathtaking islands, Greece is incredible. Our Greek Isle cruises whisk you to small villages and iconic cities. Stand in the same place as the world’s greatest philosophers and poets, share mezes with friendly locals, or watch the sun sink into the jewel-blue Aegean Sea.  

Athens, the Gateway to Greek Isles 

Athens is the gateway to the Greek Isles and a departure and arrival port for some of our Greek Cruises. A balmy climate and world-renowned beaches are just some of the things that make Athens special. There are also ancient wonders, modern museums, and a vibrant nightlife, where late-night dinners and dancing until dawn are routine.  

Must-do in Athens: Tour the Acropolis, which looms 230 ft. above the city and holds the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon, and the Propylaea.

Santorini, Wine Island

Santorini, or Thira, is well-known for its maze of white-washed houses and blue-domed churches perched on the cliffs of a caldera. Santorini is a group of islands formed by volcanic eruptions. Tangerine sunsets and white-, black-, and red-sand beaches make it one of the world’s most beautiful places.  

Must-do on Santorini: Explore Oia, one of Santorini’s most popular towns and visit a local taverna for a cooking class.  

Mykonos, Island of the Winds  

A taste of Mykonos never feels like enough. When it’s time to cruise to the next Greek island, you’ll want to stay. Once a haven for wealthy starlets, Mykonos is now known for its pulsating nightlife, seaside tavernas and iconic windmills.  

Meander the maze of narrow streets. Sample mostra, a flavorful, bruschetta-like dish and ouza, an anise liquor only made in Greece.  

Must-do on Mykonos: Explore Little Venice, a neighborhood where restaurants and houses float on the water.  

Rhodes, Island of the Sun 

Rhodes is a favorite of Greek Island cruises. It has an independent spirit, a good climate and natural beauty, from the mountains down to one of the world’s most breathtaking beaches, St. Paul’s Bay. Lindos, a beautiful fishing village, offers a peaceful day of wandering.  

You’ll find the Church of Panagia at its center, which is worth a peek inside. The interior is stunning with frescoes and a mosaic floor.  

Must-do on Rhodes: Ride a donkey to the Acropolis of Lindos, which hosts the remains of several ancient civilizations.  

Katakolon (Olympia) 

With a small population size, Katakolon is a friendly place with a long history. It may be tiny, but it’s the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Expect a welcome as warm as the sunshine when you arrive at its white-sand shores. Katakolon is known for traditional culinary practices, so take time for a traditional meal or a food tour.  

Must-do in Katakolon: Gaze at the ruins of ancient Olympia and then learn about Greek cuisine at a fourth-generation family farm.  

Gythion (Sparta), Land of the Gods 

On the eastern shore of the Mani Peninsula, lush hills covered in olive trees and sparkling seas make Gythion, the entryway to Sparta, a joy to discover. Sparta was one of the most important cities of ancient Greece. Walk amid ancient ruins — Artemis Orthia and Apollo Karneios. Marvel at a Roman theater. The Mani holds some of Greece’s most beautiful—and strangest—natural scenery.  

Must-do in Gythion: Stroll along Mavrovouni Beach, popular for wind surfing.   

Learn more about our Greek Isle cruises or contact one of our Personal Cruise Consultants to begin planning your next adventure.

Article by Amanda Halm