Mediterranean Greece & Turkey Cruise

Your adventure begins as you depart on your overnight transatlantic flight.

If you purchased airline tickets from YMT, a representative will meet you at the airport and transport you to the hotel. This evening, you’ll meet your fellow travelers and learn about the exciting days ahead over a welcome dinner (included). (D)

This morning, you will take a tour of Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents! Highlights include a visit to the Underground Cistern, which was built during the reign of Emperor Constantine in the fourth century, and Hagia Sophia, the famous mosque which was built as the Christian cathedral of Constantinople. Centuries later, it was converted into a mosque and is now one of the most visited museums in the world. In the afternoon, you are free to explore on your own, or consider joining our optional tour to experience an authentic dinner and belly dancing show. (B)

After a morning at leisure, your private coach will transfer you to the port, and you’ll board the Norwegian Getaway to begin your cruise. Get settled into your cabin ahead of an evening departure. (B)

Ephesus, now known as Kusadasi, was an important city to the Ancient Greeks. It was built, destroyed, and rebuilt again. You can visit the Roman Library of Celsus, the Gate of Augustus, and the Tomb of John the Apostle, as well as the Basilica of St. John. (B, L, D)

Today, you’ll visit the idyllic Greek island of Mykonos. Stroll around the cobblestone alleys of Hora, visit ancient churches and take in views of the iconic windmills against the backdrop of the bluest sky and sea. Soak up the sun at one (or more) of the island’s stunning beaches.

Discover the sunny beaches and ancient treasures of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. The city has a rich past, and you can learn more about it as you visit its Venetian Harbor and Knossos Palace, believed to be the heart of the Minoan civilization and home to the mythical Minotaur, a half-human half-bull monster. Stroll along the Venetian walls of the old city, and sample the region’s famed cuisine. (B, L, D)

Experience the wonders of the Mediterranean port city of Alexandria, Egypt, founded in 331 BC by Alexander the Great. Enjoy the Greco-Roman landmarks, old-world cafes and sandy beaches, or visit the Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th century fortress which is now a museum. (B, L, D)

Spend another day exploring Alexandria. Visit the Sidi Morsi mosque, an important Sufi site and the largest mosque in the city. Stroll the Corniche or the waterfront promenade at sunset for splendid views and a taste of local everyday life in this ancient city. The market just behind the seafront is home to some of the best restaurants serving hearty Egyptian fare. (B, L, D)

Limassol is home to many archaeological sites, as well as contemporary boutiques. Don’t miss the centuries-old Limassol Castle, home to the Cyprus Medieval Museum’s collection of pottery and tombstones. (B, L, D)

The remarkable walled city of this Greek island just off the coast of Turkey is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Discover the old fortified city on your own. (B, L, D)

Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Athens. You’ll see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Hadrian’s Arch, as well as the Parliament, the monument of the Unknown Soldier, and Constitution Square. You’ll then discover the most famous site in Athens; the Acropolis. At the top, see the stunning 2,500 year old Parthenon Temple which was built to honor the goddess Athena. Finally, you will visit the new Acropolis Museum. The afternoon is free for you to explore on your own. (B)

The day is yours to spend at leisure in the exciting city of Athens, or you could also consider joining an optional tour. Choose from either our half day tour of Plaka Food Market, or a full-day excursion to Delphi, one of the most interesting sites to take a deeper dive into Greek culture and history! Tonight’s farewell dinner is included. (B, D)