Voyager, 11 Nights Ottoman Empire Journey ex Athens (Piraeus) to Istanbul

Seven Seas Voyager® harbors overtones of elegance, from the refined Penthouse Suites to the modern touches of the Voyager Lounge.

Santorini, Greece
With dramatic views of classic whitewashed houses clinging perilously to the side of the caldera and stunning beaches of white and red sand or black pebbles, it’s no wonder this may be the most photographed scenery in the world. Visit Ancient Akrotiri, the archeological site of a town frozen in time by ash from an eruption 3,600 years ago. Also worth a day trip is the Volcano of Santorini Palea (old) Kameni and Nea (new) Kameni , two small islands of black lava positioned in the centre of the basin of Santorini.

Rhodes, Greece
Renowned as the site of the former Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, Rhodes was home to the Knights of St. John from the 12th to 16th centuries. Their famous Palace of the Grand Masters remains a “must-see,” as are many of the inns occupied by the Crusaders and the replica of the old church. For a more in-depth look at the city, visitors can take in the Archeological where the Acropolis of Rhodes and the ancient stadium offer perfect photo opportunities.

Alanya, Turkey
Alanya rose to prominence during the Middle Ages under the Seljuks, a tribe from central Asia that built the fortress and protective wall that still dominate the city. Several other buildings from that time also remain, including the octagonal Red Tower and the Seljuk Shipyard. Thousands of archaeological pieces in the Alanya Museum attest to the city's importance through the ages. But history only touches on Alanya's considerable allure. The city sits on a lovely gulf, backed by the pine-forested Taurus Mountains on Turkey's beautiful Mediterranean coast.

Limassol, Cyprus
Limassol is the jumping off point to explore the ancient riches of Cyprus.View ruins, vast groves of lemons, oranges and olives, majestic mountains and scenery, and stunning beaches. Visit Lemesos Castle, where Richard-the-Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre, and its fascinating museum. Or stroll through ancient Curium and admire its stunning mosaics, theater, basilica and panoramic views over the sea. Venture inland to Nicosia and its wonders, the Cathedral of St. John, the Venetian fortifications, a restored old town and mosque and the Museum. Take home some lovely lace, copper items, jewelry and pottery. Enjoy a selection of appetizers so extensive it can be a hearty meal as well as fresh seafood accompanied by a delicious glass of wine.

Kos, Greece
The island of Kos is rich in monuments and stunning scenery. You will find that the preferred way to get around the island is by bicycle and the preferred pastime is to bask on any of its beautiful beaches. Among the marquis attractions is the archaeological site of Asklepeion, thought to be the world’s first hospital built in honor of Hippocrates, the famed Greek physician. Toast to Kos by sampling the local wine at one of the many award-winning wineries or take a boat to Nisyros, famously known as the Island of the Volcano.

Aghios Nikolaos (Crete), Greece
Crete’s eastern corner is home to the resort of Agios Nikolaos, a port that leads the way to the island’s most significant ancient ruins. The ancient Minoans lived on Crete as far back as 2500 BC in a society that was by far the most advanced at the time. The ruins of the Minoan palaces at Knossos date from 1700 to 1500 BC and reveal remarkable achievements.

Bodrum, Turkey
Located in the southwestern corner of Anatolia, Bodrum is a seacoast town in which sleek yachts are anchored in twin bays beneath the walls of a medieval Crusaders’ castle. The town owes its fame to a man long dead (Mausolus) and his famous “Mausoleum,” one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Bodrum’s other claim to fame comes from Herodotus, the “Father of History,” and the first person to write a comprehensive world history of the West.

Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey
Europe’s classical metropolis, Ephesus, was one of the largest cities in all of the Roman Empire, boasting one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. Explore the ruins of its massive Theater, the Temple of Hadrian and the magnificent Celsus Library.

Pergamum (Dikili), Turkey
Ancient history meets modern cable cars in Pergamum, one of Turkey’s most important archaeological destinations. Standing on a hilltop far above modern Pergamum, you’ll have spectacular views as you tour the Acropolis, a magnificent collection of monuments including an altar likely dedicated to Zeus and Athena and a hillside theater that once accommodated 10,000. After a day spent time traveling, stop in a local restaurant for kofte – spicy meatballs – and eggplant sautéed in olive oil. You might also head south to Izmir to shop for textiles, rugs and jewelry at Kemeralti Market, or stay closer to port and enjoy the golden beaches of Dikili.

Istanbul, Turkey
Once serving as the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, Istanbul today offers impressive architecture, historic sites, dining, shopping, nightlife and exotic atmosphere. Spend time in the Old City to explore renowned places, like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.