Seabourn Cruise Line
7-Day Turkey & Greek Isle Gems
| Day 1 |
Istanbul is a city built on layers of empire. Spanning two continents, it was once the capital of three major empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman. Visitors walking through the Sultanahmet district can witness this timeline firsthand, from the Roman-era Hippodrome to the Byzantine mosaics of Hagia Sophia, and the towering minarets of the Blue Mosque. At nearby Topkapi Palace, rooms still display the jeweled swords, ceremonial robes, and handwritten Qurans once used by Ottoman sultans. Culture in Istanbul reveals itself in daily rituals. Locals sip strong black tea served in tulip-shaped glasses, play backgammon on street corners, and greet each other with a rhythm that’s both fast-paced and welcoming. The city’s neighborhoods each have distinct characters: Balat is full of brightly painted houses and Greek Orthodox churches; Karaköy blends old warehouses with contemporary galleries; and Kadıköy on the Asian side offers bookshops, open-air markets, and ferry terminals that have been operating for more than a century. Water is never far away in Istanbul. The Bosphorus Strait splits the city between Europe and Asia, and ferry rides between the two sides are part of everyday life. Some of the best views come from these crossings, especially at sunset when the silhouettes of domes and minarets line the horizon. The Princes’ Islands, accessible by boat, offer a quiet escap where no cars are allowed and visitors travel by bike or horse-drawn carriage. Büyükada, the largest island, features Ottoman-era mansions, pine forests, and hilltop monasteries. |
| Day 2 |
The city of Canakkale lies at the narrow, 1,200 meter entrance to the Canakkale Strait that connects the Sea of Marmara and the Aegean. To honor the 500,000 soldiers who lost their lives at Gelibolu (Gallipoli), the peninsula was made into Gelibou Historical National Park.
Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 6:00 PM
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| Day 3 |
The third largest city in Turkey, a cosmopolitan and lively city all year round, during the International Arts Festival (June/July) and the international Fair (August/September), Izmir bursts with an added vibrancy.
The original city was established in the third millennium B.C. and at that time shared, with Troy, the most advanced culture in Western Anatolia. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 6:00 PM
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| Day 4 |
Patmos, a gem in the Aegean Sea, is steeped in history and spirituality, offering a serene escape for travelers seeking both tranquility and rich cultural experiences. Known as the "Island of the Apocalypse," Patmos is famously where Saint John the Theologian wrote the Book of Revelation. Visitors can explore the sacred Cave of the Apocalypse, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the saint is said to have received his visions. The Monastery of Saint John, perched high above Chora, the island’s capital, is another must-visit, with its stunning Byzantine architecture and fascinating museum housing rare manuscripts and religious relics. Beyond its spiritual allure, Patmos boasts a picturesque landscape that captivates all who visit. The island's coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches, such as the secluded Psili Ammos, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters. For those who enjoy scenic walks, the cobbled streets of Chora offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea, with charming whitewashed houses and vibrant bougainvillaea adding to the island’s timeless beauty. Whether you're exploring ancient churches or simply soaking up the sun on a quiet beach, Patmos invites you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Cultural enthusiasts will find Patmos alive with traditions, particularly during the island’s religious festivals, which offer a glimpse into the local way of life. The Feast of the Assumption in August is especially notable, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the island’s deep-rooted Orthodox Christian customs. Alongside these spiritual festivities, Patmos also offers a range of dining experiences, from fresh seafood at seaside tavernas to gourmet meals in Chora’s atmospheric restaurants. Patmos invites you to "Experience Serenity, Embrace History," offering a unique blend of sacred heritage, natural beauty, and authentic Greek culture. Whether you're a history buff, a spiritual seeker, or simply in search of a peaceful retreat, Patmos is a destination that promises to leave a lasting impression. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
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| Day 5 |
Antiquity is everywhere on the island of Rhodes, from its cobbled Old Town to a mighty acropolis presiding high over the town of Lindos. Ancient ruins recall Crusades-era occupation and Ottoman tyranny, but today, a rather magical Aegean lifestyle is predominant. Travelers will enjoy excellent food, picturesque beaches, buzzing nightlife, and snorkeling in clear waters. Some must-sees here include the Palace of the Grandmaster of the Knights of Rhodes (a medieval castle), the Colossus of Rhodes statue, and the nature reserve Valley of the Butterflies. Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 11:00 PM
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| Day 6 |
Enjoy this day at sea as you travel to your next port of call. This is an opportunity to swim, catch some sun on deck or take advantage of the many activities that are onboard your ship. Eat heartily, take a nap and get ready for the next port of call ! This is what makes cruising so great. |
| Day 7 |
Arrive Time: 8:00 AM – Depart Time: 5:00 PM
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| Day 8 |
Ancient history comes alive in Athens, the capital of Greece. Gaze in wonder at the Acropolis and its iconic crown, the Parthenon. Take a deeper dive into the past and visit both the Acropolis Museum and the National Archaeological Museum, which house fascinating artifacts from this ancient city.
With influences Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman, Athens contains multitudes. The city's architecture and cuisine reflect these influences in a most elegant way. It's not all antiquity, though – Athens still exhibits a modern cool, with eye-catching street art, nightlife and music festivals beckoning new generations. A lively energy is afoot at the Agora-Athens Central Market, where locals shop, and visitors find amazing, reasonably priced meals. A stroll through the Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, is also a must for shopping and eating at outdoor restaurants. Visit Athens between March and May, and from September to November, as the weather is comfortable and there are thinner crowds. You will also find that hotels and flights are a bit easier to reserve. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
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06/28/26 - 07/05/26 |
Starting At $6,399 |
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