If your travel tastes run from culture and the classics to beaches and bustling markets, an Eastern Mediterranean cruise provides the picture-perfect itinerary. Most cruises cast off from Athens, Istanbul and Venice and then take off to exotic ports of call in the Greek Isles, Croatia, Turkey, Egypt and Italy. Many of the stops are steeped in history and, at the same time, offer the fun of sun-soaked beaches, lively cafes and exuberant nightlife. Some cruises incorporate popular ports in the Western Mediterranean, including Rome, as well as such distinctive destinations as Lebanon, Syria and Libya.
Athens is a hotbed of history and culture. Most tours take in the Acropolis — Athen's most important site and home to the Parthenon and Temple of Athena Nike. Other landmarks are the National Archaeological Museum, the city's best showcase of Greek antiquities; the tranquil National Gardens and the bustling Agora Market, where vendors hawk everything from fresh fish and produce to olives and feta cheese. Food is a celebration here, where Greek restaurants offer up hearty servings of crisp-fried calamari, creamy mousaka, grilled lamb and shish kebab, and fresh fish galore.
Many ships pull into tiny seaport of Katakolon to take in nearby Olympia, birthplace of the Olympics in 776 B.C. Here you can explore the ruins of gymnasiums, temples, changing rooms and an outdoor stadium. Another option is an excursion through scenic countryside to Mercouri's Vineyards & Winery, where you can sample locally produced wines and tour the 1930s-era facility.
The GREEK ISLES stir passion and imagination with their sun-bleached stone cities juxtaposed against impossibly blue skies and seas. Beautiful beaches, quaint towns and friendly shops abound here. Among the most interesting — and beautiful — islands are Santorini, Rhodes, Mykonos, Corfu, Samos and Patmos.
Stunning Santorini is known for fabulous landscapes that take in the world's largest submerged volcano, white-painted villages and unsurpassed sunsets. Main attractions include the ancient Minoan Settlement and nearby Red Beach, the island's most famous stretch of sand.
Officially the "sunniest place" in Europe, Rhodes' main claim to fame — aside from its astounding beauty — is a fascinating medieval city, called "Old Town" — replete with palaces, rambling passageways and stately squares. Looking to do a little shopping? Bargain with the vendors at the Turkish Bazaar at Soukratos, where you'll find wonderful rugs, pottery and jewelry.
Arguably the most famous of the Greek Isles, sunny Mykonos is a popular resort destination known for its maze of whitewashed dwellings that hug the hillsides surrounding its harbor. Top attractions here include picturesque Little Venice, the architecturally prominent Paraportiana church and the 16th century windmills that still stand along the west side of town.
An abundance of evergreen olive trees keeps Corfu one of Greece's greenest islands. You'll find quiet coves and beaches, friendly villages and tavernas that beckon you to eat, drink and relax. For photos, head to the Achillion Palace and surrounding gardens or scenic hills and bays at Paleokastritsa.
White sand beaches and internationally renowned wines are among the attributes of Samos, rich in natural beauty and historical importance. Visit the capital city of Vathy, where you'll find the Archeological Museum and busy Pythagoras Square, and the fascinating ruins of Heraion, the reputed "birthplace" of the goddess Hera.
Considered the "Jerusalem of the Aegean," Patmos was home to St. John as he wrote the Revelation of the Apocalypse, the New Testament's last book. The island is know for its spiritual aura, rugged beauty and striking white houses. The towering fortress and Monastery of St. John overlooks the island port of Skala.
Another classic cruise destination is the Eastern Mediterranean port of Istanbul, Turkey. The city's treasures — most found within the triangular peninsula of "Old Istanbul" — include Topkapi Palace, which housed sultans and harems until the mid-19th century, and Haghia Sophia church, whose Sacred Column is said to "weep" water used to produce miracles. Byzantine arches and domes adorn the Basilica Cistern, filled with 336 columns that rise 26 feet in the air. Don't miss the sprawling Grand Bazaar with its 4,000 vendors covering 60-plus streets.
Likened to Venice without the canals, Croatia's Dubrovnik is classified as a world heritage treasure by UNESCO. The walled, medieval city is great for touring by foot with stops at the Pile Gate at the city's entrance (climb the stairs just inside for a workout and fantastic views), 14th-century Franciscan and Dominican monasteries and Europe's second-oldest Sephardic synagogue. Dubrovnik is also known for its lazy cafes, golden beaches and the nearby medieval town of Catvat, popular for swimming and shopping.
The 100 islands of Venice offer endless variety and adventure. Traverse some of the 150 canals by gondola or stroll the cobbled streets, crossing over arching bridges along the way. World-famous cafes line the Piazza San Marco (check out the view from the Bell Tower). Venice is rich in churches and cathedrals, fine art and fine food. Travel to Murano to tour the glass factory or, a bit more off the beaten path, Guidecca, an island popular with local residents.
