Greek Isles: Santorini, Rhodes & Istanbul

The thick Byzantine walls guarding Thessaloniki give way to an inviting mix of architectural landscapes with winding cobbled streets. Approaching the port, you will be captivated by a city that radiates culture and sophistication bathed in golden Greek sunshine. Palm-lined avenues house glamorous shops and gourmet restaurants. Beautiful churches appear from every corner, seasonal markets sell colourful local produce and shaded spots on Aristotelous Square are where you can sit back with a homemade ice cream and watch the world go by.

A real vision of Greek island beauty, Mykonos is a sight to behold, with the cobalt blue Aegean waters that wash around its border onto gold sand beaches. Inland, white sugar-cube houses and red roofed churches add to the picturesque appeal. Meander through the jumble of tiny streets, where bougainvillea, clematis and geraniums cascade from balconies. No wonder it was such a favourite of Aristotle.

When you arrive by sea, there is no confusing the island of Santorini. Few islands have the power to captivate the way Santorini does. Gorgeous and cosmopolitan, it’s famous for that classic Greek island look with white painted houses clustered along narrow winding lanes, perched atop reddish-black volcanic cliffs that tumble down more than a thousand feet to the wide caldera. It’s easy to see how this island, the pearl of the Cycladic archipelago, can lay claim to being the source of the legend of Atlantis, either. Santorini, or “Thera” in Greek, is most celebrated for the dramatic views of its volcanic caldera, formed during a massive eruption around 1646 B.C. That eruption shook up the island - making its centre actually collapse - but also created some of the most spectacular scenery in the world.

Today Bodrum is a picturesque yacht harbour filled with traditional wood-varnished sailboats, charming outdoor cafes and streets bursting with small shops selling carpets, leatherwear, jewellery and local artwork. In antiquity, it was the site of ancient Halicarnassus.

Expect a warm welcome to Rhodes, with its magnificent scenery and flawless beaches, that legend has it was once blessed by Apollo with sunshine and beauty. With a rich medieval history there is plenty to explore at Rhodes, from the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, to the Grand Master's Palace is famed for its superb mosaic floors.

Wander among the squares and fountains here in the island's capital and largest city, or gaze out over the azure blue waters of the Cretan Sea, as you enjoy fresh seafood in a local taverna on the promenade. Most likely, you'll seek out the immense reconstructed Minoan palace at Knossos. The incredible complex houses a warren of rooms decorated with columns and frescoes.

Row upon row of ferries, fishing boats and luxury yachts that stretch out as far as the eye can see – Piraeus welcomes you to the ancient city of Athens.