Greek Isles: Santorini, Rhodes & Mykonos

One of the greatest cities in human history, known for its legend, mystique and iconic history. Alexandria was founded by Alexander the Great and has stories to tell about everyone from Cleopatra to Napoleon. The Pyramids of Giza, River Nile, Sphinx and the mega city of Cairo – Port Said and Alexandria are your portals to some of Egypt’s must-sees.

The second largest city in Cyprus, Limassol has a distinctly cosmopolitan feel, but visit the 12th century fort where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria - which now houses a fascinating medieval museum - and you'll discover a wealth of history. Unveil the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Pafos, and the legend of Aphrodite's Rock. Explore the traditional buzukias, Limassol's delightful taverns with entertaining live music, or acquaint your tastebuds with the popular local dish, moussaka.

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.

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.

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.

Gateway to one of Europe’s largest open-air archaeological museums; find ancient treasures in Kusadasi. Founded by the ancient Greeks, the City of Ephesus served as one of the key centers for Christianity and, due to its strategic location, was a significant trade center of the ancient world. It remains one of the most well-preserved sights in history and is a truly memorable highlight for visitors to Turkey. Kusadasi is a city full of immaculate beaches, lively nights and shopping heaven – a fun seaside city. A huge covered bazaar stretches out from the port and the buzz from trendy seaside bars and restaurants floats through the air. Lose track of time ambling from café to café and exploring its myriad of shops and historic sites.

Layers of history, tradition merging with modernity, and awe-inspiring architecture – Istanbul is like no other city in the world. Split between two continents, Europe and Asia, Istanbul is truly unique. It boasts lavish Byzantine and imperial mosques with sky-high minarets that make up the city's skyline; your first sight from the Bosphorus Strait on your Istanbul cruise. There's an endless list of must-see sights to tick off, all conveniently packed into the Sultanahmet district.