Day 1 - Piraeus

Piraeus, Greece: It's no wonder that all roads lead to the fascinating and somewhat chaotic metropolis of Athens. Gazing upon the Parthenon, its honey-coloured marble columns towering over the city, offers a glimpse into architectural perfection unsurpassed for 2,500 years. Yet this shrine of classical form now stands amid a vibrant, modern boomtown. To truly experience Athens, one must delve into its juxtaposition of ancient monuments and modern city life, witnessing local humour and flexibility to navigate the lively chaos. From the Acropolis, you can explore a myriad of historical landmarks, pausing to relax in charming cafes or browse eclectic shops. Each neighbourhood offers its unique character, from the Ottoman-influenced Monastiraki bazaar to the elegant avenues of Kolonaki. Just beyond Athens' southern edges lies Piraeus, a bustling port city with thriving fish tavernas and stunning Saronic Gulf views.

Day 2 - Mykonos

Mykonos, Greece: Though small fishing boats still depart in fair weather, today, Mykonos thrives largely from tourism. The influence of Jackie O in the 1960s transformed this once impoverished island into a vibrant haven for visitors. Mykonos town, or Hora as locals call it, remains the Greek islands' equivalent of Saint-Tropez, with its memorable whitewashed streets and iconic windmills. Its narrow lanes are preserved as an epitome of classic Cycladic architecture, brought alive by contrasts of pink oleander and dazzling white structures. Some remnants of its pirate legacy remain, now evolved into a bustling but legitimate trade. Mykonos offers an energetic nightlife, where shimmer and shops thrive past midnight, drawing people ready to dive into the heart of Mykonos' vibrant scene.

Day 3 - Pátmos

Pátmos, Greece: Often challenging to reach, Patmos retains its allure as an unspoiled retreat. Its rocky, barren landscape lies northwest of Kos, marked by the renowned Monastery of the Apocalypse, where St. John received the Revelation. Patmos is graced with vestiges of ancient civilizations, and most residents dwell in the traditional villages of Skala, Chora, and Kambos. The island is cherished for its authentic charm, attracting pilgrims and an artistic international crowd, lured by its untainted beauty and sophisticated yet rustic lifestyle. Despite growing popularity, the island remains carefully preserved, maintaining its character and natural allure even in bustling August.

Day 4 - Chíos

Chíos, Greece: Chíos, steeped in history and authenticity, provides a blend of medieval villages and verdant mastic groves. Traditionally known for its fragrant mastic resin, the island offers captivating landscapes and historic sites. Visitors can explore the Nea Moni, a UNESCO-listed monastery, savouring glimpses of bygone eras and island serenity.

Day 5 - Dikili

Dikili, Turkey: Set against windswept coastal expanses, Dikili is a charming Turkish town known for its thermal springs and azure seas. Although quiet and understated, its picturesque beaches and quaint backstreets radiate warmth and a welcoming spirit, inviting travellers to unwind and relish Turkey's leisurely coastal lifestyle.

Day 6 - Bozcaada

Bozcaada, Turkey: Bozcaada exudes a unique blend of Turkish and Greek cultures, reflected in its vine-clad hills and whitewashed architecture. This small island, known for exquisite wines and fresh seafood, offers tranquillity and charm. Visitors can wander through cobblestoned streets and explore secluded coves, savouring the island's rich heritage and serene beauty.

Day 8 - Istanbul

Istanbul, Turkey: Istanbul uniquely straddles two continents, blending Eastern and Western influences in a city teeming with vibrancy and life. While its Old City boasts monumental architecture from Byzantine and Ottoman legacies, modern districts thrive with contemporary arts, lively nightlife, and warm hospitality. Visitors can traverse between ancient and modern worlds, experiencing why Istanbul endures as a fascinating meeting point of cultures.