One of the most visited Greek islands; Mykonos is a jewel in the Aegean Sea, famed as a vibrant and cosmopolitan destination. It is one of the most visited islands in the Aegean, yet still retains much of its picture postcard beauty. Mykonos effortlessly strikes a balance for visitors with a mix of lively bars and restaurants in the most populous areas, with nearby areas of tranquillity, outstanding natural beauty and rich history. The Town of Mykonos is a hive of activity with some of the most famous landmarks such as Little Venice, famous for its picturesque medieval two and three storey houses which stand like a colourful wall against the sea. Mykonos is also world famous for its beaches. Kalafati Beach is a prime example with golden white sand lapped gently by a crystal clear sea.

The Acropolis – ‘High City’ – will always be the top attraction from Athens cruise port Piraeus.

With its 2,500-year-old Parthenon, temple to Poseidon and Athena, Odeon of Herodes Atticus and Theatre of Dionysus, it quite literally stands out as an oasis of calm in the frenetic Greek capital. As part of the major revamp the city had for the 2004 Olympics, 400 modern buildings were cleared from the ancient meeting place next to the Acropolis, the Agora, which was then restored and linked by walkways to the Acropolis, Hadrians Arch, the Academy of Plato and the Monastery of Daphne. Other nearby ancient sites include the Roman Tower of the Winds and the Hill of the Muses where Socrates is said to have drunk hemlock. Below the Acropolis is the fun place to shop or barter, eat moussaka or Greek salad, drink wine or ouzo and, of course, to people-watch: the 3,000-year-old Plaka.

When you arrive by sea, there is no confusing the island of Santorini. Dazzling white houses cling to the edge of vertical, rocky cliffs against azure blue waters. The most southern of the Cyclades islands, it is surrounded by Thirasia and Aspronisi, which were once part of a large volcanic island. Considered by many to be the site of the “Lost City of Atlantis”, this magical little island glimmers from the fading sun as many watch its decent from the numerous bars and cafes at the water’s edge.