Greece, Malta & Turkey

Formerly a sleepy Spanish city, Barcelona has recently been reborn as an eclectic fusion of the modern and medieval. Seek inspiration from the creations of its modernist architect, Antonio Gaudí, or the Picasso Museum. Or, take in the breathtaking cathedrals in the Gothic Quarter.

In addition to a number of significant works of art, this town is known for the many fortifications built by the Knights of Malta, who for years helped care for European pilgrims and crusaders en reoute to and from the Holy Land.

Here on the island of Santorini, you’ll find a classic Greek seascape—whitewashed houses accented by sea-blue roofs. This is a treasure trove for both professional and amateur archeology buffs, with sites that include tombs that date back to the 9th century and the sanctuary of Apollo.

Nestled along the craggy shores of the Aegean Sea is the Turkish port of Kusadasi. Renowned as one of the most beautiful cities along the Aegean, Kusadasi is blessed with sunshine an average of 300 days a year. This beautiful city is the perfect setting to begin your journey to Ephesus.

Mykonos is known for its whitewashed villages sprinkled with blue and jade green. It’s also famous for its sophisticated nightlife. The most popular island in the Cyclades is bustling with activity, awash in beautiful alleyways, and home to alluring sandy beaches.

Your adventure in Athens begins five miles southwest in Greece’s largest seaport, known as Piraeus. While here, be sure to take notice of what is considered to be one of the greatest contributions from the ancient Age of Pericles, the city’s infrastructure, which today we know as a city block.