Heraklion (Crete)
As soon as you step out of the port, keep an eye out for the colorful line painted on the ground. Follow it for about 30 minutes and you’ll end up right in the heart of the city – no map or guide needed. A perfect stroll to settle in.
The old town is full of little alleys, cafés, and the fortress by the water, which you absolutely have to see. Not only is it super photogenic, but it also packs a lot of history.
Feeling adventurous? I got a piercing here on a whim, and many of the crew swear by a small local studio in town for tattoos and piercings – professional, quick, and reasonably priced.
Tip: If you want a little adventure outside the city, grab a taxi to the Palace of Knossos. It’s the largest archaeological site of the Minoan civilization – a total time-travel experience. Entry is around €15 and well worth it if you love history.
old fortress
At Heraklion’s harbor, the old fortress stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history. Its sturdy walls and commanding position offer a glimpse into Crete’s past and a great spot to take in the sea views.
Mykonos
You’ll usually take a tender boat to shore here. Mykonos town is pure postcard perfection – whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and those iconic blue shutters. Walking around is just a joy.
Don’t miss the famous windmills – perfect for photos and to just relax while soaking up the views. There are cafés and little boutiques everywhere, so take your time.
Streets
Mykonos is full of charming narrow streets painted in white and blue. Wandering through these picturesque alleys feels like stepping into a postcard.
windmills
The iconic windmills of Mykonos are just a 10–15 minute walk from the harbor, offering a classic view of the island’s charm and history.
Istanbul
Istanbul is buzzing with life and history. A day ticket for the tram is your best friend if you want to see a lot without stress.
Start at the Grand Bazaar – colorful, huge, and full of treats like baklava. Quick tip: have it wrapped so you can take it back to the ship without a mess.
Next, hit the Blue Mosque – absolutely stunning. Make sure to dress appropriately (scarf for women, long pants for men). The architecture and those intricate blue tiles will blow you away.
There’s a ton to see in Istanbul, of course, but with the tram, you can zip around and get a good taste of the city even in just one day.
Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture, with its elegant domes and striking blue tiles. Its peaceful interior and beautiful courtyard make it a must-visit landmark in the city.
Piraeus (Athens)
Option 1: Explore Piraeus itself – small shops, cafés, and an authentic Greek harbor vibe. Perfect if you just want to stroll, shop, and soak in the atmosphere.
Option 2: Want to see Athens? Right at the port, there’s a hop-on-hop-off bus that’ll take you to the Acropolis in about 40 minutes. The line for tickets is usually long, but don’t worry – even without entry, you can walk around the Acropolis grounds and soak in the incredible view over Athens.
Acropolis
The Acropolis in Athens rises majestically above the city, home to ancient temples like the Parthenon. Visiting it offers a breathtaking glimpse into Greece’s rich history and classical architecture.
Souda (Chania, Crete)
From Souda port, getting to Chania is super easy and cheap. There’s a shuttle bus running regularly from the cruise terminal straight into town for just a few euros. Takes about 15–20 minutes – way better than paying for a taxi or booking a pricey excursion.
Chania itself is gorgeous: a Venetian harbor, colorful narrow streets, cozy tavernas, and small boutiques. The markets are a must – fresh fruit, spices, and local treats everywhere.
Nearby, you’ll find several beaches that are just a short walk or bus ride away – perfect for a few hours of sun and sea. If you prefer green spaces, check out the city park – shady paths, a little café, and even freshwater turtles!
And of course, don’t leave without trying a fresh pita – with gyros, souvlaki, or vegetarian fillings, they’re all delicious.
Chania’s Old Town
Chania’s Old Town charms with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and Venetian harbor. It’s perfect for wandering, discovering cozy cafés, and soaking in the city’s historic atmosphere.
