Europe Cruises: Excursions

Your sightseeing drive through rolling hills, high mountains, plains, valleys, and riverbeds is just part of the gorgeous landscape that make you think of paradise. Costa Rica’s topography is one of the world’s most diverse. You’ll start by heading east to Esparza, a town that has become one of the most picturesque in the Costa Rica’s Central Pacific region. The central park and its church are emblematic of Costa Rica’s hardworking rural towns. Local dancers will greet you at the park with colorful dresses and you’ll enjoy the masquerades and hand-made souvenir exhibitions while you learn about their traditions. Your scenic drive includes some stretches along the Pacific Ocean passing by mango and cashew plantations, farming areas and most certainly seeing some birds along the way, all examples of sustainable living. Take the opportunity to capture unique pictures for back home, while traveling down to sea level, admiring the most breathtaking views. Note: Wear comfortable shoes; bring sunscreen, a hat and light clothing. less

Leaving the pier, you’ll drive to Trogir which is situated on a small island and squeezed in between the mainland and the larger island of Ciovo. Except for the green parks the entire island is occupied by spectacular constructions of stone-houses, palaces, churches, monasteries, towers, walls etc. You’ll visit the main attraction in Trogir - the Cathedral of St. Lawrence which is probably the finest example of Sacral architecture in Croatia. The unusual construction with three naves and three semi circular apses dominates the whole town. The main portal is world-famous and was carved by the local artist Radovan in the 13th century. Other fine buildings that will be viewed are the Town Loggia, the Town Hall and the Cipiko Palace. The entire town is like an open-air museum so just strolling through narrow streets will be an unforgettable experience. Continue on to acquaint yourself with a typical Dalmatian village, its inhabitants and traditions. You’ll drive inland to the Primosten area to the small picturesque village of Burni. On the way you’ll pass interesting landscapes and see the impressive transformations of this rocky terrain into an oasis of fertile, hospitable living. After visiting village homes (some of which are several hundred years old) enjoy a refreshing rest in the shade of surrounding trees, while your hosts in national costume serve local specialties and homemade wine. You’ll be entertained with local songs and music to complete your enjoyment of this genuinely unique tour. Note: During summer months expect extreme heat, crowded venues and long lines. We recommend that you dress in layers, wear comfortable shoes, a hat, sunglasses and bring bottled water. Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.65 mile over various surfaces with 30-45 steps. Space is limited but a minimum is required to operate. Time permitting; guests will have approximately 40 minutes for shopping and browsing. Tour order may vary. less

Enjoy a wonderful drive along the scenic coastal road which affords a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf, passing through some of Athens' most beautiful suburbs of Glyfada, Kavouri, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, and Lagonissi. Arrive at Cape Sounion where you’ll visit the 5th century B.C. Temple of Poseidon, standing some 200 feet above the sea at the edge of a cliff. It is one of the most breathtaking and deeply moving sights in all of Greece. This is the place where the ancient Greeks worshipped their mighty god of the seas, Poseidon. The 15 (of the original 34) columns of the Doric Order that are still standing belong to the temple built here during the Golden Age of Perikles' Athens, over the relics of an older one. The architect is unknown, but it is believed to be the same who built the Theseion in Athens. Following your visit, refreshments will be served at one of the most luxurious resort hotels in Vouliagmeni. Note: There is approximately 1/4 mile of walking on sloping and uneven ground on this tour. less

Board your local boat (caique) from the old port of Santorini for a 15-minute trip up to Nea Kameni. En route, admire the volcanic shores with the peculiar shape formations of the black volcanic rocks and the white pumice. After disembarking, a steep and fast-paced 30-minute (3/4-mile) hike on rocky and gravel terrain takes you to the crater of the still active volcano. During your walk up an ascending path, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the lava fragments and the volcanic rock formations. Once you’ve reached the crater you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the view of Santorini Island and the amazing cliffs of the caldera. Then you start your descent back to the boat. Finally you’ll sail towards the thermal springs of Palea Kameni, with its green sulfur warm waters and temperatures that reach 37° C (98° F). Here you’ll have the opportunity to jump off the boat and swim to the springs (weather permitting). Note: The volcano’s hiking area is a very steep lava field with loose rock and uneven terrain. There is no shade; we recommend that you wear appropriate sun protection and footwear. If you wish to swim, please bring your swimsuit, a towel and a change of clothes. The changing facilities on the boat are limited. You must be a strong swimmer as the waters are deep and the current is strong. There are no lifeguards on the boat or the island. The sulfur water may stain your clothes. The sea water is cold; however the springs are very warm. Tour participation is limited. Temperatures can reach extreme highs during summer months; we recommend that you drink a lot of water and use suitable sun protection. This tour ends at the tender pier and you have a choice of returning to your ship or purchasing a cable car ticket to get to Fira town. less

Visit the archaeological site of Olympia and spend time in the village of Olympia. The site was a sanctuary even before the stadium was built and the games took place in 776 B.C. Today, only parts of the temple remain at the museum and only ruins remain at the site. The Temple of Zeus no longer exists and its traces have disappeared through the ages. The Temple of Hera, Prytaneion, and Philippeion were monuments standing in the sacred grove. The famous stadium, with a capacity of 45,000 spectators, is entered through a long, tunnel-like passage. Stand at the starting line and imagine the voices of thousands of spectators seating on the stone bleachers. Afterwards you'll go to the village of Olympia, where you'll enjoy free time to browse through the various souvenir shops and stores or perhaps have a drink while relaxing at a local cafe. less