Showing posts with label Shore Excursions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shore Excursions. Show all posts

Sunday, June 14, 2015

Rhodes Shore Excursion: Private Valley of the Butterflies Day Trip


Leave your cruise ship behind at the Port of Rhodes and travel with a private guide to the island's Valley of Butterflies on a 4-hour shore excursion. Stroll around the butterfly farm's leafy walkways and streams and learn all about Rhodes' colorful and fluttering insects. Hear of the tiger moths that thrive in the Valley of Butterflies and, if time permits, pay a visit to the on-site Museum of Natural History. Entrance fees and food are at your own expense.

Wednesday, March 11, 2015

Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Scenic Tour of Santorini, including Oia and Mt Profitis Ilias Monastery


While you're in port in Santorini, discover the beauty of the island on a private shore excursion. Your private guide will lead you around the island on a scenic sightseeing tour, showing you rocky landscapes, vineyards and fabulous views of the beautiful coastline. Visit the highest peak of the island, Profitis Ilias, where a monastery of the same name sits. Discover the small village of Oia, built on a steep slope of the volcanic caldera, and wander around its little shops that offer traditional, handmade products. Then in Fira, the capital of Santorini, enjoy a short cable car ride to the pier.
When you arrive in the Santorini port, meet your local guide for a private shore excursion around the island. Your tour starts as you board a small boat and head toward Fira port, where your private guide will be waiting.

Athens Shore Excursion: Acropolis Walking Tour


The moment your cruise ship arrives in port in Athens (Piraeus), your shore excursion to the Acropolis begins. Discover Athens' ancient history on this fascinating city walking tour with a local guide. Venture inside the Acropolis, see the Parthenon and admire how this ancient monument towers above the city. As you soak up the local scene, you'll also see such sites as the House of Parliament and the Zeus Temple.

Monday, March 9, 2015

Athens Shore Excursion: Athens Hop-on Hop-off Tour


No matter what cruise ship you arrive on, this is the perfect do-it-yourself shore excursion in Athens. Experience the essential things to do in Athens aboard a hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour. You'll see all the historical and modern sights of Athens in a comfortable and secure environment, with full commentary provided. Stop at all the major attractions dating from both ancient times and the present day, including the Acropolis, Parthenon, New Acropolis Museum, National Archeological Museum and the Plaka!

Wednesday, May 14, 2014

Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Caldera, Traditional Winery and Oia Village Tour

See the highlights of Santorini on an 5 hours shore excursion, and explore the island from its half-submerged volcanic caldera to the summit of its highest mountain! With a private guide at your side, learn about Santorini's volcanic history while visiting the caldera and Perissa, a black-sand beach. Then, travel through the mountains to a monastery and sample local produce made by the resident monks. Try wine at a volcanic vineyard and winery, and then round off your day with free time in picturesque Oia village before returning to port.

Meet your private guide at Santorini Port and travel to the island's caldera for your first stop of the day. A spectacular geological formation, the caldera is the volcanic remains of the original island that collapsed beneath the sea after a volcanic explosion thousands of years ago.

Stand at the edge of the caldera to pose for pictures against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea, and then continue by minibus to check out another of the island's volcanic features: a dramatic-looking black-sand beach. Stroll down Perissa - the longest beach on the island - and make the most of some free time to sunbathe on the warm shores and enjoy a bite to eat for lunch, if you wish.

Meet back up with your guide at the prearranged time and travel to the peak of Profitis Ilias, Santorini's highest mountain that stands some 2,000 feet (600 meters) above sea level. Gaze out at the island vistas surrounding you, and then follow your guide inside the ornate Greek Christian monastery perched at the mountain's summit. Walk around the chapel, listening to the monks chanting, and savor samples of the dessert wine, honey and extra virgin olive oil that's made on-site.

After learning about winemaking in the mountains, head down into the hills to visit a typical Santorini winery and volcanic vineyard where the local assyrtiko and vinsanto varietals are produced. Sample up to four glasses of the island's distinctive light and acidic whites while learning how wine is produced in such a dry and unforgiving island environment.

From the hills, continue to Santorini's poster-child village of Oia, the iconic whitewashed village that's graced many a postcard. Take a stroll around the streets with your guide to get your bearings and learn about the village history, and then enjoy some free time to sightsee and shop at leisure. After making the most of your free time, meet your guide, and then finish your day with a drop-off at the port.
Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to Santorni Port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of call.If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.


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Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour

Leave your cruise ship at Santorini Port, and sip your way around the island on a private morning or sunset wine tour! The 4-hour shore excursion includes visits to three of the island's traditional wineries where you can sample many varietals of local wine. Learn about the assyrtiko grape and hear about Santorini's island viticulture that produces some of the Mediterranean's beloved wine. Explore wine cellars, savor local specialties, and enjoy personalized attention from a private guide.

Travel from Santorini Port to three traditional wineries in Santorini. As you travel by air-conditioned minibus, chat with your private guide about the history of wine production on the island, and learn about the different varietals that you may try throughout the day. The wineries visited depend on the tour you choose; select your preferred option when booking. Both tours finish with a drop-off at the port.

Morning Tour:
Visit Boutari Winery, an estate considered as a winemaking institution in Santorini. Learn about its winemaking heritage, and visit the private cellars to see where its award-winning produce is left to ferment and mature. Continue to the tasting room to sample four glasses of wine, and enjoy a platter of local cheese, olives, tomatoes and bread, too. As you sip and savor, learn about the wine from the estate's own wine-expert guide.

Your second visit is to Gravalas Winery, a traditional Greek wine cellar that dates back to the mid-19th century. Explore the old cellars, seeing the huge vinsanto (dessert wine) barrels, and then visit the foot-stomping room where grapes are still crushed by foot! In the winery's quaint backyard, enjoy another wine tasting and sample up to four glasses of wine made with regional grapes such as assyrtiko and nykteri.

On your way to the coast, stop at the Yellow Donkey brewery (excluding Sundays) to break up your morning wine tour with an introduction to the island's beer! Sample ale, blonde and IPA beer, and learn about the characteristics of the malty brews from your guide. Then, head toward the sea for your final wine tasting - this time on the beach! The wine produced at Gaia Winery is matured on the sea floor, roughly 492 feet (150 meters) underwater.

Sunset Tour:
After visits to Boutari and Gravalas wineries, head straight to Santo Winery for a wine tasting with sunset views. Take a seat in the tasting area, and enjoy a glass of sparkling wine before finishing on a high note — with a glass of the winery's legendary vinsanto wine.

Worry-Free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to Santorini Port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

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Rhodes Shore Excursion: Rhodes City Tour

When your cruise docks at Rhodes, head out to explore the city on a 3.5-hour private tour! This must-do Rhodes shore excursion includes walking tours around Rhodes Old Town and Mandraki Esplanade. Hear stories of the city's history and the legacy left by the Knights Crusaders who led a succession of holy wars in the Middle Ages. See monuments such as the city gates of Porte d'Amboise, and explore the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes on a tour. Entrance fees are at your own expense.

Leave the Port of Rhodes by air-conditioned minivan, and travel from the island's main pier through the newer neighborhood of Rhodes city. Pass alongside Mandraki Esplanade to see government buildings and notable modern landmarks such as the Church of the Annunciation - built as recently as 1925 - and a replica of an old crusader monument: the Old Church of the Knights of St John.

Chat with your private guide as you travel, and ask as many questions as you like about the city, the island and the sights. Since your tour is private, the itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to the sights you want to see.

Swing past the deer statues of Mandraki Port, and continue up Monte Smith to gaze at the dramatic island vistas against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea. Stretch your legs on a stroll around the vantage point, soak up the views, and then travel back down the hill into Rhodes' UNESCO-listed Old Town.

Pass the city gates of Porte d'Amboise, and stop outside the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes for photos before heading inside, at your own expense, for a tour of the key rooms located on the second floor. Built in the 14th century, the palace was later destroyed in the 19th century then rebuilt in 1939 by the ruling Italians who wanted to accommodate King Emmanuel II and the dictator Mussolini.

After browsing the palace's impeccable rooms, head outside for a walk along the Street of the Knights and see the historical inns that were once occupied by the Crusaders. See Knight's Hospital, a well-preserved building that has been turned into an archeological museum, and then enjoy some free time to explore the Old Town independently.

At the prearranged time, meet back up with your guide and finish your tour with a drop-off at the port.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Port of Rhodes for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

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Rhodes Shore Excursion: Private Lindos and Rhodes Old Town Tour

After your cruise ship docks at the Port of Rhodes, enjoy a full-day shore excursion to the village of Lindos and Rhodes Old Town, led by a private guide. Explore Lindos Acropolis and the enchanting village on a walking tour, and then spend the afternoon visiting the Acropolis of Rhodes and Rhodes Old Town. Hear little-known facts about Rhodes' historical landmarks and admire must-see sights such as the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. All entrance fees are at your own expense.

Start your shore excursion with a pickup from the Port of Rhodes, and then travel along the island's east coast with your private guide. Gaze out of your minivan's window at some of Rhodes' most beautiful beaches, pass through sleepy island villages and then stop in Lindos, Rhodes' famous ancient village.

Lindos' pretty streets are fringed by the sugar cube houses found on many a Greek island, but it's the magnificent 4,000-year-old acropolis that gives the village its star appeal. Work your way up Lindos' gently winding cobblestone streets, and head inside the acropolis to explore with your guide (own expense). Have your camera ready to capture sights of the ruined Byzantine fortress and an Ancient Greek temple, and gaze down at the sweeping Bay of St Paul.

After discovering the delights of Lindos Acropolis, make your way back into the village to visit one of its picturesque churches. Then, leave Lindos and travel to the nearby village of Haraki for a leisurely Greek lunch at your own expense. Feeling refreshed, return to your minivan and travel along the coast to Rhodes Old Town.

Your next stop in the afternoon is at the Acropolis of Rhodes, one of the few acropoleis without fortifications. Stroll around the site's Hellenistic monuments, admiring the ruins of a stadium, the Temple of Apollo and more. Continue with a drive along the old city walls to Porte d'Amboise, and then stretch your legs on a walking tour around the Old Town.

Stroll down the Street of the Knights, admiring its medieval buildings with their impressive facades, and stop for photos by the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own — perhaps visiting the palace and its museum at your own expense — and then meet your guide to travel back to your ship. Your day trip finishes with a drop-off at the Port of Rhodes.

Worry-Free Shore Excursion:

We will ensure your timely return to the Port of Rhodes for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

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Rhodes Shore Excursion: Private Lindos Tour

Visit the ancient village of Lindos and its impressive 4,000-year-old acropolis on a 4-hour shore excursion from Rhodes! With an expert private guide at your side, travel along the island's east coast, and then explore Lindos Acropolis (entrance at your own expense) on a walking tour. Marvel at the sights of Byzantine ruins and an Ancient Greek temple set against the Bay of St Paul, and then visit the Church of the Ascension in Lindos village. The itinerary on this private shore excursion is flexible and can be tailored to your requirements.

Start your shore excursion with a pickup from the Port of Rhodes, and then travel by air-conditioned minivan along the island's east coast with your private guide. Pass through a collection of idyllic island villages, and then stop in Lindos, Rhodes' famous ancient village.

Lindos' pretty streets are fringed by the sugar cube houses found on many a Greek island, but it's the magnificent 4,000-year-old acropolis that gives the village its star appeal. Work your way up Lindos' gently winding cobblestone streets, and head inside the acropolis to explore with your guide. Have your camera ready to capture sights of the ruined Byzantine fortress and an Ancient Greek temple, and gaze down at the sweeping Bay of St Paul.

After discovering the delights of Lindos Acropolis (entrance own expense), make your way back into the village to visit the Byzantine Church of the Ascension. Admire its stately interiors and stained glass windows, and then enjoy some free time to explore the village independently.

Return to your minivan, and travel back along the breathtaking coastal roads. Your private tour then finishes with a drop-off at the Port of Rhodes.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Port of Rhodes for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

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Sunday, April 28, 2013

Katakolon Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Ancient Olympia and Archeological Site

When your cruise docks in the Katakolon port, take a private shore excursion to Olympia, where you'll discover its famous archeological site on a walking tour. Ancient Olympia is the sanctuary of ancient Greece, where the classical Olympic Games were held. See the remains of the original Olympic stadium, the Bouleuterion and the Temple of Zeus.

Enjoy free time in modern Olympia to shop or visit the Museum of the Olympic Games. As you explore with your private tour guide, you are sure to make the most of your time in port and have a memorable, personal experience.

While you're in port in Katakolon, discover the birthplace of the Olympic Games on a private shore excursion to Olympia. Relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle as you make your way east to the ancient site. It is here where the first Olympic Games were held in 776 BC in honor of Zeus; the games continued until approx. 394 AD when Emperor Theodosius I abolished them because he considered them reminiscent of paganism. Follow your local guide through the site, listening to interesting facts about the area.

At the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Archeological Site of Olympia, marvel at the Temple of Zeus, which once housed the gold and ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. This site was also the home of the original stadium and the Bouleuterion (the administration building). Today, you can see the Bouleuterion remains as an early Greek temple with a square horseshoe shape and tiered seating arrangements.

Then enjoy an hour of free time in modern Olympia to shop or relax at one of the numerous cafes. Wander around the town hall, designed by the renowned Greek architect Aris Konstantinides, or visit the small Museum of the Olympic Games.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Katakolon port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Katakolon Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Ancient Olympia, Archeological Site and Archeological Museum

When you arrive in the Katakolon port, discover part of ancient Greece on a private shore excursion to Olympia. Learn about the origins of the Olympic Games as you visit the site of the former Olympic complex with your private guide. Walk around the remains of the first-ever Olympic stadium, the gymnasium, the Temple of Zeus and other ancient landmarks at the World Heritage-listed Archeological Site of Olympia and the Archeological Museum of Olympia. Then see how today's locals live in modern Olympia as you enjoy free time to explore the city.

While your cruise ship sits in port in Katakolon, embark on a journey to ancient Greece on this private shore excursion to Olympia. Relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned private vehicle while your private tour guide shares interesting historical facts about the region.

In Olympia, walk around 2,000-year-old monuments and buildings, and imagine the splendor of ancient Olympia, described as 'the most beautiful place in Greece' by the Greek orator Lysias, who was famous for his speeches circa 400 BC.

With your private guide, visit the Archaeological Site of Olympia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where numerous exhibits are on display. Marvel at the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, which once housed the gold and ivory statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. See the remains of the first Olympic stadium, the gymnasium, the Palaestra and the Heraeon (also known as the Temple of Hera), the oldest temple in Olympia.

Discover the beginnings of the Olympic Games at the Archeological Museum before heading off to modern Olympia. Enjoy an hour of free time in the city to explore or get a snack before you return to the Katakolon port.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Katakolon port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you're unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.

Friday, January 11, 2013

Katakolon Shore Excursion: Private Tour to Kourouta Beach

While you are in port in Katakolon, spend part of your day on a private shore excursion to Kourouta Beach. Swim in the calm waters of the Ionian Sea, sunbathe or wander around the lively collection of cafes and bars that line beach.

This relaxing shore excursion allows you to enjoy your time at Kourouta Beach at your own pace.

When your ship arrives in the Katakolon port, hop in a private car and head out on a shore excursion to Kourouta Beach, where you can spend your time however you'd like. Kourouta Beach, popular with locals but not as much with foreign tourists, is located just 30 minutes from the Katakolon port in the southwest part of the Peloponnese peninsula.

The sandy beach has all you need to ensure you have a great day. Changing rooms are available for your convenience, and sunbeds and sunshades are available to rent (approx. 8 euros). You may sunbathe, go for a swim or walk along the shore. Explore the pedestrian path along the beach or grab a snack in one of the numerous bars - the choice is yours! A private local host will be with you to ensure you have a pleasant day at the beach and assist with anything you may require.

Kourouta beach has been awarded with the Blue Flag, a voluntary Eco-label given to clean beaches that are also safe and with an environment protection program in place.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Katakolon port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Athens Shore Excursion: Private Acropolis Walking Tour

Just when your cruise ship has docked in port of Athens you will be ready for your private shore excursion. Discover Athens' Ancient history on this fascinating private walking tour with your local guide. Venture inside the ancient Acropolis and admire just how this ancient monument towers above the city below. You'll also see such sites as the House of Parliament and the Plaka as you soak up the local scene.

Syntagma Metro station, where your private tour begins contains many archaeological exhibits including ancient grave stones, an aqueduct from the 5th century BC, pottery, a 2,000-year old beehive and a mosaic from the 5th century AD.

You will then see the House of the Greek Parliament, former Palace. Walking through the Syntagma Square, the heart of the city, you come either to Sotira of Lycodimos or the Kottakis Church both beautiful Byzantine churches which you are going to visit.

Continue strolling through the Plaka's paved streets before arriving at the Lysicrates Monument from the 4th century BC and the remnants of an old Christian Church. A ten-minute walk up the beautiful Dionysiou Areopagitou pedestrian walkway will bring you to the Acropolis, crowned by the Parthenon, with its spectacular views over the city below.

You will enjoy a profound and detailed explanation of the history of its monuments by your private knowledgeable licensed guides. On the way to the Acropolis you will also see the Dionysious Sanctuary, the Philopapos Hill, the Herodion Theatre and the Mars Hill.

Your guided visit will finish at the Acropolis. Then, you will have free time until you get picked up by the driver.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:We will ensure your timely return to the Athens port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.

Athens Shore Excursion: Small-Group Food Tour

During your time in port in Athens, wander through its historic streets while indulging in traditional Greek cuisine. This food walking tour allows you to savor a wide variety of local delicacies, ranging from the mouthwatering, syrupy 'loukoumades' to traditional 'bougatsa,' 'pastourma,' rusks and olives.

You'll also discover Greek herbs and spices at the Varvakeios food market. Numbers are limited to 12 people on this small-group shore excursion, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your guide.

Embark on a culinary journey of taste, color, smell and texture, right below the striking Acropolis in the heart of Athens' historic city center. This food tour offers an array of colorful and enticing treats. Visit delicatessens, aromatic bakeries and sweet shops, restaurants, dairies, spice merchants, grocery stores and pie shops where you will sample traditional Greek food, including the ever-popular koulouri, a circular bread with sesame seeds.

Your licensed guide will lead you on a food stroll and introduce you to small, hidden specialty food shops. Listen to commentary about the unique and intricate culinary heritage of Greece, as well as the famous Mediterranean diet, hailed today as a model of healthy living.

A genuine Athenian food tour would not be complete without a visit to the vibrant and central Varvakeios food market. Its bustling energy and colorful world of fruit and spice stalls and meat and fish vendors truly make for a cultural experience.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Athens port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Mykonos Shore Excursion: Private Old Town Walking Tour

While you`re in port in Mykonos, head out on a private shore excursion to enjoy the best of the island, from traditional houses to historical wonders.

Explore the narrow streets of Mykonos' old town and Little Venice with your private tour guide, who will ensure that you receive personalized attention.

See interesting exhibits about Mykonos' past at the Folklore Museum, and enjoy free time to shop or get a bite to eat before heading back to the port.

When your cruise docks in the Mykonos port, explore the city on a private shore excursion and visit some of Mykonos' beautiful landmarks. Your private guide will be waiting to lead you to your own vehicle, in which you can relax before your walking tour begins.

From the yachting club, enjoy strolling through little alleys and narrow streets, surrounded by Mykonos' typical white-painted walls. Head toward Little Venice, where houses and cafes have been built directly at water level. From there, admire the views of the famous windmills, where the grain used to be milled for bread flour.

See Panagia Paraportiani church, typical Greek houses and numerous chapels. Visit the Folklore Museum to see interesting exhibits and discover the island??s past. End your walking tour at Manto Square, home of the statue of Manto Mavrogenous, who was a heroic figure of the Greek War of Independence.

Enjoy free time to shop, discover hidden alleyways or relax at a terrace bar and people-watch before you get back on your cruise ship.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Mykonos port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.

Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Tour of Oia, Fira and the Akrotiri Excavation

Spend your time in the port of Santorini discovering the wonders of the island. On this private shore excursion, you will visit the island's capital, Fira, and the dramatic town of Oia, home to dwellings nestled in volcanic rock.

At the Akrotiri excavation site, you will see the remains of one of the most important prehistoric settlements of the Aegean region.

Your private tour guide will entertain you during your tour with interesting details and stories about Santorini.

While you are in port in Santorini, see the beauty of the island on this private shore excursion. Hop in a small local boat and make your way to the Athenios harbor, where you'll jump in a private luxury car with your local guide and proceed to the archeological site of Akrotiri.

Often compared to Pompeii, Akrotiri is a site from an earlier age and preserves amazing ruins that date back to the 2nd millennium BC. Walk through the passageway in the excavated area, and marvel at the beautiful pottery, the two- and three-story houses (once decorated with wonderful wall-paintings) and the staircases.

Continue through the beautiful Santorini countryside to the village of Oia. Built on the northern part of the caldera rim, Oia is a place where many artists have found their inspiration. Enjoy the stunning views of the caldera, where many dwellings are built into niches of the volcanic rock. You'll also have panoramic views of the rest of Santorini and the Aegean Sea.

Fira, your next stop, is the attractive capital of Santorini, perched on the caldera rim where the land slopes gently in one direction and falls steeply into the sea in the other. In Fira, you can either explore the town and its little shops at your leisure or take the cable car to Santorini port, where your cruise ship waits.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Santorini port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.

Katakolon Shore Excursion: Private Wine-Tasting Tour of Mercouri Estate Winery

While you are in port in Katakolon, tantalize your taste buds on a private wine-tasting tour!

On this shore excursion from the Katakolon port, head out to Mercouri Estate winery, famous for its rich red wines and olive oils. Sample three Greek wines and snack on a selection of traditional appetizers.

Visit the winery's cellars and small museum to learn interesting details about wine-making in Greece. Wander around the estate's gardens, discover the local flora and visit the old family home, built in 1878. You can also visit the winery's church and private beach!

When you arrive in the Katakolon port, hop in a private car and head out on a private wine-tasting shore excursion. Enjoy views of the Greek countryside as you make your way to the beautiful Mercouri Estate Winery, located just 20 minutes from the Katakolon port. See the picturesque villages of Andreas and Korakochori on the way.

At the Mercouri Estate, the Kanellopoulos family, current owners of the property, will guide you through the different parts of the winery. Learn interesting facts about wine-making in Greece as you visit the family home (a beautiful stone house built in 1878), the underground cellars, the old tavern building and stables (which now houses a small museum), and a chapel.

Enjoy views of the approximate 90-acre (36-hectare) vineyards, including a small part of the original vineyards dedicated to producing the Refosco Mercouri grape variety, made into one of the estate's signature wines, which has been grown for 130 years.

Continue your exploration of the estate as you walk through the forest and to the estate's private beach, from where you'll enjoy spectacular views of the neighboring island of Zakynthos.

Next, it's time to relax and sample some local wines. The island's soil and climate are particularly favorable for producing good quality red wines, such as the traditional Greek red varieties of Mavrodaphne, Agiorgitiko and Avgoustiatis. Discover some of the secrets of professional wine tasting from your wine expert as you snack on a selection of local products like salami, feta cheese, olives and bread.

Worry-free Shore Excursion:
We will ensure your timely return to the Katakolon port for this activity. In the rare event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.

Click here for more information and online booking or for more tours and activities in magical Greece.