Piraeus to Piraeus

The Greek isle of Patmos has a rich Christian heritage – the Monastery of Saint John was founded in 1088 and is a UNESCO World Heritage site, as is the Cave of the Apocalypse, the grotto where John the Apostle received the visions he recorded in the Book of Revelation. The island’s white-sand beaches, secluded coves and beautiful marina make it a popular destination for worshippers of the sun.

Today, its Old Town is alive with contemporary shops and traditional bazaars that teem with locals and visitors, surrounded by lively cafés. But this charming “old” quarter is infantile compared to one of Bodrum’s most important sites: the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Dating back to 350 B.C., the 140-foot white marble structure still captivates even the savviest scientists, ranking as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Crete’s capital city is a charming mix of ancient fortresses and modern delights; serious business and waterfront cafés. Also called Iraklio, the city is home to the impressive Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Palace of Knossos and Turkish and Venetian fountains that dot the old squares. Its marketplace is one of the largest in the Mediterranean and filled with traditional treasures, like Cretan olive oil, local wines and honey.