While everyone visits the Greek Islands at least once in their lives, setting your sites on the northern Aegean Sea delivers a host of surprises. We’re betting you have never even considered Northern Greece – and yet, it is the real deal, revealing mythical and mystical histories, breathtaking scenery, cultures rooted in tradition and dazzling modern-day delights.
This is a little corner of the world that Explora Journeys knows well. So if you’re craving an authentic, off-the-beaten-path and immersive travel experience, the hidden gems of Northern Greece await your footprint – and Explora is ready to take you there.
Explora’s all-inclusive voyages to Northern Greece stimulate all of the senses, putting that renowned “ocean state of mind” within easy reach. Greece luxury cruises like these lay bare a side of the country you never knew – an undiscovered and authentic destination of port cities steeped in history and culture. Brace yourself for incredible traditional cuisine and plenty of natural beauty, from the towering mountains and lush gorges to the blissful beaches and soothing inlets.
A grand tour of each port
Your journey will begin in Athens, where archeological wonders like the Acropolis and the Parthenon, anchor a very modern and glamorous present. This is a town of markets and squares, galleries and gelaterias, chic boutiques and sultry nights – happily, Athens is still ahead of its time.
Tucked away at the top of the Pagasetic Gulf, the city of Volos has a mythical reputation as the playground of the gods and centaurs. Marvel at the monastic architecture, sink into the sand of the beach-fringed bays and explore the winding streets. Farther north on the Thermaic Gulf, Thessaloniki is a dizzying blend of old and new – with a thriving modern art scene, so many UNESCO Heritage Sites, plus enchanting squares and opulent palaces. Edging closer to Turkey, the city of Kavala is like a breath of fresh air, a region filled with pedestrian streets, neo-classical mansions, ancient walls and celebrated wineries.
Your Explora cruise spends quality time in Istanbul the “City of the World’s Desire,” a monument to the past, the link between Asia and Europe. Visit the blue mosque of Sultan Ahmet, the Grand Bazaar, Topkapi Palace and the incredible Hagia Sophia. Take a boat ride on the Bosphorus Strait, comb the busy bazaars, or mellow out at the traditional hammam spas.
A unique view on the world
Explora is keen to have you discover Northern Greece from the water – the best way to visit these staggering beautiful places. All-inclusive journeys come with immersive dining at eight different restaurants, sophisticated lounging and unlimited fine beverages, plus an assortment of ocean-inspired wellness essentials.
And they’re right about your experience in Northern Greece being very much a journey, letting you dig a little deeper into a fascinating country – there’s a lot to show you. This is not a mere cruise, this is an awakening.
Your Tully Travel Designer can create the perfect itinerary, of course. The Greek Islands are wonderful, but Northern Greece is an authentic experience that will surprise you at every break in the waves.