Istanbul, Ephesus & the Greek Isles

Ports

• Istanbul
  

  Istanbul historically known as Constantinople is the largest city in Turkey and 5th largest city proper in the world with a population of over 14 million, also making it the second largest metropolitan area in Europe by population. Istanbul was selected as a European Capital of Culture for 2010. Historic areas of the city were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. Istanbul is a transcontinental city, straddling the Bosporus, one of the world's busiest waterways in northwestern Turkey. It is situated between the Sea of Marmara and the Black Sea. Its commercial and historical center lies in Europe, while a third of its population lives in Asia. SeaDream calls to this wonderful destination both as an embarkation point and a destination offering several land adventures. Please check the Land Adventures tab for all of the possibilities as well as embarkation and transfer information.

• Myrina, Lemnos
  

  Located on the northern Aegean Sea, Myrina, Lemnos is a true hidden gem. The island and its beaches remain uncrowded even during the popular summer season. The capital of Lemnos, Myrina, is stretched between two bays and offers two distinct districts to explore. Nestled in between the bays is the Byzantine Castle of Myrina, a major tourist attraction overlooking the peninsula. The stone-paved streets of Myrina provide a picture-perfect backdrop as guests stroll through this charming destination. No trip to Myrina is complete without spending time relaxing at one of its beautiful and peaceful beaches.

• Patmos
  

  Patmos is in the South Aegean Islands, particularly a member of the Dodecanese Islands of Greece. It is north of Leros and is most known for its connection to John the Apostle from the Book of Revelations; therefore Christian pilgrims frequent this destination. In mythology, Patmos was named “Letois”, which is another named for the goddess Diana, Leto’s daughter. Since ancient authors seldom mention Patmos in early text, information on early inhabitants is limited. It is widely believed the original people of Patmos were the Carians from Asia Minor, as discovered by the earliest archaeological findings date back to the Bronze and Mycenaean periods. The mountain in the country of Caria was named Latmos, which is where historians believe the name Patmos is derived from. Dorians also colonized in Patmos, and over time, Ionians followed suit. The primary port in Patmos is Skala, which was one of the most important sea ports in the Mediterranean around the 16th century. Early Christian basilicas were constructed in the name of John of Patmos, however between the 7th and 9th century when Saracen attacks were still problematic, the Grand Royal Basilica was destroyed. A monastery began construction in 1101 when Christodoulos assumed authority over Patmos. The population began expanding as immigrants from the fall of Constantinople and Candia to place in the 15th and 17th centuries, respectively. The island was under the Ottoman rule for years and was interrupted by Venice during the Candian War, Russia during the Orlov Revolt, and Greece during their War of Independence. During the Italo-Turkish War, Italy occupied Patmos until 1943, when Nazi Germany held power over the island until 1945. Since Patmos rejoined in 1948, it has become the tranquil and frequented destination it is now. Tourists visit the Monastery of St. John, Chora, the Cave of Apocalypse, Psili Ammos Beach and other beautiful points of interest in “Europe’s most idyllic place to live,” as named by Forbes in 2009.

• Kusadasi (Ephesus)
  

  Kusadasi is a resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast and the center of the seaside district of the same name in Aydin Province. Some visitors simply want to go shopping at the grand bazaar and see a carpet demonstration. Hopefully you have practiced your negotiating skills for these authentic copies, original reproductions as well as the real deal. Others will make time to see the Wonders of Ephesus. This comprehensive SeaDream Land Adventure includes a guided tour of the stunning archaeological site of Ephesus including the recently excavated Terrace Houses, but also adds a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary. For any traveler arriving to this region, it simply can’t be missed!

• Mykonos
  

  Mykonos is one of the most visited Greek Islands. It is part of the Cyclades group and lies between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans an area of 85.5 square kilometers (33.0 sq mi) and rises to an elevation of 341 meters (1,119 feet) at its highest point. Mykonos is so incredibly beautiful; it is not surprising that it has become one of the most desired destinations in the world. When you also add the cosmopolitan lifestyle, the sophisticated nightlife and the historical treasures of the nearby UNESCO Awarded Delos you’ll have the recipe for an unforgettable holiday. SeaDream usually anchors just of the famous windmills and tenders directly to the old town. Guests have a few organized options including the Sacred Island of Delos. Others may simply want to explore the island’s incredible beaches, boutiques, clubs and churches independently.

• Milos
  

  Milos Island lies halfway between Crete and Piraeus port. Milos is "the island of colors" thanks to its volcanic origin which offers beaches and waters with a variety of colors and distinct beauty. Milos is famous for its dentelated coastline. With more than 75 small and big beaches of crystal, deep blue waters, multi-colored carved rocks and white-yellow coasts, it is virtually guaranteed that you will be impressed. Due to the volcanic origin of its ground, Milos presents an impressive coastal morphology and diversity. There are white-yellow beaches, bays with pebbles surrounded by stones, and white, red, yellow or black rocks. The sea there has distinctive colors and depths and there are organized beaches for swimming or you can choose more isolated and wild ones. It is certain that the island’s clear waters and its beaches of incomparable beauty will offer you an unprecedented experience.

• Hydra
  

  There is one main town on Hydra, known simply as "Hydra port". It consists of a crescent-shaped harbor, around which is centered a strand of restaurants, shops, markets, and galleries that cater to tourists and locals (Hydriots). Steep stone streets lead up and outwards from the harbor area. The charm of Hydra town certainly lies in her rich history, beautiful port and waterfront unspoiled by motorized vehicles. The island offers a rugged charm and some spectacular scenes and makes the perfect place for some self-exploration.

• Athens (Piraeus)
  

  Piraeus, roughly translating to “the place over the passage”, is an important Greek port located within the Athens agglomeration, in the Attica Basin. It is 12 kilometers from the municipality of Athens, considered the fourth largest and is the third most populous amongst all the municipalities of Greece. Now a peninsula, Piraeus, originally a rocky island, was developed in early 5th Century B.C. when it was initially designated as Athens’ import and transit trade port. It is the largest marine-based shipping center of Greece, one of the largest ports in Europe, and considered the second largest passenger port in the world. Inhabited since the 26th Century, it wasn’t until the 6th Century B.C. that Piraeus began catching attention. The land of Piraeus was essentially impassable, flooded by the sea most of the year until centuries passed and the flooding ceased. By the 5th Century B.C. it became a navy base for the Athenian fleet for the natural harbors and the strategic potential they carried. Athenian general and politician Themistocles fortified Piraeus’ three harbors Kantharos, Zea and Munichia, created ship houses and completed his walls in 471 B.C., which led to the port becoming a great military and commercial harbor. There are many archaeological sites, points of interest and entertainment available in Piraeus. Most famous for its tavernas and cuisine, several popular events take place in Piraeus, such as the Ecocinema International Film Festival, the Maritime Festival, the Piraeus Rock Wave Festival and the Three Kings’ Way Festival. There are also many theaters, including the Municipal Theater, the open air Veakeio Theater, and the Menandreio Theater. Museums in Piraeus include the Archaeological Museum of Piraeus, the Merchant Shipping History Institute Exhibition, the Panos Aravantinos Decor Museum, the Georgios Averof Museum Ship and the Museum of Electric Railways. Be sure to catch the panoramic views available from the hill of Kastella, overlooking Athens and the Saronic Gulf!