Greek Odyssey Cruising With Marella – Ancient Wonders & Stunning Scenery

This is a sponsored post for Marella Cruises.

While many people love the famous cities and landmarks of the Western Mediterranean, the Eastern Med easily rivals it as a cruise destination.

A large part of that appeal comes from the many Greek ports of call, with ancient cities, breathtaking island scenery, and wonderful beaches to explore.

In this guide, I’ll take you through all the Greek ports of call you can visit on a Marella cruise – but trust me, there’s so much more to see and do than I can list here!

Argostoli

Argostoli is the charming capital of Kefalonia, one of the Ionian Islands of Greece, known for its picturesque setting and vibrant cultural life. Highlights include the Argostoli Waterfront promenade, the De Bosset Bridge, and the Korgialenio History and Folklore Museum. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including nearby beaches and the mystical Drogarati Cave, Argostoli serves as a gateway to exploring the island’s diverse attractions.

Corfu Town

Corfu Town, the scenic capital of Corfu Island, blends rich history with stunning architecture, offering a captivating mix of Venetian, French, and British influences. Key attractions include the Old Fortress, Spianada Square—one of the largest in Greece—and the Liston Promenade, inspired by the Rue de Rivoli in Paris. With its charming narrow streets, vibrant markets, and an array of cafés and shops, Corfu Town invites visitors to immerse themselves in its unique cultural heritage and lively atmosphere.

Heraklion

Heraklion, the bustling capital of Crete, is a treasure trove of ancient history and culture, serving as the gateway to the legendary Minoan civilization. The city’s crown jewel, the Palace of Knossos, lies just outside its limits, while the Heraklion Archaeological Museum holds countless artifacts. The Venetian fortress at the harbor front adds to the city’s historic charm, making Heraklion a fascinating blend of past and present.

Katakolon

Katakolon is a quaint port village on the Peloponnese coast of Greece, primarily known as the gateway to the ancient site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The area offers a relaxed atmosphere, with a few shops and cafés lining its waterfront. Visitors can explore the rich history of Olympia, including its stadium and museum, or enjoy local wineries and the beautiful Greek countryside.

Kos Town

Kos Town, situated on the island of Kos, combines historical sites with lively modern life. The town is home to the ancient Agora, the Roman Odeon, and the imposing Castle of the Knights. Just a short distance away, the Asclepeion, an ancient healing center, offers insights into early medicine. Kos Town’s beaches and dining options make it a popular destination for visitors seeking both history and leisure.

Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town, known for its iconic windmills, white-washed buildings, and narrow, winding streets, epitomizes the Cycladic island charm. The town’s waterfront area, Little Venice, offers chic boutiques, art galleries, and waterfront bars with stunning sunset views. A lively atmosphere, combined with rich cultural sites like the Panagia Paraportiani church, makes Mykonos Town a must-visit destination.

Patmos

Patmos, a serene and spiritual island, is revered for the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where John the Apostle is said to have written the Book of Revelation. Its tranquil beaches, traditional villages, and sacred sites offer a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking contemplation and natural beauty.

Piraeus

Piraeus serves as the principal port of Athens, offering visitors a gateway to the ancient wonders and cultural depth of Greece’s capital. Just a short trip from the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the vibrant neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki, Piraeus is the starting point for exploring Athens’ rich historical sites, bustling markets, and world-class museums.

Rhodes Town

Rhodes Town, a blend of ancient and medieval worlds, is famous for its well-preserved medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Street of the Knights, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the surrounding moats and walls evoke the island’s storied past. Outside the old town, the modern city offers beaches, shops, and dining, showcasing Rhodes’ diverse appeal.

Souda

Souda, located on the northwest coast of Crete, serves primarily as a naval port but offers access to the historic city of Chania. Chania’s Venetian harbor, lighthouse, and old town, with its maze of alleys and traditional market, provide a picturesque setting for exploring Crete’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece’s cultural and entertainment capital, boasts a lively waterfront, Byzantine monuments, and the iconic White Tower. The city’s rich history is reflected in its diverse architecture, ancient ruins, and the Rotunda. With its vibrant markets, museums, and bustling nightlife, Thessaloniki offers a dynamic mix of history and modernity.

Thira (Santorini)

Santorini is famed for its dramatic views, stunning sunsets, and white-washed buildings with blue domes. The island’s capital offers breathtaking views of the caldera, archaeological sites like Ancient Thera, and unique beaches with volcanic sands. Santorini’s vineyards and traditional villages add to its allure, making it a quintessential Greek island experience.

Volos

Volos, nestled at the foot of Mount Pelion, blends mountain and sea with its waterfront promenade and access to the Pelion Peninsula, known for its mythological significance and picturesque villages. The city’s archaeological sites and museums, along with its tsipouro (a local spirit) taverns, offer a unique glimpse into both the ancient and modern Greek way of life.

Why Marella’s Greek Cruises?

Greece is an amazing country, but Marella’s cruises make it even more special for an escape.

You’ll fly out to meet the cruise ship, meaning a lot more time exploring the ports and much less time cruising at sea.

Yet even when you are on the ship, there’s a wealth of activities to enjoy, including plenty of spacious sunbathing spots to take advantage of the amazing sunshine.

Marella’s cruises are all-inclusive too – so you can sit back and sip on a cocktail without worrying about the bar tab you’re building up.

Plus, Marella offers some exciting cruise & stay options if you’d like to also include a few nights in a TUI hotel, with plenty of family-friendly or luxury options available to choose from.

A Marella cruise really is one of the best ways to see all the sights of this spectacular region in complete comfort.

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