Cruisefinder

Istanbul - Piraeus (Athens)

Istanbul - Piraeus (Athens) Turkey´s cultural treasures and Greek hospitality

  • 16 Sep 2026 to 28 Sep 2026|12 days

  • MS EUROPA 2

  • EUX2622

Istanbul - Piraeus (Athens)

16 Sep 2026 - 28 Sep 2026 | 12 days

from € 8,880

12 day Cruise p.p.

What to expect

The highlights of this cruise

Turkey and Greece offer the perfect blend of culture, history and lifestyle. The impressive sultans’ palaces in Istanbul are the prelude to a splendid cruise through the Aegean Sea.

Start your cruise with an overnight stay on board in the port of the vibrant metropolis of Istanbul. The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the Hagia Sophia, the Topkapi Palace and a boat trip* on the Bosporus are just some of the many options available to you here. During the passage through the Dardanelles, the strait that connects the Aegean Sea and the Sea of Marmara, you will experience magnificent views before Kusadasi welcomes you with its multifaceted old town. Marmaris beckons with the famous Dalyan delta* and the ruins of Kaunos* while in Bodrum a fascinating panorama of small bays and secluded beaches opens up to you on an excursion with a traditional wooden boat*. On Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Master invites you to take a tour. With its old mansions, the harbour of Simi is one of the most picturesque in the Aegean. Agios Nikolaos on Crete is perfect for a hike* along Mirabello Bay. Stroll through the winding alleys of Santorini along the blue-and-white houses nestling against the edge of the crater before the picture-book beaches of the island of Naxos promise idyllic relaxation. Three of Greece’s most important excavation sites – Tiryns*, Mycenae* and Epidaurus* – await you in Nauplia at the end of your cruise through the stunning Aegean before your adventure comes to an end in the port city of Piraeus (Athens).

Travel information

  • When the ship is anchored, there is no pier and the ship anchors in open water. The transfer to land is carried out using tender boats or zodiacs.
  • Wed, 16 Sep 2026

    Istanbul1/Turkey
    Overnight stay on board

  • Byzantium, Constantinople, Istanbul - whether Greeks, Ottomans or Turks, they have all left their marks, with the result that the city can offer sights from all cultures and eras. Visit the fascinating old town of Istanbul, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, to name just a few of the highlights.
  • The Dardanelles are a narrow strait that connects the Mediterranean Sea with the Black Sea. They have played a significant role throughout history, particularly during the First World War at the Battle of Gallipoli. Extending over approximately 61 kilometres and only 1.2 kilometres wide at their narrowest point, the Dardanelles are renowned for both their strategic importance and scenic beauty, making them a captivating destination for visitors from around the globe.

  • Kusadasi is a well-known, lively holiday resort south of Izmir in western Turkey. It is situated in a wide, beautiful bay that breaks up into many individual coves and offers picturesque views of the sparkling sea. Stroll through the diverse old town and enjoy the wonderful Turkish hospitality.

  • Marmaris boasts a long history that dates back to ancient times and was once well-known for its marble quarries. Today, Marmaris is a beloved travel destination, featuring stunning beaches, a picturesque harbour, and a charming old town. Be sure to visit the impressive Marmaris Castle and explore ancient sites such as Kaunos, Knidos, and Dalyan. Marmaris offers an array of activities and attractions to suit every taste.

  • Bodrum is a picturesque city with whitewashed mud houses spilling, densely packed, down the hillside. To the north of Bodrum are the important archaeological sites of Miletus and Didyma. Miletus was once the biggest city in the ancient world. The Milesian school of thought was founded there in the sixth century, with the result that Miletus is now heralded as the birthplace of philosophical and scientific tradition. The temple at Didyma is simultaneously a place of pilgrimage and the site of an oracle dedicated to the god Apollo.
  • The old town of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage site, houses remarkable remnants of ancient Greece and the medieval era. Particularly worth visiting is Lindos, a picturesque village with an acropolis and narrow streets. The Street of the Knights, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the Archaeological Museum in the old town of Rhodes are additional highlights.

  • With its steep slopes and ancient mansions, the harbour is one of the most picturesque sights in the Aegean. Savour a frappé while watching the fishermen in the bay, or climb the steps to the upper town of Chorio for an impressive panoramic view.

  • The town of Agios Nikolaos was built around a natural freshwater lake and is home to the relics of an ancient civilisation. Lake Voulismeni is a popular meeting point with charming cafes. The island of Spinalonga, a former leper colony, is an impressive spot to visit nearby. From Agios Nikolaos, you can also visit the famous archaeological sites of Knossos and Phaistos. With its rich history, picturesque surroundings and proximity to other historical sites, Agios Nikolaos is the ideal starting point to explore Crete.

    Experience more

    Selected shore excursions*

    • Exclusive golf excursion
  • Thira, also known as Santorini, has a fascinating history. The town is located on a volcanic island and was once a thriving Minoan settlement. Today, the ruins of Akrotiri are an impressive archaeological site that offers insights into ancient life. The characteristic architecture of Thira, with its whitewashed houses and blue domes, is also worth seeing. The breathtaking view from the cliffs of Oia and the famous sunset are a must-see. Santorini offers a rich history, breathtaking landscapes and unique attractions such as the caldera, the archaeological area of Akrotiri and the island’s beautiful beaches.
  • On Naxos, you can visit the Portara, the ruins of the ancient Temple of Apollo. The medieval castle, picturesque villages such as Apiranthos, and beaches like Agios Prokopios and Plaka are also well worth a visit.

  • Nauplia, also known Nafplio, offers a picturesque old town with narrow streets, cobbled squares and colourful buildings. Highlights include the fortress of Palamidi, the Acropolis of Nauplia, Syntagma Square and Bourtzi Castle situated on a small island off the coast. The town is also an ideal starting point for visiting the ancient sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus. With its rich history and beautiful atmosphere, Nauplia is a popular destination for visitors who want to experience the authentic Greek flair.
  • Mon, 28 Sep 2026

    Piraeus (Athens)1/Greece, arrival 5.00 hrs

1The ship’s berth will not be assigned until a later date. Subject to change.

To the ship and back

Choose the perfect arrangement to and from the ship according to your needs and enjoy our relaxed all-round service.

Arrival

The quickest way to the ship and back home again: Arrive on time and travel back relaxed. We organize your flight, transfer to and from the ship, luggage transport and, in some destinations, an overnight stay in a hotel. Our experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides will look after you on site.

Departure

The quickest way to the ship and back home again: Arrive on time and travel back relaxed. We organize your flight, transfer to and from the ship, luggage transport and, in some destinations, an overnight stay in a hotel. Our experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides will look after you on site.

Experience more

Before and after the cruise: We offer you unforgettable experiences not only at sea. Be inspired by our carefully organized programmes, which offer you even more unforgettable experiences on land in destinations near and far. With our travel packages, you can get in the mood with fascinating impressions or discover further facets of your travel destination as a finale.
  • With our escorted programmes, you can experience vibrant cities, foreign cultures, spectacular nature, varied activity programmes or days of pure relaxation. We take care of transfers, excursions and accommodation. All you need is the anticipation - we'll take care of the rest.  The programmes are conducted in German  Ideal for travellers who enjoy travelling in a group of like-minded people  Accompanied by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides  From near to far - fully organized thanks to many years of expertise Be inspired by the variety of our programmes:  City Highlights: Conveniently experience the most important sights of exciting cities in compact form.  Culture hotspots: Combine cities or explore other facets of the destination for even more intense experiences.  Culture meets nature: Experience the ideal symbiosis of urban discoveries and fascinating nature.  Nature experiences: Experience fascinating beauty and rich natural diversity up close.  Relaxed time out: Relax and unwind in exclusive retreats.  In a small group: Experience the destination in a particularly authentic and individual way, even away from the usual sights, with a maximum of 6 - 12 people.
  • As individual as you are! With our private programmes, you can discover your travel destinations in a very personal setting alone, as a couple or with friends. The programme includes overnight stays in carefully selected hotels and transfers, usually with private drivers. This gives you enough time and space for your own activities at your destination.  Plenty of room for your own activities  Ideal for those who don't want to join a group  Individual extensions possible  Bookable immediately
  • Experience tailor-made travel dreams with our exclusive Travel Concierge Service: From stylish design hotels and luxurious beach resorts to theatre tickets and private transfers, we'll design your perfect pre and post-cruise experience.  Flexible combination of hotels, activities and transfers  Exclusive experience recommendations  Perfectly customised to your wishes  On request - each offer is prepared individually

Before your trip

After your trip

Price special

Attractive combination discount

Extend your stay with the previous cruise EUX2621 and save € 900 per person (applies to PLATINUM fare).

Included Services

In your suite

  • Mini bar, refilled on a daily basis
  • Nespresso machine
  • 24-hour suite service
  • Butler service in the Penthouse, Grand Penthouse and Owner Suites
  • Personal EUROPA 2 email account

Entertainment

  • Different entertainment programme every day
  • Free use of the Internet on board - Free of charge for one hour per guest per day. For further information and conditions click
    here

Restaurants

  • Exclusive gourmet restaurants at no extra cost, with flexible mealtimes and no fixed seating plans
  • High-quality vegetarian cuisine
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner
  • Tea and coffee specialities
  • A complimentary selection of soft drinks

Families

  • Comprehensive programme of games and sports as well as arts and crafts for children from 4 years of age and for teens
  • Baby welcome package for parents with babies and small children up to 3 years of age

Relaxation & Fitness

  • OCEAN SPA and fitness area covering an area of 1,000 m² (10,764 ft²)
  • Extensive range of sport classes indoors or outdoors
  • Four saunas and state-of-the-art training apparatus

See more, experience more

  • Available for free hire: bicycles (subject to official approval) and snorkelling equipment

For all cases

  • Harbour and airport fees