Best Cruises to Explore Ancient Ruins in Greece: Discover the History of the Greek Islands

If you're a history lover or someone who appreciates the beauty of ancient ruins, then Greece is one of the best destinations to visit. The country is home to some of the most iconic ruins in the world, including the Parthenon, the Temple of Apollo, and the Palace of Knossos. The most exciting way to explore these historic treasures is by taking a cruise around Greece’s stunning islands, which offer easy access to some of the best-preserved ancient sites. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best cruises to explore ancient ruins in Greece, what to expect, and why it’s a must-do experience for history enthusiasts.

Several cruise lines offer journeys that combine luxury with history, taking you to some of Greece’s most remarkable ancient sites. Here are some of the best cruises for exploring ancient ruins in Greece:

• Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises offers an immersive Greek Isles journey that includes stops at major archaeological sites like the Acropolis in Athens and the ancient ruins of Delphi. This cruise blends exploration with luxury, providing guided tours at each stop.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking’s Ancient Greece and Turkey itinerary takes you to historical cities such as Athens, Santorini, and the port of Thessaloniki. The Viking experience includes expert-led shore excursions to famous ruins like Olympia, where the ancient Olympic Games were held.
• Cunard Line: Cunard’s Mediterranean cruise offers an elegant and enriching experience with visits to ancient Greek sites on islands such as Rhodes, Crete, and Mykonos. The cruise includes in-depth excursions to explore the ancient ruins and cultural landmarks of Greece.

During your Greek ruins cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to visit some of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Here are a few must-visit sites that should be on your list:

• The Parthenon, Athens: No trip to Greece is complete without visiting the Parthenon, an iconic symbol of ancient Greek civilization. The Parthenon, located atop the Acropolis, offers incredible views of Athens and is a must-see for history buffs.
• Delphi: Known as the center of the ancient world, Delphi is home to the Temple of Apollo and the famous Oracle of Delphi. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Greek religion and culture.
• Knossos Palace, Crete: This ancient Minoan palace, located on the island of Crete, is one of the most well-preserved archaeological sites in Greece. Visitors can explore the ruins of the palace and learn about the Minoan civilization.
• Ancient Olympia: Visit the birthplace of the Olympic Games in Olympia, where athletes competed in the first games dedicated to Zeus. The ruins here, including the Temple of Zeus and the ancient stadium, provide a window into the world of ancient Greek sports.

Reading about other travelers’ experiences can give you a better sense of what to expect on your cruise. Here are some real-life stories from people who’ve explored Greece’s ancient ruins:

• Emily’s Athens Adventure: “My cruise with Viking took me straight to the heart of ancient Athens. I was in awe as I walked through the Parthenon. The guided tour was incredible, and the whole experience felt like I had stepped back in time,” says Emily, a history enthusiast from California.
• Tom’s Journey Through Crete: “Exploring the Palace of Knossos in Crete was one of the highlights of my trip. It’s unbelievable how well-preserved the ruins are. I felt like I was walking through history. Our guide brought the whole place to life with fascinating stories,” says Tom, a retired teacher from New York.

If you’re ready to explore the ancient ruins of Greece, booking a cruise is one of the best ways to experience the country’s history and culture. To get started, research the different cruises that stop at the islands you're most interested in, and make sure the itineraries offer time for guided tours of ancient sites. To make your trip even more seamless, consider booking excursions in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on the top attractions.

For more information on the best cruises to explore ancient ruins in Greece and to plan your next adventure, visit Elaleph Cruising. Our team can help you find the perfect itinerary and ensure you have an unforgettable experience exploring Greece’s rich history and culture.