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Round-trip Athens (Piraeus), Greece
August 27 - September 03, 2027

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ITINERARY
This 7-night Eastern Mediterranean voyage aboard Rhapsody of the Seas delivers intense cultural immersion across Greece and Turkey. Sailing in late August means peak temperatures and heavy crowds, making early starts essential. In Athens, bypass notorious port traffic by taking the Metro directly to the ancient center. Disembark early in Mykonos to navigate the whitewashed labyrinth of Chora before the midday crush. The itinerary's anchor is a rare overnight in Istanbul; use the efficient T1 tram from Galataport to maximize your time in the historic Sultanahmet district. You will also walk the remarkably preserved marble streets of Ephesus from Kusadasi and explore the 14th-century Venetian Harbor in Chania, Crete, rounding out a demanding but deeply rewarding week.
For more details, see our port-by-port descriptions below the itinerary table.
| DATE | PORT OF CALL | ARRIVE | DEPART |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friday, August 27 | Athens (Piraeus), Greece | - | 5:00 pm |
| Saturday, August 28 | Mykonos, Greece | 7:00 am | 6:00 pm |
| Sunday, August 29 | Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey | 7:00 am | 5:00 pm |
| Monday, August 30 | Istanbul, Turkey | 1:00 pm | - |
| Tuesday, August 31 | Istanbul, Turkey | - | 9:00 pm |
| Wednesday, September 1 | At Sea - Cruising | - | - |
| Thursday, September 2 | Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece | 8:00 am | 5:00 pm |
| Friday, September 3 | Athens (Piraeus), Greece | 5:00 am | - |
PORTS OF CALL
Athens (Piraeus), Greece


For first-time visitors, the Acropolis is non-negotiable, but it requires a strategy. During the Mediterranean summer, the marble steps are blindingly bright, brutally hot, and packed with crowds by 10:00 AM. Pre-book your timed-entry tickets well in advance, and make this your very first stop. After descending, head straight to the Acropolis Museum.
From there, the historic neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki fan out below the Acropolis. Yes, they are heavily trafficked by tourists, but wandering the pedestrian lanes, browsing the Monastiraki Flea Market, and seeing the Ancient Agora (where Socrates actually walked) remains a spectacular way to spend an afternoon.
When it’s time for lunch, skip the restaurants with aggressive touts holding laminated menus on the main squares. Walk a few streets deeper into the Koukaki neighborhood (just south of the museum) or the upper edges of Plaka for authentic souvlaki, fresh Greek salads, and cold Assyrtiko wine.
If you have already conquered central Athens on a previous cruise, consider heading south along the Athens Riviera. A taxi can take you to Lake Vouliagmeni for a swim in its mineral-rich, thermal waters, or further down the coast to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, which offers some of the most dramatic coastal views in Greece.
Mykonos, Greece

Navigate toward the waterfront to witness the iconic Kato Mili (windmills) standing sentinel on the hill. Just below lies Little Venice, where medieval houses with colorful balconies hover directly over the sea. It is the prime location for a coffee or cocktail, though be prepared for premium pricing that reflects the world-class view.
For our clients with a deep interest in history, Mykonos is the gateway to something far more significant: Delos. A short ferry ride away, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean. If you prioritize ancient history over high-end shopping, a guided excursion here is non-negotiable.
If a beach day is preferred, manage your expectations regarding crowds and cost. The famous Paradise Beach is high-energy; for a more refined, family-friendly atmosphere, Ornos or Platis Gialos are superior choices, accessible via local bus or water taxi. Finally, a logistical note: if your ship docks at the New Port (Tourlos) rather than tendering, the local SeaBus is the most efficient transfer to the town center, bypassing the often-gridlocked taxi queues.











Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

For a truly immersive experience, we strongly advise securing tickets to the Terrace Houses. Located within the archaeological site but often requiring a separate entrance fee, these covered excavations reveal the domestic lives of the Ephesian elite. The preserved frescoes and intricate mosaics here offer an intimate counterpoint to the monumental public buildings outside and are well worth the extra cost.
From a practical standpoint, Ephesus demands preparation. The site offers very little shade, and the white marble reflects the intense summer heat. High-quality walking shoes are essential due to uneven, slippery surfaces. Beyond the ancient city, the House of the Virgin Mary offers a quiet, spiritual experience in the hills above, while the Basilica of St. John in nearby Selçuk provides further historical context.
Upon returning to the port, Kusadasi itself offers a functional, if commercial, conclusion to the day. The Grand Bazaar is famous for leather goods and Turkish rugs, though the sales tactics can be aggressive. For a more relaxed end to your visit, bypass the high-pressure shops for a seat along the waterfront promenade to enjoy a strong Turkish coffee and baklava while overlooking the Aegean.




Istanbul, Turkey

From the modern Galataport cruise terminal, the efficient T1 tram line provides a direct and scenic link to this UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, within a short walk of each other, stand the titans of history. The Hagia Sophia is an architectural marvel that has served as the spiritual center for two world religions; its immense dome and layered history are profoundly moving. As it is a functioning mosque, modest dress and head coverings for women are required for entry. Across the square, the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) answers with its own soaring domes and a breathtaking interior of intricate Iznik tiles. Be aware that it is closed to visitors during the five daily prayer times.
Nearby, Topkapi Palace offers a glimpse into the opulent and secretive world of the Ottoman sultans. If time allows, prioritize the Harem section for its stunning chambers and stories. For a different kind of immersion, descend into the cool, atmospheric depths of the Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir supported by hundreds of marble columns. No visit is complete without experiencing the controlled chaos of the city's markets. The Grand Bazaar is a labyrinth of over 4,000 shops, a world unto itself, while the nearby Spice Bazaar is a more manageable assault on the senses with its fragrant mounds of spices, teas, and Turkish delight.
A day in Istanbul is a whirlwind. We advise choosing two or three of these major sites to explore thoroughly rather than rushing through them all. The experience is about absorbing the atmosphere—the call to prayer echoing through the streets, the scent of roasting chestnuts, the view of ferries crisscrossing the Bosphorus. It is a city that leaves a permanent mark, offering a powerful taste that will undoubtedly call you back for more.






At Sea - Cruising
Chania (Souda), Crete, Greece
Allow yourself to get lost in the narrow, bougainvillea-draped lanes of the Topanas and Evraiki (Jewish) quarters, where you’ll discover hidden courtyards, artisan workshops, and beautifully preserved Venetian and Ottoman architecture. The imposing Firkas Fortress at the harbor's edge houses the Maritime Museum and offers commanding views of the sea and cityscape. For an authentic taste of the island, visit the recently renovated Municipal Market (Agora), a vibrant cross-shaped hall where vendors sell local cheeses, honey, herbs, and olive oil.
For lunch, we recommend bypassing the busiest harbor-front establishments and seeking out a traditional taverna tucked away on a side street for more authentic Cretan cuisine. Chania is not a port for ticking off a list of grand monuments; it is a destination to be savored. It’s a place for aimless wandering, enjoying a strong Greek coffee, and immersing yourself in the atmosphere of one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful and historic towns.
Royal Caribbean's Rhapsody of the Seas
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Grand entrance with doorbell. Bedroom with king-size bed, and private bathroom with whirlpool tub, private balcony, living room with queen-size sofa bed and baby grand piano. Stateroom: 1,326 sq. ft. Balcony 110 sq. ft.
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Marble entry with door bell. Queen-size bed, bathroom with tub. Separate living area with a queen-size sofa bed. Stateroom: 523 sq. ft. Balcony: 104 sq. ft.
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to Royal King, two bathrooms (one with shower, one with bathtub), living area with double sofa bed and two Pullman beds, and a private balcony. Stateroom: 509 sq. ft. Balcony: 59 sq. ft.
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Marble entry. Room has two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area and private bathroom with tub. Stateroom: 355 sq. ft. Balcony: 104 sq. ft.
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two bedrooms with two twin beds that convert to Royal King. Two bathrooms, one with tub, living area with double sofa and second bedroom with 2 Pullman beds. Stateroom: 535 sq. ft.
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with sofa bed and private bathroom with tub. Stateroom: 241 sq. ft. Balcony: 64 sq. ft.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with sofa bed and private bathroom with tub. Stateroom: 241 sq. ft. Balcony: 64 sq. ft.
800-422-0711
for Availability and Pricing.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, private balcony, sitting area with sofa bed and private bathroom with tub. Stateroom: 241 sq. ft. Balcony: 64 sq. ft.
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Balcony

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 195 sq. ft. Balcony: 35 sq. ft.
2,164.69
per person
Please Call:
800-422-0711
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 195 sq. ft. Balcony: 35 sq. ft.
2,124.69
per person
Please Call:
800-422-0711
for Availability and Pricing.

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 195 sq. ft. Balcony: 35 sq. ft.
800-422-0711
for Availability and Pricing.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.

All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area, private balcony and private bathroom. Stateroom: 195 sq. ft. Balcony: 35 sq. ft.
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for Availability and Pricing.
We're committed to finding the best value for you.
Outside
1,144.69
per person
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two sets of two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area with sofa bed, separate area with bunk beds and a private bathroom with shower. Stateroom: 246 sq. ft.
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All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King, sitting area with sofa, vanity area and a private bathroom. Oversized window provides extended view. Stateroom: 193 sq. ft.
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800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to a Royal King bed. Vanity and sitting area with sofa. Up to 2 guests. Stateroom: 154 sq. ft.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King and private bathroom. Stateroom: 154 sq. ft.
800-422-0711
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Inside
954.69
per person
Please Call:
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800-422-0711
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800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
800-422-0711
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We're committed to finding the best value for you.
All staterooms and suites come complete with private bathroom, vanity area, hair-dryer, closed-circuit TV, radio and phone. Two twin beds that convert to Royal King and private bathroom. Stateroom: 146 sq. ft.
800-422-0711
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Port Charges, Taxes & Fees of 230.69 are included in the per person fares displayed above.
A deposit of 250.00 per person is due to reserve your stateroom.
3rd/4th in Stateroom - Please call to secure the best possible pricing
Cruise pricing is presented per person, based double occupancy of the stateroom, following industry practice. Pricing presented above is listed accordingly to allow easy comparison for the stateroom categories displayed. Our agents always provide 'total cost' pricing disclosing all particulars before you make any commitment.
When reserving your stateroom, please confirm the policy applicable to this cruise with one of our agents.
Course Fee Cancellation Policy: 30+ days before sailing date - 75% Refund ; 7-29 days before sailing date - 50% Refund; Less than 7 days before sailing date - No Refund
Protect Your Trip with Allianz Travel Insurance
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can give you flexibility and support when your trip doesn’t go quite as planned. From unexpected flight issues to covered trip cancellations, travel emergencies, and more, travel insurance can help you manage unforeseen events that may impact your trip—giving you peace of mind from the moment you book your trip through your return home.
For an instant quote:
- Simply provide a few short details about your trip
- Review the available protection plans
- Enjoy the peace of mind you deserve
Why Protect your Trip?
Whether you’re planning your next trip or you recently booked one, travel insurance can help smooth over many unexpected travel glitches—while putting your mind at ease, knowing you’re off the hook for covered expenses that could arise from them.
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can provide you benefits and professional support when a covered situation comes up before or during your trip. The following examples may qualify for benefits:
- Cancelling your trip after unexpectedly becoming too sick to travel
- Taking care of a sick or injured traveling companion
- Having to end your trip early due to a family emergency
- Dealing with a flight delay or cancellation
- Needing to buy personal items if your luggage is lost or stolen
- Missing your cruise departure after a covered flight delay
You also can contact our travel protection partner Allianz Global Assistance’s 24/7, award-winning customer service for on-the-go assistance with issues like a medical emergency, replacing your lost passport, or making reservations around the world. To be eligible for a time-sensitive waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusions, purchase your travel insurance plan within 14 days of initial trip deposit (other purchase requirements and conditions apply). Specific plan benefits may vary. Please review your plan details for more information.
What Can Travel Insurance Help Protect?
Allianz Travel Insurance plans can protect you before and during your trip—keeping you, your loved ones, and your travel budget safer. Benefits vary by plan, and these are brief descriptions. Please read your plan documents for details.
TRIP CANCELLATION
Reimburses your prepaid, non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel your trip due to a covered reason, such as you, a family member, or traveling companion experiencing a covered illness or injury. Examples include:
- A doctor says you or a traveling companion is too sick to fly
- Your parent or child requires hospitalization
- You need to attend the birth of a family member’s child
- You have a traffic accident (not breakdown) on the way to the airport
- A storm shuts down your airport for 24 hours or more
TRIP INTERRUPTION
Reimburses your unused, non-refundable travel expenses and increased transportation costs during your trip if you have to return home early due to a covered reason, for instance when a family member has a qualifying medical emergency and needs your care. Examples include:
- You have a covered illness or injury and a doctor says you must return home
- A family member has a qualifying injury and needs your care
- A covered emergency, like a fire or flood, makes your home uninhabitable
TRAVEL DELAY
If you have a covered delay while traveling, travel insurance can reimburse you for meals, accommodations, and transportation expenses when your trip is delayed for a minimum number of consecutive hours for a covered reason. Minimum number of hours varies by plan.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE
Reimburses your expenses related to covered medical and dental emergencies* that might occur on your trip. This benefit can be especially helpful if you have a covered emergency outside the United States, as most health insurance policies won’t cover you outside the country. Examples include:
- You slip and break your ankle while sightseeing
- You get food poisoning while sampling the local cuisine
- You lose a filling and need immediate dental treatment*
*A sublimit and maximum apply for this benefit. Check your plan documents for details.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION
Arranges and pays for medically necessary transportation following a covered injury or illness to the nearest appropriate medical facility to receive care and get you home after treatment.
BAGGAGE LOSS, DAMAGE, or THEFT
Reimburses the replacement of your lost, damaged, or stolen luggage and personal items while traveling.
BAGGAGE DELAY
Reimburses essential items purchased during your trip if your baggage is delayed for a minimum number of hours (varies by plan).
CHANGE FEE
Reimburses fees if you need to change your flight itinerary due to a covered reason.
24-HOUR ASSISTANCE
Provides around-the-clock support during your trip. Allianz Global Assistance’s staff of multilingual problem solvers can help you with medical, legal, and travel-related emergencies whenever they happen. Medical assistance may include, but is not limited to:
- Medical triage with referrals to local prescreened medical providers
- Ongoing medical monitoring
- Payment guarantee
- Emergency medical transportation
Additional services for travel-related emergencies can help with:
- Missed connecting flights
- Lost/stolen travel documents
- Pre-trip information
- Prescription replacements
Our Promise to You
When you purchase any Allianz Travel Insurance plan, you automatically get 15 days (or more, depending on your state of residence) to review your policy documents. Within that period, you can cancel your plan for a full refund if you’re not satisfied, as long as you haven’t filed a claim or departed on your trip.
Need Help Along the Way?
Contact Allianz Global Assistance’s award-winning team of travel experts. Call anytime for assistance navigating travel mishaps overseas or in the U.S.—or help with everything from reporting lost baggage to locating emergency medical treatment. They can also help you replace passports, refer you to legal assistance, secure cash from home in case of emergency, and guarantee payment when you need to be admitted to a hospital, in some instances.
Contact Allianz Global Assistance
Phone (24/7):
1-800-284-8300 (within the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands)
1-804-281-5700 (outside of the U.S., call collect)
File or Track a Claim
It’s easy and convenient to file and track a claim, upload documents, and more online. Start your claim using your email address or policy number.
File a ClaimIf you need help filing a claim or understanding the claims process, visit the Allianz Global Assistance Claims Center.
Update Your Plan
If you need to update your travel insurance plan, such as adjusting the dates of your plan to reflect itinerary changes, please contact us or manage your plan online so your plan reflects your entire itinerary and provides the right amount of protection for your travels.
Manage My PlanAbout Allianz Global Assistance
Allianz Global Assistance is a world leader in travel insurance and assistance, helping millions of travelers across the globe every year. Allianz Global Assistance is owned by Allianz SE, the world’s largest diversified insurance company. For over 100 years, Allianz SE has helped protect important milestones in American history, insuring the Wright Brothers’ first flight and Golden Gate Bridge construction.
Terms, conditions, and exclusions apply including for pre-existing medical conditions. Insurance benefits underwritten by BCS Insurance Company (OH, Administrative Office: 2 Mid America Plaza, Suite 200, Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181), rated “A” (Excellent) by A.M. Best Co., under BCS Form No. 52.201 series or 52.401 series, or Jefferson Insurance Company (NY, Administrative Office: 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233), rated “A+” (Superior) by A.M. Best Co., under Jefferson Form No. 101-C series or 101-P series, depending on your state of residence and plan chosen. A+ (Superior) and A (Excellent) are the 2nd and 3rd highest, respectively, of A.M. Best’s 13 Financial Strength Ratings. Plans only available to U.S. residents and may not be available in all jurisdictions. Allianz Global Assistance and Allianz Travel Insurance are marks of AGA Service Company dba Allianz Global Assistance or its affiliates. Allianz Travel Insurance products are distributed by Allianz Global Assistance, the licensed producer and administrator of these plans and an affiliate of Jefferson Insurance Company. The insured shall not receive any special benefit or advantage due to the affiliation between AGA Service Company and Jefferson Insurance Company. Plans include insurance benefits and assistance services. Any Non-Insurance Assistance services purchased are provided through AGA Service Company. Except as expressly provided under your plan, you are responsible for charges you incur from third parties. Contact AGA Service Company at 800-284-8300 or 9950 Mayland Drive, Richmond, VA 23233 or customerservice@allianzassistance.com.
Call us at 800.422.0711 (US & Canada)
Or +1-727-526-1571
We can assist you with all your travel arrangements. We'd be happy to help you plan your flights, hotels or tours before and/or after your cruise conference.






