Athens: It’s All Greek TAKING IT TO THE STREETS
The cradle of democracy, the Greek capital Athens has become the Eastern Mediterranean’s premier cruise destinat ion. With dozens of ancient at tract ions across the sprawl ing city, a pre- or postcruise extension in this homeport is a choice well rewarded.
Standing sentry over the city is the citadel complex of the
Acropolis, including the Parthenon, an archaeological wonder of the world. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the temple dates back to 432 B.C.E. and remains a testament to architectural ingenuity.
The redesigned Acropol is Museum was built directly over ancient ruins with glass floors and open- air sections, and features a trove of artifacts, statues, and art.
Throughout T the city are the well-preserved w temples of Hephaestus, Hep p Olympian Zeus, and d Athena Nike.
Also A on the A-list of attractions is the thh ancient Agora, once a bustling bus st economic center. The Herod Her ro Atticus Odeon is a secondcentury cen nt outdoor amphitheater, remarkably rem m nestled into the hillside. hill s The Old Olympic Stadium, Stad d home to the first modern Olympics Oly ym in 1896, is a reminder of the thh glory long associated with international inte e athletic competition.
A walking tour through the city’s diverse neighborhoods presents modern Athens melding into the past. The souvenir-shopping mecca of Monastiraki is set in a labyrinth of passageways shadowed by the Acropolis. If you fancy a taste of authentic souvlaki, moussaka, or baklava, the popular Plaka district has dining options. Wedged between the Acropolis and Plaka, Anafiotika is a photogenic community of whitewashed homes and buildings.
There are walking tours, biking trips, and trams that provide aerial views of the city’s landscape, and sightseeing can be personally navigated by joining one of the Hop On Hop Off bus excursions. Wine tasting, cooking classes, and culinary experiences are easily arranged. The gastronomic gurus of Culinary Backstreets delve into Greek food culture at authentic, offthe-tourist-trail venues.
A stay in Athens may be all Greek to you, but can easily be understood as a holiday of legendary proportions!
Blend Roman, French, and English history with a touch of Greek and Arab culture and you get the appeal of Malta.
With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Valletta has been selected as home port for three Viking Ocean Cruises vessels. Lying just south of Sicily, Malta is ideally located for both Eastern and Western Mediterranean itineraries, with convenient air connections from several European cities.
One day is never enough in Valletta; there are always more things to do and see. Pass through the City Gate and visit the Grandmaster’s Palace as an introduction to Maltese heritage. Impressive state rooms, art tapestries and painted ceilings adorn the elaborate marble-floored hallways.
Further along is the Baroque masterpiece that is St. John’s CoCathedral, an unmissable spot. The cathedral is located adjacent to the Great Siege Square and midway along
Republic street, the city’s mostly pedestrianized thoroughfare, awash with architectural grandeur, public squares, museums, shops, and cafes.
The view from Upper Barrakka Gardens, overlooking the harbor from its gardens, arches, and benches, provides a peaceful interlude during a morning of sightseeing. The Lower Barrakka Gardens are home to the Siege Bell War Memorial with a backdrop of the sea and the Three Cities — Vittoriosa, Senglea, and Cospicua — offering splendid photo opportunities.
Historically, Valetta was protected by its bastioned city walls and a network of underground tunnels. The walls still surround the city and while the majority of the tunnels remain off limits, the subterranean War Rooms and specific segments of passageways are open to the public.
Malta enjoys a vibrant lifestyle and activities such as fishing, cycling, walking, sightseeing tours, a jeep safari, and a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon or the Blue Grotto should all be considered.
To make your stay an extraordinary experience, you’ll find the Iniala Harbour House to be a rare gem. Located on St. Barbara Bastion, it is difficult to escape the picturesque view of the harbour creating inimitable Maltese ambiance. The on-site restaurant completes the package with a menu that marries Michelinstyle presentation and regional gastronomic tradition with impeccable service.
Along with being a favored port of call, becoming a home port for cruising only adds to Valletta’s appeal. ⠛