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Manahawkin, NJ Travel Agent· 13 Years of Experience
An independent agent with Academy Travel, Inc., , a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
10 reviews
100% Recommended
13 Years of Experience
5.0
(10)
100% Recommended
Renee is Amazing!!
I would Never use anyone else!!! I book All my cruises with her!! As well as our Family Disney Trips!! She Always has... Read More >
DESTINATIONS VISITED:Greece
PLACES VISITED:Athens
SUGGESTED DURATION:1 Days
What better way to explore Europe than with my family on a Mediterranean Cruise! I organized a family and friends trip to Athens for a 2 Night Pre-Cruise stay with a hotel with an Acropolis view. We were within walking distance to some of the most breathtaking historical sites.
Next up was a 7-Night Cruise on Princess Cruise line, which was a perfect fit for this trip. One of the main elements to a successful trip is picking the right cruise line for your specific group. Our itinerary included; Athens, Santorini, Kotor, Messina (Sicily), Naples and then Barcelona. No need to pack and unpack, we were able to get a taste of each country without the worry.
Once in Barcelona, how can you leave? We didn't. 2 more nights at a hotel right in the center of this beautiful city gave us access to everything it had to offer, Gaudi Architecture, Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Picasso Museum, Las Ramblas, and the FOOD, we did not miss a thing.
Fantastic memories were made!
Close All Days
DAY1
Athens
Close Day
Pre-Cruise Stay in Athens
Arriving prior a day or two prior to your cruise is essential and not just for logistics sake. I ALWAYS recommend arriving at least the day before your cruise embarkation. Too many variables can go wrong. You want to give yourself plenty of time to not miss the ship!
I knew we wanted to see the Acropolis from our hotel. The search for the ideal hotel was extensive but I found one that put us less than two blocks from the Parthenon, the Acropolis Museum and the cutest little side street filled with cafes & shops. Next, a full day of touring with a guided tour of the Acropolis and Museum, which was a little over 4 hours. We met in front of the museum (just a short walk from where we stayed). The rest of the afternoon we explored on our own. Had a huge lunch at a cafe right on the street to people watch and then ended our night at the restaurant on the roof of our hotel.
I set up private transfers the next morning & we arrived at the port ready for the next adventure!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Guided Acropolis & Museum tour
FINAL THOUGHTS
Travel to Europe with a large family and friend group can be intimidating. There are many moving parts; flights, transfers, hotels, cruise check-in, port times and excursions but once it comes together it can be magical!