excursions 2023 three continents
AUTHENTIC ENCOUNTERS EXPERIENCES JUST FOR YOU AND A FEW Short or no walking involved. Easy walking: General walking over an even surface. Moderate walking: Moderate amount of physical activity such as walking over uneven surfaces and climbing stairs. Might not be recommended for guests with walking difficulties. Hard walking: High amount of physical activity for extended periods of time. Recommended only for sporting guests with good physical health. Includes visits to religious sites, knees and shoulders must be covered. It is recommended to bring your swimming suit and a towel. Shopping with an experienced guide. Meal included on this excursion. Refreshments included on this excursion. Please be advised it is recommended that you take a bottle of water for your journey. Panoramic, nature, landscapes. Cultural experience: This tour will feature art, architecture, history and religion. Folklore: We focus on local habits, traditions, food and tasting. Adventure and fun. Suitable for families travelling with children. GUIDE TO SYMBOLS Pre book and cancellation period is up to two weeks prior to embarkation date. Our Authentic excursions require a minimum participation, noted on each excursion page. Half day - up to 5 hours Full day - 6 hours and above All timings and order of visits are subject to change depending on traffic congestion of the sites and weather conditions. Operation of tours may be subject to the time of the year - please check at time of booking. Normal excursions require a minimum participation as per terms and conditions. Please be aware of the dress code in order to enter the monasteries; legs and shoulders should be covered, no shorts, long skirts (below the knee). Terms and conditions are available at: www.celestyalcruises.com/shorex-conditions AUTHENTIC ENCOUNTERS EXPERIENCES JUST FOR YOU AND A FEW WHY BOOK A CELESTYAL EXCURSION Although we say it ourselves, the destinations we visit on a Celestyal cruise are rather special. In fact call us biased but we think they are among the most exciting, historic, iconic and evocative in the world. And they lend themselves to incredible tales, some true, some fable but all an integral part of our fascinating storytelling. You can immerse yourself in ancient civilisations, follow in the footsteps of great figures from history, live and breathe the myths and legends of Ancient Greece and the Mediterranean and journey to places where some of the Seven Wonders of the World once stood - and to the one that’s still very much here. We like to feel that we are taking you on your very own Greek Odyssey across the Aegean, the Mediterranean and beyond to the crossroads of Europe and Asia, to the Middle East and Africa. Our specially designed excursions are central to your Celestyal experience with our expert guides taking you step by step through your voyage and really bringing history alive. Sometimes in the world of history it’s not easy to work out where facts end and legends begin. So please fire up your imagination and join us to find out. We really mean it when we say ‘every moment is a destination’ and ‘every destination is a wonder’. 04 Port Said 08 Ashdod 12 Limassol 19 Rhodes 24 Kusadasi 30 Athens CONTENTS
15% discount package 1 includes: EXCURSION PACKAGES Find your inner explorer and indulge yourself with our discounted excursion packages. If you embark from another port please contact us for your available packages. ✔ Classic Cairo (PSD-01) ✔ Jerusalem and Bethlehem (ASH-01) ✔ Curium and Limassol (LIM-01) ✔ Medieval tour - Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the knights (RHO-01) ✔ Ancient Ephesus (KUS-02) 15% discount package 2 includes: ✔ Classic Cairo (PSD-01) ✔ Curium and Limassol (LIM-01) ✔ Medieval tour - Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the knights (RHO-01) ✔ Ancient Ephesus (KUS-02) 10% discount package includes: ✔ Classic Cairo (PSD-01) ✔ Curium and Limassol (LIM-01) ✔ Ancient Ephesus (KUS-02) Package price ADULT €429, CHILD €310 (includes 15% off) INCLUSIVE fare: ADULT €354, CHILD €235 ENHANCE fare: ADULT €279, CHILD €160 Prices are per person with your discount applied Package price ADULT €311, CHILD €226 (includes 15% off) INCLUSIVE fare: ADULT €236, CHILD €151 ENHANCE fare: ADULT €161, CHILD €76 Prices are per person with your discount applied Package price ADULT €258, CHILD €186 (includes 10% off) INCLUSIVE fare: ADULT €183, CHILD €111 ENHANCE fare: ADULT €108, CHILD €36 Prices are per person with your discount applied
4 The Great Pyramid complex and the Sphinx PORT SAID EXCURSIONS
5 Duration: Full day (approximately 12 hours) Tour code: PSD - 01 Depart from Port Said in luxury air-conditioned motor coaches en-route to Africa’s largest city, the teeming metropolis of Cairo. Your first stop will be at Giza Plateau where the only remaining Wonder of the Ancient World, the Pyramids of Giza still stand. Your coach will park at the base of Chephren’s pyramid and time will be allocated to explore the site on your own. Continue down the valley where the guardian of this mortuary complex, the mighty Sphinx lies watching the passage of time and men in eons of silence its expression an enigma yet to be unravelled. Take time out to relax and enjoy a delicious lunch buffet. After lunch drive to Tahrir (Liberty) Square, the heart of down town Cairo. Visit the National Archaeological Museum and acquaint yourself with Egypt’s ancient history, spanning a period of over 50 centuries. The Museum is the repository of the world’s largest and richest collection of Egyptian Antiquities amongst them the priceless collection of King Tutankhamun. CLASSIC CAIRO Visit a Papyrus Institute where the art of paper making from reeds discovered by the Ancient Egyptians will be demonstrated for you. Limited time for souvenir shopping will also be allocated before you commence the drive to Port Said. See Tutankhamun’s funerary mask at the National Archaeological Museum PORT SAID EXCURSIONS CHILD €99 ADULT €139
Duration: Full day Tour code: PSD - 02 Our journey takes us first from Port Said to the largest city in Africa, Cairo and takes around two and a half hours. We travel through reclaimed cultivated desert and modern towns. Our first stop in the Egyptian capital is the Giza Plateau where we find the last remaining of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Great Pyramid. And it truly is a wonder the behold. Our panoramic view from the Western Plateau takes in the entire complex which also includes the Pyramid of Khafre and the Pyramid of Menkaure. All were built during the Fourth Dynasty of the Old Kingdom of Ancient Egypt. The area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Parking at the base of Chephren’s pyramid we have time to explore on our own before heading down the valley to visit the guardian of this extraordinary burial complex, the mysterious and enigmatic Sphinx. We leave Giza with a full appreciation of one the world’s most magnificent sights. Waiting for us on the banks of the mighty River Nile is a luxurious cruise boat to take us on the same timeless waterway travelled by the Pharaohs, the Queens and the Nobles many thousands of years ago. You can sit back, relax and enjoy a sumptuous buffet in the elegant surroundings as we sail past Cairo’s waterfront landmarks. A folklore show and belly dancing is performed for us. We dock and drive to the Citadel of Saladin and the Alabaster Mosque of Mohamed Ali where we can admire the exquisite interiors and the fascinating skyline of Old Cairo from the top of the hill. We make our final stop at a Papyrus Institute to see the ancient art of turning reeds into paper before having a little time for shopping ahead of our return to our ship at Port Said. THE PYRAMIDS & THE RIVER NILE IN STYLE Mosque of Muhammad Ali in the Citadel complex, Cairo Cruise the River Nile PORT SAID EXCURSIONS 6 CHILD €99 ADULT €139
8 Dome of the Rock ASHDOD EXCURSIONS
9 Duration: Full day Tour code: ASH - 01 There are some destinations in the world where you could well pinch yourself, hardly daring to believe you are actually there. The Holy Land with its place names indelibly etched on humanity must surely be one of those. The Via Dolorosa, Gethsemane, Temple Mount and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, the city of King David. The Church of the Nativity and Manger Square in Bethlehem. You may find it hard to take all this in, such is the magnitude of what we will see. Our momentous trip to the Holy Land begins in the important Israeli port city of Ashdod. Arriving in Jerusalem, we head for the cemetery on the Mount of Olives where Jesus went on Palm Sunday after arriving from Jericho. JERUSALEM & BETHLEHEM From this vantage point, there is the most stunning panorama across the walls of the Old City (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the Temple Mount and the golden Dome of the Rock and the Al Aqsa Mosque. We learn about where Jesus was betrayed by Judas Iscariot, arrested by the Romans and later sentenced by Pontius Pilate. We then travel to Bethlehem located in the West Bank to visit site of the birthplace of Jesus, the Church of the Nativity and Manger Square. Lunch is provided in Bethlehem and there is time for souvenir shopping before we head back to port. church of the Holy Sepulchre Wailing Wall and Temple Mount ASHDOD EXCURSIONS CHILD €99 ADULT €139
10 Duration: Half day Tour code: ASH - 04 Our half day tour in the Holy Land from the port of Ashdod offers us a few hours of real contrast. The ancient fortified city of Jaffa and modern, cosmopolitan Tel Aviv. In reality the two merge into one with the municipality known at Tel Aviv - Yafo. Our starting point of Ashdod which covers the land of two ancient cities, is the largest port in Israel and one of the oldest cities in the world. It was inhabited by the Philistines in biblical times and they captured the Ark of the Covenant from the Israelites and brought it here. Jaffa or Yafo in Hebrew is famed for its biblical associations with the stories of Jonah, Solomon and St Peter. And of course for its oranges. It’s one of the world’s oldest operating ports. It is atmospheric and charming with narrow streets, captivating architecture and beautiful views of Tel Aviv, just to the north. Its landmarks include the Greek Orthodox Monastery of Archangel Michael, St Peter’s Church and Clock Square with its lovely clocktower. Modern Tel Aviv on the Mediterranean coastline is called the ‘Non-Stop City’ because of its nightlife. It’s a real party capital. It is home to vibrant commercial and shopping centres and to most foreign embassies and has a distinctive skyscraper skyline. The city has an intriguing mix of architectural styles including Bauhaus and Art Deco. We will visit the colourful Carmel market and take in the sights and sound of this very lively metropolis. JAFFA & TEL AVIV Baklava at the market in Tel Aviv Old town and port of Jaffa, Tel Aviv View of Tel Aviv from Jaffa ASHDOD EXCURSIONS CHILD €59 ADULT €79
The Dead Sea The Dead Sea Duration: Half day Tour code: ASH - 06 Departure from Haifa to the Dead Sea, the lowest point in the world. We are enjoying the nice, quiet, calm atmosphere of the Judean Desert and the Road of the Good Samaritan along the coast of the Dead Sea. Massada. Climbing up in the Cable car to the top to the fortress built by Herod the Great, learning about the last uprising and the tragedy of the zealots, gazing at the ancient holy sites and the baths, the big cistern, the water project, and so on, surrounded by the old Roman walls. (Story by Josephus Flavius) Lunch break. Swimming break in Dead Sea. You can lie on your back on the water without sinking and read your newspaper! MASADA/DEAD SEA 11 ASHDOD EXCURSIONS CHILD €134 ADULT €169
Limassol LIMASSOL EXCURSIONS 12
13 Duration: Half day Tour code: LIM - 01 The colourful and vibrant city of Limassol is a huge tourist draw. It may have developed rapidly with large hotel complexes along the Mediterranean waterfront in the past few decades, but the heart of Limassol is still very much full of charm and character. Limassol is situated between the ancient cities of Amathus and Kourion (Curium). Its focal point in the old city is a medieval castle. On that site, the history books have it that Richard the Lionheart on one of his Crusades married Berengaria of Navarre and crowned her Queen of England in 1191. Although a visit to the castle is not included in our tour, there is free time to stroll around the old city. From the centre, a number of lanes fan out and old shuttered houses and modern shops sit comfortably side by side. The area buzzes with cafes, bars and restaurants, popular with visitors and the residents. Our excursion takes us on to Curium, once an important city-kingdom founded by the Greeks in the 14th century BC and now one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. It is situated in a magnificent place, west of Limassol and high up overlooking the sea. We visit the Greco-Roman amphitheatre and the House of Eustolios, originally a private villa but later opened to the masses with its complex of baths and rooms with beautiful mosaic floors. PANORAMIC LIMASSOL & CURIUM The amphitheatre has been painstakingly restored and is now used for musical and theatrical performances as well as being a major tourist attraction. Historic medieval city centre of Limassol Ancient theatre of Kourion Medieval castle of Kolossi LIMASSOL EXCURSIONS CHILD €49 ADULT €69
14 Duration: Full day Tour code: LIM - 02 Situated in the south west of Cyprus along the coast from Limassol, you will discover that Pafos combines the easy charm of a modern holiday resort with a real sense of history and culture. You will love its picturesque, taverna-lined harbour with a castle at the end. Pafos is one of the most important archaeological and historical sites of the region and the whole town is officially UNESCO listed because of the wealth of its treasures. These include the famous Tomb of the Kings, an absolutely must see for every visitor. Spread over a vast area these underground tombs date back to the 4th Century BC. Although they were the resting place of high officialdom rather than royalty, their magnificence gave them the name. Pafos lies south of one of the most beautiful and environmentally significant parts of Cyprus, the stunning national park of the Akamus. After the Tomb of the Kings our excursion takes us to Kato (Lower) Pafos for lunch and afterwards we call at the Archaeological Park which features more of the town’s antiquity, the Houses of Dionysos, Aion and Thysseus. The mosaic floors of these noblemen’s villas date back to between the 3rd and 5th centuries BC and are considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. Without doubt one of the greatest highlights of our tour is at the beginning of the day. On our drive to Pafos along the coast road from Limassol we stop at Petra Tou Romiou (‘Rock of the Roman’), known across the world as Aphrodite’s Rock. It was here according to Greek mythology that the Goddess of beauty and love was born. It is one of the most photographed and enigmatic places in Cyprus so have your camera or smartphone at the ready. Lunch is not included. PAFOS, THE CITY OF UNESCO Tomb of the Kings Aphrodite’s Rock LIMASSOL EXCURSIONS CHILD €59 ADULT €79
Duration: Full day Tour code: LIM - 03 Our day begins at the wonderful archaeological site of Curium, west of Limassol. It is among the most important sites of antiquity on the island and sits on a high point majestically overlooking the Mediterranean. Curium or Kourion was an ancient city-kingdom founded by the Greeks in the 14th Century BC. We visit the Greco-Roman amphitheatre and the House of Eustolios, originally a private villa but later opened to the masses with its complex of baths and rooms with beautiful mosaic floors. The amphitheatre has been restored and is often used for musical and theatrical performances as well as being a major tourist attraction. After exploring this splendid and evocative location we continue on our way, to the vineyard area of Limassol. Our destination is Omodos, one of the most traditional and beautiful villages on the island. After lunch we visit the Monastery of the Holy Cross and the medieval wine press. We’ll enjoy a little wine tasting in one of the villager’s cellars before heading back through colourful Limassol town to the port where our ship awaits. CURIUM, THE WINE VILLAGE OF OMODOS AND LIMASSOL Omodos village Monastery of the Holy Cross Ruins of Eustolios house at Kourion LIMASSOL EXCURSIONS 15 CHILD €64 ADULT €104
Duration: Half day Tour code: LIM - 04 This is a wonderfully delicious culinary tour which will give you an authentic and mouthwatering taste of Cyprus Not only will you prepare and sample tasty local dishes but you’ll also take part in the time-honoured tradition of basket-weaving - all in the beautiful surroundings of a traditional house belonging to an agricultural family. The location is the village of Choirokitia around 40 minutes drive from the popular tourist hub of Limassol. After a short stroll through the village’s picturesque alleys, we will be welcomed by Petros and his family at their traditional country house with its gorgeous courtyard. Petros is a great culinary talent specialising in Cypriot cuisine and also a highly experienced basket weaver. First we have the chance to participate in the preparation of fresh Halloumi and Anari cheeses. Then, with the cheese boiling process underway, Petros will show us how to weave traditional baskets out of thin bamboo. Pay close attention, because shortly afterwards it will be your turn. And since no effort should go unrewarded, you will get to savour all the Cyprus specialties, halloumi cheese, anari (sweet) warm cheese with honey or carob syrup, local olives, homemade bread, cucumber, tomato, fresh lemonade, water, Cyprus coffee. This is one traditional and authentic experience that is definitely not to be missed. Finally, our bus ride back to the port will be through Limassol and along the coast. EXPERIENCE THE TRADITION Fresh bread and olives Halloumi LIMASSOL EXCURSIONS 16 CHILD €59 ADULT €84
Duration: Full day Tour code: LIM - 05 On this very special full day tour, we discover Cyprus’ deep religious roots and their vital role in the history of Christianity. We visit beautiful awe-inspiring churches and monasteries, some of the most iconic on the island. The mountain range of Troodos is home to a veritable treasure trove of these sacred places largely untouched by time. Cyprus is located at the crossroads within the Eastern Mediterranean, the island boasts one of the largest concentrations of churches and monasteries dating back to the Byzantine Empire. Ten of these beautifullypreserved churches are included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Located in the areas of Pitsilia, Solea and Marathasa, they feature unique, steep-pitched timber roofs, chunky wooden doors and stunning interiors with icons and frescos of saints, apostles and stories from the Bible. During our tour we will visit two of these important and stunning churches in Solea region, Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis and Panagia Podithou. The church of Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis (St. Nicholas of the Roof) sits in the Solea Valley, 5km from Kakopetria village, and is UNESCO listed. This domed, cross-in-square church once belonged to a monastery complex and derives its name from its pitched timber roof that was built to protect it from severe weather. It is the only surviving monastery church of its kind on the island. The interior walls are covered with paintings from the 11th to the 17th century and this is one of the most interesting Byzantine churches in Cyprus. The church itself dates from the 11th century, while the monastery dates from the end of the 13th, beginning of the 14th century. It flourished from the Middle Byzantine period up to the period of the Frankish Empire and ceased functioning as a monastery by the end of the 19th century. Panagia Podithou is in Galata and one of four painted churches in the village. Once belonging to a monastery, the church was built in 1502 through the donation of Demetre de Coron and his wife Helen. Demetre, a captain of the barony of Pentageia. At the end of our excursion, we will visit the Kakopetria village, located in the Troodos mountain range. Thanks to its charming character and breath-taking scenery of pine forests across the Karkotis Valley, this pretty village is a popular summer resort. The village’s old quarter, featuring narrow, stone-paved alleys and restored two-storey houses with wooden balconies, is also a protected heritage site. UNESCO CHURCHES IN SOLEA REGION - 2 CHURCHES Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis 17 LIMASSOL EXCURSIONS CHILD €59 ADULT €84
Duration: Half day - LIMITED AVAILABILITY Tour code: LIM - 08 The Troodos is the largest mountain range in Cyprus, high above the popular beaches and busy resorts. And here on these tranquil and sun-kissed slopes sits the village of Omodos, a popular destination for those who enjoy wine, traditional arts and crafts, walking through streets little changed by time and wonderful views. This full bodied tour is an enriching experience for anyone, even more so if you love wine. The setting is incredible and you will return home with memories to treasure. Omodos has a long wine making history. It is inextricably linked to the island’s long history and tradition of the product. The two are synonymous. The famous True Cross Timios Stavros Monastery, with its numerous myths and legends is a major attraction at Omodos too. After spending time in the village we visit the Ktima Vassiliades Oenou Yi (or Land of Wine) to taste a full range of superb local wines, including Zivania and Commandaria. The winery spectacularly lies between the peaks of the Troodos and facing the magnificent Mount Olympus. The beautiful vineyards are laid out in amphitheatre style in the most stunning of locations. The wine is produced with years of love, devotion and dedication something you can feel when you are there and taste in the produce. The winery was founded in 2017, by lawyer and winemaker Christodoulos G. Vassiliades. It is a new venture in viticulture and wine production but brings with it centuries of wine tradition. For wine lovers this is a fascinating and exceptional few hours. For everyone it is an opportunity to replenish to soul in the peace of the Troodos. LIMASSOL OMODOS - OENOU YI WINERY The Christian orthodox monastery Omodos village AUTHENTIC ENCOUNTERS EXPERIENCES JUST FOR YOU AND A FEW - FOR 15-20 GUESTS 18 LIMASSOL EXCURSIONS ADULT €79
19 RHODES EXCURSIONS Town of Lindos and Acropolis of Lindos
Duration: Half day Tour code: RHO - 01 Let’s begin in unusual fashion, with what you won’t see in Rhodes. One of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World once proudly stood here. He was the Colossus of Rhodes and is of course long departed, probably destroyed by an earthquake. Nevertheless as you arrive on this wonderful, historic island, you may just be able to imagine this statue of the Greek sun-god Helios in 280BC, standing 100 feet tall in celebration of Rhodes’ victory over Cyprus. The largest of the Dodecanese islands, Rhodes has a compelling back story and there are still remnants of its occupation by the Knights of St John during the Crusades. So while the Colossus may not be there, you will be wowed by the many historical sites. We travel first to Lindos, about 55km from Rhodes Town and high above the village sits the impressive Acropolis of Lindos with the Doric Temple of Athena, built in 300 BC. Captains’ mansions constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries are dotted here and there and in the heart of Lindos is the Church of the Virgin Mary with lovely frescoes from the 15th Century. Back in Rhodes is where we are really immersed in the history of the island in the Knights’ Quarter. ACROPOLIS OF LINDOS AND THE CITADEL OF THE KNIGHTS We stroll through Gate d’Amboise to walk along the Street of the Knights and see where they lived, separated according to Order, their crests still visible today. We will also see (outside) the imposing Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, a medieval castle also known as the Kastello. It’s one of the few examples of Gothic architecture in Greece. The Byzantine citadel was built in the 7th Century, the palace itself in the fourteenth. Where the palace sits today could well have been the spot where once stood the Colossus according to recent studies. Either way, this tour takes us into the heart of the fascinating history of Rhodes. Gate d’Amboise Acropolis of Lindos RHODES EXCURSIONS 20 CHILD €59 ADULT €79
Duration: Half day Tour code: RHO - 02 Our tour begins at the Acropolis of Rhodes, just outside the city. It dates from the Classical Greek period and sits proudly on the hill of St Stephanos. We wander through the ruins of the Hellenistic Temple of Apollo with its impressive columns. Below is the restored Ancient Stadium of Diagoras and theatre. The stadium once hosted games in tribute to the sun-god Helios. We then head for Philerimos, one of the great tourist attractions of the island. The beautiful Monastery of Panagia Philerimos is located on a hill above Ialyssos, one of the three Rhodian cities that participated in the Trojan War. The Monastery, accessed by stone steps surrounded by Cypress trees, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary the Life-Giving Source and unusually is Gothic in style. It was built in the 15th Century by the Knights of St John. We also take time to visit the Byzantine Church of St George Hostos with its rare frescoes depicting the Knights. Philerimos is also home to the ‘Golgotha’ a series of copper reliefs depicting the Passion of Christ. We return to the capital Rhodes to learn more about the Knights, where they lived and how they were the last bastion of Christianity in a region dominated by the Ottomans who eventually captured the island in 1522. In the Knights’ Quarter we visit the magnificent Palace of the Grandmaster also known at the Kastello. This too was built in Gothic style. This is one of the most atmospheric and intriguing areas of Rhodes, where we delve into the very heart and soul of its history. Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes Monastery of Panagia Philerimos Philerimos PHILERIMOS CHURCH AND THE PALACE OF THE KNIGHTS 21 RHODES EXCURSIONS CHILD €59 ADULT €79
Duration: Half day Tour code: RHO - 11 Sometimes the best way of immersing yourself completely in the history and atmosphere of a place is to explore on foot. That’s exactly what we do on this fascinating tour where we get to the very heart of Medieval Rhodes and the compelling story of the Knights of St John of Jerusalem. We begin along the Street of the Knights in the Old City. It’s one the best preserved medieval thoroughfares anywhere. We will see the buildings that were home to the Knights, ranked by Order with the crests still in place today. The purpose of the Knights originally was to provide medical care for wounded crusaders but they soon became a military order and fought off attempts by the Ottomans to capture Rhodes (which they did eventually). The head of the Order was the Grand Master. We visit the splendid Palace of the Grand Master, the focal point and most important site of the Knights’ Quarter. This magnificent structure is also called the Kastello is a fine example of Gothic architecture. The Byzantine citadel was constructed in the 7th Century, the palace itself in the 14th Century. Where the palace sits today might have been the spot where once stood the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Our tour also takes in the Mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent, Turkish Baths, the Hospital of the Knights and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle, which has stood guard since the 11th Century. View from the walls of the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights Street of the Knights in the Old City Grand Master of the Knights Palace WALKING TOUR IN THE MEDIEVAL CITY OF RHODES RHODES EXCURSIONS 22 CHILD €32 ADULT €49
Duration: Half day - LIMITED AVAILABILITY Tour code: RHO - 17 If you have ever wanted to get into the very heart and soul of Greek culture and civilisation, this is the perfect opportunity. This highly specialist tour give a fascinating insight into and a greater understanding of the history of Greece and how it developed. Pottery has played a huge part in Greek culture since the earliest times. It’s extraordinary beautiful, distinctive, colourful and elaborate and was considered to be a gift worthy of dedication to the Gods. And it represents an important record to help us understand the different periods of Ancient Greek life. There were four major pottery styles in Ancient Greece, red figure and black figure, Corinthian and geometric. The ancient Greeks used ceramic vessels in every aspect of their daily lives, for storage, carrying, mixing, serving, and drinking, and as cosmetic and perfume containers. Today pottery plays a big role in the souvenir industry. This tour gives us a fascinating insight into this key aspect of Greek history. Rhodes has long been known is known for its tradition in pottery and ceramics. Records show how clay bricks from Rhodes were used in the construction of the dome of the magnificent Hagia Sofia Byzantine church in Istanbul. We head to the north side of the island enjoying the panoramic views of the sweeping Rhodian countryside. At the Bonis Ceramic Factory we find out about the various techniques adopted in pottery making. After a demonstration from one of the craftsmen, you will be invited to enhance your pottery skills and gain a very good hands-on understanding of the various techniques in order to help you make your own ceramic item. It will be shipped back to you. After your hard work you will have earned some refreshing ouzo and Greek meze at the factory showroom before we head back to Rhodes Town. MAKING POTTERY FIT FOR THE GODS AUTHENTIC ENCOUNTERS EXPERIENCES JUST FOR YOU AND A FEW - FOR 10-16 GUESTS 23 RHODES EXCURSIONS ADULT €109
KUSADASI EXCURSIONS Kusadasi
Duration: Half day Tour code: KUS - 01 We say with Celestyal every moment is a destination and every destination is a wonder. That’s more than just a figure of speech. In some cases it’s literally true. So our visit to Ephesus brings us to the site of the fourth of our Seven Wonders. Ephesus was an Ancient Greek city on the coast of Ionia. It’s now in Turkey. It was famed for the nearby Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders, completed around 550BC. The temple, with more than 100 marble pillars each standing 56 feet tall took 120 years to build and it earned the city the name ‘Servant of the Goddess.’ A single solitary pillar remains standing on the site, found during an excavation in the 1870s. As with so many places in the Eastern Mediterranean, Ephesus changed hands many times over the centuries. But it remains one of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the region. You will be in awe of this incredible historic complex and the ruins you explore still give some idea of the original splendour of Ephesus. Among the sights to be admired still are the iconic and instantly recognisable Library of Celsus, the Gate of Augustus, Magnesian Gate, the Agora, Odeon, the Houses of the Patricians, the Great Theatre, Hadrian’s Temple and the House of the Virgin Mary. HOUSE OF VIRGIN MARY & ANCIENT EPHESUS One legend suggests Mary may have spent her last years here following Jesus’ instruction to St John the Evangelist to look after his mother. Many consider it to have been her final home and it has become a place of pilgrimage. In 1957 the Vatican formalised this recognition. Three Popes have visited. Another reason why Ephesus is important in Christianity is that the apostle Paul lived, preached and wrote extensively here including his Letter to the Corinthians. Our tour includes time to shop for carpets, souvenirs, jewellery, leather and other goods. Ephesus is one of the largest, most fascinating and most inspiring open-air archaeological museums in the world. This is an excursion you are unlikely to forget. The wishing wall at the house of the Virgin Mary Library of Celsus 25 KUSADASI EXCURSIONS CHILD €64 ADULT €89
ANCIENT EPHESUS THROUGH THE AGES - HELLENISTIC AND ROMAN Baths of Scholastica The Temple of Hadrian Trajan’s Fountain Duration: Half day Tour code: KUS - 02 This is a wonderful journey through some of the most important and formative periods of history and we hope you will be enthralled by the stories of the Hellenes, Romans, the Ottomans and of Christianity in our fascinating exploration of Ephesus. This marvellous city, sitting on the hills outside Kusadasi and overlooking the Aegean is a fabulous open air archaeological wonder founded by the Greeks around 2000 BC. It was one of the most important cities of the region and was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. The Temple built in her honour was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. It had more than 100 marble pillars each standing 56 feet tall and it earned the city the name ‘Servant of the Goddess.’ A single pillar remains standing on the site, found during an excavation in the 1870s. We will be able to see the Agora, Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the marvel-paved Main Street of Curetes, the Baths of Scholastica, Trajan’s Fountain, the Temple of Hadrian and the Houses of Koressus, where the wealthy families of Ancient Ephesus lived. Only 13 per cent of Ephesus has so far been uncovered. The finds from the excavations made so far are housed in the Archaeological Museum of Ephesus in the city of Selcuk. We have time for shopping for carpets, jewellery, leather and other souvenirs at the end of our tour. KUSADASI EXCURSIONS 26 CHILD €59 ADULT €79
Duration: Half day Tour code: KUS - 07 Every step we take in Ancient Ephesus brings us closer to the Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian eras. We will enjoy a truly exceptional experience in one of the most important and complete classical cities in Europe, even though only a fraction of it has been uncovered. We pass through the Magnesian Gate and wander through the Agora, Odeon, the magnificent and restored Library of Celsus, the marble-paved Main Street of Curetes, Baths of Scholastica, The Great Theatre, Trajan’s Fountain, the Houses of the Patricians, Prytaneum and the Temple of Hadrian. Opposite Hadrian’s Temple, at the foot of the Bulbul Hill and the covered part of the archaeological site, protected from the heat and natural elements, lie the Houses of Koressus or Terrace Houses. It was here that the wealthy families of Ancient Ephesus lived. These villas are excellently preserved, especially the interior decor. The oldest houses so far unearthed date from the 1st Century BC, were built on two storeys and even had hot and cold water and a heating system, clay pipes under the floor. The houses were constructed to a city plan in which roads intersected with each other at right angles. Ephesus, which became the second largest city in the Roman Empire, was dedicated to the goddess Artemis and the magnificent temple built to honour her took 120 years to complete. It is one of six of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that have long gone. Our tour includes time to shop for carpets, souvenirs, jewellery, leather and other goods. ANCIENT EPHESUS AND THE TERRACE HOUSES Library of Celsus Main Street of Curetes Ancient Roman Mosaics from Terrace Houses 27 KUSADASI EXCURSIONS CHILD €64 ADULT €89
Duration: Full day Tour code: KUS - 08 This is a truly spectacular day. We leave the port city of Kusadasi for Ephesus, one of the 12 cities of Ionia. This is a stunning marvel in the hills above the Aegean and one of the world’s largest and important open-air archaeological museums. It was also the home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis. Ephesus was founded by the Ancient Greeks around 2000 BC. It was the wealthiest of the Ionian cities and became one of the key cultural centres in the Mediterranean. The city was dedicated to the goddess Artemis. The temple built in her honour took 120 years to complete. Ephesus later became the second largest city in the Roman Empire and is rivalled only by the Forum and the Acropolis as one of the most complete classical cities in Europe. Even so, only 13 per cent of Ephesus has been uncovered. We wander through the Odeon and the Prytaneion, stroll the marble colonnades of Curetes Street to visit Trajan’s Fountain, Hadrian’s Temple, Scholastica Baths and the astonishing Terrace Houses. Nearby is the spectacular Library of Celsus, almost entirely reconstructed, and the Agora. The Great Theatre of Ephesus where St Paul once preached, held crowds of up to 24,000. Today it still hosts concerts and other performances. On the way we will have a stop to do some souvenir shopping, carpets, jewellery, leather etc and enjoy a light lunch. We then head for the ancient coastal city of Miletus, another of the greatest and wealthiest cities in Ancient Greece and one of the first to mint coins. Homer mentioned Miletus in The Iliad and Paul preached here on the way back to Jerusalem. There are many well preserved ruins here, including the Temple of Apollo and a Byzantine church. ANCIENT EPHESUS & MILETUS The Great Theatre of Ephesus Temple of Artemis 28 KUSADASI EXCURSIONS CHILD €64 ADULT €94
29 Duration: Half day - LIMITED AVAILABILITY Tour code: KUS-11 Sometimes you visit a place and metaphorically rub your eyes because you can’t quite believe you are there. We think Ephesus is one such destination. Every step we take brings us closer to the incredible civilisations of the Hellenes, Romans and Ottomans. Here once stood one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Temple of Artemis. Our visit to Ephesus is the very essence of experiential travel and we are proud to be able to show it to you in the company of an expert archaeologist-guide as we feel, see and touch ancient history. What a magnificent experience to take away and hold onto forever. Ephesus ranks among the world’s most beautiful classical cities. St John and the Virgin Mary visited and here St Paul wrote one of his most celebrated epistles, the Letter to the Ephesians. Beginning at the Magnesium Gate we walk gently and leisurely downhill through Ephesus’ marble streets, passing historically-significant sites such as the gymnasium, Temple of Hadrian, Upper Agora and Roman Baths. Opposite Hadrian’s Temple, at the foot of the Bulbul Hill and the covered part of the archaeological site, protected from the heat and natural elements, lie the Houses of Koressus or Terrace Houses. It was here that the wealthy families of Ancient Ephesus lived. These villas are excellently preserved, especially the interior decor. The oldest houses so far unearthed date from the 1st Century BC, were built on two storeys and even had hot and cold and a heating system, clay pipes under the floor. Then we come to the breathtaking Celsus Library, built in 135 B.C. and lavishly decorated with facades, columns and sculptures. The library once housed 12,000 scrolls of papyrus manuscripts, making it one of the largest in the ancient world. A short walk away is the spectacular Greek Theatre, able to seat 24,000. From here St. Paul preached to the populace, imploring them to give up their worship of Artemis and embrace the Christian faith. Only foundations and fragment of the magnificent Temple of Artemis remain at Ephesus but just being at the site of one of the Seven Wonders is something special. ANCIENT CIVILISATIONS WITH AN EXPERT ARCHAEOLOGIST Ephesus AUTHENTIC ENCOUNTERS EXPERIENCES JUST FOR YOU AND A FEW - FOR 10-20 GUESTS KUSADASI EXCURSIONS ADULT €89
30 Parthenon ATHENS EXCURSIONS
Duration: Half day Tour code: PIR - 01 A walk with us through the very heart of Athens brings us to one of most recognisable, historic and most photographed sites in the world, the famous Acropolis with the Parthenon at its summit. It is a reminder of Ancient Greece’s powerful civilisation and the greatest architectural complex bequeathed by Greek Antiquity. The monuments on the Acropolis (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) have survived for almost 25 centuries. On this hill that still dominates Athens, democracy and philosophy were born so it is little wonder that a visit to Classical Athens is quite simply awe-inspiring. The Parthenon is dedicated to the goddess Athena, protector of the city. At the foot of the Acropolis and its ancient temples lies the oldest neighbourhood of Athens, Plaka. Visitors are mesmerised and charmed by its beautiful houses, cobblestone streets and tiny shops, architecture, elegant atmosphere and neo-classical colours and the well preserved gardens and Byzantine churches. 31 ATHENS MONUMENTS AND THE ACROPOLIS As we head away from the Acropolis and Plaka, we pass the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament with the familiar sentries or Evzones, synonymous with the city. No visit to Athens can be complete without a stop at the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. We also see the ‘Trilogy of Athens’ which comprises the University of Athens, National Library and the Academy of Athens. Our three hour odyssey through ancient history ends appropriately at the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma, the very centre of modern day Athens. Panathenaic Stadium Acropolis ATHENS EXCURSIONS CHILD €59 ADULT €84
Duration: Half day Tour code: PIR - 03 A visit to the central of Athens and a walk on the historical hill of the Acropolis which carries the renowned Parthenon atop its shoulders, which is dedicated to the goddess Athena, protector of the city of Athens. Its inauguration took place in 438 B.C. at the Great Panathenaea. Below the Acropolis hill lies the oldest neighbourhood of Athens, Plaka. Plaka resembles a picturesque little village within a busy big city. You will be mesmerized by the beauty of the houses with neoclassic colours, the architecture, the well-preserved gardens and Byzantine churches, the elegance and the atmosphere of the whole area. Leaving the historical hill of Acropolis, you will pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Greek Parliament Building. A stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896, is necessary. Next follows the stylish “Trilogy of Athens”, which was constructed at the end of the 19th century: the old building of the University of Athens, the National Library and the Academy of Athens. The excursion comes to an end with a trip through the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma, the heart of modern Athens. CLASSICAL ATHENS AND ITS MONUMENTS Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Parthenon Plaka ATHENS EXCURSIONS 32 CHILD €59 ADULT €75
Duration: Half day Tour code: PIR - 07 We head to central Athens for a panoramic tour of the city named after the goddess of wisdom and warfare. First we see the magnificent Temple of Zeus, standing at the south east of the Acropolis. The Temple is dedicated to the father of the 12 gods. We continue past the Greek Parliament Building and stop at the Panathenaic Stadium which staged the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. We arrive at the “Trilogy of Athens”: three 19th century buildings, influenced by classical architecture, on Panepistimiou Street. A trip through Omonia Square and Syntagma Square, the epicentre of modern Athens, will bring us to the beautiful, picturesque preserved quarter of Plaka, beneath the Acropolis. Our final destination is the modern, bright and imposing Acropolis Museum. Opened in 2009 and on multiple levels, it houses a whole host of exhibits of classical antiquity and is thematic. It’s the perfect way to draw everything together and give context to the wonderful structures you have just seen. At the end of our journey we hope you will have a full appreciation of the glories of classical Athens and a sense of one of the most historically important capitals in the world. ATHENS TOUR AND THE NEW ACROPOLIS MUSEUM Acropolis The Hellenic Parliament building in Syntagma Square ATHENS EXCURSIONS 33 CHILD €59 ADULT €84
Duration: Full day Tour code: PIR - 08 Our starting point for this truly monumental tour is the Acropolis, which means ‘high city.’ At the end of our journey we hope you will have a full appreciation of the glories of the very heart of Athens. This historic hill is the home of the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, and a number of other monuments. They include the Propylaea, originally part of Pericles’ great rebuilding programme and the Temple of Athena Nike. This once contained a wooden statue of Athena. It was wingless signifying she would never leave Athens. Meanwhile, the Erechtheion and its marble edifice is an Ancient Greek temple on the north side of the Acropolis. The eastern part is dedicated to Athena Polias and the western part to Poseidon-Erechtheus. From the hill you can marvel at the glorious stone theatre structure of the Odeon Herodes Atticus on the southwest slope. To bring us up to date, many of the world’s biggest names have performed here including Frank Sinatra, Luciano Pavarotti and of course Nana Mouskouri. The modern, bright and imposing Acropolis Museum is our next stop. Opened in 2009 it houses a whole host of exhibits of classical antiquity and is thematic. THE ACROPOLIS & THE NEW ACROPOLIS MUSEUM It’s the perfect way to draw everything together and give context to the wonderful structures you have just seen. We leave the high city and pass the Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. We make a stop at the site of the first modern Olympiad in 1896, the Panathenaic Stadium and then visit the stylish ‘Trilogy of Athens’, the old building of the University of Athens, the National Library and the Academy of Athens. We end our day with a trip through the epicentre of modern day Athens, the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma. This is a monumental excursion of discovery, literally and figuratively. New Acropolis Museum Odeon Herodes Atticus 34 ATHENS EXCURSIONS CHILD €69 ADULT €94
Duration: Half day - LIMITED AVAILABILITY Tour code: PIR - 11 Join us on a very special journey. Come and share our love for Athens and its cuisine on a tour that brings the senses well and truly alive in more ways than one. Sharing our passion for Greece and all things Greek is what we do. It’s our mission to inspire you and where better to start than Classical Athens, the cradle of civilisation and the birthplace of democracy. Here we experience together in a panoramic tour, some of the world’s most magnificent and historic sites. The Acropolis and the majestic and magnificent Parthenon. The Changing of the Guard outside Parliament, Syntagma Square. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, National Academy, Academy University, Old Parliament and the Russian Orthodox Church. There is yet more to marvel at and be inspired by. Panathinaiko Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games, the new classical Zappion and the Roman temple of Zeus and Arch of Hadrian. Then it’s time to share the delicious and evocative tastes and smells of traditional Greek cuisine. We drop into a traditional kafenio - or coffee shop for a Greek coffee and some great hospitality. Then a stroll through the bustling central market and the spice market. Once you have taken in the air on Evripidou Street, the distinctive scent will be hard to forget. Breathe in. Scents help make the most wonderful memories too, a proven fact. The intriguing aromas comes from the mix of foods and spices wafting out from the open-fronted stores. After this aromatic experience we will most certainly be ready to try the traditional souvlaki in Monastiraki a market neighbourhood in the old town and one of the main shopping districts in Athens. The area is home to clothing boutiques, souvenir shops, and specialty stores, and is a major tourist attraction bargain shopping. Then its time to visit a traditional sweet shop for a mouthwatering taste of delicious loukoumades, yeastrisen dough puffs, deep fried to golden brown, drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon. Our final stop on this unique tour of history, culture and gastronomy is a visit to one of Athens oldest distilleries in famous Plaka, in the shadow of the Acropolis, to sample the local tsipouro or ouzo. A perfect end to a day filled with wonderful sights, sounds, smells and flavours. You won’t forget that heady combination. ATHENS FOOD ON FOOT AUTHENTIC ENCOUNTERS EXPERIENCES JUST FOR YOU AND A FEW - FOR 9-15 GUESTS ATHENS EXCURSIONS 35 ADULT €129
For more information and bookings please visit celestyal.com or your local travel agent We can’t wait to share the beautiful Blue. All we’re missing is you! YOUR GREEK WELCOME IS WAITING!
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