Piraeus is the gateway to Athens, the "Cradle of Western Civilization," famed for its lasting cultural and political influence. Driven by tourism and the 2004 Olympics, Greece has redeveloped many sites. Athens remains a historian's delight, with the Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka's winding streets, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Archaeological Museum's renowned ancient artifacts.

Volos is a city situated at the center of the Greek mainland, north of Athens. It is the capital of Magnesia prefecture. Modern Volos is built on the ancient cities of Demetrias, Pagasae and Iolkos. To the west of Volos there are the Neolithic settlements of Dimini with a ruined acropolis, walls and two beehive tombs dated between 4000-1200 BC, and Sesklo with the remains of the oldest acropolis in Greece (6000 BC), as well as examples of Neolithic civilizations.

With a history spanning more than two millennia, Thessaloniki reigned alongside Constantinople as a capital of the Byzantine Empire. So numerous are the outstanding Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments that as a group they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the ornate church and sacred crypt of St. Demetrius, the city's martyred patron saint, or the palace complex of Galerius and the mosaics in the Rotunda. The Archaeological Museum holds even more ancient treasures.

Once serving as the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, Istanbul today offers impressive architecture, historic sites, dining, shopping, nightlife and exotic atmosphere. Spend time in the Old City to explore renowned places, like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.

Once serving as the capital of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires, Istanbul today offers impressive architecture, historic sites, dining, shopping, nightlife and exotic atmosphere. Spend time in the Old City to explore renowned places, like the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.

Mykonos, steeped in Greek myth, was named after Apollo's grandson, Mykons, and linked to the battle between Zeus and the Gigantes. Today it's one of Greece's most beloved destinations, known for its postcard scenery and lively nightlife. It showcases classic Cycladic architecture, with even new buildings required by law to match the whitewashed, cube-like style. Visit Little Venice, Paraportiani Church, and the Delos archaeological site.

Santorini's dramatic views-whitewashed houses clinging to the caldera, plus white, red, and black-sand beaches-make it one of the world's most photographed places. Visit Ancient Akrotiri, a town preserved by ash from an eruption 3,600 years ago, and take a day trip to Palea (Old) Kameni and Nea (New) Kameni, two black-lava islands in the center of the Santorini basin.

Heraklion, Crete's capital, offers two must-sees: the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, with Minoan treasures and artifacts spanning 5,500+ years, and the Palace of Knossos, a Minoan center dating to c.2000 BC and linked to the Minotaur's Labyrinth. Enjoy harbor views from the 13th-century fortress and waterfront, then try fish taverns serving Cretan dishes like kaltsounia with raki.

Step back in time at Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games - now deemed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Relive the roaring cheers of the spectators as the athletes took their marks on the marble starting blocks, and picture the temples, the treasuries, the porticoes and statues as they were.

Kotor is a coastal town in Montenegro, located in a most secluded part of the Gulf of Kotor. The old port, surrounded by an impressive city wall built by the House of Nemanjicc, is very well preserved and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Numerous other attractions include the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166), and ancient walls which stretch directly above the city. Nightlife also attracts tourists to Kotor with pubs, taverns, cafes, and nightclubs.

Split is the largest Croatian city on the Adriatic coast. It is famous for Diocletian's Palace, built as the Roman emperor's retirement home; its stone structure, grounds, and cellars are a major highlight. Other sights include the Cathedral of St. Duje, on the remains of an ancient shrine said to be the world's oldest, and the Mestrovic Gallery, featuring works by Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic in his former home and atelier.

Located in northeastern Italy, Trieste's geography and storied past helped make it one of the country's richest regions. A shopper's paradise, it has designer boutiques for men and women, plus outdoor markets selling everything from fruit to antiques. Enjoy pasta in an old-style osteria, a cozy little place with a handful of tables and cheerful locals.