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.

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.

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.

Izmir, curled around a cerulean bay, blends 4,000 years of history with a lively cosmopolitan vibe. Enjoy the Mediterranean waterfront, sampling boyoz, kumru, kokoreç and lokma with strong Turkish coffee. See the Roman agora, the patterned clock tower in Konak Square, and the 500-year-old Kemeralti Bazaar. Visit the archaeological museum and take a cable car for panoramic views of the "Pearl of the Aegean."

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.