Visit Athens to explore the Acropolis, admire the Parthenon and ancient temples, and enjoy stunning city views. See key landmarks like the old and new Olympic stadiums. Travel to Cape Sounion to view the Temple of Poseidon or head to ancient Corinth to see the impressive Corinth Canal.

History buffs will rejoice in Çanakkale. Located on the southern shore at the narrowest point in the Dardanelles Strait, Çanakkale was a major point in the defense of the Dardanelles from the time of the mythological Trojan War. A gateway to both Troy and battlefields of Gallipoli, travelers have plenty of compelling options for exploration here. In town, top choices include Çimenlik Castle and the accompanying naval museum and photo opportunities with the Trojan Horse statue used in the movie Troy. For epicureans, there is a vast array of Turkish dishes to indulge in, including piruhi, a type of dumpling; tumbi, a bite-sized fried appetizer of bulgur, tomato and eggplant; and of course, meze, a platter of shareable small dishes such as olives, cheeses, meats, stuffed mussels and more.

Visit the great Minoan ruins of the Palace of Knossos, famous as the home of the labyrinth where the Minotaur roamed, and the archaeological museum that houses many superb artifacts from the complex. Explore the stunning, mountain-fringed Lassithi plateau with its orchards, 7,000 windmills and ancient villages

Meander through Tunis’ opulent, historic medina with its winding alleys and souks. Visit the superb Bardo Museum with its spectacular Roman mosaics or the lovely whitewashed village of Sidi Bou Saïd, perched on a cliff above the sea, a charming spot of cobbled streets, flower-filled courtyards and ornate window grills painted deep blue.

Immerse yourself in the glorious history of this ancient city and its magnificent monuments, like the imposing Norman cathedral and the majestic 9th century Arab palace and its breathtaking Palatine Chapel. Admire the marvelous opera house and the artifacts in the archaeological museum.

Visit enchanting Amalfi to admire the 12th century Capuchin monastery and see the beautiful 11th century cathedral and cloister. Then discover chic Positano with its relaxed, sophisticated air and white Moorish-style houses clinging to steep slopes around a sparkling bay filled with colorful fishing boats.

Travel to Rome and revel in the magnificent monuments, from the ancient Roman Forum and Coliseum to the splendor of St. Peter’s Basilica with Michelangelo’s Pietà and his breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Or enjoy a drive through the lush farmlands of the Roman countryside to lovely medieval Castelgandolfo.