Iconic Mediterranean Treasures

Explore the rugged remains of legendary Troy with an expert guide and take in the sights of Çanakkale. Meet your guide and drive into Anatolia to view the incredibly preserved city of Troy—once a thriving ancient city of Asia Minor, today this archaeological site shows evidence that as many as nine settlements existed on this spot over millennia. As you navigate its elevated walkways, you will hear about its importance as the setting of the Trojan War. Troy saw its peak as part of the Roman Empire under Augustus but lost its sway as Constantinople and the Byzantine Empire rose to prominence. Hear the story of Helen of Troy and see the walls that were besieged during the war. As you explore, your guide will share insights that bring the city’s rich history to life. Later, return to Çanakkale for an orientation tour and time to explore on your own before returning to your ship.

Delve into the history and enduring mythology of ancient Troy during a visit to the Troy Museum. Meet your guide and set out on a drive by motor coach along the Çanakkale waterfront, which runs along the Dardanelles Strait. Pause for photographs at the replica of the Trojan Horse statue, situated directly on the coastal promenade—this wooden landmark was used in the 2004 film Troy and was later donated to the city. Continue your drive to the Troy Museum and upon arrival, step inside to discover its exhibits, consisting of thousands of artifacts spanning several millennia, including stone sculptures and inscriptions, ceramics, coins and more. As you stroll through its halls, gain insight into the story of Troy, from the legendary city described by Homer to the archaeological Troy that has been excavated over the last 150 years. After, return to your ship.

Visit the tranquil memorial site of one of World War I’s longest and most deadly battles. Drive across the Dardanelles Strait to Eceabat on the Gallipoli Peninsula, site of a failed eight-month Allied campaign against the Ottomans during World War I. Stop to visit the Kabatepe Museum and view exhibits that chronicle the naval and land campaigns of the Gallipoli Campaign, before continuing to Gallipoli National Park. Here, you will explore the park by foot and visit monuments and cemeteries honoring the dead of both sides in a sylvan setting of forest and groves. See ANZAC Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery, each dedicated to servicemen from the British Empire, including the legendary Australia and New Zealand Army Corps. Then visit the Turkish 57th Regiment Cemetery and Conkbayir Hill, site of some of the fiercest fighting. After, return to your ship.

Discover the dramatic ruins and Aegean setting of Assos, one of ancient Greece’s major outposts. Drive with your guide to visit modern-day Behramkale, the former site of the ancient city of Assos. This historic village, once home to the philosopher Aristotle, was an important cultural and philosophical center in antiquity—today, its ruins offer a glimpse into the past. Here, the timeworn pillars of the Temple of Athena stand atop a scenic hillside that offers sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. Explore the fascinating ruins with your guide and, on a clear day, take in the stunning views of the island of Lesbos across the water, then transfer to smaller vehicles so you may descend to the ancient port at the water’s edge. See the old stone houses that dot this coastal village and sample a taste of local wine before returning to your ship.