The Isles of Greece: Izmir, the Birthplace of Homer

DAY SIX

Today we arrive in the Turkish coastal city of Izmir where we will dock for two days and have the opportunity to participate in one or more of four tours: ancient Ephesus, Pergamon, Aphrodisias and a city tour of Izmir. Izmir, the birthplace of Homer, is Turkey’s third largest city, tucked into a natural harbor on the Aegean coast. Our bus trip in itself is interesting as we drive around the gulf through rolling hills and rich agricultural land producing peaches, oranges, pomegranates, olives of course, and cotton for those thick Turkish towels!

Ancient Ephesus played a part in both ancient Greek and then Roman history.  Its Terrace Houses under restoration across from the Temple of Hadrian, the Library of Celsus and the Grand Theatre that seated 25,000 and where St. Paul preached are all nothing short of awesome. The tours are organized with particular care for an age group where walking on uneven ground can be challenging. But what amazing Zoomers we are! A woman from the U.S. has brought her 90-year-old mother, who sprints along the Upper Agora with determination and vigor.

 

READ MORE THE ISLES OF GREECE

DAY 1 – Istanbul
DAY 2 – Hippodrome, Blue Mosque, St. Sophie and Topkapi Palace
DAY 3 – The Grand Bazaar
DAY 4 – Birthday in  Lemnos
DAY 5 – Mamma Mia, Skiathos
DAY 6 – Izmir, the Birthplace of Homer
DAY 7 –  Pergamon
DAY 8 – Delos and Mykonos, Islands of the Cyclades
DAY 9 – Beautiful Santorini
DAY 10 – The Palace of Knossos, Crete
DAY 11 – 4 Castles in Nauplia
DAY 12 – Journey’s End in Athens

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VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY: THE ISLES OF GREECE
Bonnie Baker-Cowan travelled on a Voyages to Antiquity cruise called The Isles of Greece hosted by Exclusive Tours. Read all about her adventures on board the Aegean Odyssey, a modern, slimmed-down cruise ship (only 350 passengers) making its way from Istanbul to Athens by way of Lemnos, Skiathos, Izmir, Delos, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Nauplia, and Piraeus.

Live your own adventure. Cruise to Classical Civilizations on a Voyages to Antiquity cruise and discover the art, history and cultures of the ancient world.
Book today: 1.866.341.1777 or www.exclusivetours.ca