5 Best Cruises To Greece

Is the economic turmoil in Greece deterring you from planning that dream cruise to the Greek islands? Don't let it. Prices in port are likely to be more tourist-friendly, now, and there are plenty of fantastic ships to make cruises to Greece memorable.

Visit a variety of some of the world's oldest and most awe-inspiring wonders, as you stand side by side with 34-foot columns at the Parthenon, for example. Before embarking on your journey from Rome, visit landmarks like the Colosseum or St. Peter's Basilica.

From Greek cruises focusing solely on the country and its islands to ventures beginning in another significant western influence, Italy, our list of the five best cruises to Greece is sure to have an itinerary fit for you and your party.

Cruise to the Greek Isles on this seven-day cruise aboard Wind Star, and experience a Mediterranean adventure to remember on one of the best Greek-island cruises. Starting and ending in Athens, this Windstar cruise visits six other ports throughout Greece and includes a stop in Kuşadası, Turkey.

Along the way, guests will have the opportunity to visit nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites (landmarks like the Acropolis, for example). Stand atop Palamidi, a fortress in Nafplio, after climbing 999 rock steps. In Monemvasia, walk with a loved one through the streets, as classic, romantic castles rise above from seemingly every angle.

Windstar Cruises also have 40 different shore excursions available across all stops. Ranging anywhere from four to eight hours and $79 to $1,800, these activities include eating, drinking, boating, sightseeing and more.

All guests are treated to an "Evening in Ephesus," too. The Library of Celsus in Selçuk, Turkey, is exclusively accommodates Wind Star's passengers, as guests partake in a five-course meal in the courtyard outside the ancient Roman library that once housed over 12,000 scrolls more than 2,000 years ago.

Cruise Greece while enjoying 10 nights aboard Celebrity Edge, as travelers are offered the chance to explore arguably the two most influential cultures in the West. This cruise departs from Rome and stops at seven other ports (five in Greece, two in Italy) with two days at sea mixed in before returning to its origin.

Passengers have access to 124 excursions across the itinerary's eight destinations. The most varied excursions are in Rome, Athens and Naples, with 20 opportunities available at each. Many of these excursions center around sightseeing and exploring landmarks, but guests can also go on a safari adventure, traveling up Parnitha Mountain while admiring Greek wildlife.

Aboard this 2,918-passenger Celebrity Cruises ship, there are three restaurants, three bars, a theater, a kids club, an adults club, a shopping center, a fitness center, a rooftop garden lounge and a jogging deck that circles the resort deck.

Beginning and ending in Rome, this nine-night cruise aboard Disney Magic will take its passengers to four ports in Greece and two other ports in Italy, with two days at sea mixed in.

Rome wasn't built in a day, and it's impossible to explore it all in a day, too. Before embarking on your journey to Greece, though, check out St. Peter's Basilica to stand in awe at one of the world's most famous Catholic churches and the Vatican Museums for artwork (e.g., paintings, sculptures) collected by the papacy.

Day 4 is when Disney Magic will arrive in Greece, beginning in the city of Heraklion on the island of Crete. Here, passengers can visit what is considered to be Europe's oldest city: Knossos. Athens, Mykonos and Santorini, in that order, are next on the itinerary. Stop by the Parthenon, bask in the wonder of five-century-old Venetian windmills, and sink your toes into the red sands of Kokkini Paralia Beach.

For adults worried about children disrupting their Disney cruise, there are adults-only venues and amenities to ease their concerns. From nightclubs and lounges to world-class spas and adults-only pools and dining experiences, Disney Cruise Lines provide everything adult passengers can expect from other cruises but with Disney quality.

Disney cruises also take their passengers to Disney Castaway Cay, the line's private island, where adults-only Serenity Bay allows guests to sunbathe and nosh on a barbecue lunch.

From Rome to Venice with six stops at ports in Greece, this 12-day cruise also takes its passengers to Naples, Turkey and Montenegro, showcasing some of the world's most influential Western cultures.

Travel aboard the Zuiderdam with 1,900 other passengers on this 936-foot-long ship and on one of the best cruises in Greece. Wander through its corridors, and admire its wondrous art and antique collection. Find ultimate relaxation in the Greenhouse Spa & Salon, test your culinary skills in a hands-on workshop from America's Test Kitchen, and learn about the world with BBC Earth Experiences presentations and activities.

Try to earn some of your money back by visiting the casino and playing blackjack, poker, or have a go at slot machines on this Holland America Line cruise. Live music is also an entertainment option, as Lincoln Center Stage performs orchestral numbers most evenings and afternoon recitals at sea. Memorialize your trip by developing a travel journal and by producing photo albums and videos at the Microsoft Studio, too.

Travel to nine ports in five different countries on this nine-day cruise from Athens to Venice. The 608-passenger Silver Spirit will start its journey with three days' worth of stops in Greece before hitting Albania, Montenegro and Croatia; then, end your journey in beautiful, historic Venice for the final two days.

Among the nine ports you'll visit, there are 95 excursions to take advantage of. In Santorini, visit Perissa Black Sand Beach to see one of a few different-colored beaches in the world. Or take a private van and a guide for a day of exploration. Prefer being as close to the outdoors as possible? Take a volcano hike to visit the hot springs with caique fluttering about.

Included in this Silverseas Cruises adventure fair is an economy-class air round trip, transfers between the ship and the airport, butler service in every suite, unlimited free WiFi, eight dining options, in-suite beverages (including champagne, select wines and spirits), a 24-hour dining service and onboard gratuities on one of the best Greek cruises.