Before His crucifixion, Jesus entrusted the safety of the Virgin Mary to St. John the Evangelist. St.John moved Mary to Ephesus for safety.

Virgin Mary lived here until the 101st year of her life. In 1957 the Vatican recognized the “House of the Virgin Mary” as the place where the Virgin spent the last years of her life and since then it is an important pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims.

Next stop the city of Ancient Ephesus, the Ionian colony, which is one of the largest open-air archaeological museums in the world. Together with your tour guide, you will pass the Magnesian Gate. Traces of the Hellenistic, Roman and Early Christian period are scattered everywhere: the Agora, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the marble-paved main Street of the Kouretes, the Thermal Baths of Scholastica, Trajan’s Fountain, the Public Latrines, the Houses of the Patricians, the Prytaneum, Hadrian’s Temple, the Great Theatre.

The excursion is completed at the Covered Bazaar of Kusadasi with some free time for shopping and… bargaining!

During the excursion you will have the opportunity to do some shopping such as carpets, jewelry, leather and other souvenirs.

Passing with your tour guide through the Magnesian Gate you will wander, feeling awe in time and space, through the Agora, the Odeon, the Library of Celsus, the marble-paved main Street of Kouretes, the Baths of Scholastica, the Great Theatre, Trajan's Fountain, the Public Latrines, the Houses of the Patricians, the Prytaneum and the Temple of Hadrian.

Opposite Hadrian's Temple, at the foot of the Bulbul hill and the covered part of the archaeological site, protected by the heat and natural elements lie the Houses of Koressus or Terrace Houses. Here lived the rich families of Ancient Ephesus and you will be surprised by the excellent state of preservation of these comfortable villas, especially their interior décor. The oldest unearthed houses date since the 1st century B.C. and were two-storied and built based on the city planning and they even had "heating", and hot and cold water.

The excursion comes to a close at Kusadasi with the colorful Covered Bazaar and the little shops that brimming with the jovial energy of bargaining.

During the excursion you will have the opportunity to do some shopping such as carpets, jewelry, leather and other souvenirs.

This historical hill of the Acropolis carries the renowned Parthenon atop its shoulders, which is dedicated to the goddess Athena, protector of the city of Athens. Its inauguration took place in 438 B.C. at the Great Panathenaea.

Next to the Propylaea lies the temple of Athena Nike or Wingless Nike. There was kept the wooden statue (xoanon) of Athena which was "wingless", signifying that she would never leave Athens. Next to the Parthenon rises the Erechtheion, a marble edifice of the Ionic order. The eastern part of the temple was dedicated to Athena Polias and the western to Poseidon-Erechtheus. From the Acropolis hill you will be able to admire the glorious Odeon of Herodes Atticus.

Leaving the historical hill of Acropolis you will pass by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Greek Parliament Building. A stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896, is necessary. Next follows the stylish "Trilogy of Athens", which was constructed at the end of the 19th century: the old building of the University of Athens, the National Library and the Academy of Athens. The excursion comes to a close with a trip through the Squares of Omonia and Syntagma, the heart of modern Athens.

On parking the coach visitors will have the opportunity to walk down onto this environmental monument, probably the most photographed spot on Milos.

This is a very unusual and unique area often compared to a lunar landscape, the outcome of volcanic eruptions, a startling, pure white environment!

• 09:45 departure from Sarakiniko

• 10:00 arrival Papafranga and adjacent archaeological site of Filakopi.

The dramatic coastline of Milos sculpted by nature after volcanic eruptions gives us interesting and very picturesque spots, Papafranga is one of the more famous; this soft volcanic rock has been formed over the years into inlets and sea caves, wonderful for swimming and snorkelling. Visitors approach and look down into this deep ravine, often observing the more adventurous tourists below swimming in and around these fantastic sea caves.

Milos is considered a beacon in the pre-history of the Cyclades islands due to an important discovery made in 1896 by British archaeologists who first excavated the area known as Filakopi, discovering a settlement dating back to Neolithic times (several thousand years BC) this is where implements where first fashioned by man from the volcanic rock known as obsidian, we will take a look over towards the site discussing all of the important periods in which Filakopi played a major role from Neolithic times right up until 1.000 years BC observing remains of the city walls still visible today, the site is being continually excavated exposing more new evidence proving thousands of years of inhabitancy.

• 10:30 departure Filakopi.

Drive to the capital Plaka.

Admiring the view along the coast, talking about all aspects of Milos (geology, history, flora and fauna, modern day living etc.)

• 11:00 arrival Plaka cobblestone streets – rest room facilities.

Taking a promenade in picturesque Chora, a chance for a coffee break, excellent views from this village at 250 metres above sea level, optionally visiting the folk museum and local churches, strolling through the narrow cobbled streets where we can admire traditional architecture and sampling home made sweets at local stores and pastry shops.

• 12:00 departure Plaka.

• 12:15 Ancient city of Melos 1.000 BC – 100m easy access.

Just a 100m away from our busses we can admire the marble Roman Theatre, cut into the rocky slope near the ancient agora. Last but not least we visit the spot where one of the most famo us statues in the world was discovered in 1820, the Venus de Milo. From here we indicate also by hand the area of early Christian Catacombs and talk briefly about their significance in history.

• 12:45 departure for return drive to the port.

Tripiti:
After the abandonment of Filakopi in 1100 BC, the inhabitants established a new capital near the present day village of Tripiti with the name Milos. The city's safe haven on the coast below was known as Klima, the ancient port. Thus at this (new) position for many years the Geometric, Classical, Hellenistic Roman and Byzantine periods changed hands.

The itinerary of Ancient Milos includes sites of interest from all periods:
Polygon walls from the late Geometric period Roman Theatre Place where the Venus de Milo was discovered Location of the early Christian Catacombs.

Plaka:
Picturesque traditional Cycladic village the capital of the island. Wonderful architecture, spectacular eagle-eye views from the courtyard of 'Korfiatisa' one of Plaka's beautiful churches. Narrow cobblestoned streets take us through this very pleasant settlement with its colorful little souvenir stores and coffee shops selling excellent local pastries and sweets.

Sarakiniko Lunar Landscape:
One of the most photographed spots in the Aegean and unique in all of Europe. The complete abscence of any vegetation, together with the white colour and strange formations of the rocks gives the impression of a moonscape.

Before 2.000.000 years:
Two million years ago, after volcanic eruption, layers of ash mixed with the sea bed were deposited in this region. The speed at which the lava cooled and its content determined the bright white color of the rocks and the elements, wind, water and the passing of time give us the unusual shapes.

Pollonia:
The bay of Pollonia is known for her wonderful sandy beach shaded by Tamarisk trees including a picturesque waterfront with traditional coffee houses and restaurants. Great place to chill out after taking a swim – an excellent conclusion to the tour.

Samos the land of Pythagoras, Epicurus, Aristarchus and possibly Aesop, is in full bloom. Its fertile soil gives birth to the world renowned Muscat variety of wine. These two elements of nature, earth and water, are in complete control on this island, which is the 8th largest of Greece. You will have so much to see and do!

Starting out on a coach, with an experienced tour guide, from Vathy you will shortly arrive at the Samos Wine Museum. It was inaugurated in the summer of 2005 and both its exhibits and its impressive representations will guide you through paths of fine, aromatic, awarded wine. You will learn about the vats and chemistry equipment, you will see up close the tools and tubes and you will become informed about the white Muscat variety, which reigns supreme over this land.

Traveling towards the south, you will soon come to the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani. It is said that this was the Cave of Pythagoras and that from here, the great mathematician operated a philosophical school.

For the conclusion of the excursion, there awaits the land which gave birth to Pythagoras and which took its name from him: Pythagoreio. At the third largest village of Samos, a vivid and beautifully maintained place, you will have enough time for exploration, walks and shopping.

Join us for an unforgettable meal served in the main square of Pagondas, a charming village scented by orange and lemon trees and filled with friendly locals eager to share their cuisine and way of life.

Board your air-conditioned motor coach for a scenic drive through the verdant island of Samos passing by lovely villages and attractive bays. Your first stop will be the picturesque village of Pythagorion where you will enjoy independent time to explore.

Continuing on, enjoy a relaxing forty-five minute journey to the entrance of the village of Pagondas. From here, proceed on foot, walking through the narrow streets until you are greeted by the big trees, small taverns and quaint houses that line the beautiful town square. Large, inviting tables overflow with traditional delicacies and world famous Sámos wine. Savor the food and atmosphere while enjoying the performances of a local orchestra and dancing troupe.