Sea of Myths: Athens to Istanbul
featuring Santorini

An island of superlatives and the stomping grounds of Zeus and Dionysus, Naxos is dotted with stunning historical treasures: the giant doorway to the Temple of Apollo; the tower of Naxos Castle; and a collection of colossal statues hidden in the valleys of Mount Zas, which rises to 1,001 meters. Today, its low-key luxury vibe is just as noteworthy, with endless miles of powdery sands including Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna, which offer a mellow mix of shallow azure waters surely visited by the gods. As the sun sets, find a seat in one of the dozens of drowsy tavernas to sip kitron, savor arseniko cheeses, and watch the Portara frame the glow.

Live out your movie moment on the cinematic beaches of Skiathos, the intensely green island with over 60 beaches made famous by the movie Mamma Mia!. For a little seaside sparkle, head to Koukounaries beach, considered one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean, or lounge on Lalaria, famous for its picturesque stone arch carved from time and tides. Its wildly beautiful landscape includes pine forests with nesting black and white swans as well as a "magic forest" with centuries-old trees and aromatic herbs. But there is nothing more inviting than its beautiful clear-blue water. As the sun sets, dive into a world of Greek wines and watch the golden light reflect the island's welcoming bohemian spirit.

Istanbul pulses with layered history along the liquid boundary dividing Europe and Asia. From the domes of its mosques to buzzy bazaars, the city excels at presenting one marvel after another. Watch whirling dervishes spin; pause at Süleymaniye Mosque, a testament to Ottoman grandeur; venture to the Galataport district for grand design. Cross the Bosphorus Bridge to the city's Asian side where the Beylerbeyi Palace, the "Lord of Lords" manor, shines. The sleepless city elevates nightlife to art: late cocktails, savory bites, dancing till dawn. Istanbul never sits still.