12 Nights Istanbul to Rome

The glories of antiquity constantly come to mind in these legendary lands that rim the eastern Mediterranean. After all, this region is the cradle of civilization, the birthplace of democracy, and reminders of past grandeur are everywhere. The majestic Parthenon still stands watch over Athens, as it has for nearly 2,500 years. The beautifully preserved ruins of Ephesus, one of the world's most hallowed archaeological sites, affirm the city's former magnificence. And in Croatia's spectacular walled city of Dubrovnik, the marrow cobbled streets have changed little since medieval times. History comes alive here like nowhere else on earth.