Celebrity Infinity B2B from Athens
February 12, 2026 -- L.A.-Zurich-Athens
**I am posting this instead of continuing with the NCL Spirit trip just so I can work with the videos and photos on the same file while I have them available. I will come back to the Japan cruise after finishing up reporting on this journey.
We have not been on any Celebrity cruises for quite a while basically because they are more expensive than what we like to spend. Then we saw this deal that sounded amazing, with two sailings back-to-back out of Athens visiting ports in Greece and Turkey that interested us, especially a few ports where we can follow the path of Apostle Paul. The prices for these cruises were unbeatable, possibly because of the age of the Infinity but we don't mind. Itineraries and prices fit our needs.
My brother and sister-in-law also joined us on this trip, making it more fun and memorable. It was definitely helpful when we faced with the challenge later on with them around to provide wisdom and ideas to get us through.
On this first day, we arrived at LAX early as usual. We haven't been to LAX for a while now that there are flights to Asia from Ontario Airport which is much closer to home. We try to avoid LAX as much as possible not only because of the long drive and terrible traffic but also the crowds. It was nice to be back though once we were inside the Tom Bradley terminal. Checking out the shops and food court, watching people rushing through making it a great start on this journey.
Inside Tom Bradley terminal.
The central area with shops and eateries.
Waiting for our flight at the empty boarding gate. We were early!
The plane is waiting to take us from LAX to Zurich.
First time on Swiss Air. I guess we have been spoiled by the many Asian Airlines and there are definitely spaces for growth. This flight was quite crowded with every seat filled, comparing to the one flying back later on.
Food was OK.
12-hour flight to Zurich crossing the northern Atlantic.
I did not finish this breakfast plate.
Our plane arrived at Zurich on time at with a few hours to spare which worked out just fine so we had enough time to easily transit to the other terminal, went through EU immigration and passport check. We were able to rest comfortably for a few hours with plenty of time to explore the busy part of the airport which was quite interesting.
The spacious and empty airport.
It was fun watching the robot sweeper at work.
An Olympic item on display.
Then we boarded our 21:00 flight to Athens. I was surprised at how busy this flight was even though it was so late at night.
Arrived at Athens airport at 00:35. Since we already did our EU passport/immigration check in Zurich, it was quick and easy getting out after we retrieved our luggage.
Our driver, Steve, from George's Taxi, was already waiting for us as we exit, This was one of the many trips that Steve was with us. He gave us some important pointers as visitors should know. Places to go, places to eat, etc. Very helpful! This ride from Athens airport to our hotel was 120Euros for the 5 of us.
We could have used public transportation but we figured, not in the middle of the night! I did not want to just hail any taxi upon arriving this country either, safety is most important.
Steve took us to Grand Hyatt in town. The reason we planned on a stay at a hotel on this first night was knowing the time of our flight arriving Athens, named brand hotels will have no problem checking us in during the wee hour vs. the AirBnB or smaller hotels that may have problems getting in. We also had two free nights that were expiring soon, so everything worked out fine and we were ready for our adventures.
Checking in at the Grand Hyatt.
Don't we look tired?!
Comfortable room at the Hyatt.
We were surprised that on this free-night stay, we were also given complimentary breakfast in the morning, a nice treat indeed!
The buffet breakfast was huge and with plenty of Greek specialties.
...and with an excellent view on this restaurant on the top floor.
We could even enjoy the view of the Acropolis.
The swimming pool view from our room.
My brother's room had a balcony with a view of the Acropolis.
After this one-night stay at the Hyatt, we had an AirBnB booked for two nights before our first cruise. This is an apartment not far from the Hyatt and not too far from the Acropolis with two bedrooms and two baths, which worked out great for the 5 of us. It was $408.86 USD for the two nights. Comparing to hotel rooms, this was a bargain.
We just walked from Grand Hyatt to the apartment and we made ourselves comfortable at this new place, planning on staying the two nights here. Little did we know...
Our bedroom at the apartment.
Dining area
bathroom
kitchen
the neighborhood.
Our trip in Athens took a surprised turn as we were waiting to board the Celebrity Infinity. Something that had never happened to us before but we had to deal with and decide on what to do next at an instant. Please come back and follow us on this amazing trip as we continue our journey.
"Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings." -- Psalm 63:7
