Best of Greece (Idyllic, With 7 Days Cruise, 16 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through Greece, a land steeped in mythology and history. This 16-day journey begins in Athens, where ancient wonders and modern vibrancy coexist. Explore iconic landmarks, traverse the Peloponnesian Peninsula, and delve into the rich heritage of Olympia and Delphi. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Meteora and the charm of Nafplion. Set sail on a seven-day Aegean cruise, discovering the allure of islands like Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos. Immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and captivating landscapes of Greece, creating memories that will last a lifetime. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and delightful meals, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Greece's treasures.
Included
12 Dinner (D)
15 Breakfast (B)
6 Lunch (L)
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Divani Caravel, Radisson Blu Park, Crowne Plaza Athens City Centre
Amalia Nafplio
Amalia Olympia
Amalia Delphi
Amalia Kalambaka
MV Celestyal Journey
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Olympia: Say "opa!" to a traditional Greek experience with the Karabelas family on their olive and wine farm. Join the family for dinner and dancing, and learn about their history on the land.
Athens: Visit the Acropolis Museum containing remarkable antiquities giving visitors an insight into the lives of Athenians centuries ago.
Athens: Delve into Athens with a Local Specialist. See the iconic highlights of this ancient city, from the Acropolis to the site of the first modern Olympics.
Corinth: Cross the amazing rock-cut channel dividing the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. Join a Local Specialist and gain insight into Corinth's eventful past.
Archaeological Site of Mycenae: Walk through the Lion Gate past the royal beehive-tombs where Schliemann uncovered golden treasure, while hearing tales of Agamemnon from your Local Specialist.
Archaeological Site of Olympia: Join a Local Specialist to view the stadium of Olympia which hosted the ancient Olympic Games and Heraia, the women's games in honour of Hera. See the Temple of Zeus, athlete's gymnasium and the stone marker where the sprint began.
Delphi: With your Local Specialist, walk to The Sacred Way once lined with offertory temples. See the reconstructed Athenian Treasury and pass the superb Polygonal Wall to reach the Temple of Apollo, where people once sought divine wisdom from the mysterious Oracle.
Thermopylae: See the Leonidas Monument dedicated to the brave warrior and his 300 Spartans.
Meteora: With a Local Specialist, visit one of the remarkable centuries-old monasteries of Meteora, teetering on towers of rock and arguably the most spectacular place to visit in Greece.
Thessaloniki: Stroll along the waterfront and admire the historic monuments of Greece's second-largest city.
Ephesus: Discover one of the world's finest ancient sites. Led by your Local Specialist, walk the Arcadian Way, see the Library of Celsus and Amphitheatre and visit the House of the Virgin Mary.
Mykonos: View the Windmills of Kato Mili and wander the beautiful blue and white streets of Chora.
Delphi: Meet passionate beekeeper Nikiforos at his honey farm for a taste of his special thyme honey, known to be one of the most nutritious in the world. See the bees thriving in their natural habitat and learn about their role in nature regeneration. This experience advances Global Goal 15: Life on Land. Traditionally a beekeeping area, Delphi has lost most of its beekeeping activity. The decline in bee populations has seen a significant loss of biodiversity. Thanks to their effort, Nikiforos and his family and rebuilding a local activity and directly contributing to regenerating the land.
Explore Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae, Corinth and village of Oia with a Local Specialist
Visit the Acropolis and Museum in Athens, the ancient ruins in Corinth, the ancient theatre at Epidaurus, the Olympic Stadium in Olympia, the home of the Oracle at Delphi, and the incredible rock monasteries in Meteora, ancient Ephesus, Rhodes, Crete, Santorini, Milos and Mykonos
View the Parthenon, Royal Palace and Temple of Zeus in Athens, the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus and the battle site at Thermopylae
See the Corinth Canal, the Lion Gate and Agamemnon's Palace at Mycenae
Scenic Cruise along the Bosphorus strait
Explore Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae, Corinth with a Local Specialist
Delphi: Designed by renowned architect Nikos Valsamakis in 1965, the hotel is a notable example of postwar Greek architecture. It integrates seamlessly with the Delphic landscape, with rooms arranged to follow the terrain.
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Optional Experiences and free time
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Athens
- Athens - Arrival day
- More
Begin your Greek odyssey in the vibrant city of Athens, where ancient history meets modern charm. After a seamless transfer to your hotel, take some time to unwind and soak in the city's unique atmosphere. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful welcome meal, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Athens - The Cradle of Western Civilization
- Athens
- More
- Acropolis Museum
- Temple of Aphaia
- Ρεματιά Βαρνάβα
- Hadrian's Library
- Parthenon
- Panathenaic Stadium
- More
Embark on a guided exploration of Athens, delving into its rich history and cultural heritage. Visit the iconic Acropolis and marvel at the Parthenon. Discover the Royal Palace and the Temple of Zeus, and immerse yourself in the treasures of the Acropolis Museum. Witness Hadrian's Arch and the Panathenaic Stadium, the birthplace of the modern Olympics. The afternoon is yours to explore the charming streets of Plaka or relax in Syntagma Square.
Day 3 – Day 3: Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus
- Nafplio
- Corinth
- Athens
- More
- Corinth Canal
- Pegasus Statue
- Mycenaean Dam
- Acrocorinth
- Archaeological Site of the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus
- More
Leave Athens behind as you journey across the Corinth Canal to the Peloponnesian Peninsula. Explore the ancient city of Corinth, then continue to Mycenae to witness the Beehive Tombs and the Lion Gate. Discover the ancient theatre of Epidaurus and the Sanctuary of Asclepius. Conclude your day in the charming Venetian town of Nafplion, where you'll enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel.
Day 4 – Day 4: Nafplion to Olympia
- Nafplio
- Ancient Olympia
- More
Travel through the picturesque Mountains of Arcadia to the historic site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. This evening, enjoy a unique Be My Guest experience with the Karabelas family on their olive and wine farm. Savor traditional Greek cuisine and partake in lively dancing, experiencing the warmth of Greek hospitality.
Day 5 – Day 5: Olympia to Delphi
- Corinth
- Ancient Olympia
- Patras
- More
- Stadium at Olympia
- Αρχαιολογικό Μουσείο Πύργου - Παλαιά Δημοτική Αγορά
- Temple of Hera
- More
Delve into the history of Olympia with a guided tour of the ancient site, museum, and the ruins of the Temples of Zeus and Hera. Departing Olympia, travel along the coast to Patras, then cross the Gulf of Corinth to reach Delphi. In the evening, participate in an interactive cooking lesson, learning to prepare local Greek dishes.
Day 6 – Day 6: Delphi to Kalambaka
Day 6: Delphi to Kalambaka
- Καταρράκτης Κρέμασης (Στρώμης)
- More
Walk the Sacred Way in Delphi, visiting the Temple of Apollo and viewing the statues of the Pythian Games. Experience a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at a local honey farm, tasting fresh thyme honey. Travel through the Thessaly region, stopping at Thermopylae, before reaching Kalambaka for the night.
Day 7 – Day 7: Kalambaka to Athens
- Athens
- More
- Meteora
- More
Visit the awe-inspiring Meteora monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations. Explore two of these UNESCO World Heritage sites with a local guide. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive back to Athens, where you'll gather with your travel companions for a memorable farewell dinner.
Day 8 – Day 8: Leisure Day in Athens
- Athens
- More
Enjoy a day at your own pace in Athens. Explore the city's ancient sites, indulge in local cuisine, or shop for souvenirs. This is your opportunity to revisit your favorite spots or discover new ones in this captivating city.
Day 9 – Day 9: Athens to Aegean Cruise
- Athens
- More
Spend the morning exploring Athens' ancient wonders before boarding your cruise ship for a seven-day journey through the Aegean Sea. Settle into your cabin and prepare for an exciting maritime adventure.
Day 10 – Day 10: Discover Thessaloniki
- Thessaloniki
- More
- Arch of Galerius
- Aristotelous Square
- More
Explore Greece's second-largest city, Thessaloniki. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Aristotelous Square, and visit ancient monuments like the Arch of Galerius. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture.
Day 11 – Day 11: Ancient Wonders of Ephesus
- Selçuk
- More
- Library of Celsus
- Milet Museum
- Priene Ruins
- More
Arrive in Kusadasi, your gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Join a guided tour to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis. Return to your cruise ship for an evening departure.
Day 12 – Day 12: Crete - Island of Myths
- Heraklion
- Knossos
- More
- Heraklion Lighthouse
- Minoan Palace of Phaistos
- More
Begin your day on the island of Crete, exploring its rich history and mythology. Visit Heraklion and the Palace of Knossos, home to the legendary King Minos. Alternatively, venture into the countryside to experience the authentic Cretan lifestyle.
Day 13 – Day 13: Santorini - Jewel of the Aegean
- Oia
- More
- Θηρασία
- More
Wake up to the stunning views of Santorini, known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking panoramas. Explore the capital, Thira, with its charming restaurants and cafes. Consider an optional excursion to Oia, famous for its white-washed buildings and blue-domed churches. Enjoy a free evening to experience Santorini's vibrant nightlife.
Day 14 – Day 14: Mykonos - Island of the Winds
- Mykonos
- More
- Old Wind Mills
- Χώρα Μυκόνου
- More
Spend a leisurely day exploring Mykonos, wandering through the narrow streets of Chora. Discover the island's iconic white-washed cottages and vibrant bougainvillea. Relax at the Old Port with a refreshing drink, or opt for a visit to the Sacred Island of Delos, rich in archaeological treasures.
Day 15 – Day 15: Milos - Island of Colors
- Athens
- Mykonos
- More
Arrive in Milos, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant colors. Choose an optional experience to explore the island's beauty or embark on a culinary journey, sampling local delicacies. Depart for Athens in the evening, celebrating your final night on board with newfound friends.
Day 16 – Day 16: Departure from Athens
- Athens - Departure day
- More
Disembark from your cruise ship in Athens and transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences from your Greek adventure.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.