Best of Greece (Idyllic, With 7 Days Cruise, 17 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 17-day journey through Greece, where ancient history and captivating landscapes await. From the vibrant streets of Athens to the serene beauty of the Greek islands, this multi-day tour offers an immersive experience into the heart of Greek culture. Discover iconic landmarks, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, and savor authentic local cuisine. With guided tours, leisure days, and a seven-day Aegean cruise, this adventure promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection to the rich heritage of Greece. Join us for a journey that blends history, culture, and breathtaking scenery in one remarkable tour.
Included
12 Dinner (D)
16 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 Center
Amalia Nafplio
Amalia Olympia
Amalia Delphi
Amalia Kalambaka
MV Celestyal Journey
Divani Palace Acropolis
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 honor 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 Amphitheater 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 theater 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 utilized.
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Athens
- Athens - Arrival day
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Begin your Greek adventure in the bustling city of Athens, where ancient history meets modern vibrancy. After your arrival and transfer to your hotel, take some time to unwind and explore the city at your own pace. In the evening, join your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a delightful welcome meal, setting the tone for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Athens - The Cradle of Western Civilization
- Athens
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- Acropolis Museum
- Temple of Aphaia
- Ρεματιά Βαρνάβα
- Hadrian's Library
- Parthenon
- Panathenaic Stadium
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Embark on a guided tour of Athens, delving into its rich history. Visit the iconic Acropolis and marvel at the Parthenon, dedicated to Athena. Explore the Royal Palace and the Temple of Zeus, and immerse yourself in ancient culture at the Acropolis Museum. Witness Hadrian's Arch and the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympics. Spend the afternoon at leisure, wandering through the charming Plaka district or savoring local delicacies.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Athens to Nafplion via Corinth and Mycenae
- Nafplio
- Athens
- Corinth
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- Corinth Canal
- Lion of the Bavarians, Nafplion
- Mycenaean Dam
- Acrocorinth
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Leave Athens behind as you journey across the Corinth Canal to the Peloponnesian Peninsula. Discover the ancient city of Corinth, a site of historical significance. Continue to Mycenae, where you'll explore the Beehive Tombs and the Lion Gate. Visit Epidaurus, renowned for its ancient theater and the Sanctuary of Asclepius. Conclude your day in the charming town of Nafplion, where you'll enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel.
Day 4 – Day 4: Nafplion to Olympia
- Nafplio
- Ancient Olympia
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Travel through the scenic Mountains of Arcadia to the historic site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. This evening, experience Greek hospitality at its finest with a Be My Guest dinner hosted by the Karabelas family on their olive and wine farm. Enjoy traditional dancing and savor the flavors of local cuisine, immersing yourself in the warmth of Greek culture.
Day 5 – Day 5: Olympia to Delphi via Patras
- Corinth
- Ancient Olympia
- Patras
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- Stadium at Olympia
- Temple of Hera
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Explore the ancient site of Olympia, home to the original Olympic Games. Visit the museum and the ruins of the Temples of Zeus and Hera. Depart Olympia and travel along the coast to Patras, then cross the Gulf of Corinth to reach Delphi. Here, you can participate in an interactive cooking lesson, learning to prepare local dishes and savoring the flavors of Greece.
Day 6 – Day 6: Delphi to Kalambaka
Day 6: Delphi to Kalambaka
Step back in time as you walk the Sacred Way in Delphi, visiting the Temple of Apollo and learning about the ancient Pythian Games. Later, visit a family-run honey farm for a unique experience, tasting fresh thyme honey and discovering the area's biodiversity. Travel through the Thessaly region to Kalambaka, passing the historic site of Thermopylae, known for the legendary battle led by Leonidas and his Spartans.
Day 7 – Day 7: Kalambaka to Athens
- Athens
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- Meteora
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Visit the awe-inspiring Meteora Monasteries, perched atop towering rock formations. Explore two of these UNESCO World Heritage sites with a local guide, learning about their history and significance. Afterward, enjoy a scenic drive back to Athens, where you'll gather with your travel companions for a memorable farewell dinner, reflecting on the incredible experiences shared throughout your journey in Greece.
Day 8 – Day 8: Leisure Day in Athens
- Athens
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Enjoy a day at your own pace in Athens. Whether you choose to revisit ancient landmarks, explore modern attractions, or simply relax in a local café, the city offers endless possibilities. Take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and history of Greece's capital.
Day 9 – Day 9: Athens to Aegean Cruise
- Athens
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Spend your morning exploring Athens' ancient sites before embarking on a seven-day cruise through the Aegean Sea. Discover the wonders of the Greek islands and beyond, as you set sail on an unforgettable maritime adventure.
Day 10 – Day 10: Explore Thessaloniki
- Thessaloniki
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- Arch of Galerius
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Arrive in Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city. Stroll along the waterfront, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Aristotelous Square, and visit ancient monuments such as the Arch of Galerius. Take in the city's rich history and vibrant culture as you explore at your leisure.
Day 11 – Day 11: Discover Ephesus from Kusadasi
- Selçuk
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- Library of Celsus
- Milet Museum
- Priene Ruins
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Dock in Kusadasi, your gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Join a guided tour to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, marveling at the Hellenistic and Roman architecture. Walk along marble colonnades, admire the Library of Celsus, and visit the Temple of Artemis. Return to your ship for an evening departure, reflecting on the day's historical discoveries.
Day 12 – Day 12: Crete - Myths and Legends
- Knossos
- Heraklion
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- Knossos Palace
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Arrive on the island of Crete, steeped in myth and history. Choose to explore Heraklion, the island's capital, and visit the legendary Knossos Palace, home to the ancient Minoan civilization. Alternatively, venture into the picturesque countryside to experience the authentic Cretan lifestyle. Absorb the island's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
Day 13 – Day 13: Santorini - A Cycladic Gem
- Oia
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- Θηρασία
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Wake up to the stunning vistas of Santorini, a jewel of the Cyclades. Explore the capital, Thira, with its clifftop eateries and breathtaking views. Consider an optional excursion to Oia, famous for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches. Spend your evening enjoying Santorini's vibrant nightlife, soaking in the island's enchanting atmosphere.
Day 14 – Day 14: Mykonos - Island Charm
- Mykonos
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- Old Wind Mills
- Χώρα Μυκόνου
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Enjoy a full day on the island of Mykonos, known for its charming narrow streets and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through Chora, admiring the white-washed cottages and colorful bougainvillea. Relax by the Old Port with a refreshing drink, or opt for an excursion to the Sacred Island of Delos, rich in archaeological treasures. Embrace the laid-back island lifestyle and soak up the sun.
Day 15 – Day 15: Milos - Island of Colors
- Mykonos
- Athens
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Discover the beauty of Milos, known as the 'Island of Colors.' Choose an optional experience to explore its unique landscapes or embark on a culinary journey, sampling local delicacies. As the day draws to a close, set sail for Athens, celebrating your final evening on board with newfound friends.
Day 16 – Day 16: Return to Athens
- Athens
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Disembark from your cruise ship in Athens and transfer to your hotel. Spend the day at leisure, revisiting your favorite spots in the city or indulging in some last-minute shopping. Reflect on the incredible journey you've experienced across Greece and its islands.
Day 17 – Day 17: Departure
- Athens - Departure day
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Bid farewell to Greece as you transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Take with you the memories of an unforgettable journey through ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures.
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