Best of Greece (With 3 Days Cruise, 11 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through Greece, where ancient history and vibrant culture intertwine. From the bustling streets of Athens to the serene islands of Mykonos and Santorini, this journey offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus, delve into the mysteries of Delphi, and savor the flavors of traditional Greek cuisine. Traverse the picturesque landscapes of the Peloponnesian Peninsula, visit the awe-inspiring Meteora monasteries, and cruise to the sacred shores of Patmos. With expert guides and unique experiences, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Greece.
Included
8 Dinner (D)
10 Breakfast (B)
3 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 Discovery
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.
Mykonos: View the Windmills of Kato Mili and wander the beautiful blue and white streets of Chora.
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.
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.
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, Mykonos, ancient Ephesus, Patmos, Crete and Santorini
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
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 enchanting journey in the heart of Greece, Athens, where ancient history meets vibrant modernity. After settling into your hotel, join your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a delightful evening meal, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Athens - A Journey Through Time
- Athens
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- 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. Visit the iconic Acropolis, marvel at the Parthenon, and explore the Acropolis Museum. Discover the Royal Palace and the Temple of Zeus, and see where the first modern Olympics took place. Spend the afternoon at leisure, wandering through the charming Plaka or savoring local delicacies.
Day 3 – Day 3: Athens to Nafplion - Ancient Wonders
- Nafplio
- Athens
- Corinth
- More
- Corinth Canal
- Lion of the Bavarians, Nafplion
- Mycenaean Dam
- Acrocorinth
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Leave Athens behind as you journey to the Peloponnesian Peninsula. Cross the Corinth Canal and explore the ancient city of Corinth. Discover the treasures of Mycenae, including the Beehive Tombs and the Lion Gate. Visit the ancient theatre of Epidaurus before arriving in the picturesque town of Nafplion for an evening of relaxation and dining at your hotel.
Day 4 – Day 4: Nafplion to Olympia - A Taste of Tradition
- Ancient Olympia
- Nafplio
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Travel through the scenic Mountains of Arcadia to reach ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. In the evening, enjoy a unique Be My Guest experience with the Karabelas family on their olive and wine farm. Savor traditional Greek cuisine and immerse yourself in local culture with lively dancing.
Day 5 – Day 5: Olympia to Delphi - Legends and Landscapes
- Patras
- Ancient Olympia
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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. Journey north along the coastline to Patras, crossing the Gulf of Corinth to reach Delphi. In the evening, consider participating in a cooking lesson to learn the secrets of Greek cuisine.
Day 6 – Day 6: Delphi to Kalambaka - Oracle and Heroes
Day 6: Delphi to Kalambaka - Oracle and Heroes
Walk the Sacred Way in Delphi, where ancient Greeks sought guidance from the Oracle. Visit the Temple of Apollo and admire the statues of athletes. Continue to Thermopylae, the site of the legendary battle led by Leonidas. Travel through the fertile Thessaly region to reach Kalambaka, your gateway to the stunning Meteora monasteries.
Day 7 – Day 7: Kalambaka to Athens - Monasteries and Memories
- 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 Specialist. Enjoy a scenic drive back to Athens, where you'll gather with your travel companions for a memorable Farewell Dinner, reflecting on your incredible journey through Greece.
Day 8 – Day 8: Athens to Mykonos - Island Escape
- Mykonos
- Athens
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- Windmill in port
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Set sail from Athens to the enchanting island of Mykonos. Upon arrival, be greeted by the iconic Windmills of Kato Mili. Spend the evening exploring the charming streets of Chora, discovering quaint boutiques and savoring fresh seafood. As the sun sets, enjoy cocktails in Little Venice, soaking in the island's vibrant atmosphere.
Day 9 – Day 9: Mykonos to Patmos - Sacred Shores
- Selçuk
- Patmos
- Mykonos
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- El Heykeli
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Cruise to the Turkish shores of Kusadasi and explore the ancient city of Ephesus. Continue to the serene island of Patmos, where you can visit the Cave of the Apocalypse and St. John's Monastery. Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of this sacred island.
Day 10 – Day 10: Patmos to Santorini - Minoan Mysteries
- Knossos
- Patmos
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- Minoan Palace of Phaistos
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Explore the ancient Minoan culture of Crete at the Palace of Knossos, or venture into the Cretan countryside for a taste of local life. Continue to the breathtaking island of Santorini, where whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches await. Consider an optional excursion to the village of Oia for stunning views of the caldera.
Day 11 – Day 11: Departure from Santorini
- Athens - Departure day
- More
Bid farewell to the enchanting islands of Greece as you disembark from your cruise ship. Transfer to the airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of your Greek adventure.
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