Treasures of Greece & The Islands (Classic, 14 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 14-day journey through the heart of Greece, where ancient history and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, relaxation, and adventure. Begin your adventure in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, and explore its iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. Travel to the mystical Meteora and the sacred site of Delphi, where history comes alive. Discover the birthplace of the Olympic Games in Olympia and the ancient city of Mycenae. Experience the charm of Santorini's sunsets and Mykonos' lively atmosphere. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and authentic Greek cuisine, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, or savoring local delicacies, each day brings new discoveries and unforgettable moments. Join us for a journey that captures the essence of Greece's timeless beauty and cultural heritage.
Included
13 nights in twin-share rooms at hand-picked hotels
5 Dinner (D)
13 Breakfast (B)
Athens: Indulge in local specialties with your fellow travellers as you savour dinner in one of the city's historic neighbourhoods.
Olympia: Taste unique Greek flavours and savour regional specialities over dinner.
Athens: Get up close and personal with ancient Greece as you explore Athens with your Local Expert. With your Local Expert, visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian. Then, ascend to the iconic Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers commanding views of the city. Discover the intricacies of the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of Wingless Victory, and admire the six exquisite Caryatids supporting the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Olympia: Join a local chef who will share their passion for local ingredients and high-quality products. Learn how to make tzatziki and other regional dishes during a fun and immersive cooking demonstration.
Nafplio: Experience the timeless craft of hand weaving by visiting a traditional workshop. Immerse yourself in the ancient art and discover the intricate techniques passed down through generations. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Athens: Ascend the Acropolis with a Local Expert to admire the Parthenon, built in 5th century B.C. Steps away you'll see the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of the Wingless Victory, and the six stone-carved caryatids that make up the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
Athens: See the Arch of Hadrian, erected in honour of the Roman Emperor and used as a divider between the ancient city and the new Roman district, along with the remaining columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
Thermopylae: See the Leonidas Monument dedicated to the brave warrior and his 300 Spartans.
Meteora: With a Local Expert, 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.
Delphi: With your Local Expert, 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 the people would seek divine wisdom from the mysterious Oracle.
Archaeological Site of Olympia: The stadium of Olympia hosted the ancient Olympic Games and the 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.
Archaeological Site of Mycenae: Walk through the Lion Gate past the royal beehive-tombs where Schliemann uncovered golden treasure, while hearing tales of Agamemnon.
Santorini: Marvel at the beauty of the Aegean Sea as you sail the waters to Santorini.
Mykonos: Enjoy the ferry ride from Santorini to Mykonos with beautiful views of the surrounding islands.
Athens: Soak in the last views of paradise as you ride the ferry back to Athens.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Athens: Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" under the guidance of your Travel Director. Nestled beneath the Acropolis, explore Plaka’s timeless charm, discovering the historical treasures and hidden corners, before enjoying time at leisure along Adrianou, a bustling pedestrian hub, brimming with vibrant shops and traditional cafés.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Kalambaka: Your Travel Director will provide an orientation of this town situated at the base of the extraordinary Meteora rocks.
Nafplio: Join your Travel Director in an orientation of this beautiful seaport town and see why it is named one of Greece's prettiest spots.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Athens
- Athens - Arrival day
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Upon your arrival in the vibrant city of Athens, you will be warmly greeted by your Insight host and escorted to your hotel, such as the Hilton (or similar). Take some time to unwind and get comfortable in your new surroundings. In the evening, at 19:00, join your Travel Director and fellow adventurers for a Welcome Reception. Enjoy a delightful dinner and start forming connections with your travel companions.
Day 2 – Day 2: Athens to Kalambaka
- Athens
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- Palataki
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Embark on a journey through ancient Greece, starting with a choice of exploring Athens' iconic ancient sites with a Local Expert or delving into the lively Plaka neighborhood with your Travel Director. Continue to Thermopylae, where you'll honor the bravery of King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors. After paying tribute at the memorial, proceed to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner made from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Day 3 – Day 3: Discovering Meteora
Day 3: Discovering Meteora
- Meteora
- Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum
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With the guidance of a Local Expert, explore the awe-inspiring Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its towering rock formations and ancient monasteries. Marvel at the breathtaking views over the Peneios Valley. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Consider a peaceful walk along nature trails or a visit to the Natural History Museum.
Day 4 – Day 4: Kalambaka to Olympia
- Ancient Olympia
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- Delphi Archaeological Museum
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Travel southward to the foothills of Mount Parnassus and ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass by the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and the Polygonal Wall before reaching the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle of Delphi once prophesied. Continue your journey to Olympia, where you'll enjoy a delightful dinner at your hotel.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Ancient Olympia
- Ancient Olympia
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- Stadium at Olympia
- Temple of Hera
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Step back in time at Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visit the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and explore the athletes' gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia. Capture a memorable photo at the starting line of the sprint track. In the evening, join a local chef for an engaging cooking demonstration and savor a dinner featuring authentic Greek cuisine.
Day 6 – Day 6: Olympia to Athens
- Kallithea
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- Corinth Canal
- Mycenaean Dam
- Nafplio Lighthouse
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Visit the ancient city of Mycenae with a Local Expert, walking through the Lion Gate and exploring the royal beehive-tombs. Continue to the charming town of Nafplio, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant shops. Participate in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with Maria and her daughter, learning about traditional hand weaving techniques. Journey along the Saronic Gulf, passing the Corinth Canal, and arrive in Athens for a hearty Greek-style dinner.
Day 7 – Day 7: Athens to Santorini
- Kallithea
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Depart early from Athens to the port of Piraeus, where a high-speed ferry awaits to whisk you to the enchanting island of Santorini. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel, such as the Santorini Palace (or similar), where you can relax and soak in the island's beauty.
Day 8 – Day 8: Exploring Santorini
Day 8: Exploring Santorini
- Akrotiri
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Spend your day on the romantic island of Santorini, where you can relax in clifftop restaurants, bask on sun-drenched beaches, or explore the archaeological site of Akrotiri. As evening falls, witness the first of Santorini's legendary golden sunsets, a truly unforgettable experience.
Day 9 – Day 9: Leisure in Santorini
Day 9: Leisure in Santorini
Enjoy another day of leisure on Santorini's unique black, red, and white beaches. Consider taking a traditional Greek caique to the volcanic islands for a swim in the hot springs. Savor the island's delicious cuisine and admire the whitewashed houses and narrow cobblestone streets, all while soaking in the world-renowned sunsets.
Day 10 – Day 10: Santorini to Mykonos
- Mykonos
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Board a high-speed ferry bound for the glamorous island of Mykonos, a favorite playground of the rich and famous. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel, such as the Mykonos Grand Hotel (or similar), where you can unwind and prepare for the island's vibrant atmosphere.
Day 11 – Day 11: Leisure in Mykonos
- Mykonos
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- Delos
- Paradise Beach
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Enjoy the first of two leisurely days on Mykonos. Explore the charming town with its maze-like walkways, white-washed houses, and iconic windmills. Consider watching the sunset at Shirley Valentine Beach or take a short boat ride to the historic island of Delos.
Day 12 – Day 12: Relaxation in Mykonos
- Mykonos
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- Vittle veneci
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Another day to unwind or explore Mykonos at your own pace. Swim at the island's dazzling beaches or enjoy a cocktail on the waterfront at Little Venice. Embrace the island's vibrant nightlife or simply relax and soak in the stunning surroundings.
Day 13 – Day 13: Return to Athens
- Mykonos
- Kallithea
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In the morning, take in your final views of the sparkling Aegean Sea before being transferred to the port for your return ferry to Athens. Upon arrival, you'll have the evening to enjoy the city one last time.
Day 14 – Day 14: Departure from Athens
- Kallithea - Departure day
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Bid farewell to the captivating city of Athens as your journey comes to an end. You'll be transferred to the airport for your onward travels, taking with you unforgettable memories of Greece's rich history and stunning landscapes.
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