Gems of Greece - 12 Days

Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival this morning, proceed to the hotel to mark the official start of our tour. Meet with your tour leader for a brief on the itinerary ahead. We will then explore the city with a guided orientation tour of Athens, introducing you to its renowned historical sites. Witness the traditional changing of the guard ceremony, adding a cultural touch to your day.

This afternoon, you have the option to delve into Athens' culinary scene by joining a food tour to taste some local Greek delicacies. In the evening, we gather for a welcome dinner featuring authentic Greek cuisine, offering a perfect moment to connect with your tour leader and fellow travellers before our adventures continue tomorrow.

This morning, we depart from Athens and journey to Kalabaka, our perfect base for exploring the renowned Meteora landscapes and monasteries. En route, we visit Thermopylae to view the statue of Leonidas, the legendary King of Sparta famed for his role in the battle against Persian forces.

Upon reaching Kalabaka, we explore a Byzantine art workshop, where you can witness the creation of stunning Christian Greek artworks by local artisans. Following this, settle into your accommodation for the night.

As the day draws to a close, join us for a captivating sunset drive through the Meteora hills. This UNESCO World Heritage Site promises breathtaking views of its towering monolithic pillars, crowned with striking cliff-top monasteries. An ideal setting for photography enthusiasts, it offers a truly unforgettable experience.

In the evening, savour a traditional Greek dinner at the hotel.

Spend the morning in Kalabaka at your leisure. Alternatively, join a guided excursion to the awe-inspiring cliffs of Meteora. We will navigate through the dramatic landscape, visiting several stunning cliff-top monasteries, with opportunities to explore the interiors in your free time.

In the afternoon, we journey through the mountains towards central Greece, arriving in Delphi. Here, enjoy an orientation tour led by your knowledgeable tour leader, providing an insightful introduction to this historical site renowned for its ancient temple and oracle.

In the evening, savour a traditional dinner at a local restaurant near our hotel. Afterwards, enjoy the rest of your evening as you wish.

This morning is yours to enjoy at leisure, or you may opt for an excursion to Delphi with a local guide. Here, explore the Sanctuary of Apollo and the Treasury of the Athenians, followed by a visit to the renowned Delphi museum. Next, we drive along the picturesque Coast of Corinth and take a brief ferry ride to Trizonia, a charming Greek island untouched by time where you can immerse yourself in traditional culture.

Later, we journey to Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. A guided tour will unveil the rich history of this remarkable site. In the evening, you have the option to partake in a traditional Greek night filled with local cuisine and dance—a delightful conclusion to a memorable day.

This morning, join us for a guided tour of the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, where you can explore fascinating artefacts from Greece's classical era. After that, we journey to the charming town of Nafplion, known as the first capital of modern Greece, with its skyline dominated by the imposing Palamidi Castle. We'll enjoy an included lunch here, allowing time to appreciate the town's unique character.

This afternoon, you have the option to participate in an evening tour to Epidaurus, famous for its remarkably well-preserved ancient theatre. Later, we’ll check into our hotel in Nafplion. You may either relax for the evening or continue to explore the town’s delightful streets at your leisure.

This morning, we explore Mycenae, one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites, where legends of Greek mythology were born. Our expert guide will lead us to the Tomb of Agamemnon and the renowned Lion’s Gate. On our way to Athens, we pause for a photo opportunity at the impressive Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering.

Upon arrival in Athens, we indulge in an included lunch before setting off on a city tour led by a local guide. We’ll visit notable landmarks such as the National Library, Greek Parliament, the Panathinaikos Marble Stadium, and Hadrian’s Arch.

Later, we have the opportunity to join a guided tour of the iconic Acropolis. We’ll ascend the sacred rock to marvel at the Propylaea, Erechtheion, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Parthenon. Please note, due to its popularity, this excursion requires booking prior to the start of your tour.

After breakfast, we will board a ferry to the enchanting island of Mykonos. Enjoy the stunning views as we sail away from the mainland. Upon arrival, we will join our tour leader for an orientation tour, providing an excellent introduction to the island.

The evening is yours to unwind on one of Mykonos’ beautiful beaches, capture a photo of the iconic windmills at sunset, savour a meal, or explore the vibrant nightlife the island is renowned for.

Today, enjoy a day at leisure on Mykonos. You can soak up the sun, stroll through the lively town, or take advantage of your hotel's amenities. Alternatively, join the optional Rhenia & Delos Cruise, which includes hotel transfers. On this cruise around the picturesque Cycladic islands, you'll be treated to refreshments and lunch on board. There's time for swimming and beach relaxation, as well as a visit to the Delos archaeological site, renowned for its ancient treasures.

Return to Mykonos in the evening for your final night in this Greek paradise. Alternatively, this evening you can join a Mykonos Cooking Class. Here, you'll create authentic Greek dishes alongside a local hostess in a traditional island home, culminating in a sumptuous five-course meal.

This morning, after breakfast, we transfer to the port to board a local ferry bound for Santorini. Upon our afternoon arrival, we'll head to our hotel, where we'll stay for the next three nights. The remainder of the day is yours to explore Santorini or unwind at the hotel. Known for its stunning caldera views, renowned wines, and iconic whitewashed buildings, Santorini offers plenty for you to discover at your own pace.

Awake to the beauty of Santorini, where you have a day entirely at your leisure to unwind and explore this idyllic island. Consider joining our optional Santorini Highlights excursion, which includes a guided tour, lunch, and wine tasting. We will begin with a visit to a striking black sand beach, followed by a stroll through the quaint village of Megalochori, known for its traditional cave houses.

Later, enjoy sampling some of Santorini's renowned wines at a local winery. The tour concludes with a visit to the picturesque village of Oia—perfect for witnessing one of the island's famous sunsets before we return to the hotel.

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast, then choose how to spend your time on this enchanting island. You can explore at your own pace, soaking up the local atmosphere, or opt for an exciting boat excursion to the caldera islands.

This optional tour includes a visit to the renowned volcano, a dip in the soothing hot springs, and a stop at the charming island of Thirassia, where a traditional Greek lunch awaits. Later, return to the hotel and savour your final evening in Santorini.

This morning, we transfer to Santorini Airport for a flight back to Athens, which is covered in your tour package. Upon arrival at Athens airport, our memorable 12-day Greece tour concludes. Remember to exchange contact details with your new travel companions before your onward journey.