Greece: Athens and Walking in the Greek Islands - 10 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the overall experience like on the Greece: Athens and Walking in the Greek Islands tour?

  This 10-day trip offers an amazing combination of Greek cuisine, unparalleled ocean views, and invigorating hikes through the hills of stunning Greek islands, designed to skip the crowds. You'll explore Athens historically, then ferry to lesser-known islands like Tinos and Naxos. Activities include hiking to historic castles and charming villages, food tours, local specialties tasting, and snorkeling in the Aegean Sea, allowing for a slower pace and rejuvenation.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  You will stay in hotels for all 9 nights. Generally, you can expect small, family-run hotels or pensions, which may vary in standard and facilities (e.g., some might not have elevators or air-conditioning). However, they are all locally-run, have traditional character, and are in excellent central locations, providing clean, safe, and simple accommodation. Fans are typically available upon request if air conditioning is not present.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, the tour includes 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners. While not all meals are included to give you flexibility, groups often eat together, and your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) can recommend local restaurants.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  The tour utilizes a combination of ferries for island hopping, private vehicles for transfers, and walking to explore various sites and villages.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 16 travelers, with an average group size of 14.

• Is this tour suitable for solo travelers, and is there an extra cost?

  Yes, this tour is suitable for solo travelers. Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and solo travelers are paired with someone of the same sex, meaning there is no single supplement. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive a single room for all night stops.

• Who will be leading the group during the tour?

  The tour is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout the trip, along with local guides at specific sites. The CEO handles travel logistics, offers suggestions, recommends local eateries, and introduces you to local friends. Local guides provide specific historical and cultural insights at monuments, as CEOs in Europe are legally limited to providing orientation walks in public places.

• Is tipping included or expected on this tour?

  On Geluxe Collection tours, tipping is included for all included activities and meals. Tipping for your CEO and for porterage is not included and is at your discretion; a guideline of $10-15 USD per person per day for the CEO is suggested. For meals and activities not included in your itinerary, a 10% tip is appropriate and expected in Europe.

• How much spending money should I plan for during the trip?

  Spending money requirements vary per traveler depending on habits for drinks, shopping, and personal tipping. It is recommended to bring a combination of Euros and credit/debit cards. Always err on the side of bringing more rather than less to ensure a comfortable trip.

• What are the main payment methods I can use in Greece?

  Credit cards and debit cards are useful for cash advances, but ensure you have your PIN (many ATMs accept 4-digit PINs). Visa, Cirrus, and Plus system cards are widely accepted. However, it's advisable not to rely solely on cards; a combination of Euros and cards is best. Be aware that credit card purchases may incur a fee.

• Is travel insurance mandatory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need to provide evidence of coverage to your leader, with a minimum of USD200,000 for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation. It is strongly recommended that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects, especially for adventure activities.

• Are there any specific health considerations for traveling to Greece on this tour?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations before departure. We recommend carrying a first-aid kit, hand sanitizers, and any personal medical requirements. Your leaders are prohibited from administering medication.

• What safety and security measures should I be aware of during the tour?

  We recommend using a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, leaving expensive jewelry at home, and utilizing hotel safety deposit boxes. A lock for your luggage is also advised. Your CEO may amend the itinerary for safety concerns. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's best to stay in groups and use taxis at night. For water activities, it's recommended to participate with a guide, and swimming/snorkeling is at your own risk.

• Are international flights included in the tour package?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of this tour. You are responsible for arranging your flights to Athens and from Santorini.

• What is the tour's policy regarding behavior and local laws?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated, as they contravene local laws and endanger the group. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also strictly prohibited. Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) have the right to expel any group member violating these rules without a refund.

• Will I have opportunities to do laundry during the trip?

  Some hotels may offer laundry facilities for a charge. Your CEO can also direct you to the nearest laundromat. It's advisable to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap if you anticipate needing to do hand laundry.

• What are the main highlights of this Greece tour?

  Highlights include a walking tour of Athens with visits to the Acropolis and Ancient Agora, hiking up Filopappou Hill for sunset views, a food tour in Tinos, a hike to Tinos Castle, a Naxos food and wine tour (including cheese making and vineyard visits), a Naxos village-to-village hike, a full-day catamaran sailing and snorkeling experience in the Aegean Sea, and an "OMG Day" in Santorini with a choice between a crater rim hike or a driving tour, concluding with a sunset cruise and dinner in the caldera.

• Is an arrival and departure transfer included with the tour?

  Yes, a complimentary arrival transfer to your joining hotel and a departure transfer to the airport are included. For arrival in Athens, you should meet your driver inside the airport at Gate 4, in front of the pharmacy, holding the tour operator sign.

• What type of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  On this trip, you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions, which may vary in standard and facilities but are locally-run, have traditional character, and are in excellent central locations. Larger city hotels are used at the start and finish. Most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning, but hotels will provide a fan if needed.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16 travellers, with an average of 14.

• What meals are included during the tour?

  The tour includes 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. Generally, other meals are not included to provide flexibility in dining choices, but your CEO can recommend local restaurants.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travellers?

  No, solo travellers are not charged extra. Group trips are designed for shared accommodation, and single travellers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Who will lead the tour group?

  The trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout, along with local guides at specific sites. The CEO provides general knowledge, suggestions, and assistance, while local guides offer specific historical and cultural insights in permitted areas.

• What modes of transportation are used during the tour?

  Transportation during the tour includes ferries, private vehicles, and walking.

• What are the main highlights and included activities of this trip?

  The trip includes a walking tour of Athens (Acropolis, Ancient Agora), a hike up Filopappou Hill for sunset views, a Tinos food tour, a hike to Tinos Castle, a Naxos cheese and wine trail food tour, a Naxos village-to-village hike, full-day catamaran sailing and snorkeling in the Aegean Sea, and your choice of a Crater Rim hike or Santorini driving tour, ending with a Santorini Sunset Cruise with dinner. Complimentary arrival and departure transfers are also included.

• Are there any optional activities available?

  Yes, optional activities in Athens include visiting the National Archaeological Museum (12 EUR per person) and the Acropolis Museum.

• What health considerations should I be aware of before traveling?

  You should consult your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. It's recommended to carry a First Aid kit, hand sanitizers, and personal medical requirements, as medical facilities may be remote.

• What should I know about safety and security on this trip?

  National governments provide travel advice, and it's recommended to check this before departure. Use a neck wallet or money belt for valuables, and leave expensive jewelry at home. Many hotels have safety deposit boxes. While cities are generally safe during the day, it's advised to stay in small groups and use taxis at night. Water-based activities are undertaken with guides, but swimming/snorkeling is always at your own risk.

• What is the tipping policy for this tour?

  Tipping is included for all included activities and meals on Geluxe Collection tours. Tipping for the CEO and porterage is not included and is at your discretion; a guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day, is suggested for the CEO. For non-included meals and activities, a 10% tip is appropriate in Europe, though not compulsory, it is expected.

• What is the recommended currency and payment method for this trip?

  The local currency is Euros. Credit and debit cards (especially Visa, Cirrus, and Plus systems) are useful for cash advances, but always bring your PIN (many ATMs only accept 4-digit PINs). Do not rely solely on cards; a combination of Euros and cards is best. Exchange rates can be checked at www.xe.com.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will not be permitted to join without evidence of travel insurance, which must cover a minimum of USD200,000 for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. Personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and luggage loss coverage are strongly recommended. Ensure your policy covers all included adventure activities.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Greece?

  All countries require a valid passport (minimum 6 months validity). Visa requirements depend on your nationality. For many, travel within the Schengen area (which includes Greece) is simplified with the Schengen visa. As of 2025, ETIAS travel authorization may be required for visa-exempt nationals. It is your responsibility to check current requirements with your local embassy/consulate or travel agent.

• Are laundry facilities available during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge, or your CEO can direct you to the nearest laundromat. It's advisable to bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap for handwashing if needed.

• What is the Planeterra Foundation?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to using tourism to support local communities by developing community-owned businesses. They help indigenous people, empower women, create youth employment, and protect the environment. The tour operator covers all Planeterra's operating costs, so 100% of donations go directly to projects. You can choose to donate $1/day to support these initiatives.

• What should LGBTQ+ travellers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all travellers is a priority. We recognize that LGBTQ+ travellers may have specific concerns. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.

• Are international flights included in this trip?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours traveling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Check with your GCO or booking agent for details. Also, check with your airline for check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions.

• What rules should I know before joining this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possessing or using drugs contravenes local laws and puts the group at risk. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is also not tolerated. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member if these rules are violated.