Journeys: Classical Greece and Her Island Jewels - 16 Days

Arrive at any time. Please make your own way to the joining hotel.

Considered the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Explore the iconic Acropolis with an archaeologist guide and wander among the columns of the Parthenon. This Greek temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, was built from white marble in 447 BC and takes centre stage in the Acropolis Museum. Continue to the ancient Agora—where Athenians gathered to discuss the affairs of the day—and listen to your expert guide bring these timeless ruins to life. Afterwards, be enriched and refreshed with drinks and a tour of the the tour operator–supported non-profit cafe, Shedia Home.

Depart Athens this morning to Kalambaka–home of the famous monasteries of Meteora. Make a short stop to see the bronze statue of King Leonidas, erected in Thermopylae and site of the famous battle with the same name. This afternoon, embark on an unforgettable experience led by a skilled truffle hunter and his loyal dogs. Head into the woods and watch this fascinating process and learn all there is to know about truffles-delicious mushrooms that grow underground. Sample some mushrooms under the shade of centuries-old trees, washing them down with wine then finish up with an early dinner - pasta fittingly prepared with truffles.

Spend the morning exploring the extraordinary monasteries of Meteora. Built atop sandstone megaliths that rise 1,200 feet (366 meters) from the valley floor, these monasteries offered refuge from hostile attacks during the waning days of the Byzantine Empire. Venture into chapels and courtyards adorned with beautiful frescoes. Take in the panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, which-on a clear day, includes views of Mount Olympus. In the afternoon, continue to Delphi, home to the Temple of Apollo—seat of the fabled oracle of Delphi and considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks.

Explore mystical Delphi–a UNESCO World Heritage Site on a guided tour, then visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi with free time to admire the many artifacts unearthed at the site. Later, travel along the breathtaking Gulf of Corinth, crossing into the Peloponnese via the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, an impressively long multi-span cable-stay bridge. After arrival in Olympia, head out on an orientation walk then enjoy free time for dinner at your leisure.

Step back into ancient history on a visit to the archaeological site of Olympia, including the Temples of Zeus and Hera, and the ancient stadium where the Olympic Games were first held in 776 B.C. After an optional lunch, travel onward to Nafplio for a locally guided walk. Enjoy the highlights of the old town, including the Bourtzi Castle and Palamidi Fortress while sampling local culinary specialties along the waterfront. Complete the day with a gelato from the most famous shop in Greece.

Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore on your own before an excursion to the Bronze Age city of Mycenae, where the legendary King Agamemnon ruled. Take a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, enclosed within Cyclopean walls, and enter the citadel through the famed Lion Gate–one of Europe’s oldest monumental sculptures. After, head to a regional winery for a wine tasting paired with cheese and mezze plates for dinner.

This morning, make a stop at Epidaurus. Visit the first recorded hospital, the Aesklipion, and the still functioning ancient theatre built in the complex with a focus on mental healing. Next, drive north over the Isthmus of Corinth, crossing the famed Corinth Canal as you return to Athens. Set out for an optional farewell dinner and one final evening in Athens.

Enjoy a free day to explore at your leisure. Choose to discover the well-preserved medieval architecture of the Panathenaic Stadium, Hadrian’s Library, or the National Gardens should you wish.

Travel by ferry to the island of Mykonos with its iconic windmills and seaside cafes. Here you’ll relax and unwind with an afternoon at the pool, then join your tour leader for a walk through town, revealing those famous windmills, the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, and the lovely Little Venice.

After breakfast, head out on an excursion with an archeologist guide to Delos, an island with recorded history dating back to the early Ionian civilization. Once the religious centre of the Aegean Cyclades, the island now exists as an open-air museum, uninhabited and with no vehicles. According to legend, Latonna gave birth here to Apollo the Greek sun god, and to Artemis, the huntress and goddess of marriage and fertility. On our walk, see the Sacred Harbor and the regal Sacred Way, with imposing stone lions leading to the temples dedicated to Apollo and Artemis. Then visit the museum where artifacts found on the island are housed. Return to Mykonos for a free afternoon.

This morning, travel by ferry to the island of Naxos, the largest of the Cycladic islands. Here you’ll immerse yourself in a culinary adventure accompanied by a local expert. Learn the secrets of the Naxian Rosto, a celebrated dish of slow cooked pork infused with fragrant garlic and filled with local graviera cheese, baked in the oven. Then, head out on a walking tour with an expert guide starting at the “Portara” , a marble gateway–remnants of the temple of Apollo dating from the 6th century BC. From ancient Greek ruins to medieval fortresses and modern island life–explore the old town. Stroll through winding alleys, view the 11th-century Cathedral, and see prehistoric Cycladic figurines in the historic Ursuline School.

Spend a full day in the countryside and appreciate the true spirit of Naxos, a rich, agricultural hub. Accompanied by a local guide, explore the island’s unique culture walking from village to village, meeting the locals, and tasting traditional flavours along the way. Walk in ancient footsteps through Kouroi, an archeological landmark, witness the watermills of Myloi, sample Kytro liquor at Chalki village, and enjoy the iconic olives and olive oil in Kaloxylos village. On your way back, make a stop at the non-profit Naxos Wildlife Protection organization to learn about their conservation efforts on the island before enjoying a free afternoon.

Catch a ferry to the postcard-perfect Santorini this morning. Here, you’ll join a local guide for a visit to the Akrotiri Museum and ruins–a Bronze Age settlement destroyed in the Theran eruption sometime in the 16th century BC. The site was buried in volcanic ash, preserving the remains of fine frescos and artifacts, similar to the famed Pompeii. Later, choose some free time to relax or join your tour leader for a walk along a segment of the caldera trail. Along the way view the famous Three Bells of Santorini as well as a top down view of the stone path leading to a panoramic view of the volcano and caldera.

Today is free to enjoy the stunning landscapes, beaches and culture of Santorini. Opt to join a sailing excursion which visits local beaches, one of the oldest active volcanoes, and the volcanically formed islands of Palea and Nea Kameni. This evening, join the group for an optional farewell dinner in Oia, famous for its stunning sunset views, and toast the end of your Greek adventure.

Depart at any time.