SEMI-INDEPENDENT TOUR: Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Greek heroes with this two-week tour which travels from Athens to Santorini, ending with a 4-day cruise around the beautiful Aegean. Along the way, visit the incredible Sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi and ancient Ephesus in Turkey, relax on the sunny beaches of Mykonos and explore the medieval old town in Rhodes.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Arrival in Athens
Welcome to Greece! Transfer to your hotel upon arrival at Athens airport, where you may spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Athens
Athens City Tour
Our adventure begins with a tour of Greece's 3000-year old capital city, named after the goddess Athena. We start with a panoramic tour of important sites including the Panathenaic Stadium (where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896), Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Syntagma Square. Travelling back in time, we then enjoy a guided visit of the Acropolis, the ancient hilltop sanctuary housing the architectural masterpieces of Classical Athens: the Parthenon, Propylaia, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. This is followed by a tour of the Acropolis Museum, recently voted one of the best museums in the world. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in the old Plaka neighbourhood and maybe shop for some souvenirs on Ermou street.
Please note: for tours departing in March 2022, the Athens city tour will operate on day 6 after the four day excursion to Olympia, Delphi and Meteora.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Across the Peloponnese
Athens - Epidaurus - Mycenae - Olympia. After breakfast, we depart for the Peloponnese, the rocky peninsula home to many of Greece's greatest archaeological sites. First we stop at the gaping Corinth Canal, a narrow waterway separating the Peloponnese and mainland Greece. We continue to Epidaurus, a hub of ancient healing with a theater famed for its acoustics.
After a short seaside stop in Nafplion, we visit Mycenae, the ancient civilization described by Homer as "rich in gold" and excavated by Heinrich Schliemann. The site includes the towering Cyclopean walls, the beehive tomb of Agamemnon, and the famous Lion's Gate. In the afternoon, we cross the mountains of the Peloponnese to arrive in Olympia for dinner.
Overnight: Olympia | Breakfast, Dinner
Olympia
Olympia - Delphi. Built on the banks of the River Alfios, the lush green sanctuary of Olympia once housed the original ancient Olympic Games, held every four years in honour of Zeus. Today we enjoy a tour through its remains, including the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra, and Phidias's workshop. We continue to the local museum, one of the richest in Greece with famous works such as the Hermes of Praxiteles. In the afternoon, we head return to mainland Greece, over the Rio-Antirio bridge, to Delphi for dinner.
Overnight: Olympia | Breakfast, Dinner
Delphi
Delphi - Kalambaka. The sanctuary at Delphi was revered in antiquity as a center of pilgrimage, home to the Pythia (oracle) in the Temple of Apollo. We will follow the Sacred Way, the path followed by ancient visitors through the sanctuary. We then visit the local museum, where we'll find the bronze Charioteer statue and the omphalos stone. Afterwards, we cross the mountains of central Greece back to the mainland, arriving in Kalambaka for our overnight stay.
Overnight: Kalambaka | Breakfast, Dinner
Meteora
Kalambaka - Athens. This morning we visit Meteora, a stunning World Heritage site where a series of towering rock formations shelter a number of sacred Eastern Orthodox monasteries. In the afternoon we return to Athens for the night, briefly stopping at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a famous last stand against the Persians in 480 BC.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Athens Free Time
Today offers free time to further explore the delights of Athens. Alternatively a optional tour to Cape Sounion and the temple of Poseidon will be available.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Athens
This morning transfer to the port for an exciting day cruise to the Saronic gulf islands. Our first stop will be the picturesque island of Hydra, well know to the international jetset. On Hydra you can explore the little cobble-stoned streets. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the Mitropolis at your own pace. Next, we visit the island of Poros with its clock tower facing the Peloponnese. Last comes Aegina, a weekend retreat for many Athenians. Make sure to buy some pistachios, as Aegina is world-famous for its production. A buffet lunch will be served on board, and on the way back you will have to opportunity to see and participate to some traditional Greek dances!
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Cruising the Aegean
After breakfast this morning return to the port to board the elegant Celestyal Cruises ship and embark on a three night 'Iconic Aegean' cruise, from Athens to Santorini. We'll arrive in Mykonos this afternoon. Take advantage of the free shuttle service provide by the cruise line to explore the bustling Chora (Mykonos town) until late in the evening.
Overnight: Greek Island Cruise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ephesus & Patmos
Mykonos - Patmos. Our cruise takes us to Turkey this morning, we sail to Kusadasi for an excursion to the town's covered bazaar and the ancient city of Ephesus, where the Temple of Artemis - among the Seven Wonders of the World - was once located.
Returning to the ship this afternoon, we continue back to Greece and the island of Patmos. Here we find the hilltop Monastery of St John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where the apostle is believed to have witnessed the events of the Book of Revelation, an optional excursion to visit these places is offered.
Overnight: Greek Island Cruise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rhodes
Patmos - Rhodes. In the morning we arrive in Rhodes. An included 'medieval tour' takes in the sights of this World Heritage city, including the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights (Old Town). Overnight, our cruise continues south to the island of Crete.
Overnight: Greek Island Cruise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Heraklion & Santorini
Rhodes - Heraklion - Santorini. We arrive in Heraklion, the capital of Crete, early this morning, where you have the option of an excursion to the Minoan Palace of Knossos. Immortalized in the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, this Bronze Age settlement stood at the heart of one of Greece's earliest civilizations. We reach the island of Santorini in the afternoon, where we leave our cruise and transfer to our hotel.
Overnight: Santorini | Breakfast, Lunch
Santorini
Enjoy a day at leisure in Santorini, an Aegean paradise widely considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Explore the whitewashed towns of Fira and Oia with their views of the volcano which birthed the island, watch the spectacular sunset from the black-sanded beaches, or cruise the caldera on a boat tour.
Overnight: Santorini | Breakfast
Santorini
Our Greek odyssey ends today. Enjoy the morning at leisure before an included transfer to Santorini airport to meet your onward flight.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Hotels
The cruise ship and hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these for ones of a similar standard when necessary. Please note that in Athens a variety of hotels are used and the ones below are just an example. At time of booking our reservations team can let you know which Athens hotel has been confirmed.
Polis Grand, Athens
In the heart of Athens, the Polis Grand is a contemporary hotel with excellent facilities. Guest rooms are well appointed with elegant furniture and all modern conveniences. Some rooms are equipped with a balcony with fantastic views over to the Acropolis. The hotel benefits from a number of eateries which serve up an array of Greek and international cuisine as well as tasty coffee and delicious pies. Definitely head for a cocktail in the evening at the roof garden bar for amazing views across the city.
Titania Hotel, Athens
Nestled in the historic centre of Athens, the Titiana offers beautiful accommodation all classically designed. The ensuite guest rooms are furnished to a high standard with neutral tones and wooden flooring. Breakfast is served in the impressive rooftop Olive Garden restaurant which affords amazing views across the city including the Acropolis. The hotel also benefits from complimentary Wi-Fi and a fitness centre.
Hotel Europa , Olympia
Set at the top of Drouvas Hill, Hotel Europa offers views of the Arcadian Mountains and Alfios Valley from your own private balcony. The spacious guestrooms also feature marble floors and modern amenities, with free WiFi and breakfast included. Relax on the comfortable sunbeds by the outdoor pool that is surrounded by luscious greenery. Within the garden there is a Greek tavern where you can enjoy a delicious feast of Mediterranean cuisine prepared with natural and organic ingredients.
Hotel Arty Grand , Olympia
Located on top of a hill overlooking Olympia, the Arty Grand Hotel is all about the guest experience. From the welcoming reception hall, up to the spacious rooms and beautiful verandas, the Arty Grand provides world-class treatment. Arranged over three floors, there is an outdoor swimming pool and spa centre, where you can relax with a rejuvenating massage after a day of exploring. The hotel serves a daily breakfast buffet and you can order from the lunch and dinner menu. Then take your pick between the hotel or poolside bar to enjoy an evening drink.
Celestyal Majesty Cruise Boat, Island Cruise
The Celestyal Majesty is a tastefully decorated, elegant cruise ship offering a variety of comfortable ensuite cabin choices for a memorable time on board. With a host of activity options, from a gym and swimming pool for the more active to arts and craft, dance and language lessons, there's something for everyone whilst cruising the crystal waters of the Aegean. The Celestyal Majesty can hold up to 1,460 passengers and is supported by over 600 crew. With a number of bars and restaurants guests have ample eating and drinking options.
Orizontes Hotel & Villas Santorini, Santorini
Located in the village of Pyrgos, the Orizontes Hotel was recently renovated and is surrounded by vineyards. Guest rooms have private balconies looking out to the sea or the garden and are equipped with lots of modern conveniences. The hotel also has a couple of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Plus there is a lovely outdoor pool to cool down in and lots of sunbeds.
El Greco Resort & Spa, Santorini
Conveniently located just minutes from the centre of Fira, El Greco is a beautiful white washed complex in the classic Santorini style. All guest rooms are air conditioned and reflect the Cycladic style whilst including all mod-cons and exception ensuite facilities. The resort benefits from an outdoor pool, on site restaurant and adult-only Spa Centre for guests.
In Brief
