Best of Greece
15 days, Athens to Santorini
Itinerary Notes
Please note that for departures during April and October there may be variations on this itinerary, depending on season & weather conditions. Ferry schedules may be affected and access to Samaria Gorge may be limited or blocked. Our expert CEOs will always put your safety first and in cases of unforeseen, weather-related changes, they may cancel a day's activity at their discretion. An alternative will be offered where possible to do so.
As we utilize a range of transportation in Greece, we highly recommend packing light for this trip. Please see the "What to take" section under the Trip details tab for more information.
Itinerary
Day 1Athens
Arrive at any time.
We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city.
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
FreeMost of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
National Archaeological Museum Visit
12EUR per personTake a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Acropolis and Parthenon Visit
20EUR per personDiscover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Visit the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. This Greek temple, despite the gradual state of ruin and damage sustained over time, still symbolizes the key ideals of harmony and balance that defined the Classical style of Greek architecture.
Ancient Agora Visit
8EUR per personExplore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.
Acropolis Museum Visit
Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
Day 2Athens
Take an orientation walk in Athens with the rest of the day free to explore. Opt to visit the Acropolis site, the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora and the National Archaeological Museum. Afterwards, be enriched and refreshed with drinks and a tour of local non-profit cafe, Shedia Home. Later in the evening attend a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy a dinner of your creations.
Orientation With CEO
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Your G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage
Take time to relax at Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe providing purpose and employment to over 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. You'll enjoy a drink while one of Shedia's guides recounts the recent history of Greece's financial crisis which has made initiatives like Shedia even more important for those who have found themselves without work and shelter. Your stop here supports their programs - including the cafe, art program, and magazine - all dedicated to supporting the community.
Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class Athens
Go on a culinary journey in Athens with a local chef. Learn how to make authentic Greek mezze (sharing dishes) such as dolmades (rice-stuffed vine leaves), imam baildi (stuffed eggplants), and spanakopita (spinach pies). You'll also create a carrot tzatziki — a twist on the classic yoghurt dip — to accompany the dishes and finish off the class with the sweet treat of portokalopita (orange phyllo cake). Sit down with your fellow "chefs" to indulge in your delicious creations for dinner and toast with a shot of ouzo.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Acropolis and Parthenon Visit
20EUR per personDiscover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Visit the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. This Greek temple, despite the gradual state of ruin and damage sustained over time, still symbolizes the key ideals of harmony and balance that defined the Classical style of Greek architecture.
Roman Agora Visit
2EUR per personTake a stroll through the former marketplace for old Athens, the Roman Agora was built in the first century BC.
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
FreeMost of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
National Archaeological Museum Visit
12EUR per personTake a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Acropolis Museum Visit
Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 3Athens/Meteora
Travel to Kalambaka, a good base for visiting the monasteries of Meteora.
Train
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Meteora Sunset Tour
30EUR per personListen to the stories and legends of Meteora from a local guide, visit one of the 6 active monasteries, the Byzantine church of Virgin Mary and enjoy great views from the most panoramic spots. The tour ends with the an awe-inspiring sunset which you will watch from a magical spot high up on the rocks of Meteora.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Meteora
Spend a full free day in the area. Opt to take the public bus and visit the stunning mountaintop monasteries of Meteora.
Opt to take a bus up to see several monasteries in the area situated at 613m (2011 ft) above sea level, on a precipitous rock pinnacle. The day is yours to choose which monasteries to visit or perhaps take a hike in the scenic local area.
Free Time
The day is yours—get exploring. Opt to visit Meteora.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Natural History Museum of Meteora
7EUR per personLocated along the highway and a short distance from the city centre, the Natural History Museum of Meteora houses over 300 exhibits featuring mammals, birds and local flora and fauna.
Independent Meteora Monasteries Visit
Explore the spectacular “hanging” monasteries of Meteora, perched atop pinnacles of rock. Meteora translates to ‘suspended in the air’, which describe the seemingly precarious placement of these historic, sacred structures built at 613m (2011 ft) above sea level. Take a bus up to see the several monasteries in the area, built before any roads or settlements existed in the area.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Meteora/Delphi
Visit Ancient Delphi and the Temple of Apollo.
Travel through mountain scenery around Mt Parnassos to Delphi.
Enjoy a visit to the ancient city of Delphi and the Temple of Apollo, then spend the evening exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Ancient Delphi Tour
Visit the ancient city of Delphi, at the base of Mount Parnassos. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes ancient buildings like treasuries, a stadium, a gymnasium, an altar, hippodrome and the Temple of Apollo.
Temple of Apollo Visit
Visit the Temple of Apollo in Ancient Delphi, dating back to the 4th century BC. Over the years, war and earthquakes have destroyed the site but the ruins still standing today offer fantastic insight into the lives of the ancient Greeks.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Delphi/Náfplio
Travel to Nafplio and explore the beautiful cobblestoned streets. Opt to climb the Acronafplia to soak in the views.
Described as one of Greece's prettiest towns, the narrow pedestrian streets of old town are begging to be strolled upon.
Opt to climb to the Acronafplia and Palamidi Fortresses. The views from the top are phenomenal.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Free Time
Lose yourself in the narrow pedestrian streets of the old town and explore the many sights, sounds, and smells it has to offer.
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Palamidi Fortress Visit
20EUR per personExplore the Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians in the late 1600s when they occupied the area for the second time. Climb the 999 stairs from the town to the fortress, or 913 depending on who you ask—either way expect to feel the burn tomorrow. The view over the Argolic Gulf and the city are worth the work to reach the top.
War Museum
3EUR per personExplore the history of Nafplio through the Greek Revolution, Macedonian Struggle, the Balkan Wars and succeeding conflicts at the War Museum, housed in the building of the First Academy.
Acronafplia Fortress Visit
FreeClimb to the top of the Akronofplia fortress tower to enjoy the phenomenal view from the top that looks back over the bay to Argos and out into the Saronic Gulf.
Bourtzi Castle
7EUR per personTake a short ferry ride to this Venetian landmark - a medieval castle off the coast of Nafpilo. A visit here offers visitors the chance to explore the castle's rooms, and a great views of the city on shore.
Archaeology Museum
10EUR per personLocated in one of Nafplio's best preserved Venetian buildings near Syntagma Square, the Archaeological Museum exhibits a wide range of artifacts from the Argolis region, including a full set of armour cast in bronze from the Mycenean era. It's certainly worth a visit!
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Náfplio/Chaniá
Spend a free day enjoying the area. Opt to visit Epidavros, as well as the nearby site of Mycenae before an overnight ferry to Crete.
There is a wealth of ancient sites within easy reach of Nafplio. Opt for a guided tour of Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites.
Opt to visit the famous Mycenae, also close by, with its spectacular treasury and ruins, or for another lesser-known Mycenean site, visit Tiryns, just in the suburbs of Nafplio itself.
Please note that accommodations on your overnight ferry will consist of 4-berth, mixed gender cabins with a private bathroom and air-conditioning.
Free Time
Head out and explore the city or nearby landmarks.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Tiryns Site Visit
10EUR per personExplore the lesser-known Mycenean site, hidden in the suburbs of Nafplio. Along with Mycenae, Tiryns is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site first excavated in 1831 by German archaeologists.
Epidavros Visit
20EUR per personVisit Epidavros, highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. The site houses a huge, well-preserved theatre famous for its incredible acoustics, as well as the remains of an important medical sanctuary.
Please note to partake in this optional you will need to take a taxi. The pricing listed does not include the cost of roundtrip transportation needed.
Mycenae Site Visit
12EUR per personVisit the famous Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archaeological site with spectacular ruins and a treasury. Once a major settlement of Greek civilization, Mycenae was occupied during the Neolithic period around 4000 BC, and is linked to the mythology in Homer’s epics the Iliad and the Odyssey.
Please note to partake in this optional you will need to take a taxi. The pricing listed does not include the cost of roundtrip transportation needed.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Chaniá
Arrive on Crete and enjoy the day relaxing at one of the many harbour-side cafés. Wander the streets of the old town with its fascinating blend of ancient and modern Turkish and Venetian architecture, reflecting the diverse history of the island.
Free Time
Spend the day getting to know this charming city. Discover the hidden gems of old town and compare it to the modern businesses in new town.
Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow
Archeological Museum of Chania
15EUR per personSpend some time at the Archaeological Museum of Chania, housed in a beautiful 16th century Franciscan monastery. Among hundreds of artifacts recovered across the Cretan islands, find clay tablets and vessels from early Minoan settlements, as well as mosaics and sculptures brought by Roman settlers.
Maritime Museum of Crete
5EUR per personLocated at the entrance of Firkas Fortress, the Maritime Museum of Crete houses a rich collection of nautical treasures. Find exhibits on traditional Greek shipbuilding techniques (with a fully reconstructed ancient Minoan ship), galleries that trace local naval history from the Venetian occupation to present day, and dozens of maps and navigational equipment used by early voyagers.
Koum Kapi Beach
FreeTake a stroll along this beautiful beach, just outside of the walled town.
Old Venetian Harbour Visit
FreeTake a stroll through the Old Venetian Harbour. Originally built the Venetians as a commercial port between 1320 and 1356, it is now home to quaint cafes and restaurants. Marvel at various monuments preserved from different areas of colonial rule along the way.
Day 9Chaniá/Agia Roumeli
Hike the famous and rugged Samariá Gorge.
Travel by private transfer and ferry to hike in the Samariá Gorge. Spend the night in Agia Roumeli, a remote fishing village.
Connected with neighbouring towns by sea or footpaths, the town has retained its charm. Enjoy time for swimming or relaxing on the beach.
Please bring a day pack with any essentials needed during the hike, and ensure to wear proper hiking attire.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Samariá Gorge Hike
Set off to hike the famous and spectacular Samaria Gorge. Start with a scenic drive from Chania to the coastal village of Sfkakia. Catch a boat to Agia Roumeli then lace up your hiking boots and hike in the spectacular Samaria Gorge. Head towards the narrowest and most impressive part of the gorge, known as the Iron Gates. This makes for a perfect rest spot to enjoy a packed lunch (not included) by the river while appreciating the surrounding natural beauty. Continue hiking, returning to Agia Roumeli with plenty of time for swimming or just resting on the beach.
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Swimming
FreeDive into the clear waters of the Libyan sea along the coast of this coastal village.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Agia Roumeli/Loutro
Travel by ferry to Loutro. Enjoy a free day. Opt to rent a kayak and explore secluded beaches and coves.
The majestic scenery, crystal-clear Mediterranean water, friendly people and peaceful atmosphere all make Loutro an ideal place to relax after all the distance travelled.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Free Time
Enjoy some free time to relax on the beach.
Optional Activities - Day 10 HideShow
Kayaking
10EUR per personRent a kayak and head out on the clear, blue-green waters along the coast of Loutro.
Marmara Beach
FreeTake a visit to the pebbly bay of Marmara beach. With access to its azure waters only by boat or walking trail, this spot is truly remote, and one of the most picturesque in Loutro. Feeling active? Opt for a scenic hike in the Aradena Gorge during your visit.
Aradena Gorge Hike (Aradine)
FreeHead out into the Aradena Gorge to experience more of this gorgeous landscape. One of the most popular walks in western Crete, the main route from Marmara near Loutro, to the Aradena village takes about 3 hours to complete. The path is rocky in places and steep, with incredible views of the landscape and local fauna. Keep a look out for the griffin vultures flying above, but don’t worry they’re not waiting for you to keel over, their nests are just nearby.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Loutro
Take advantage of a free day for exploring the area. Head out for a swim and savour tasty seafood meals at secluded restaurants, or choose to hike Aradine Gorge.
Free Time
Get active or just relax—it's up to you!
Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow
Aradena Gorge Hike (Aradine)
FreeHead out into the Aradena Gorge to experience more of this gorgeous landscape. One of the most popular walks in western Crete, the main route from Marmara near Loutro, to the Aradena village takes about 3 hours to complete. The path is rocky in places and steep, with incredible views of the landscape and local fauna. Keep a look out for the griffin vultures flying above, but don’t worry they’re not waiting for you to keel over, their nests are just nearby.
Kayaking
10EUR per personRent a kayak and head out on the clear, blue-green waters along the coast of Loutro.
Swimming
FreeSplash around in the beautiful waters along the coast of Loutro.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Loutro/Heraklion
Travel to Heraklion. Enjoy a visit to Knossos, site of a Minoan palace and residence of King Minos. Enjoy the rest of the day on your own with free time.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Knossos Site Visit
Enjoy an included visit to Knossos, known to be the largest archaeological site of the Bronze Age on Crete. Knossos was a major city ruled by King Minos and is believed to be the oldest city in all of Europe. Explore the ancient palace and surrounding city, discovered in the 1900s by the English archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Heraklion/Santorini
Hop a ferry to beautiful Santorini. Enjoy two nights on the island.
Fira, the main town, sits perched on the edge of the caldera with breathtaking views of multi-coloured cliffs, sugar-cube architecture, and great shopping.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Free Time
Start exploring this beautiful island.
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Santorini
Enjoy a free day to explore. Opt for a half-day volcano tour, shopping, relaxing on the beach, or make your way to the crater's rim to savour the breathtaking view.
Opt to pre-book the "Santorini Sunset Cruise" activity on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.
Free Time
Don't waste a minute in paradise—get going.
Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow
Museum of Prehistoric Thera
10EUR per personLocated in the island's capital, Fira, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera invites visitors to travel through time across the Cyclades islands. Learn about the region's geology and ancient settlements through the ceramics, frescoes and incredible objects on display, including a gold ibex figurine from the 17th century BC.
Imerovigli Village Visit
FreeNamed after the "vigla" or lookout point atop this picturesque village, Imerovigli overlooks the Santorini caldera and boasts a breathtaking view of the bay and nearby Skaros Rock. Recognized as a traditional settlement, many of the village's original hillside caves have been converted into beautiful hotels and guesthouses.
Volcano Tour
Explore the shape of the crater ring on a volcano tour. The crater has constantly changed over the last 3000 years, with several parts of the crater wall collapsing into the sea. Remarkably, the island has always been resettled due to the rich volcanic soil's fertile properties. The wines, tomatoes and cucumbers from this island are super tasty due to the soil composition and low rainfall.
Akrotiri Ancient Ruins Visit
20EUR per personRumoured to be the inspiration for Plato's Atlantis, the ancient ruins of Akrotiri are one of the most-visited attractions in Santorini for a reason. Buried under lava for centuries, many of the site's buildings, roads and structures present visitors an intimate look into Minoan culture from 1,650 B.C.
Santorini Sunset Cruise
Head out to sea to soak in the views of the sun setting over the azure waters over the Agean. Enjoy a dinner, take in the site of picturesque site of Santorini, and toast to another beautiful day in paradise. Opa!
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 15Santorini
Depart at any time.