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.
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.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Day 2Athens
Explore the city on a guided walking tour to the Parthenon and Acropolis with a refreshment stop at a local non-profit cafe, Shedia Home, along the way. Enjoy a free afternoon to immerse yourself deeper into this historical city; opt to visit the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, or the National Archaeological Museum. Later in the evening attend a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy a dinner of your creations.
Guided Visit of Acropolis and Parthenon
Discover 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.
Athens Walking Tour
Join this brief yet captivating walking tour that seamlessly connects your Acropolis exploration to the vibrant heart of Athens. As you walk through the historic streets, you'll pass by key landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods, offering a glimpse of both ancient and modern Athens. Along the way learn about the city's rich history, from its iconic monuments to its bustling squares, before continuing your journey toward Shedia.
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
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.
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.
Accommodation
Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 3Athens/Meteora
Travel north from Athens by bus and train to Kalampaka, the perfect base for visiting the monasteries and the area of Meteora.
Perched on high cliffs there are monasteries built on immense natural pillars and make for a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
Local Bus
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.
Accommodation
Hotel Kosta Famissi (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Meteora
Spend a full free day in the area. Head out and visit the mountain top monasteries on your own by bus or pre-book the Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour to do it on foot with a local guide.
Free Time
Explore the Meteora area with free time today and if you're feeling adventurous, lace up your hiking boots and explore the local trails and monasteries on foot.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Guided Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour
Set off on foot with a local guide along the paths of the first monks, to visit the striking mountaintop monasteries of Meteora. Walk in the footsteps of monks and enjoy incredible views of the Meteora Valley. Along the way, admire Meteora’s awe-inspiring rock formations, observe all six monasteries from the outside, and step inside two of them to explore their rich heritage. Discover the beauty of Meteora and experience a journey through time in this UNESCO World Heritage site!
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.
Accommodation
Hotel Kosta Famissi (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Meteora/Delphi
After breakfast, transfer to the site of Thermopylae and Information Centre to learn of the famous battle that helped create the Greece we know today. Continue on to Delphi for an orientation walk before touring Ancient Delphi with a local guide. Spend the evening as you wish with free time.
Travel through mountain scenery around Mt Parnassos to Delphi.
Enjoy a visit to the ancient city of Delphi, then spend the evening exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Thermopylae and Information Center Visit
Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Delphi Orientation Walk
Enjoy a brief orientation walk with your CEO, then enjoy a free evening in the ancient city of Delphi.
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.
Accommodation
Hotel Acropole Delphi (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Delphi/Náfplio
Travel Nafplio with a stop at the Corinth Canal on the way. Take part in a brief orientation walk then spend the evening exploring the cobblestone streets with free time. Opt to climb the Acronafplia to take in the views.
Described as one of Greece's prettiest towns, the narrow pedestrian streets of old town are begging to be strolled upon.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Corinth Canal Visit
Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Nafplio
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.
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
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!
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.
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.
Accommodation
Park Hotel Nafplio (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Náfplio/Athens
Enjoy free time to explore Napflio and the surrounding areas. Choose to visit Epidavros, as well as the nearby site of Mycenae then transfer in the late afternoon to Athens for the night.
There is a wealth of ancient sites to explore within easy reach of Nafplio on a free day such as Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. Or choose 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.
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 vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
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.
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.
Accommodation
Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Athens/Chaniá
Hop on a morning flight from Athens to Chania. After dropping your bags at the hotel, get your bearings on an orientation walk and then take the rest of the day to explore or to relax 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.
Plane
Look! Up in the sky! It's a bird! It's a plane! It's... yup, it is a plane, actually.
Chania Orientation Walk
Set off on a walk with your CEO to get your bearings in the charming port town of Chania.
Optional Activities - Day 8 HideShow
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.
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.
Accommodation
Nefeli Hotel Chania (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Chaniá/Agia Roumeli
Travel by private transfer and ferry. Relax on the beach or opt to rent a kayak and explore secluded beaches and coves.
Connected with neighbouring towns by sea or footpaths, the town has retained its charm. Enjoy time for swimming or relaxing on the beach.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Free Time
Head to the beach or choose to rent a kayak with free time in Agia Roumeli
Optional Activities - Day 9 HideShow
Swimming
FreeDive into the clear waters of the Libyan sea along the coast of this coastal village.
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.
Accommodation
Calypso Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Agia Roumeli/Loutro
Hike in the Samariá Gorge. Return with time to take a refreshing dip in the crystal clear water of Southern Crete. In the late afternoon catch a ferry to the town of Loutro for the night.
The majestic scenery, crystal-clear Mediterranean water, friendly people and peaceful atmosphere all make Loutro an ideal place to relax.
Please bring a day pack with any essentials needed during the hike, and ensure to wear proper hiking attire.
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.
Ferry
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
Optional Activities - Day 10 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.
Accommodation
Protopapas Rooms (or similar)
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.
Accommodation
Protopapas Rooms (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Loutro/Irákleion
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.
Explore the impressive ruins of the Knossos palace complex offering a glimpse into the sophisticated architecture, art, and culture of the Minoans, dating back to around 2000 BC.
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.
Heraklion Orientation Walk
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.
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.
Accommodation
Olympic Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Irákleion/Santorini
Hop on a ferry to beautiful and iconic island of Santorini. Get your bearings after arriving on an orientation walk of the town of Fira with your CEO. Then head out on a spectacular walk along the caldera from Fira to Oia with incredible views over the Mediterranean. Take in the sunset and then return to the hotel in the evening.
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 Seajet ferry boat.
Fira Orientation Walk
Get to know Fira a little better on a brief walk with your CEO.
Caldera Hiking Excursion
Hike along the caldera cliff from Fira to Oia with your CEO as your guide. You'll pass through the villages of Firostefani and Imerovigli between Fira and Oia. At just under 11km the hike will take between 3 and 4 hours. Part of the path is similar to a sidewalk and some parts are cobblestone and others a simple dirt path. Enjoy the exercise and some of the best views in Santorini.
Free Time
Discover more of Oia this evening with some free time. Perhaps enjoy the sunset, wet your whistle with a drink, or join some group mates for a nice dinner.
Accommodation
Hellas Family Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Santorini
Enjoy a free day to explore Santorini. 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. If the mood suits, soak up the sunset on a pre-bookable sunset Oia cruise.
Free Time
Explore the area with free time to get the most out of Santorini.
Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow
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.
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.
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!
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.
Accommodation
Hellas Family Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 15Santorini
Depart at any time.