Greece: Athens and Walking in the Greek Islands

Athens, named after the greek goddess of wisdom, Athena, is a place so rich in cultural history it can be hard to take in the magnitude of its contributions to the world we live in today. From the world's most influential philosophers-Socrates, Aristotle, Plato-to the thinkers who brought about the first democratic political systems, Athens has more than its fair share of history to uncover. Welcome to Athens, and to Greece, and we invite you to join us in discovering what makes Greece the perfect blend of the ancient and the modern.

Socrates said "I am a citizen, not of Athens, or Greece, but of the world". Well today you are all citizens of Athens. Explore two of the most important monuments in history. From the home of the Goddess Athena to the peoples places, dive into the history of Athens, greek mythology and the birth of democracy.

Athens has always been the gateway to the Greek islands and a ferry ride to the Islands is a quintessential part exploring these magnificent islands. Picture the warm sun on your face, the blue water that turns to azure as you get closer to the island and the beautiful white village that starts coming into focus. You've made it, welcome to Tinos!

Lesser known and lesser visited, Tinos is what you imagine in your mind's eye when you picture the Greek islands. In the southern part of the island, a rocky outcrop known as the castle is your backdrop as you hike around the castle from village to village and learn about the history and culture of the island.

Each Greek island is distinct from the other and has its own unique feel and specialties that can be found only there. This is one of the main reasons why island hopping in Greece is so rewarding; each day is a unique adventure. Naxos welcomes you with an exclusive food and wine experience making and tasting local Arseniko cheese and visiting a vineyard to learn and sample some of the locally produced wine.

Even though we may love our modern conveniences, it's impossible not to imagine what life was like over 500 years ago, especially, on a small island. Here on Naxos you have the chance to briefly step back in time on a hike that gets you out into the countryside with a local guide, learning about how the valley of Tragea helped the entire island to flourish economically and socially over 500 years ago.

There is no better day in the Aegean than sailing around the Islands, jumping off to cool down, swimming in the azure water or snorkelling to search for fish and lost treasures. A trip to the Greek islands wouldn't be complete without a day out on a boat.

There is no island more famous in Greece than Santorini. Its white building with blue domes are famous the world over and there is no better place to end our island hopping. Upon arrival, let your interests and energy level guide you. You have the choice between two fantastic and distinct experiences today. If you are ready to get out and walk, choose to hike from Fira to Oia. If you would rather take it easy, join a guided tour of Santorini by vehicle. Both experiences end in Oia, so you may even run into your fellow travellers along the way.

Explore Fira this morning with a CEO-led orientation walk before using free time to personalize your time. End the day with a beautiful sunset cruise.

Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in the Greek islands will live on.