Let it sink in – the fact that you’re standing in what was once the centre of the western world, where the likes of Socrates, Aristotle and Plato offered their wisdom and insights which have stood the test of time. Your launch pad to a Greek island adventure begins in the capital, where you’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. There’s plenty of time to relax on the islands, so lace up your walking shoes and discover the city your way. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a glimpse into what lies ahead.
The Acropolis looms large over Athens and today you’ll get up close and personal with this ancient citadel. Your Local Specialist reveals its extraordinary history that spans thousands of years as you view the archaeological remains of temples, theatres and the mighty Parthenon, considered the most important building to survive Classical Greece. You’ll view the Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch, stopping in Syntagma Square to admire the curiously clad Evzone guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The rest of the day is yours to explore Athens on your terms, but with ancient history on your mind you may wish to embark on an Optional Experience to see the 5th-century BC Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. This evening, if the sizzle of street food hasn’t already captured your attention, you may wish to join your fellow travellers for an optional traditional dinner at a favourite city taverna.
Don’t resist the urge to slow it all down as you leave the busy cityscape behind and catch a high-speed ferry to Santorini. The spectacular volcanic eruption in 1646 BC had quite the magic touch on its dramatic landscape. After checking in and an orientation tour, you'll have some time on your own, followed by dinner at your hotel.
Don’t waste a second of your time lazing on the sun-soaked beaches of Santorini when you can ascend to its highest point for stunning views instead. This Optional Experience will reveal the iconic landscapes of the Cyclades you’ve only seen in photographs – the gleaming whitewashed buildings, cerulean blue domes and tumbling cerise bougainvillea. An alternative Optional Experience could see you board a caïque fishing boat to the volcano instead, soaking in its warm thermal waters and healing mud against the backdrop of Santorini’s enchanting cliff-top villages. This evening, there’s no better place to bid farewell to another beautiful island day than in Oia. After an optional afternoon wine tasting paired with local meze, you’ll stroll through its marble streets to our favourite sunset spot to capture the Instagram shot of the trip.
Indulge in another full day to explore Santorini your way. You could choose one of several Optional Experiences to fill the day or stroll through Fira’s narrow streets shopping for last-minute souvenirs, clothing and jewellery. Incredible views of the Caldera are never far as you explore the island’s ancient paths, villages and beaches on your own. Why not make the most of your final evening in Santorini, sampling the local culinary delights with uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea? There’s always time for one last ouzo.
Bound for the island playground of Mykonos. All that stands between you and the sun-kissed shores of the Cyclades is a short high-speed ferry ride. After transferring to your hotel and a short orientation tour, Mykonos is yours for the taking so don’t hold back and seek out your favourite island spots for the rest of your stay. Whitewashed houses line the narrow streets and life is rather idyllic behind the colourful wooden shutters that shield the locals from the warm Mediterranean sun. Dinner tonight is included and you'll need no excuse to stay out late, indulging in the island's renowned nightlife.
Snap your fingers and you’ll be on the other side of the island. Well, almost. You could choose to spend your day exploring tiny Mykonos your way or join your fellow travellers for an optional Island Tour driving through arid landscapes to some of its most celebrated beaches. Before you dip your toes into the water, you’ll visit Ano Mera village whose 16th-century monastery is dedicated to the protectress of Mykonos. Then continue to the beautiful Blue Flag beach of Kalafatis.
Grab your front-row seat to the goings-on in Mykonos's old port as you sit perched on one of the brightly painted wooden balconies characteristic of Little Venice. There’s time today to wander through the shopping streets of Chora village and see the 16th-century windmills of Kato Mili that look out over the bay. For history lovers, there’s no better way to spend your day than joining an optional visit to nearby Delos, the legendary birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. On this captivating exploration of what was once the most important site in ancient Greece, you’ll see many artefacts that have been collected in the ruins of this sacred site. After a day of sightseeing, you’ll want to make the most of your final evening in this island playground. Seek out a taverna with beautiful views of the sunset and toast to another day in paradise with new friends.
Leaving island life behind, it’s time to return to Athens for a final exhilarating encounter with the vibrant Greek capital. Transfer to your Athens hotel, then spend the evening in the narrow lanes of Plaka following your nose past its 19th-century façades to find the best souvlaki in town. A lively evening lies ahead if you’ve yet to have your fill of good times with good friends. Keep your toes tapping to the street music that fills the air and find a taverna with your name on it.
Your journey through Athens and the Greek islands reveals why ancient Greece was the chosen land for gods and goddesses, philosophers, poets and famous personalities. As you prepare for your return journey and long after you arrive home, you’ll remember the generous spirit, postcard-perfect scenery and legacy of the ancients that are among the many gifts that Greece has given you. Say farewell to your new friends at the end of your holiday. Find out more about your available transfers at costsavertour.com/transfers.
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Available on Day 2
Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the 5th-century BC Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple's columns and marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the surrounding coastline as you uncover classical Greek history.
Adult Price: € 48
Treat yourself to a quintessential Greek travel experience, enjoying a ‘meze style’ dinner in the vibrant nightlife district of Athens, Psiri. Dine like the locals with free-flowing wine and traditional dishes, served in the centre of the table to share, so you can experience all the flavours of Greek cuisine. Top the experience off with a tour of the beautifully illuminated Acropolis!
Adult Price: € 53
Available on Day 4
This morning embark on an unforgettable quest, driving through amazing landscapes and picturesque villages. Today you will discover Santorini's true essence and learn its fascinating history spanning from antiquity to modern times. You will uncover the less-known medieval village of Pyrgos, built at the slopes of the mountain Prophet Elijah, where Cycladic and Venetian styled architecture blend with panoramic views. We leave behind the middle ages scenes and step into antiquity as we visit one of the most significant archaeological sites of Greece, the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri. Almost 4 millenniums ago, a huge volcanic eruption buried the whole city in ash, preserving this bronze aged settlement, also referred to as 'Greek pre-historic Pompeii'. Santorini is also famous for its wine production and distinctive local varieties. Our next stop of the day is a local Santorini winery where we enjoy a variety of local 'meze' (Greek hors d'oeuvres) and sample the locally produced wines. Learn about the 'kalathies' vines and the unique way that locals have grown grapes for centuries. Later in the afternoon, visit the idyllic village of Oia, known as one of the prettiest spots on the island. With its white-washed houses resting on the clifftops of the caldera, blue-domed churches sprinkled along the charming narrow alleys, cute cafes and restaurants overlooking the volcano, a visit to Oia is must see!
Adult Price: € 77
Take a tour of Santorini's must-visit destinations, from the ancient village of Akrotiri to the black sand beach of Perivolos. Kick things off with a drive to the highest viewpoint on the island, Profitis Ilias, before we make our way to the village of Pyrgos to admire iconic Cycladic architecture and later explore the Bronze Age village of Akrotiri. Top off the tour with a leisurely swim on the black beach.
Adult Price: € 62
Available on Day 5
Set sail on board our large wooden "caique" towards the dormant volcano Nea Kameni. Whether you opt to climb the volcano or relax on board, you'll have the chance to swim in the thermal hot springs before enjoying a casual dinner with wine, music and good company. Enjoying the striking colours of a Santorini sunset, with views of Oia in the distance, you'll love this once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.
Adult Price: € 85
This is one travel experience you won't soon forget! Experience the plate-smashing rollicking good time of a traditional Greek wedding with this vibrant, interactive musical. Meet the family and be part of the story as you eat, drink, dance and break plates in the traditional customs as you settle in for the Greek Wedding Show.
Adult Price: € 65
Available on Day 7
Today we explore the vibrant Island of Mykonos, driving through amazing Cycladic landscapes, admiring some of its splendid beaches and scenic locations. Our exploration begins with a visit to the traditional village of Ano Mera and its famous Monastery dedicated to the protector of the island, before continuing to Kalafatis Beach to enjoy a swim in the beautiful Aegean Sea.
Adult Price: € 48
Available on Day 8
Join us for a boat ride to Delos, the legendary birthplace of the God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis, which is today one of the most important archaeological sites of the eastern Mediterranean. Explore the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the sanctuary of Artemis, the old city, the theater and more before touring the famous Museum of Delos to admire historic artefacts.
Adult Price: € 78
Available on Day 9
Travelling through Greece means one thing: food, glorious food! Immerse yourself in the authentic culture of Athens with an excursion to a traditional taverna. Savoring the sumptuous flavors of Greek food and your drink of choice, you’ll enjoy watching dancing and musical performances as you dine. Later, when the official events wrap up, you're welcome to stay in the taverna to mingle with the locals.
Adult Price: € 57
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