Ease into a simpler way of life – the intoxicatingly slow pace of the Cycladic islands is the ultimate departure from reality, but not before you enjoy a passionate encounter with Athens after being transferred to your hotel. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception including a welcome drink and light meal to kick off your At Leisure discovery of Greece's capital and the enchanting islands of Mykonos and Santorini.
Embark on a journey to antiquity with your Local Specialist who will take you to the Acropolis, a sacred site since Mycenaen times. Imagine Athenians ascending the hilltop shrine to worship Athena at the Parthenon, and see the Panathinaiko Olympic stadium, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. Admire the pom-pom march of the Evzone guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, then spend the rest of the day on your own soaking up the verve of this vibrant city.
We depart Athens and cruise to Santorini, where we'll spend the next three days exploring the island's dramatic beauty. Stroll through the volcanic island's quaint clifftop towns. Blue-domed whitewashed façades cling dramatically to the multi-coloured cliffs providing a spectacular backdrop for exquisite sunsets. Join your companions this evening for a memorable meal of Greek cuisine.
View the magnificent caldera, see the island's ancient ruins or ramble through the winding streets of Fira and Oia - today is yours to enjoy a leisurely exploration of this beautiful island on your own. Indulge in a day of sunbathing and relaxation on one of its many beaches or shop up a storm at its boutique stores.
Consider an optional visit to a local winery to toast to the spellbinding beauty of Santorini and learn about the art of winemaking in the region. Then consider a ride in a caique (sailing boat) to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni to swim in its glorious hot springs - another full day at leisure to relax and soak up the island's atmosphere.
We take a short ferry transfer to Mykonos - its characteristic hillside windmills overlook the beautiful bay and stand as an enduring greeting to all who arrive. Enjoy an orientation before spending the rest of your day getting lost amidst the island's labyrinthine lanes, lined with whitewashed cottages and tumbling cerise bougainvillea. Take to the playground of the rich and famous and perhaps experience the island's vibrant nightlife.
Set your watch to island time and enjoy a glorious day soaking up the laid-back vibe of Mykonos. Spend your day relaxing on its beautiful beaches, sip champagne in the picturesque Little Venice waterside, or visit some of its historical treasures, including the 17th-century Church of the Paraportiani, the Archaeological Museum and the Aegean Maritime Museum.
Kick back and enjoy another idyllic day in beautiful surrounds. Indulge in local seafood flavours, enjoy a leisurely swim in the calm waters of the Aegean or consider a trip to see the mythical sanctuary of Delos, believed by the ancients to be the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo.
We return to Athens, via a high-speed ferry. After being transferred to your hotel, you have free time for some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Say a fond farewell to Greece and your newfound friends as you are transferred to the airport for the flight home. Find out more about your free airport transfer at trafalgar.com/freetransfers.
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 fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, thereby giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
Adult Price: € 48
Available on Day 4
This afternoon we board our large wooden“ caique” and set off to the Volcano. Take the opportunity to climb up to the top of the volcano and experience a real active volcano, or perhaps stay on board, relax and enjoy the amazing view. Afterwards, swim in the hot springs and enjoy the natural spa-like feeling of the thermal waters. We enjoy a casual dinner with wine on board accompanied by music, and marvel at the sunset and the breath taking village of Oia high above on the Cliffside. Dinner with wine included. Volcano entrance of €5.00 is not included.
Adult Price: € 85
Available on Day 4
This evening you are invited to take part as a guest in a traditional Greek wedding. A life changing ceremony, a group celebration. Be part of the story. Meet the family. Eat, drink, dance, and break plates. The custom is traditional. The experience is not! This Greek Wedding Show is not only a Greek Night, but an unforgettable interactive musical experience!
Adult Price: € 65
Available on Day 5
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. Step into antiquity as we visit one of the most significant archeological sites of Greece, the pre-historic settlement of Akrotiri. Almost 4 millenniums ago, a huge volcanic eruption, buried the whole city in ash, preserving this bronze aged settlement also referred as “Greek pre-historic Pompeii “. Santorini is also famous for its wine production and the 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 cafés and restaurants overlooking the volcano, a visit to Oia is iconic experience and a must see!
Adult Price: € 77
Available on Day 5
Drive to Profitis Ilias, the highest point, for stunning views of the island, before we make our way to the village of Pyrgos, to see the iconic blue domed churches and classic Cycladic architecture. We visit the prehistoric Akrotiri – a Bronze Age settlement destroyed by a huge eruption in the 17th century BC, buried under the volcanic ash, preserving the whole city. It is often referred as “Prehistoric Pompei” Afterwards we head for the black sand beach of Perivolos, passing picturesque villages. Enjoy time at leisure on the black beach for a swim, have lunch or do both. Lunch not included.
Adult Price: € 62
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. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the every-day Mykonian life and connect with the legends and stories linked to this island. Our exploration begins with Ano Mera traditional village and its famous Monastery dedicated to the protector of the island, as we continue with the blue flag awarded Kalafatis beach and perhaps enjoy a swim in the beautiful Aegean sea.
Adult Price: € 48
Available on Day 8
We take a boat ride to Delos, once a Sacred Island, the legendary birthplace of God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. Today Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites of the eastern Mediterranean. We see amongst others, the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the sanctuary of Artemis, the old city and the theatre and then walk down the celebrated Lion Street. In the museum of Delos one can admire Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Sculptures, a collection of vessels from all periods as well as small items of everyday use. Transfers to/from port and entrance included.
Adult Price: € 78
Available on Day 9
This is an evening excursion to a taverna in the centre of Athens. Enjoy excellent traditional Greek food in a lively atmosphere while being entertained by dances and music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are also included. Although the venue does have an official ending time, guests are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in with the local residents! (Casual dress)
Adult Price: € 57
Available on Day 9
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at a wonderful restaurant located in the lively area of Psiri. Dining is “meze style”, giving you the opportunity to taste many Greek cuisine dishes, which are served in the centre of the table. Also enjoy the local free-flowing wine! Afterwards, see the Acropolis beautifully illuminated as you return to your hotel. (Casual dress)
Adult Price: € 53
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