An Insight host will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel, where there is time to settle in and relax. At 19:00, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception, and get to know your fellow travellers over a delightful evening of dinner and wine.
Today your mythical Grecian discovery encapsulates the intriguing history of ancient Greece. Begin with an exploration revealing the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian. Next, your Local Expert takes you to the Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world. Crowning the top is the Parthenon, visible from almost everywhere in the city. See the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of the Wingless Victory, and the six stone-carved caryatids that make up the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion. Continue to Thermopylae, famous as the mountain pass where King Leonidas led his Spartan army, along with fellow Greek soldiers, into battle against the Persians in 480 B.C. See the memorial dedicated to Leonidas and his courageous Spartans. Then on to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner from a fresh, seasonal menu.
With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning 'in the air.' The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a science fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a relaxed walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum.
Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus.Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You'll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,' rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner is served in your hotel.
It's all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C., in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honour the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef for an entertaining cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek flavours, as you savour dishes prepared for your Highlight Dinner.
Visit the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones used to build the city walls.Later, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet the artisans at a family-run pottery studio and view beautiful works of art. Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio, known for its beautiful architecture, colourful shops and cafes.Your journey continues, following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal, dividing the Peloponnesse and mainland Greece, and arriving in Athens. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style, complete with wine and good cheer.
An early departure takes you to the port of Piraeus where your high-speed ferry awaits to whisk you over to the truly beautiful island of Santorini. On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel.
With two more sun-drenched days on one of the most romantic islands on earth, you won't ever want to leave. Relax in clifftop restaurants, laze on the sun-soaked beaches or observe history unearthed at the site of Akrotiri. In the evening, you'll witness the first of the golden sunsets for which the island is famous.
Another day to relax and unwind on the black, red and white beaches, or why not take a caique (traditional Greek fishing boat) over to the volcanic islands for a swim in the hot springs? The island's delicious cuisine, whitewashed houses that gleam in the bright Aegean sun, narrow cobblestone streets and world-renowned sunsets all combine to make Santorini a truly unique holiday experience.
Board the high-speed ferry bound for the island of Mykonos, playground of the rich and famous. You are met at the port and transferred to your hotel.
This day is the first of two glorious days at leisure. Explore the town with its winding maze of walkways, white-washed houses, magnificent windmills and uninhibited nightlife. Perhaps watch the sunset at Shirley Valentine Beach or take a short boat ride to Delos?
Another day to explore or relax as you wish. Perhaps swim the endless array of dazzling beaches that surround the island? Or maybe enjoy a cocktail on the waterfront at Little Venice?
In the morning, grab your final glimpse over the lustrous Aegean. You are transferred to the port for your return ferry to Athens.
Bid farewell to Athens. Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport.
Thank you for your interest in this tour. If no dates are displaying, please call our reservations line at 1-877-622-9109 for more information
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 3
Experience the picturesque and lively town of Trikala, considered to have been the birth place of the “God of Medicine” Asclepius. Enjoy an orientation of the town; walk along the river side and the pedestrian streets in the company also of the locals out socializing for the evening. Afterwards Dine at a local restaurant Greek family style, and taste a variety of sumptious dishes all served in the middle of the table, accompanied by plenty of wine!
Adult Price: € 45
Available on Day 7
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 8
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 9
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 9
We drive to the highest point of the island - Profitis Ilias for stunning views of the island, and make our way to the village of Pyrgos, to see the iconic blue domed churches and classic Cycladic architecture. Afterwards we visit the prehistoric Akrotiri – a Bronze Age settlement destroyed by a huge eruption during the 17th century BC and buried under the volcanic ash, preserving the whole city in perfect condition. It is often referred often as “Prehistoric Pompei”. Afterwards we head for the black sand beach of Perivolos, passing picturesque villages. Enjoy a time at leisure on the beach where we can swim, have lunch or do both. Entrance to Akrotiri included.
Adult Price: € 62
Available on Day 11
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 11
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 13
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
Available on Day 13
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
Plus, receive travel inspiration, news and latest promotions.
You can unsubscribe at any time. Your Travel Credit will be sent by email.
Email Sign-up Travel Credit: Receive a $125 per person ($250 per couple) discount toward your first tour (operated by Trafalgar or Insight Vacations) when you sign up for GET emails; valid for each full-paying adult who signs up with a unique email address. Valid for new bookings only made through December 31, 2023 for travel through December 31, 2023; full payment is due within three days of booking. Discount is not combinable with any other discount or offer, including our GETAWAY Deals, Limited Time Offers, AARP member discount, Past Traveler discount or Multiple Trip discounts. Offer cannot be booked online. Savings not valid on all itineraries and/or departure dates, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Offer excludes Edinburgh Tattoo and Floriade departures. GET reserves the right to validate bookings and will remove any additional offers added online that are not combinable. Other conditions may apply.