Overview
Itinerary
Welcome to Athens, Greek adventurers! The clock starts now on uncovering this ancient country and all its quirks. We're calling it now, that this trip is THE ancient history lovers dream. Settle in to your hotel before catching up with the crew and get right into the Greek way of life. Stay: Arion Hotel (or similar)
Not a second of today will go to waste. Europe's oldest city will unfold itself this morning as we take to the Parthenon and the Acropolis with the knowledge of a local. Then, it's off to the rocky cliffs of Meteora. Get ready to be blown away by history when we visit the Hot Gates of Thermophylae . You'll also see the Spartan memorial here to honour the people who sacrificed their lives during the epic battle between the Spartans & the Persians.
Meet Meteora, one of Greece's truly breathtaking sites, where natural and man-made beauty come together like flowers in a vase. Mystical monasteries perched on enormous sandstone rocks. Seriously. You'll think you've walked into a scene from Lord of the Rings. (B/D) Stay: Edelweiss Hotel (or similar)
This morning in Meteora is reserved for exploring a couple of monasteries on the dramatic cliffs. Then, we'll make our way to another historical hotspot. Hop on! The sacred lands of Delphi will be ours this afternoon, again allowing us the chance to uncover world history right here in Greece. Despite being a place of monumental importance, it happens to have a cute little bar scene, and is a great place to sample the national drink of ouzo. (B/D) Stay: Amalia Hotel Delphi (or similar)
Through the limestone columns of the Sanctuary of Apollo, we continue tapping into what was once the centre of the universe for Ancient Greeks. The remains of this Doric style building stands tall with it's remaining 6 (out of an original 15) pillars, and is the perfect spot to absorb the last bit of beauty that is the slopes of Mt. Parnassus before we jump on the trail back to Athens.
Oh, and if you wanna discover the ancient Greek practice of how honey is produced, join us for an intriguing beekeeping experience! You have a night to make Athens yours before ‘hopping' out to marvellous Mykonos on the morrow. (B/D) Stay: A conveniently located hotel
With no time to waste, we'll start our island hopping adventures today with our first destination: Mykonos. Let's do this! Two nights on the island of Mykonos, how did we get so lucky? Even the boat ride across the Aegean will have you awe struck and in love.
Tonight, you'll have the option to join an exploration of Mykonos by night on a locally guided walking tour of the town's cobbled streets. (B) Stay: Paradise Beach (or similar)
Get ready for a day full of viewing coastal windmills, stuffing your face with olives, feta, and tzatziki. We'll stroll down storybook streets dotted with those gorgeous blue domes and we'll pick up some evil eye ornaments along the way to keep the bad vibes away. And this is all before you've even taken a dip in the ocean! Doesn't get much better than this... The day is yours to soak up the sunshine and play in the sea. (B)
This morning we're on to our next Greek island, Paros. Let's spare a thought for all those travellers who only get to visit just one Greek Island, and then remember how lucky we are. Beaches, naturally sculpted swimming coves, a Byzantine church and traditional villages: we must be in Paros. You're free to get into the sun and sea vibes. Those who feel like exploring can sign up for an optional trip to a traditional village where you'll visit a local family-run bakery and shop the local handicrafts. (B) Stay: Asterias (or similar)
Another day, another Greek Island delight. Hold tight - today we're off for a visit to Naoussa, a fishing village with colourful fishing boats and white-washed houses.
Tonight, we'll tuck into an included dinner at a local restaurant, before heading out to sample the local nightlife. (B/D)
Paros, it's been magical – but today we're taking to the seas again, this time in search of Greece's most insta-famous island: Santorini. Santorini, we have arrived! Tonight you'll have the chance to join us on a cruise and take in the iconic Fira. (B) Stay: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Rise and shine, Greek Island travellers! The island of Santorini won't explore itself. Today is your day to take a swim at Perissa Beach, eat the local specialty of fried tomato balls known as domatokeftedes, or roam and explore. You can even opt to take a visit to incredible Oia followed by a visit to the black sand beach of Santorini. (B)
And with that, the trip comes to an end. From Santorini, you're free to make your way home… or keep going. Who's for Cyprus? Or Turkey? The whole Aegean lies at your feet (literally) and you have a boatload of new buds to go exploring with! (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Visit Plaka: ‘Neighborhood of the Gods’ - See Athens’ old town with its winding flower-filled streets and array of tavernas to stop off for a beer and some olives.
- Get Acquainted with Athens - Take an orientation in this ancient metropolis of treasures, myths and legends. See the city’s past and present.
- Learn Greek History at Thermopylae - Get ready to be blown away by history when we visit the Hot Gates of Thermophylae . You'll also see the Spartan memorial here to honor the people who sacrificed their lives during the epic battle between the Spartans & the Persians.
- Admire the Monasteries of Meteora - When you marvel at the awe-inspiring rock formations here, you'll understand why Meteora means "suspended from the heavens above". Today, you'll climb the charming mountain villages of Kastraki & Kalambaka and see how the monks live today in the captivating Byzantine Basilicas of Greece.
- Beekeeping Experience (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience) - Take some time to visit a long held family run Beekeeping business in Delphi and learn all about the benefits that bees bring to the environment. View the bees and discover how honey is produced in this tradition that dates all the way back from Ancient Greece.
- See the Temple of Apollo at Delphi - Here’s your chance to finally talk to the Oracle! And immerse yourself in Ancient Greek spiritualism.
- Private Transport from Port to Hotel - Don't spend another second worrying about how you'll get around Athens. We've got that covered with a private transfer from the port to the hotel.
- Ferry Ride from Athens to Mykonos - All aboard! Time to sail from Athens to Mykonos, checking out that glittering sea view as we go. Includes reserved seating.
- Ferry Ride from Mykonos to Paros - We'll set sail from marvelous Mykonos to perfect Paros, with reserved seating included.
- Ferry Ride from Paros to Santorini - We'll board the ferry in Paros and set sail for the sultry island of Santorini. With reserved seating included.
- Visit Fira - Enjoy a day trip to Fira and bask in the golden sun as you walk through Santorini's iconic white houses and blue domes. This is the perfect photo op so make sure your phones and cameras are at the ready!
- 10 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners
- 8 nights in Hotels, 2 nights in Special Stay
- Expert Trip Manager & Trip Driver
- Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included
Dates & Pricing
USD
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Contiki. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
