Overview
10 Days
Athens
Santorini
Geluxe Collection
Premium
6-99 Years
16
Moderate
Fully Guided
EGAS
Itinerary
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. Arrive at any time. After meeting fellow travellers and your CEO during the welcome meeting. Head out on foot to a nearby local taverna and enjoy your first meal together in Greece.
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
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. The morning is yours to explore.
Meet the group to take a tour of Shedia Home and enjoy lunch at the Shedia Cafe, then head toward the sites for a comprehensive tour of the Acropolis with your local guide, then meander down the hill to the Ancient Agora, where you continue to explore the history of this ancient city. This evening join your CEO as we head up to Filopappou Hill for a wonderful sunset over Athens.
- Free Time: Opt to visit the temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, or explore the National Archaeological Museum and the Acropolis Museum.
- Tour of Shedia Home and Lunch: Take time to relax at Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe providing purpose and employment to over 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. You'll enjoy your lunch while one of Shedia's guides recounts the recent history of Greece's financial crisis which has made initiatives like Shedia even more important for those who have found themselves without work and shelter. Your stop here supports their programs - including the cafe, art program, and magazine - all dedicated to supporting the community.
- Acropolis & Ancient Agora Guided Visits: Discover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Then visit the Agora, an archaeological sit located beneath the northwest slope of the Acropolis. This site marks a large gathering place and in modern Greek the term means, "marketplace".
- Sunset Walk to Filopappou Hill: Set off with your CEO on a short hike up Filopappou Hill where at the top, you will toast the climb with the group and watch the sun set over the Acropolis below. Length: 2-3km Duration: 45 minutes - 1 hour Elevation gain: 70-100m
- National Archaeological Museum Visit: Take a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
- Acropolis Museum Visit: Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
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! An early start allows you to make the most of the day. From the port of Rafina, board a ferry to Tinos and make sure to find a good spot to sit and enjoy the view. Upon arrival to Tinos, dive straight into it with a walking food tour of the old town. Remember, there is no such thing as too much tzatziki.
- Tinos Food Tour: Immerse yourself in the authentic Tinian cuisine on a food and walking tour along the picturesque alleyways of the old town and discover how local tradition is featured in every single bite. Along the way you will savour island delicacies, talk to local shop owners, and learn about ethically sourced products in tandem with Tinos' culinary heritage.
- Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
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.
After a delicious breakfast, set off for the trailhead and begin your hike in Exombourgo. Pass through various small towns on this moderate hike and finish in time to gather for a well deserved lunch at a local restaurant. The rest of the day is at leisure. Spend time relaxing by the pool overlooking the Agean or walk down to the beach right from the hotel. Some time in the water is calling your name.
- Castle of Tinos Hike: Begin at Exombourgo—a rugged mountain in the Cyclades and the site of a ruined Venetian fortress—and walk through the island villages of Koumaros, Skalados, Loutra, and Krokos. Follow the path around Exombourgo Mountain and finish the upward climb at the ruins of an old castle. Difficulty Level: 2/5 Length: 6.5 km Duration: 3 hours Wear comfortable clothing. Closed-toed footwear, a hat and a sun cream. Do not forget your bottle of water.
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon to relax at the hotel or head to the beach for a swim.
- Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
- Náxos Orientation Walk: Enjoy a brief orientation walk with your CEO.
- Naxos Food & Wine Tour: Gain insight into how renowned Naxian cheese are made during this island food and wine tour. At a small cheese farm located in the heart of Naxos you will meet lovely farmers, feed the animals in the farm, and watch the making of the "arseniko" signature cheese. Share food and drink around the family table and exchange stories together. The vineyard tour consists of an intimate tasting with five local wines paired with Naxian cheese, including the famous "graviera".
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.
Transfer from your hotel to the trailhead where you start our journey. Along the way, discover this island's hidden treasures, meet locals and enjoy a delicious lunch. Early afternoon is spent at the hotel, with some time off to refresh and relax, an opportunity to enjoy the local beach right down the street from your hotel.
- Free Time: Enjoy a free afternoon to relax at the beach or explore more of the old town on your own.
- Byzantine Hiking Experience: This morning set out on a hike and learn about the history of Naxos. Explore island villages like Halki, Kaloxylos and Moni. See Byzantine churches and stop at a Citron distillery for a liqueur tasting. Make sure to bring comfortable clothing, hiking or training shoes, a hat and a backpack.
- Naxos Sailing Tour: Enjoy a full-day on the water off the coast of Naxos while keeping your eyes open for dolphins and sea turtles. You will pause for a short swim and snorkel at the Blue Lagoon in Panteronissia islets. See the south part and beautiful bays of Paros island and enjoy its sandy beaches before heading back to Naxos.
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. Board the ferry to Santorini and in no time at all you will recognize the white villages high above. Whether you choose to hike or to take a guided tour, we know Santorini will impress you.
- Ferry: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
- Crater Rim Hike or Santorini Driving Tour: Option 1: Walk from Fira to Oia and partake in one of Santorini's top experiences. As you hike along the rim of the caldera you will see the towns Oia, Imerovigli, Firostefani, and Fira while soaking in some of the best views in all of Greece. The hike is about 10km total and will take most of the day. Part of the path is similar to a sidewalk, some parts are cobblestone and others a simple dirt path. Option 2: Hop in and let your driver whisk you away to explore Santorini. Transfer to some of the most stunning churches in Pyrgos before reaching the pinnacle of Santorini, the Profitis Ilias Monastery. Here, see the island and the sea from a 360-degree view. Continue to Megalochori Village and stretch your legs while learning local secrets and fun treasures about Greece. Carry on to Oia where there will be some free time for lunch
- Santorini Orientation Walk: Get to know Santorini with your CEO on an orientation walk of Thira
- Free Time: During a free afternoon to relax at the hotel or enjoy a walk in Fira for some final shopping opportunities.
- Santorini Sunset Cruise: Head out to sea to soak in the views of the sun setting over the azure waters over the Agean. Enjoy a dinner, take in the site of picturesque site of Santorini, and toast to another beautiful day in paradise. Opa!
- Departure Day: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
Trip Inclusions
- Enjoy a walking tour of Athens with visits to ancient Agora and the Acropolis.
- Hike up Filopappou Hill and toast the setting sun overlooking the structures of Ancient Greece.
- Experience the tastes and flavours of Greece on a food tour in Tinos.
- Hike to the castle of Tinos with local guide ending with a climb of Exombourgo Mountain.
- Discover the history of Naxos on a full immersion food tour featuring Byzantine churches and a Citron distillery and liqueur tasting.
- Sail & snorkel in the heart of the Aegean Sea visiting caves near Antiparos.
- Walk from Fira to Oia for a unique experience in Santorini featuring the most sought-after views of the islands.
- Your G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and Lunch, Athens
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Foodie Moment: Tinos Food Tour, Tínos
- Your Foodie Moment: Naxos Food & Wine Tour, Naxos Your OM
- G Day: Crater Rim Hike or Santorini Driving Tour, Santorini
- Complimentary Arrival & Departure Transfer
- Welcome Dinner
- Guided visit of Acropolis and the Ancient Agora
- Food tour in Tinos Old Town
- Village-to-village hike to Tinos Castle with local guide
- Naxos cheese and wine trail food tour
- Naxos village-to-village hike
- Full-day catamaran sailing in the Aegean Sea
- Santorini Sunset Cruise with dinner
- Farewell Dinner
- Departure transfer
- Tips for all included activities and meals, except for CEO and porterage
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Ferry, private vehicle, walking
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides
- Hotels (9nts)
- On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations.
- Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception.
- 9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Geluxe Active Adventures put comfort first. Stay in handpicked accommodations, including one unforgettable “OMG Stay” for its wow-factor. Each trip features an “OMG Day” with two extraordinary experiences to suit hikers, history buffs, and food lovers.
Enjoy extras like pre-paid tips, arrival transfers on most trips and more included dining than other G Adventures styles. Geluxe “rolls out the purple carpet” for travellers seeking style, depth and total comfort.
Dates & Pricing
AUD
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 Enquire. 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 G Adventures. 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.
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