Overview
Embark on a train ride on the highest mountain railway in Greece, then set your sights high in Olympia—the site of the first Olympic games. Explore the ancient military city of Sparta and hear the stories of legend and lore. And from a Greek honey farm to olive groves, wine cellars, and constellations above the sea, we thank your lucky stars to be exploring modern-day Greece with you to discover the very civilized custom of rest and relaxation that wins the day on your Small Group Discovery tour of Greece.
Continue your Greek adventure with a 7-night cruise amid the spectacular Cyclades Islands! Embark from Athens to discover the islands of Poros where pine, olive, and lemon trees paint the landscape green. Cruise the crystal-blue waters of the Aegean to explore the mythological isles of Poliegos and Folegandros. Even more beauty to behold beckons you to Santorini, where white and blue houses are rivaled only by the legendary sunsets that paint the volcanic island landscapes. Sail on to Paros and Delos for more delights on your course for Mykonos—the birthplace of Greek mythology. These incredibly inspiring island gems are just a few to be discovered before sailing back to Athens.
Itinerary
Your Small Group Discovery Begins!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
Marvels & Myths
Discover the highlights of “the Classic City” during your included Guided Sightseeing. Stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, one of the venues of the first modern Olympics games, before visiting the Acropolis, located on a hill overlooking Athens. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - WHAT'S IN A NAME? Legend says that both Athena and Poseidon competed to have this city named after them. The god who gave its inhabitants the best gift would be the patron. Athena came out the victor when she planted an olive tree on the site where the acropolis now stands; a sign of peace and prosperity, so the city became known as Athens. Your Local Guide shares many stories and brings ancient Athens to life during your visit to the Acropolis.
Heroes, Gods & Men
Leave Athens and head for the Peloponnese peninsula, where heroic myths and legends of Hercules, the Argonauts, and Helen of Troy were born. Enjoy time en-route for a photo stop at the world's deepest (and one of the most famous) canals, the Corinth Canal. Continue to Diakopto to board the Odontotis rack railway for a dramatic journey along the Vairaikos Canyon to the mountain town of Kalavryta. Later today, arrive in Olympia. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: All aboard for an unforgettable historic train ride on the highest mountain railway in Greece. Built over 120 years ago, this short local railway is an engineering feat that follows the Vairaikos Canyon, with some of its open-sided tunnels being carved into it, providing impressive views as it climbs. On arrival, spend some time in Kalavryta, a lovely little-known town with a big place in history.
Ancient Wonders
Start the day with a guided walking tour of the archaeological site of Olympia, birthplace of the ancient Olympic games and the site of the Temple of Hera, from where the Olympic torch is lit. After this captivating visit, discover the sweeter side of Olympia with a visit to a honey farm. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Since the times of ancient Greece, honey has been a core ingredient of Greek gastronomy. According to myth, bees were the messengers of the gods, and their honey brought with it special powers and healing properties. Your small group enjoys a sweet experience at a local honey farm, passed down through the generations. Get up close to hear the buzz about bees, honey, and local rural life directly from the family beekeepers. Then taste local products that are fit for the gods!
Liquid Gold
This morning, enjoy a visit to Pylos a typical Greek seaside town. Stroll around the charming streets, see the castle perched above the town or relax in a local café and watch the world go by. Later this morning, join your small group for a special visit to a local family-owned olive mill and enjoy a lunch of local produce. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Getting closer to local experiences is a big advantage for a small group! Enjoy a visit to Androusa Castle overlooking the olive groves; learn about the world famous kalamata olives, the traditions of olive oil production; then enjoy tasting it, together with a lunch of home-made dishes prepared with fresh, local produce.
Land of Legends
Enjoy an orientation tour of Sparta, one of the most important cities in Ancient Greece, famous for its military prowess and a beautiful lady called Helen. Later, head to Mystras for a guided sightseeing tour of the UNESCO nominated archeological site; a fortified town on the side of Mount Taygetus that was at its prime during the Byzantine era. (B/D)
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT
SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: After a busy day of sightseeing, your small group deserves to live large with the 5-star, personalized hospitality of the Kyniska Palace Hotel. Located in the foothills of Mount Taygetos, this boutique hotel combines luxury and charm with the relaxation you crave. This evening, unwind far from the crowd to stretch out by the pool and soak in the stunning views of this idyllic location.
Yamas!
En-route back to Athens, travel through the fertile plains to discover one of Greece's most prestigious wine producing districts. Stop off at one of the wineries in the Nemea area to enjoy a wine-tasting. Continue your journey to Athens, with much more to explore. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ANCIENT TRADITIONS: According to myth the god Dionysis introduced wine to Greece, and it is an art that has been practised there for thousands of years. The Nemea winemaking region is renowned for the Agiorgitko grape, which has been cultivated there for over 3000 years. During the wine-tasting experience, gain insight into this and other local winemaking traditions.
Island Hopping!
Take a short ferry ride to the idyllic Aegina, a small island that has so much to offer. A sightseeing tour of the island includes the monastery of Aghios Nektarios and the town of Aegina. Savor; a mouth-watering lunch at a local restaurant plus some free time to explore more, before returning to Athens by ferry. (B/L)
LOCAL FAVORITE - IN A NUTSHELL: Your day in Aegina gives you the real taste of Greek island life. A stunning island belonging to the Saronic island group, it is a fertile, green island famous for producing one of Greece's most appreciated products – the pistachio nut. As you browse the charming streets look out for the delicious, local pistachio specialties which are well worth a try, a sweet conclusion to an unforgettable Greek vacation!
Fair Winds and Following Seas
This afternoon board your small cruise ship and join your fellow passengers for a welcome drink. Set sail for your cruise of the Cyclades islands. Arrive in Poros this evening in time to explore with a relaxing stroll. Later, depart for an overnight journey to Poliegos. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: Poros consists of two islands, Sferia and Kalavria, connected by a bridge. It is a verdant green island with pine, olive and lemon groves surrounding Poros Town, built on the volcanic rock of Sferia. It is said that Kalavria was once dedicated to the god Apollo, but he swapped it for Delphi with Poseidon!
Sun, Sand & Sea
This morning wake- up to the turquoise waters and spectacular beaches of Poliegos, the largest uninhabited island in the Aegean. Enjoy a swim in the pristine waters before diving into a delicious BBQ lunch. Later sail to Folegandros and uncover one of the Cyclades's best kept secrets. Time to explore the town and Venetian castle before trying some local specialities. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Even though it is one of the smaller and lesser-known islands, Folegandros is bursting with beauty. The stunning main town of Chora is like a perfect postcard with its white buildings dramatically poised on a cliff. Stroll around Castro the oldest part of the town and admire the Panagia church perched on top of a hill overlooking Chora.
Bright & Beautiful
This morning, arrive in Santorini and explore Fira, the capital. Meander the charming streets lined with white and blue houses, browse the shops or laze on one of the island's idyllic beaches. This evening from the ship's deck you can admire a world-famous Santorini sunset. (B/D)
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: With its postcard-like scenery, the lofty volcanic footprint of Santorini's Oia caldera landscape embodies the essence of the Cyclades Islands. During an optional excursion visit the best bits of Santorini, including a guided visit of Oia and the archaeological site of Akrotiri, often referred to as the “Greek Pompeii.”
Masterpiece Material
This morning set sail for Paros, before arriving stop at the neighbouring island of Antiparos for a swim stop in the beautiful bay. Explore delightful Parikia, the capital of Paros, or join an optional excursion to see more of the island. This evening a delicious dinner awaits in a local tavern. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Historically known for its fine white marble, used to construct some of the most important Greek structures, including the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus in Olympia, Paros nowadays captures the imagination as an idyllic Greek island - dotted with traditional villages, framed by stunning beaches, and surrounded by pristine waters.
The Heart of the Action
Stop for a few hours on the island of Delos, considered the sacred island and center of the Cyclades Islands. Set sail for Mykonos, stopping first at one of the charming bays for a spot of swimming before continuing to the port. See the iconic 16th-century windmills that dot the hillside, and the colorful homes of Little Venice before rubbing shoulders with the jet-set in the lively bars. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - MYTHS & LEGENDS: Known as the birthplace of the immortals in Greek mythology, the island of Delos is the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis– rendering it sacred- that no mortal is permitted to be born, live, or die here, the island and its magnificent archaeological site may only be visited.
Sweet Greek Delights
Time for a morning swim before sailing to Syros, the capital of the Cyclades islands. Relax on one of the sandy beaches or join an optional excursion to discover more of this island that has been inhabited for about 7000 years. Taste authentic Cycladic cuisine with a meal in a small family-run taverna. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - TASTY TREATS: Syros is famous for its culinary offerings, especially its sweets and cheeses. It is particularly proud of its loukoumi, the flavored gummy sweets that are known elsewhere as “Turkish Delight.” The loukoumatzides can often be found selling their wares to ferry passengers arriving in the port.
What's in a Name?
A last dip in the sea at Kolones Bay, Kythnos before heading back towards Athens. From the ship, admire the Temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. This evening, in Athens, join the captain and your fellow passengers for a farewell dinner. (B/L/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - MYTHS & LEGENDS: On the southernmost tip of the Attica peninsula, not too far from Athens, Cape Sounion was emotionally important for Athenians, as the last landmark in view for the ancient Athenian seafarers and warriors sailing away. The Temple of Poseidon on the cape served as the first sight of land for Attica sailors upon their return home from ocean voyages or war. It was also here, according to mythology, that the founder of Athens, King Aegeus, threw himself into the waves which would come to bear his name - the Aegean Sea.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Disembark your ship. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Guided sightseeing in Athens includes an orientation drive to see the main landmarks, plus a visit to the Acropolis
- Photo opportunity at the Corinth Canal
- Scenic ride on the Odontotis rack railway to the mountain town of Kalavryta
- Guided walking tour of the archaeological sites of Olympia and Mystras
- [LF] Small group tasting experience during a visit to a local honey farm
- Visit Pylos and Sparta
- Visit to Androusa Castle includes small group visit to an olive mill with lunch
- Small group wine tasting at a winery in Nemea
- [LF] Day trip to Aegina includes a ferry ride, sightseeing tour, and local specialties lunch
- 7-day small ship cruise in the Aegean Sea features stops at selected Greek islands including Poros, Folegandros. Santorini, Paros, Delos, Mykonos, and Syros
- 15 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
- Athens: Amalia (First-Class):
"Centrally located in Syntagma Square, Amalia Hotel Athens is right across the National Gardens. It features comfortable 97 guest rooms with satellite TV and Free Wi-Fi internet access. The modern guest rooms are all fitted with air conditioning and either face the National Gardens and the Parliament or the Lycabettus Hill. The Hotel offers a rich American buffet breakfast and a la carte lunch or dinner which are the proud mark of the Amalia's in-house bistrot restaurant. Light snacks and drinks are avaialble throughout the day at the Chrysalis Lobby Lounge bar. The property is just a 10-minute walk from the Acropolis and Plaka, next to the commercial district of Ermou providing easy access to the main metro and tram terminals. The hotel has been awarded with the Green Key eco-label due to its environmentally friendly policies." - Athens: Crowne Plaza Athens City Centre (Superior First-Class):
The Crowne Plaza Athens City Centre is a modern 193 room property, in the heart of Athens' commercial district offering Free Wi-Fi access. The hotel has a choice of dining options including the roof garden restaurant where during summer months, guests can dine under starry skies whilst enjoying a spectacular view of Lycabettus hill. The perfect place to unwind is at the roof-top bar where snacks and drinks can be taken al-fresco in the summer by the refreshing outdoor dipping pool. The lively lobby bar serves drinks and fruity cocktails year round and other leisure facilities include a gym and sauna. - Olympia: Europa (First-Class):
Hotels Europa is built on the top of Drouvas Hill in Ancient Olympia (UNESCO World Heritage Site), at the foot of which is sited the Sacred Alti with brilliant monuments and the stadium of the Ancient Olympic Games. - Kalamata: Elite City Resort (First-Class):
Elite City Resort is a 4-star, eco-certified hotel in Kalamata, set along the main stripe facing the gulf, with direct access to a private beach and views of Messinian Bay and Mount Taygetos. The property features 157 guest rooms all equipped with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibars, safes, coffee maker and complimentary toiletries. Guests have access to a wide range of facilities, including a large seasonal outdoor pool, a children's pool, a rooftop terrace, landscaped gardens, a restaurant, poolside and lounge bars, a wellness center and a daily breakfast service. - Mystras: Kyniska Palace Conference & Spa (First-Class):
This delightful hotel offers Free Wi-Fi throughout and each of the 32 luxury guest rooms come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a shower, bathrobes and slippers. Leisure facilities include an indoor swimming pool and a seasonal outdoor swimming pool as well as SPA services and a fully equipped fitness center. The hotel offers excellent cuisine with local and international foods served at the bistrot/bar.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- This tour requires walking on uneven terrain, especially at archaeological sites, which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
- Services of the Tour director end on day 9
- Cruise details: The cruise portion of your vacation is operated by Variety Cruises. Rotation of ports of call may vary with or without prior notice, due to adverse weather conditions, port authority instructions, or other extraordinary conditions. There may be changes to the meals offered depending on weather conditions. Cabin category C - other cabin types are available for a supplement.
- Please ask your Travel Consultant for cruise ship details. The ship scheduled to depart for the cruise portion of your vacation is the MS Galileo, operated by Variety Cruises.
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Dates & Pricing
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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 Globus. 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.
