Rhodes | Greece
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FROM: USD $3,266 pp
Greece Explorer & Cruise - 14 Days map

SEMI-INDEPENDENT TOUR: Follow in the footsteps of the ancient Greek heroes with this two-week tour which travels from Athens to Santorini, ending with a 4-day cruise around the beautiful Aegean. Along the way, visit the incredible Sanctuary of Apollo in Delphi and ancient Ephesus in Turkey, relax on the sunny beaches of Mykonos and explore the medieval old town in Rhodes.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Prices & Dates
Hotels

Trip Highlights

Athens - Discover one of the world's oldest cities, from the ancient Acropolis to the modern Panathenaic Stadium
Olympia - Learn about the site of the original Olympics, where the Statue of Zeus - an ancient Wonder of the World - once stood
Meteora - Admire the stunning, UNESCO-listed rock formations and clifftop monasteries
Mykonos - Lounge on sandy beaches and enjoy the nightlife in this Aegean hotspot for the rich and famous
Patmos - Join an optional excursion to the Monastery of St John and the biblical Grotto of the Apocalypse
Crete - Pay a visit to the Cretian capital of Heraklion and opt to visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos
Peloponnese - Cross the rocky peninsula at the heart of Greek history, home to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and the Corinth Canal
Delphi - Follow the Sacred Way in the footsteps of pilgrims who sought the oracle's advice at this holy sanctuary
Thermopylae - Relive the Spartans' famous last stand against the Persians on this narrow pass
Kusadasi - Cross into Turkey for the day and opt to visit the spectacular ancient Roman ruins of Ephesus
Rhodes - Explore the Acropolis of Lindos and medieval Palace of the Knights on an optional tour
Santorini - Relax on one of Greece's most beautiful islands, where whitewashed villages perch on volcanic cliffs

Included

10 nights 3-4 star hotels
One arrival transfer on Day 1 (Athens) and one departure transfer on Day 14 (Santorini) included per booking
Entrance fees for all included sites
A 4-day/3-night Greek Islands cruise, inside cabin, with all meals and accompanying drinks, port taxes, and service charges
13 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 6 dinners
Guided sightseeing in Athens, Olympia, Delphi, and Meteora
Services of an English-speaking tour guide for all scheduled sightseeing
Note: Touring is operated in conjunction with other tourist groups, not solely On The Go. You will join travellers who booked through other operators for sightseeing each day, some staying in different hotels, and spend your evenings at leisure. The group can vary in size from 20 - 45 persons. Guiding may be in an additional language to English

Not Included

International flights and visas
A hotel tax of €7.00 per room per night to be paid directly to the hotel at time of check in. See Trip Notes additional info for details
Optional excursions to Kusadasi, Patmos, Lindos and Knossos - book and pay locally
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Meals and drinks not mentioned in the inclusions, including additional drinks on the cruise

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Athens

Welcome to Greece! Transfer to your hotel upon arrival at Athens airport, where you may spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Athens

Day 2

Athens City Tour

Our adventure begins with a tour of Greece's 3000-year old capital city, named after the goddess Athena. We start with a panoramic tour of important sites including the Panathenaic Stadium (where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896), Temple of Olympian Zeus, and Syntagma Square. Travelling back in time, we then enjoy a guided visit of the Acropolis, the ancient hilltop sanctuary housing the architectural masterpieces of Classical Athens: the Parthenon, Propylaia, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. This is followed by a tour of the Acropolis Museum, recently voted one of the best museums in the world. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in the old Plaka neighborhood and maybe shop for some souvenirs on Ermou street.

Please Note:For the departures of 27 Oct, 03 Nov, 10 Nov and 17 Nov 2024 the Athens city tour will operate on day 6 after the four-day excursion to Olympia, Delphi and Meteora, which will commence today.
Overnight: Athens  |  Breakfast

Day 3

Across the Peloponnese

Athens - Epidaurus - Mycenae - Olympia. After breakfast, we depart for the Peloponnese, the rocky peninsula home to many of Greece's greatest archaeological sites. First we stop at the gaping Corinth Canal, a narrow waterway separating the Peloponnese and mainland Greece. We continue to Epidaurus, a hub of ancient healing with a theater famed for its acoustics.

After a short seaside stop in Nafplion, we visit Mycenae, the ancient civilization described by Homer as "rich in gold" and excavated by Heinrich Schliemann. The site includes the towering Cyclopean walls, the beehive tomb of Agamemnon, and the famous Lion's Gate. In the afternoon, we cross the mountains of the Peloponnese to arrive in Olympia for dinner.
Overnight: Olympia  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4

Olympia

Olympia - Delphi. Built on the banks of the River Alfios, the lush green sanctuary of Olympia once housed the original ancient Olympic Games, held every four years in honor of Zeus. Today we enjoy a tour through its remains, including the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra, and Phidias's workshop. We continue to the local museum, one of the richest in Greece with famous works such as the Hermes of Praxiteles. In the afternoon, we head return to mainland Greece, over the Rio-Antirio bridge, to Delphi for dinner.
Overnight: Olympia  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5

Delphi

Delphi - Kalambaka. The sanctuary at Delphi was revered in antiquity as a center of pilgrimage, home to the Pythia (oracle) in the Temple of Apollo. We will follow the Sacred Way, the path followed by ancient visitors through the sanctuary. We then visit the local museum, where we'll find the bronze Charioteer statue and the omphalos stone. Afterwards, we cross the mountains of central Greece back to the mainland, arriving in Kalambaka for our overnight stay.
Overnight: Kalambaka  |  Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6

Meteora

Kalambaka - Athens. This morning we visit Meteora, a stunning World Heritage site where a series of towering rock formations shelter a number of sacred Eastern Orthodox monasteries. In the afternoon we return to Athens for the night, briefly stopping at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a famous last stand against the Persians in 480 BC.
Overnight: Athens  |  Breakfast

Day 7

Athens Free Time

Today offers free time to further explore the delights of Athens. Alternatively a optional tour to Cape Sounion and the temple of Poseidon will be available.
Overnight: Athens  |  Breakfast

Day 8

Athens

This morning transfer to the port for an exciting day cruise to the Saronic gulf islands. Our first stop will be the picturesque island of Hydra, well know to the international jetset. On Hydra you can explore the little cobble-stoned streets. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the Mitropolis at your own pace. Next, we visit the island of Poros with its clock tower facing the Peloponnese. Last comes Aegina, a weekend retreat for many Athenians. Make sure to buy some pistachios, as Aegina is world-famous for its production. A buffet lunch will be served on board, and on the way back you will have to opportunity to see and participate to some traditional Greek dances!
Overnight: Athens  |  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9

Cruising the Aegean

After breakfast this morning return to the port to board the elegant Celestyal Cruises ship and embark on a three night 'Iconic Aegean' cruise, from Athens to Santorini. We'll arrive in Mykonos this afternoon. Take advantage of the free shuttle service provide by the cruise line to explore the bustling Chora (Mykonos town) until late in the evening.
Overnight: Greek Island Cruise  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10

Ephesus & Patmos

Mykonos - Patmos. Our cruise takes us to Turkey this morning, we sail to Kusadasi for an optional excursion to the town's covered bazaar and the ancient city of Ephesus, where the Temple of Artemis - among the Seven Wonders of the World - was once located.

Returning to the ship this afternoon, we continue back to Greece and the island of Patmos. Here we find the hilltop Monastery of St John and the Cave of the Apocalypse, where the apostle is believed to have witnessed the events of the Book of Revelation, an optional excursion to visit these places is offered.
Overnight: Greek Island Cruise  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11

Rhodes

Patmos - Rhodes. In the morning we arrive in Rhodes. An optional 'medieval tour' takes in the sights of this World Heritage city, including the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights (Old Town). Overnight, our cruise continues south to the island of Crete.
Overnight: Greek Island Cruise  |  Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12

Heraklion & Santorini

Rhodes - Heraklion - Santorini. We arrive in Heraklion, the capital of Crete, early this morning, where you have the option of an excursion to the Minoan Palace of Knossos. Immortalized in the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, this Bronze Age settlement stood at the heart of one of Greece's earliest civilizations. We reach the island of Santorini in the afternoon, where we leave our cruise and transfer to our hotel.
Please Note: For the departure of 17 March 2024 & 21 October 2024 until the end of the season will NOT be calling at the port of Heraklion. Instead, it will be arriving in Santorini in the morning.
Overnight: Santorini  |  Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13

Santorini

Enjoy a day at leisure in Santorini, an Aegean paradise widely considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Explore the whitewashed towns of Fira and Oia with their views of the volcano which birthed the island, watch the spectacular sunset from the black-sanded beaches, or cruise the caldera on a boat tour.
Overnight: Santorini  |  Breakfast

Day 14

Santorini

Our Greek odyssey ends today. Enjoy the morning at leisure before an included transfer to Santorini airport to meet your onward flight.
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room.

Read More
Guaranteed Departure

Extra Prices

Twin Share
Single Room
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Athens (From price)
USD $95
USD $165

Hotels

In Greece a variety of hotels are used in various locations. The Cruise boat and hotels listed are examples of some commonly used hotels. We reserve the right to substitute these for ones of a similar standard when necessary.

Polis Grand, Athens

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

In the heart of Athens, the Polis Grand is a contemporary hotel with excellent facilities. Guest rooms are well appointed with elegant furniture and all modern conveniences. Some rooms are equipped with a balcony with fantastic views over to the Acropolis. The hotel benefits from a number of eateries which serve up an array of Greek and international cuisine as well as tasty coffee and delicious pies. Definitely head for a cocktail in the evening at the roof garden bar for amazing views across the city.

The Golden Age Hotel of Athens, Athens

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

The Golden Age Hotel of Athens is a 4 star hotel, located close to the Kolonaki District. A 5 minute walk from the Megaro Mousikis Metro Station, the urban chic property is 2 stops away from the centre of Athens. Each guest room is soundproofed, air conditioned and feature an ensuite bathroom and blackout drapes. Be sure to try the hotel's daily American buffet breakfast, that includes traditional Greek options. There are two restaurants onsite that serve gourmet Meditteranean cuisine.

Titania Hotel, Athens

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Nestled in the historic centre of Athens, the Titiana offers beautiful accommodation all classically designed. The ensuite guest rooms are furnished to a high standard with neutral tones and wooden flooring. Breakfast is served in the impressive rooftop Olive Garden restaurant which affords amazing views across the city including the Acropolis. The hote offers complimentary Wi-Fi and a fitness centre.

Hotel Europa , Olympia

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Set at the top of Drouvas Hill, Hotel Europa offers views of the Arcadian Mountains and Alfios Valley from your own private balcony. The spacious guestrooms also feature marble floors and modern amenities, with free WiFi and breakfast included. Relax on the comfortable sunbeds by the outdoor pool that is surrounded by luscious greenery. Within the garden there is a Greek tavern where you can enjoy a delicious feast of Mediterranean cuisine prepared with natural and organic ingredients.

Hotel Arty Grand , Olympia

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Located on top of a hill overlooking Olympia, the Arty Grand Hotel is all about the guest experience. From the welcoming reception hall, up to the spacious rooms and beautiful verandas, the Arty Grand provides world-class treatment. Arranged over three floors, there is an outdoor swimming pool and spa centre, where you can relax with a rejuvenating massage after a day of exploring. The hotel serves a daily breakfast buffet and you can order from the lunch and dinner menu. Then take your pick between the hotel or poolside bar to enjoy an evening drink.

Celestyal Discovery Cruise Boat, Island Cruise

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 star cruise boat

Embark on a journey of luxury and adventure aboard the Celestyal Discovery, where an unforgettable sailing experience awaits. With 7 vibrant bars, 4 exquisite restaurants, and a serene spa, this cruise promises a perfect blend of indulgence and relaxation. The accommodation on the Discovery is designed for ultimate comfort, providing a tranquil haven for guests. From fine dining to casual eateries, Celestyal Discovery offers a diverse range of restaurants and bars, including sophisticated lounges and lively poolside spots - ideal settings to unwind and create lasting memories.

Orizontes Hotel & Villas Santorini, Santorini

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Located in the village of Pyrgos, the Orizontes Hotel was recently renovated and is surrounded by vineyards. Guest rooms have private balconies looking out to the sea or the garden and are equipped with lots of modern conveniences. The hotel also has a couple of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Plus there is a lovely outdoor pool to cool down in and lots of sunbeds.

El Greco Resort & Spa, Santorini

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

Conveniently located just minutes from the centre of Fira, El Greco is a beautiful white washed complex in the classic Santorini style. All guest rooms are air conditioned and reflect the Cycladic style whilst including all mod-cons and exception ensuite facilities. The resort benefits from an outdoor pool, on site restaurant and adult-only Spa Centre for guests.

At a Glance

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Athens
Ends
Santorini
Departs
Sundays - March to October
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 45
Hotel Rating
3-4 star hotels and Celestyal Cruise
Tour Guide
Yes for days 2 - 6 and for shore excursions while on the cruise on days 9 - 12
Meals
Breakfast: 13, Lunch: 5, Dinner: 6
Countries
Minimum Age
5 yrs, accompanied by an adult
Arr. Transfer
Yes - one transfer per booking
Dep. Transfer
Yes - one transfer per booking
Athens
Mykonos
Santorini
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