Greek Islands Odyssey History and Splendour

Welcome to Athens! Upon your arrival, we will arrange your transfer to the hotel where you can settle in and unwind. You’ll have some leisure time to begin exploring the vibrant city at your own pace, indulging in the captivating sights or just relaxing. In the afternoon, be sure to check out the information boards in the hotel reception—this will provide essential details about the start of your exciting journey with us. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

Today, we explore the vibrant heart of Athens with a guided city tour. Our journey begins with a visit to notable landmarks, including the Presidential Mansion and the Panathenaic Stadium, the prestigious site of the first modern Olympic Games. We continue past the National Library and lively squares in the city centre. Our exploration extends to the districts that have sprung up since the 2004 Olympic Games, providing a fascinating contrast between old and new Athens. Our tour concludes at the iconic Acropolis (please note, admission is not included). As the evening draws in, we’ll transport you to the historical Plaka neighbourhood. Here, you’ll find atmospheric Greek tavernas and a chance to delve into the rich cultural folklore. Enjoy your free time immersing yourself in the delightful charm of this area.

You'll have the morning to explore Athens at your own pace, whether that means taking in a museum or indulging in some local shopping. In the afternoon, we'll make our way to Piraeus Port, where you'll board an overnight ferry bound for Rhodes. The ferry offers comfortable amenities reminiscent of a cruise, and you'll enjoy a restful night in a cosy double cabin on board.

Upon our early morning arrival in Rhodes, we will begin a captivating city tour exploring its historical tapestry. Highlights include the impressive walled citadel and the enchanting Old Town, where the influences of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, the Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian rule are still evident. In the afternoon, you will have the freedom to discover the island’s offerings at your own pace, whether that involves wandering through its charming streets, sampling local cuisine, or simply soaking up the atmosphere.

Today we venture beyond the city of Rhodes to discover the island's diverse beauty. Our day begins with a visit to Filerimos, a serene location set on a hill, home to a historic monastery amidst breathtaking landscapes. We then make our way to Lindos, where you will have the opportunity to explore its formidable fortress and ancient Acropolis. From these high points, enjoy stunning views of the crystal-clear sea below. The charming whitewashed lanes of Lindos beckon for a leisurely stroll, with the option for you to relax on one of its inviting beaches or take a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis for a truly memorable experience.Following lunch, we return to Rhodes city, allowing you some free time to further explore at your own pace. In the evening, we will head to the airport for a flight to Crete, landing in the historic city of Heraklion. Please be aware that direct flights between Rhodes and Crete are limited and subject to change; on some occasions, you might find your flight scheduled for Friday morning or with a connection in Athens. Once we arrive, we will transfer you to your hotel to settle in and rest for the next day's adventures.

On the sixth day of our journey, we set off towards the west coast of Crete. Our first destination is Rethymno, a coastal city with Venetian roots, renowned for its medieval castle and charming streets. Following this, we venture to Chania, a captivating city highlighted by an impressive fortress and magnificent mansions. The city's storied past reflects a mix of influences from Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks. As the day concludes, we make our way back to Heraklion.

Today, we venture to the remarkable Palace of Knossos, a symbol of Minoan civilisation that predates Greek culture by four millennia – the guided tour and entry are both included. After absorbing the ancient grandeur, we'll travel through Crete's rugged mountain landscapes en route to the picturesque town of Agia Galini. Nestled on the shores of the Libyan Sea, this charming locale boasts winding streets, a bustling fishing harbour, and plenty of lively taverns. Here, you'll have time to enjoy lunch and, if you fancy, a refreshing swim in the sea. As the sun begins to set, we'll head back to Heraklion to conclude our day's explorations. Note that from November to April, when many local businesses close for the off-season, our visit will instead be to Matala, a town famed for its beautiful beach and intriguing cliffside caves.

On Day 8, we'll journey along the eastern coastline of Crete, starting with a visit to the quaint town of Kritsa. Here, you'll have the chance to explore Panagia Kera, a 13th-century church celebrated for its beautiful frescoes—admission is included. Our next destination is Agios Nikolaos, a charming town boasting a natural harbour. You'll have time to saunter through its streets and perhaps enjoy a leisurely lunch. Afterwards, we'll proceed to Elounda, once a city-state, now a stunning tourist retreat. From here, we'll take a boat trip to Spinalonga Island to explore its formidable Venetian fortress, which was later repurposed as a leper colony. After our visit, we'll return by boat and head back to Heraklion, where you'll settle in for the night.

In the early morning, we will head to the port to catch a high-speed ferry to Santorini, arriving between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. Once on the island, we'll travel by bus through the captivating landscapes to Oia, renowned for its striking whitewashed streets, breathtaking cliffside views, and historical sites such as castle ruins and windmills. You will have the chance to explore at your own pace and savour lunch against this stunning backdrop. Afterwards, we'll make our way to Fira, the capital of Santorini. During your free time, we suggest taking a boat excursion to the hot springs and experiencing the sunset from a traditional Mediterranean boat for a memorable end to the day.

Following a hearty breakfast, we’ll set sail for Mykonos. Upon arrival, a transfer to your hotel awaits. Mykonos is steeped in mythology, famously known as the battleground of Zeus and the Titans. You'll have ample free time to explore the island's enchanting maze of narrow streets, discover the allure of Little Venice, and gaze at the iconic windmills for which Mykonos is renowned.

Spend a leisurely day in Mykonos after enjoying breakfast at your hotel. You have the entire day to explore at your own pace. We suggest visiting the nearby island of Delos, celebrated in ancient Greek mythology as the birthplace of the twin deities Apollo and Artemis. Delos is considered one of the most sacred sites in Ancient Greece. Alternatively, you might prefer to unwind on the island's renowned beaches such as Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach, known for their vibrant atmosphere and pristine sands.

After breakfast, we will arrange your transfer to the port for a ferry journey back to Athens. You will arrive at the Port of Piraeus around 11:00 p.m., providing you with a scenic night arrival in this bustling city.

Today, we venture into the Peloponnese with our first stop at the Corinth Canal, a remarkable feat of engineering completed in the late 19th century, linking the Ionian Sea with the Aegean. This impressive channel is a sight to behold, with sheer cliffs lining its path. From here, we continue through scenic mountain landscapes to Tripoli, the lively capital of Arcadia. At Aeros Square, you'll have the chance to relax amidst the energetic pace of local life and enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the many inviting cafes and restaurants.Our journey then leads us to the ancient city of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games in 776 B.C. A local guide will accompany us through the Archaeological Site, where you'll experience the grandeur of ancient Greek civilisation. Marvel at the Temple of Zeus, the original Stadium, the Gymnasium, and the Arena, envisaging the athletes who once competed here. Finally, we proceed to Patras, Greece's third largest city. Important sites include its majestic medieval fortress and the grand Saint Andrew Cathedral—Greece's largest—alongside the smaller, older church dedicated to Saint Andrew, attracting pilgrims from near and far. Dinner is included as we reflect on a day rich in history and cultural encounters.

After breakfast, we embark on a scenic journey across the stunning Rio-Antirrio bridge, an engineering marvel connecting the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Our first destination is the charming town of Nafpaktos, nestled on the Gulf of Corinth. Here, you'll find a striking Venetian fortress, a reminder of the historic Battle of Lepanto, where the famous Cervantes lost his arm. You're free to explore the picturesque harbour and wander through the quaint streets of the old town.Moving along the Gulf, our next stop is Mycenae, a formidable citadel from the 18th century BC and considered the cradle of European civilization. Admission is included, giving you the opportunity to delve into its rich history at your own pace and enjoy a leisurely lunch.We then visit the commanding Fortress of Acrocorinth, where you can discover the remains of an ancient temple of Aphrodite situated at the highest point. After taking in the sweeping views, we make a short stop at the iconic Corinth Canal before arriving in Athens later in the evening.

Following breakfast, our adventure draws to a close in Athens. We hope you depart with a wealth of cherished memories from your journey.