Greek Odyssey Historic Sites and Idyllic Isles

Welcome to your tour in Greece! Upon your arrival in Athens, we will arrange your transfer to the hotel, allowing you some free time to settle in and explore. In the afternoon, check the hotel reception boards for important details about the start of your adventure. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Athens as you prepare for the days ahead. 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.

On our second day, we set off early towards the northern part of Greece. Our first stop is Kamena Vourla, a delightful coastal resort offering charming scenery. From here, we proceed north to the historic site of the Battle of Thermopylae, where you can feel the echoes of ancient history. Our journey continues to Kastraki, a charming village boasting stunning views across the valley, where you have some leisure time to enjoy lunch in your own style. In the afternoon, we visit the awe-inspiring Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Admission to one of these remarkable monasteries is included. We conclude our day with dinner in Kalabaka, where you can reflect on the experiences of the day.

On day three, we continue our journey south, traversing the scenic region of Thessaly, renowned for its breathtaking vistas. Our first destination is Delphi, famed for its ancient archaeological site overlooking the Gulf of Corinth. You will have time to enjoy lunch amidst this spectacular setting. Afterwards, we explore the Hosios Loukas Monastery, a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture and a revered World Heritage Site. Here, the exquisite 11th-century mosaics offer a glimpse into the artistic legacy of the period. We then proceed back to Athens, where we will arrive in the evening, completing a day enriched with cultural and historical experiences.

Today, we embark on an engaging city tour of Athens, guided by a knowledgeable local expert. Our journey through the capital begins with visits to notable landmarks, including the impressive Presidential Mansion and the historic Panathenaic Stadium, renowned as the site of the first modern Olympic Games. We’ll also admire the significant National Library and explore the lively squares in the city centre. Additionally, we’ll tour the vibrant newer neighbourhoods that have developed since the 2004 Olympic Games. Our exploration concludes at the iconic Acropolis—though entry is optional, you may choose to delve deeper into its ancient wonders. In the evening, we'll transport you to the historic Plaka neighbourhood, where you can discover delightful Greek tavernas and fully immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of local folklore.

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to Lavrio Port for an 11 a.m. departure as we embark on a full-day Mediterranean cruise. Relax and soak in the picturesque sea views during our voyage. We’ll arrive in Mykonos at 6 p.m., where you’ll have free time to explore this captivating island, renowned for its iconic windmills and whitewashed seaside houses. Our ship will depart Mykonos at 11 p.m., and you will spend the night on board, allowing you to relish the enchanting atmosphere of your journey.

Our Mediterranean cruise continues with an early morning arrival in Kusadasi, Turkey, at 7:00 a.m. Here, we have organised an excursion for you to explore the ancient city of Ephesus, a captivating archaeological site that provides a glimpse into ancient civilisations. You'll also have some free time to browse the vibrant local bazaars. At midday, we set sail for Patmos, an island with significant historical and religious heritage. Disembarking at 4:00 p.m., you can visit the cave where St. John the Apostle is believed to have written the Apocalypse, located near the Monastery of the Apocalypse. As night falls, we depart from Patmos at 9:00 p.m. We will spend the night on board—why not enjoy some time dancing in the nightclub?

Today, we continue our Mediterranean cruise adventure with our first stop in Heraklion, the bustling capital of Crete. This vibrant city is steeped in history, being the centre of the ancient Minoan civilisation. You'll have the opportunity to explore its captivating landmarks and delve into its rich past. Later, we set course for Santorini, one of Greece's most enchanting islands. Renowned for its dramatic landscapes, Santorini offers breathtaking vistas with its ravines and iconic blue-and-white villages perched on cliffs. Our day concludes with an overnight stay on board, surrounded by the stunning Aegean Sea.

At 06:30 a.m., we arrive at Lavrio Port, marking the conclusion of our journey. We trust that you will depart with a collection of cherished memories from this adventure. Should you be arriving by ferry from Rhodes, your disembarkation will be at Piraeus Port. Please be aware that if you choose to extend your stay in Athens and require additional nights, the transfer from the port to your hotel will not be included and will incur an extra charge.