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Classical Greece & Idyllic Islands

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11 days

SEMI-INDEPENDENT TOUR: Discover Greece’s extreme beauty on this 11-day tour travelling from ancient Athens uncovering centuries of civilization at the astounding archaeological sites Acropolis, Olympia and Meteora; soaking up the gorgeous beaches of Zakynthos and the outstanding scenery of the Peloponnese before discovering the magical island of Santorini.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

11 days

Starts

Athens

Ends

Santorini

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

yes - for all included sightseeing

Group Size

Min 2 / Max 45

Minimum age

5 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

Thursdays, May to Sep

Hotel Rating

3-4 star hotels

Countries

Greece

Arrival Transfer

Yes - one transfer per booking

Departure Transfer

Yes - one transfer per booking

Meals included

Breakfast: 10, Dinner: 3
Save 20% today
Per Person From
$5,775.00
NZD$4,620.00
Deposit From
Final payment
NZD$1,000.00
$8,240.00

Tour Highlights

Athens - Discover one of the world's oldest cities, from the ancient Acropolis and temple of Zeus to the modern Panathenaic Stadium
Peloponnese - Cross the rocky peninsula at the heart of Greek history, home to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and the Corinth Canal
Olympia - Learn about the site of the original Olympics, where the Statue of Zeus - an ancient Wonder of the World - once stood
Delphi - Follow the Sacred Way in the footsteps of pilgrims who sought the oracle's advice at this holy sanctuary
Meteora - Admire the stunning, UNESCO-listed rock formations and clifftop monasteries
Thermopylae - Relive the Spartans' famous last stand against the Persians on this narrow pass
Zakynthos - Explore the famous Navagio shipwreck beach and swim in the azure blue waters at the Blue Caves
Santorini - Relax on one of Greece's most beautiful islands, where whitewashed villages perch on volcanic cliffs
Nafplion - Stroll through the labyrinthine streets and discover the Venetian and Turkish architecture

Included

10 nights 3-4 star hotels
10 breakfasts and 3 dinners
One arrival transfer on Day 1 (Athens) and one departure transfer on Day 11 (Santorini) included per booking
Entrance fees for all included sites
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
Guided sightseeing in Athens, Olympia, Zakynthos, Delphi, and Meteora
Two ferry tickets - Kyllini - Zakynthos (regular ferry) and Praeus - Santorini (regular ferry)

Not Included

International flights and visas
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
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

Itinerary

Day 1 - Athens

Welcome to Athens! On arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel, where you have the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Athens

Day 2 - Athens & the Acropolis

Today explore the most important landmarks and monuments of the historical city of Athens on a coach tour. You'll see the Panathenaic Stadium, home of the first modern Olympic Games and other iconic landmarks including the Zappeion, the temple of Olympian Zeus, and Hadrian’s wall. Then visit the iconic Acropolis and enjoy a guided visit to Propylae, the temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Acropolis Museum, recently voted one of the best museums in the world. This afternoon is free for you to independently explore – wander through the picturesque old neighbourhood of Plaka or shop for souvenirs on Ermou Street.

Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Epidaurus & Mycenae

Athens - Epidaurus - Mycenae - Olympia. This morning bid farewell to Athens and travel to the Peloponnese, home to many of Greece’s greatest archaeological sites. First stop is the impressive Corinth Canal which separates the Greek mainland from the Peloponnese before travelling on to Epidaurus, a hub of ancient healing famous for its giant theatre.

This afternoon there's a brief stop in Nafplion, a beautiful town filled with numerous Venetian and Turkish buildings nestled in a labyrinth of narrow streets. Then continue to Mycenae, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the country. The site includes the towering Cyclopean walls, the beehive tomb of Agamemnon and the famous Lion's Gate. In the afternoon, cross the Peloponnese Mountains to Olympia, where there's time to freshen up or relax before dinner at the hotel.

Overnight: Olympia
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 - Ancient Olympia

Olympia - Zakynthos. This morning enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site of ancient Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games. Highlights include the Temple of Zeus, the Palestra and Phidias’s Workshop. Then continue to one of the richest museums in Greece, home to the impressive Hermes of Praxitelis statue.

In the afternoon leave the rest of the group and take a private transfer to the port of Kyllini to board a local ferry to the island of Zakynthos, one of the most popular islands on the Ionian Sea. After checking into our hotel the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore.

Overnight: Zakynthos
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Zakynthos island tour

Early this morning embark on a coach tour to the north-east part of Zakynthos and learn about the history and mythology of the island en-route. There's a brief stop at Alykes Hills for the perfect photo opportunity with great scenery overlooking the whole of the island, mainland Greece and the neighbouring island of Kefalonia. Then arrive at a small fishing village and board a boat to travel around the north shores of the island, arriving at Navagio beach, the most photographed beach in the world, before the crowds. The boat then continues to the famous “Blue Caves” (subject to weather conditions), one of the islands most famous natural attractions. Take a dip in the caves rich waters which appear to turn everything below the water blue. On your way back to the port look out for dolphins and sea-turtles before stopping at the sea-spa of Xingia, a small sandy beach with turquoise waters containing traces of Sulphur and collagen. Enjoy a swim that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Overnight: Zakynthos
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - Zakynthos

Zakynthos - Delphi. This morning there's free time to enjoy the town of Zakynthos before your transfer to Kyllini port where you will board the ferry back to the mainland. From here continue your tour of mainland Greece. It's a scenic drive around Oatras and over the Rio-Antirio bridge to the picturesque town of Delphi in time for dinner at the hotel. Watch the sunset over the Gulf of Corinth and soak up the incredible views of Delphi's dramatic landscape.

Overnight: Delphi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - Delphi & the Temple of Apollo

Delphi - Kalambaka. Delphi, one the most sacred pilgrimage centres in the world, is yours to explore on a guided tour today. Admire the Sanctuary of Apollo and walk up the Sacred Way to reach the incredible Temple of Apollo. After exploring this spectacular archaeological site, see the bronze Charioteer statue and the mythical omphalos stone at the fascinating Delphi Museum. This afternoon cross the mountains of central Greece on your journey to Kalambaka, the gateway to Meteroa. After dinner at the hotel, the evening is free to explore the town.

Overnight: Kalambaka
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 - Monasteries of Meteora

Kalambaka - Meteora - Athens. After breakfast visit the extraordinary Meteora World Heritage Site, where Byzantine monasteries are perched on top of towering rock formations. Marvel at the surreal landscape and explore two of the Orthodox monasteries, which provided a sacred retreat for monks over centuries. From Meteora it's a long drive back to Athens with a stop en route at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a famous last stand against the Persians in 480 BC. Upon arrival bid farewell to your fellow travellers and spend the evening at leisure.

Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Athens to Santorini

Athens – Santorini. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the port of Piraeus to catch the local ferry to the magical island of Santorini. The journey takes roughly 8 hours and on arrival you'll be met and transferred to your hotel.

Overnight: Santorini
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 - Santorini R&R

Today is free for you to relax and explore the beautiful volcanic island of Santorini. No trip to the island would be complete without exploring the whitewashed towns of Fira and Oia which boast amazing views of the volcano that birthed the island. Sit on the black-sanded beaches for one of the best sunsets in the Aegean or cruise around the caldera on a boat tour.

Overnight: Santorini
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Goodbye

Your tour of Greece ends today. Spend the morning at leisure before an included transfer to Santorini airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Pre-Tour Accommodation - Athens (From price)

Double

$155per passenger

Twin

$155per passenger

Single

$275per passenger

Post-Tour Accommodation - Santorini (From price)

Double

$155per passenger

Twin

$155per passenger

Single

$295per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

Polis Grand
Athens

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
The Golden Age Hotel of Athens
Athens

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Titania Hotel
Athens

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Arty Grand
Olympia

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
5 Star Hotel
Hotel Europa
Olympia

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Amalia
Delphi

Located at the foot of Mount Parnassus, Hotel Amalia overlooks a picturesque green valley and the Ionian Sea. Guestrooms are spread over four levels, offering plenty of natural light and all the essential amenities. Relax in the main lounge where you can enjoy the magnificent vistas by a rustic fireplace. Next to the beautiful gardens you will find the main restaurant, serving up a rich American breakfast buffet and a la carte lunch and dinner featuring Greek cuisine. You can also enjoy coffee, fresh juice and cocktails as you unwind at the poolside bar.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Apollonia
Delphi

Situated in an ideal location within the modern town, Hotel Apollonia provides the perfect base for exploring ancient Delphi. Offering a majestic view of the Corinthian Gulf, the hotel combines wood and stone in a traditional-style build. The spacious guestrooms and modern facilities offer a very comfortable stay, with a delicious breakfast and dinner served in the hotel restaurant. You can also relax by a cosy fire with a drink or two from the bar.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Amalia
Kalambaka

Hotel Amalia is embedded on 14 acres of beautiful greenery. Built from traditional materials to match its surrounds, the hotel features extensive gardens, a large swimming pool and distant views of the Meteora Rocks. Guestrooms are spacious and fully equipped with the latest facilities. In the dining area, a rich American buffet breakfast is served with both local and international cuisine available for lunch and dinner. Relax by the fireplace in the hotel’s cosy lounge bar and listen to piano music as you sip a cocktail.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Hotel Divani Meteora
Kalambaka

Offering the chance to enjoy traditional Greek hospitality within a contemporary setting is the Hotel Divani Meteora. Surrounded by natural beauty, the hotel is set in front of the World Heritage-listed Meteora sandstone monasteries. The fully renovated hotel has a welcoming decor, with warm shades and a luxury wooden floor. A tranquil restaurant offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine and there is an outdoor and indoor pool. You can also unwind after a day of exploring in the sauna steam bath or bubbling Jacuzzi.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Orizontes Hotel & Villas Santorini
Santorini

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
El Greco Resort & Spa
Santorini

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.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel

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. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers and anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. Room sharing is not available on this tour.

2025
Twin/Double
Single
8 May - 18 May
Save 20%
$5,775$4,620
$8,965$7,172
15 May - 25 May
Save 20%
$5,775$4,620
$8,965$7,172
22 May - 1 Jun
Save 20%
$5,775$4,620
$8,965$7,172
29 May - 8 Jun
Save 20%
$5,775$4,620
$8,965$7,172
5 Jun - 15 Jun
Save 20%
$5,885$4,708
$9,185$7,348
12 Jun - 22 Jun
Save 20%
$5,885$4,708
$9,185$7,348
19 Jun - 29 Jun
Save 20%
$5,885$4,708
$9,185$7,348
26 Jun - 6 Jul
Save 20%
$5,885$4,708
$9,185$7,348

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