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Day 1 Athens

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Named after the goddess of wisdom, the birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens has an amazing array of historic sites to explore; a weighty history that spills out over the modern city, represented most dramatically by the ancient Acropolis. There's much to be seen in the ancient capital of Greece, vibrant and refreshed following the 2004 Olympics, yet still retaining so much visible history. After the welcome meeting, perhaps head out for some gyros and ouzo with your new travel companions.

Day 2 Athens / Thessaloniki

This morning head out to visit the famous Acropolis, one of the Western world's most important historical structures. Start with an ascent to the top of this sacred rock via the towering entrance, the Propylaia. Once inside, encounter the Parthenon – the greatest Doric temple in the ancient world. In the afternoon board a train or a bus to cosmopolitan Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. This city especially comes alive in the evening, thanks in part to its large student population, so make sure you hunt down the perfect gyros or some live music.

Day 3 Thessaloniki

Relax in the splendour of what is regarded as the cultural capital of the country. Walk along the waterfront to the White Tower, take in the Byzantine churches (like the beautifully frescoed Church of Saint Nicholas the Orphan), Ottoman sites and Roman ruins, and appreciate the wonderful views over the gulf. On a clear day you might even catch a glimpse of the home of the gods, Mount Olympus. If you’d like someone to show you the way, perhaps join an Urban Adventure for a local view. The city is undoubtedly the gastronomic capital of the Greece and its flavours are unique. For 2,000 years it’s been a melting pot of cultures, with eastern spices, French, Balkan and Mediterranean tastes. Seek out the eateries in the area around the agora, where age-old columns and arches brush up against modern apartments and the ancient Rotunda. Don't forget to stop by at NAOMI,an NGO workshop supporting refugees with skill training and learn about the amazing work and the challenges they are faced with today.

Day 4 Kalambaka

Travel by public bus or train to Kalambaka (approximately 3 hours). Upon arrival embark on on a short orientation walk of town, where your leader will point out amenities and help you get your bearings. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the scenic area around Kalambaka and Meteora, where the views are stunning whichever way you look. Having two days here allows you to explore at your own pace, discover the history and legends, witness the incredible views of one of the few World Heritage sites listed under both nature and art at different times of the day, and avoid the crowds. Your leader will have suggestions on hand. In the evening, maybe head to a taverna for dinner and stroll the main square for a taste of Thessalian life.

Day 5 Meteora / Kalambaka

Climb into the heavens, just like monks have done for centuries, towards ancient monasteries precariously placed atop 400-metre-high rock formations. Meteora is home to 24 14th century monasteries that sit at the top of karst pinnacles, though only six are still occupied. They were once only accessed by rope ladders, but thankfully there are now steps. The cliff faces also feature caves where hermits lived an even simpler life than those in the teetering monasteries. The monasteries, which used to be supplied by rope and pulley systems, house woodcarvings, frescoes, paintings, and one even features the skulls of the first founders. You’ll enjoy some great views back over the town. The area makes for incredibly dramatic photos – multi-colour streaked rock, bright green forest, and the pale terracotta of the monastery roofs against the Grecian sky. The mists that can surround the pinnacles make the constructions seem like they’re floating in the air. Hawks drift on the valley thermals looking for prey, and black-frocked priests shuffle silently around.

Day 6 Delphi

Travel by private transfer to Delphi (approximately 4 hours). On the the way, stop at our favourite camping site where you'll enjoy a tasting of different type of olives, oil and tapenade that's produced on their farm and special to the region. Your lunch will also be included here and enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming, with a view overlooking the Delphi Valley, a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then continue to Delphi. Located on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, by a valley of cypress and olives trees, this modern town and ancient ruins overlooks the Gulf of Corinth. The ancient Greeks regarded Delphi as the centre of the world (legend says that Zeus sent two eagles flying from opposite ends of the world and they crossed paths over Delphi), and today it’s one of the country's most inspiring and memorable archaeological sites. On arrival, your leader will take you on an orientation walk of the cliffside town of Delphi. Then, follow your local guide for a guided tour through the amazing archaeological sites and museums. Here you’ll find the famous sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena, which contain numerous monuments, temples, a well-preserved theatre, and the impressive reconstructed Athenian Treasury. The site was also home to the Delphic oracle, said to have spoken for Apollo himself – she sat on a chasm, inhaling vapours from the Earth and entering a trance-like state, her cryptic answers to questions translated by priests. There’s also a mountain-top stadium, which were used for the Pythian Games (an Olympic Games precursor), held every four years as early as 586 BC.

Day 7 Athens

Travel back to Athens today by bus, arriving in the late afternoon (approximately 3,5 hours). Shop for the perfect souvenir at the Monastiraki flea market or take a relaxing stroll through the Greek national gardens. If you haven’t already, check out the Temple of Olympian Zeus or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guard. While in the neighbourhood explore the excellent Museum of Athens, Syntagma square with the Parliament building, and the Panathinaiko Stadium which housed the first Olympic games in 1896.

Day 8 Athens

Enjoy a free day in Athens today exploring the countless great sites of this ancient capital. Highlights include the renowned changing of the guard at Syntagma (Parliament) Square, the National Gardens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and so many more. There will be a group meeting at 6 pm at your hotel, when you'll meet your new travel mates.

Day 9 Syros

Today travel by metro to the port of Piraeus, then catch a relaxing scenic ferry to Syros (approximately 4 hours). In the heart of the Cyclades, Syros offers a rare opportunity to see the islands as the Greeks do. One of the Aegean's most underrated islands, the island features typical whitewashed houses, farms, terraced fields and gorgeous sandy beaches. Your leader will take you on a wander through the main town of Ermoupolis, home to well preserved neoclassical mansions and 19th-century tenement blocks. Syros is also home to delicious sweets. Stop at a family run traditional loukoumi workshop where you will be shown the procedure of how these multi-coloured fruit-flavoured jellies (also called Greek Delight) and chalvadopita (hazelnut, almond or honey-filled wafers) are made - make sure you try some of them. You'll have plenty of time to explore tomorrow, so perhaps kick up your feet at a waterfront cafe and watch the setting sun turn the houses pink.

Day 10 Syros

Take a walk through the fortress-like town of Ano Syros, which offers great views of the Aegean Sea. Wander the narrow alleyways, pass handmade-souvenir shops and keep an ear open for traditional Rembetiko music floating out of the family-run tavernas. Enjoy free time to further explore Syros at your own pace. Discover abandoned windmills, ancient ruins and charming villages on a network of stone-paved tracks that crisscross the island. Perhaps head to the various archaeological sites on the island, or you might prefer to simply hole up on a beach for the afternoon. Outside of Ermoupolis are many small tranquil coves, while the most popular beaches are on the southern side of the island. While some are sandy and others pebbly, all boast crystal clear waters for swimming in. In the evening, take taxis to a taverna to a remotely located village in the rugged northern part of the island to sample delicious local specialities during an included meal, all while watching the sun set over the Aegean Sea.

Day 11 Mykonos

Today board a two-hour ferry to Mykonos, a beautiful island named in honour of Apollo's grandson. Known in ancient Greek mythology as the battlefield where Zeus fought the Gigantes, today the island is best known for its decadence, style, and nightlife. Join your leader for a walk through the maze-like old town and be captivated by the quintessential Greek Isles vista of squat white houses brightly juxtaposed against the cerulean sea. Browse the chic galleries and boutiques, follow flower-lined paths past age-old churches and tiny restaurants to secluded, sandy beaches, and spend the afternoon soaking up the rays and splashing in the water. Settle into your lovely room at the hotel. As the sun sets, maybe join Europe's party crowd at one of the many bars and clubs on Mykonos, or take a more traditional approach with a meal at a delightful backstreet restaurant.

Day 12 Delos / Mykonos

This morning you will take a half-day trip out to the nearby island of Delos. One of the most important archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands, a sacred area that was once the political and religious centre of the Aegean, Delos is considered to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. A living museum, the wealthy built mansions in the town that developed around Apollo’s sanctuary, decorating them with luxurious frescoes, mosaics and statues. The island is overflowing with archaeological finds like the Terrace of the Lions and the Sacred Precinct, with many more still being uncovered. Later on today you might like to head to one of Mykonos' many beaches, which are some of the nicest in Europe. Take a short bus ride to the pumping Paradise or Super Paradise beach bars, or perhaps find a quieter spot to relax along the beautiful coastline. You could also check out the 19th-century House of Lena or the Aegean Maritime Museum in town. This evening you could make your way to the village of Ano Mera and seek out a tavern for a seafood dinner or perhaps wander down to Little Venice, where colourful balconies hang precariously over the sea.

Day 13 Santorini

Take another ferry and arrive on the spectacular southern island of Santorini (approximately 3 hours). Renowned for its amazing natural beauty, Santorini is one of Europe's tourist hotspots, the home of the iconic image of the Greek islands – whitewashed, blue-domed buildings clinging to the cliff face with sparkling water in the background. Discover the hilltop ruins of Ancient Thira and its fascinating Prehistoric Museum, as well as the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that gives an insight into how the people here lived before the eruption. Check out the range of restaurants and shops in the island's capital, interchangeably called Thira or Fira. If you have time while you're here, perhaps head to one of Santorini's volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos or Agios Georgios. Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious food – the nutrient-filled volcanic soil makes the ingredients grown here full of flavour.

Day 14 Santorini

In 1500 BC a volcanic eruption sank the centre of Santorini, forming one of the most significant geological formations on the planet – the awe-inspiring caldera. The spectacular natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place. Today make an excursion along the crater rim, starting in Thira town and walking through little villages all the way to Oia, passing steep cliff faces and experiencing breathtaking views along the way. If you have time, you might also like to take a half-day trip to the island's volcano and hot springs in the centre of the lagoon. Or perhaps visit one of the island’s wineries – the vines here are cultivated in a very unusual way, with the plants being pruned to form a low basket shape that sits on top of the volcanic soil to protect the grapes from strong winds. On the last evening of your adventure, rub shoulders with friendly locals in packed pubs and cafes, sipping a cocktail as you witness a magnificent Santorini sunset.

Day 15 Santorini

Today your Greek Islands adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. You might want to extend your stay to see all Santorini has to offer. We are happy to book additional accommodation, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.

Day 1: Arrive in Athens

Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival, make your own way the hotel for the start of the tour (airport transfers available at extra cost, please contact us for details). This evening we will enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant in Thissio, a historical neighbourhood of Athens close to the Acropolis.

Experiences
Get to know the other travellers on your tour at the included dinner this evening. You'll get to try traditional Greek cuisine, like pitta with tzatziki, greek salad, tomato balls and spanakopita (spinach pie).

Accommodation
Best Western Candia
Other Foods to try
There are many slight variations on the classic moussaka throughout the Mediterranean and Balkan regions, but they all have the same basic format: layers of aubergine, minced meat, tomato, onion and garlic. It is then topped with potato and a cheesy, bechamel sauce.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 2: Thermopylae - Meteora - Kalambaka

It’s an early start this morning as we head north. On our way, we will stop at Thermopylae to admire the statue of Leonidas, King of Sparta. We'll then drive on to Meteora, where we will see amazing rock formations, like towers of sandstone, stand ageless, and have provided sacred retreat for monks over the centuries. A number of monasteries are hidden on top of Meteora and today you will have the option to visit one or two. The view over the plain is breathtaking and Meteora is considered among the most beautiful areas of mainland Greece and belongs to UNESCO’s list of world heritage monuments. After our visit, we travel to Kalambaka, where we will check into our hotel and enjoy an included dinner at the hotel.

Experiences
Visit Thermopylae for a photo stop to admire the statue of Leonidas, King of Sparta.
Visit Meteora, considered one of the most beautiful regions in mainland Greece, officially a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Entrance fee: €6

Accommodation
Kosta Famissi
Other Foods to try
Greeks love their sweet foods as much as any other country. Most include honey and flaky pastry, including the classic baklava - layers of honey, filo pastry and ground nuts.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 3: Kalambaka - Delphi

After breakfast, we depart and cross the mountains for central Greece, arriving in Delphi, we will check-in to our hotel and make our way out again, heading straight for our visit to the ancient site of Delphi and museum. In antiquity, Delphi was considered the “omphalos” (navel) of the earth, and the place where people from around the world would visit in order to receive an “oracle” from “Pythia”. We will admire the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians and we will also visit the museum of Delphi with the famous bronze statue of the Charioteer. The evening is yours to spend at leisure, with an included dinner at the hotel.

Experiences
Option to visit Delphi and see the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians and visit the museum of Delphi. Entrance fee: €12

Accommodation
Parnassos Hotel
Other Foods to try
Greece offers many different varieties of cheese, and the most famous is undoubtedly feta. If you visit a market you can ask to try the feta kept in large barrels behind the counter - this is very different to the feta you find in a supermarket!
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 4: Delphi - Olympia

We leave Delphi behind this morning and head south towards the Peloponnese peninsula. The road will lead through Itea and Nafpaktos to the impressive Rio-Antirio bridge. Crossing over the bridge, we will arrive at the little village of ancient Olympia, Built on the banks of the River Alfios, Olympia is beautiful, green, and placid; it was the home of the original Olympic Games, which began in 776 BC. Before checking into our hotel we will stop for some Olive Oil tasting. Did you know Greece is the third largest producer of olive oil, but its consumption is the highest? After checking in, we will enjoy a tour through the remains of the Ancient Olympia Complex, including the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra, and Phidias’s Workshop. Later, we will be visiting the Olympia Archaeological Museum, one of the richest museums in Greece.

Experiences
Olive oil tasting - sample different varieties of the oil that has been an intrinsic part of Greek culture for thousands of years.
We enjoy a tour of the the ancient Olympia complex, including the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra and Phidias' workshop. Option to visit the Olympia Archaeological Museum, one of the best museums on Greece. Entrance fee: €12
Optional Excursions
Greek Dinner & Traditional Dancing €30
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Hotel Neda
Other Foods to try
Legend has it that Athena gave an olive tree to the city of Athens, thus gaining its favour. Olives are eaten in many different ways, including stuffed with peppers, and olive oil is of course used liberally in Greek cooking.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 5: Mycenae - Nafplion - Epidaurus - Corinth canal - Athens

This morning we will cross the mountains of Peloponnese to arrive at Mycenae for our visit to the tomb of Agamemnon and the famous Lion’s gate. Our day continues to the picturesque town of Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece, dominated by Palamidi castle. We will have some free time for lunch, and to explore the picturesque narrow streets with the neoclassical buildings, and walk on the sea-front promenade with the amazing views to the fortified Bourtzi islet guarding the entrance of the port of Nafplion. We'll then travel on to Epidaurus, the most important healing center in antiquity, and famous for its theater, the best preserved in Greece, with is incomparable acoustics. We then travel back to Athens, with a short stop along the way to admire the Corinth Canal.

Experiences
Option to visit Mycenae, featuring the tomb of Agamemnon and the famous Lion's Gate. Entrance fee:€12
Visit Nafplion, dominated by Palamidi Castle. Be sure to take time to explore the picturesque narrow streets and admire the neo-classical architecture. Take a stroll along the sea-front promenade and enjoy the amazing views to the fortfied Bourtzi islet, which guarded the entrance to the port of Nafplion.
Option to visit Epidaurus, the most important healing centre in ancient Greece, and famous for its well-preserved theater. Entrance fee: €12
Visit the Corinth Canal.

Accommodation
Best Western Candia
Other Foods to try
Classic dips are a big part of any Greek meal - try taramasalata (fish roe), tzatziki (yoghurt, cucumber and garlic), melitzanosalata (aubergine) and fava (split pea purée).
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 6: Athens city tour - Mykonos

After breakfast we'll take a panoramic tour of Athens. We will see the Academy, the National library, the Greek parliament and the tomb of Unknown Soldier guarded by the Evzones, the Panathinaikon marble stadium where the first modern Olympics took place, Hadrian’s Arch, the temple of Olympian Zeus, and other monuments and landmarks of the city. Our panoramic tour will end at the museum of the Acropolis where you will have the option to join a guided tour of the Acropolis site and Acropolis Museum, considered one of the best museums in Europe. During this optional excursion you will continue on foot to the sacred rock of Acropolis, visiting the Propylae, the Erechtheion, the temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon. After the optional we will walk along Apostolou Pavlou street towards the Plaka neighbourhood for an included lunch at a local restaurant. Later on, we will transfer to the port to catch the local ferry to Mykonos. On arrival in Mykonos we will transfer to the hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Experiences
We'll take you on a tour of the city which will include stops at The Academy, the National Library, the Greek parliament and the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Panathinaikon marble stadium where the first modern Olympics took place, Hadrian's Arch and the temple of Olympian Zeus.
Optional Excursions
Acropolis €25
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Hotel Alkistis
Hotel Dionysos
Other Foods to try
The Greek islands are blessed with an abundance of fresh fish. Find a nice seaside taverna and eat as locals have for thousands of years. Fish and calamari fresh from the Aegean Sea is incredibly tasty and cooked very simply – grilled and drizzled with ladholemono (a lemon and oil dressing). Other fish to try are barbounia (red mullet) and maridha (whitebait).
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 7: Mykonos - Free day

Day at leisure to explore the magnificent island of Mykonos with its unique sandy beaches on your own.
Attractions to discover in your free time
Archaeological Museum Tue-Sun: 8:30-15:00 € 4
Optional Excursions
Ano Mera & Island tour €45
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 8: Mykonos - Free day

Another day at leisure to soak up some sun, explore the bustling town of Mykonos or enjoy the facilities of your hotel. Alternatively, follow our suggested optional excursion to ancient Delos.
Attractions to discover in your free time
Archaeological Museum Tue-Sun: 8:30-15:00 € 4
Optional Excursions
Delos Tour €55
South Coast Boat Trip €65
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 9: Mykonos - Santorini

Morning at leisure until the time to transfer to the port to catch the local ferry to Santorini. Arrive in Santorini and transfer to our hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.

Experiences
Enjoy the morning in Mykonos before we take the ferry to Santorini, where you will have the evening to relax and plan the following free days!

Accommodation
Hotel Albatros
Other Foods to try
The Greek islands are blessed with an abundance of fresh fish. Find a nice seaside taverna and eat as locals have for thousands of years. Fish and calamari fresh from the Aegean Sea is incredibly tasty and cooked very simply – grilled and drizzled with ladholemono (a lemon and oil dressing). Other fish to try are barbounia (red mullet) and maridha (whitebait).
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 10: Santorini - Free day

Day at leisure to explore this unique island on your own.
Attractions to discover in your free time
Museum of Prehistoric Thera Tue-Sun: 8:30-15:00 € 6
The Archaeological Museum Tue-Sun: 8:30-15:00 € 2
Santorini Cable Car Daily 7:00- 21:00 € 5
Optional Excursions
Island tour €45
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 11: Santorini - Free day

Another day at leisure for you to explore this unique island. Alternatively, you can follow our optional boat excursion to the caldera islands. We will visit the volcano, the hot springs, little Thirassia island and we will end at Amoudi bay, the little port of Oia. We will climb up to Oia village and admire one of the best sunsets in the Aegean. Later, we will be transferred back to our hotel.
Attractions to discover in your free time
Museum of Prehistoric Thera Tue-Sun: 8:30-15:00 € 6
The Archaeological Museum Tue-Sun: 8:30-15:00 € 2
Santorini Cable Car Daily 7:00- 21:00 € 5
Optional Excursions
Caldera Islands €45
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 12: Return to Athens

Early in the morning we will be transferred to the airport of Santorini to catch a local flight back to Athens. This flight is with Aegean airlines and is included within the cost of the tour package. Arrival at Athens airport brings your tour to a conclusion.

Experiences
Fly back to Athens for the end of the tour.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner