Greece's Island Gems and Ancient Treasures

Arrive in Athens to begin your exciting journey. We will arrange your transfer to the hotel, giving you some time to settle in and explore at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, you'll find useful information regarding the start of your tour displayed in the hotel reception area. Make the most of your free time to get acquainted with this vibrant city, steeped in a rich tapestry of history and culture, as you prepare for the adventures that lie 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 the second day of our adventure, we set off to explore two of Greece's enchanting Saronic Islands. Our morning begins early as we board a ferry to Aegina, located less than an hour away. This island, inhabited for over 4,000 years, offers a picturesque harbour and traditional neighbourhoods dotted with charming houses and ancient churches. You might choose to wander these paths or pay a visit to the Greek Temple of Apollo.Our journey continues with a ferry trip lasting about an hour and 15 minutes to Poros. Upon arrival, you'll have free time to explore this vibrant island, known for its lively atmosphere and quaint houses climbing up to its iconic clock tower. There's time for a stroll and lunch before we embark on a brief 15-minute ferry to Galatas, a peaceful coastal village on the Peloponnese.Afterwards, we travel by road through beautiful hillside landscapes to Epidaurus, where youll enjoy entry to the impressively preserved Ancient Theatre, dating back 2,400 years and still hosting performances for up to 14,000 spectators. Our day concludes in Nafplio, a charming coastal city renowned for its citadel and Venetian fortress, where you'll have the evening to explore at your leisure. Dinner is included. Please note, ferry schedules may vary, particularly during the off-peak season, and adjustments might be needed if services between Aegina and Poros are unavailable.

Today, we'll venture into the heart of the Peloponnese mountains, heading towards Tripoli, the capital of the Arcadia region. Enjoy some free time in Areos Square, surrounded by charming cafes and restaurants offering a taste of local life. Our journey then continues to Olympia, a site of great historical significance as the birthplace of the Olympic Games in 776 BC. With entry and a guided tour included, you will explore landmarks like the Temple of Zeus, the Stadium, and the Gymnasium, immersing yourself in ancient sports history. Next, we'll drive to Patras, Greece's third-largest city bustling with activity. Overlooked by a medieval fortress, Patras houses Greeces largest cathedrala major pilgrimage destinationas well as the historic church of St. Andrew. Dinner is included, offering time to reflect on the day's explorations.

After breakfast, well cross the impressive RioAntirrio Bridge, an architectural marvel linking the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Our travels will take us through Central Greece and the storied region of Epirus. Upon reaching the port town of Igoumenitsa, you'll have time for a leisurely exploration before we board a ferry bound for the delightful island of Corfu. Enjoy the one-and-a-half-hour journey across the Ionian Sea, with the Albanian coastline in view, and consider a spot of lunch on board. Once on Corfu, renowned as the 'pearl of the Ionian Sea,' we will discover its capital, Kerkyra, with its well-preserved historic centre echoing the Venetian era. Our visit includes a stop at Kanoni, where you'll find a charming Byzantine church on a tiny island. After our exploration, well return to mainland Greece by ferry, with accommodation arranged in Igoumenitsa or nearby.

After breakfast, we will traverse the majestic mountains of Epirus toward Metsovo, a delightful village nestled amidst the Balkan ranges. Due to its seclusion, this village has retained a unique cultural blend of Slavic and Turkish influences. You will have the opportunity to explore its charming streets, home to traditional stone houses, picturesque red-tiled roofs, and intricately carved wooden balconies. Our journey continues into the heart of Thessaly as we make our way to Kastraki, a quaint village that offers breathtaking vistas of the Meteora Valley. Here, you can relax over lunch before we set out to discover the extraordinary Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The term "Meteora" translates to "suspended in the air," aptly describing these towering rock columns topped with centuries-old monasteries. These isolated sanctuaries have provided monks with solitude and peace over the ages. Our visit will include an entrance to one of the most prominent monasteries. We will conclude the day in Kalambaka, where a delightful dinner awaits.

We journey south from Kalambaka through the striking landscapes of the Thessaly region, making our way to Delphi. Known for its exquisite archaeological site overlooking the Gulf of Corinth, Delphi offers breathtaking views. Here, you'll have time to savour lunch amidst these captivating surroundings. Following our exploration, we continue to the Hosios Loukas Monastery, a World Heritage Site celebrated as one of Greeces most beautiful Byzantine monasteries. The monastery is renowned for its magnificent 11th-century mosaics, a true testament to its historical and cultural significance. Our day concludes with a journey back to Athens, where we arrive in the evening, ready to rest and reflect on the day's adventures.

Today, we'll embark on a panoramic tour of Athens, where we'll explore some of the city's most significant landmarks. Our journey will take us past the Presidential Mansion and the historic Panathenaic Stadiumthe site of the first modern Olympic Games. We'll also visit the National Library and navigate through the vibrant downtown squares, getting a glimpse of the impressive infrastructure developments introduced during the 2004 Olympics. Our tour will conclude near the Acropolis, offering you the opportunity to further explore the ancient ruins if you wish (please note that admission is not included). In the afternoon, we will proceed to the Port of Piraeus to board an overnight ferry to Rhodes. The ferry, akin in amenities to a cruise ship, ensures comfort and relaxation during your journey. You'll be accommodated in a double cabin, enjoying the nautical experience overnight.

Upon our early morning arrival in Rhodes, we will embark on a city tour that introduces you to the islands captivating blend of cultures. Discover the intriguing history as we explore the citys impressive walled citadel and the cobbled streets of the Old Town, reflecting influences from Greek, Roman, Byzantine, the Knights of St. John, Ottoman, and Italian rule. In the afternoon, youll have free time to wander and explore at your own pace, perhaps delving further into the island's rich heritage or enjoying a leisurely meal in one of its many charming cafs.

On day nine, we set off from the city of Rhodes to discover more of this captivating island. Our first destination is Filerimos, located atop a scenic hill, where you can visit its serene monastery surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. From here, we continue to Lindos, famous for its ancient fortress and Acropolis, which offer stunning sea views. You'll have the opportunity to wander through Lindoss charming, whitewashed streets, spend some relaxing time on one of its beaches, or perhaps take a traditional donkey ride up to the Acropolis. After lunch, we return to Rhodes city, granting you some free time in the afternoon to explore as you wish. In the evening, we arrange your transfer to the airport for a flight to Crete. After arrival, further transportation is provided to take you to your hotel in Heraklion. Please note that flight schedules from Rhodes to Crete can be limited and subject to change. Occasionally, a flight may depart on Friday morning or include a stopover in Athens.

In the morning, we'll set off along Crete's scenic coastline towards the west. Our first destination is the charming city of Rethymno, renowned for its Venetian origins and medieval castle, which offer a glimpse into its rich historical tapestry. Next, we will journey to Chania, a city that captivates with its architectural beauty, including a striking fortress and grand mansions. Historically, Chania has been a sought-after location, changing hands among Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks, each leaving their mark. We'll return to Heraklion by the end of the day, having explored some of Crete's most picturesque locations.

Today, we're set to explore the fascinating history of the Minoan civilisation with a visit to the Palace of Knossos. This ancient site, crucial to the foundations of Greek culture over four millennia ago, will provide insight into a world long past. With admission and a guided tour included, well ensure you gain a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable archaeological wonder.After immersing ourselves in history, we'll traverse the dramatic landscapes of Cretes mountains on our way south to the Libyan Sea. We'll arrive in the quaint town of Agia Galini, which boasts charming streets, a picturesque fishing harbour, and lively taverns. You'll have free time to enjoy lunch and, should you wish, a leisurely swim in the sea. As the day comes to a close, we'll head back to Heraklion. For those travelling from November to April, please note that, due to seasonal business closures, our visit will be to the enchanting town of Matala instead. Known for its stunning beach and the distinctive cliffs punctuated with man-made caves, Matala promises its own unique experience.

On Day 12, we venture east along the coast of Crete, beginning our exploration in the quaint town of Kritsa. Here, we visit the Panagia Kera, a 13th-century church that is home to remarkable frescoes, with admission included. After taking in this cultural gem, we proceed to Agios Nikolaos, a charming town with a naturally beautiful port. You will have your own time to wander through the streets and enjoy lunch. Our journey continues to Elounda, once a thriving city-state, now a captivating tourist destination. From here, we embark on a boat ride to the island of Spinalonga, where we explore the historic Venetian fortress that later served as a leper colony. Following our visit, we return by boat and make our way back to Heraklion for the evening.

In the early hours, well transfer you to the port where well catch a high-speed ferry to Santorini, arriving between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. Upon landing, we'll take a scenic drive by bus to Oia. This town is renowned for its striking whitewashed buildings, stunning cliffside views, and the remnants of its historical castle and windmills. You'll have the opportunity to explore, enjoy lunch, and soak in the remarkable vistas at your own pace. Later, well venture to Fira, the capital of Santorini. Here, you can choose to descend to the port via cable car or on a traditional donkey ride, marvelling at the sight of majestic cruise ships docked below. In the afternoon, well return to the port to board a high-speed ferry scheduled to depart around 3:15 p.m., with an expected arrival in Athens near midnight. Please note: From November to mid-April, the high-speed ferry service from Heraklion to Santorini is not available. During these months, we will fly from Heraklion to Athens instead.

Following breakfast, our tour concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of your travels.