SEMI-INDEPENDENT TOUR: Travel from Athens to Santorini enjoying the historic temples and monuments which make Greece such a wonderful destination. Discover the ancient sanctuary of Delphi, admire the hidden monasteries in Meteora, and take in the majestic beauty of Santorini.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Greece
Arrive in the ancient Greek capital of Athens. After being met at the airport and transferred to our hotel, spend the rest of the day at leisure to settle in and explore what this magnificent city has to offer. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city, or maybe take in the acoustics of the Odeon.
Overnight: Athens
Athens City Tour
This morning enjoy a coach tour of Athens, taking in highlights including the Panathenaic Stadium, the Zappeion and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. The half day tour includes a guided visit to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel located above the city, and the incredible Acropolis Museum, one of the museums in the world. Leave no stone unturned as you take in all of the historic monuments this beautiful city has to offer.
This afternoon is free to explore Plaka, sample some of the cities delicacies or treat ourselves to some shopping on Ermou street.
Please note: on all Wednesday and Sunday departures, this Athens coach tour will operate on day 4 and the two day excursion to Delphi and Meteora will commence today.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Delphi
Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka. After breakfast we leave the busy city behind us and head north towards Delphi, a town on Mount Parnassus which was home to a famous sanctuary in antiquity. We take a walk along the Sacred Way and admire the remains of the Temple of Apollo, home of the legendary Pythian Oracle.
This afternoon, we take in the stunning views of the mountains of central Greece as we drive to Kalambaka. Arriving at our hotel, we enjoy a group dinner before settling down for the evening.
Overnight: Kalambaka | Breakfast, Dinner
Meteora & Thermopylae
Kalambaka - Athens. This morning we visit Meteora, a stunning World Heritage site where a series of towering rock formations shelter a number of sacred Eastern Orthodox monasteries. We return to Athens for the night, briefly stopping at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a famous last stand against the Persians in 480 BC.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Towards the Cyclades
Athens - Mykonos. This morning transfer to the port of Piraeus where you'll catch a ferry to Mykonos, a beautiful island famous for its windmills and jet set lifestyle. The ferry takes about 5 hours and once on the island you will be met and transferred to your hotel where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight: Mykonos | Breakfast
Mykonos
Spend today at leisure on Mykonos. Lounge on the sandy beach all day working on your tan, before relaxing with a drink or two in the bars. Maybe pop in to the numerous cafes and galleries dotted around the main town. If you'd prefer a cultural activity, try catching the ferry to the nearby island of Delos, once home to one of ancient Greece's holiest sanctuaries.
Overnight: Mykonos | Breakfast
Santorini
The next two days are at leisure in Santorini, an Aegean paradise widely considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Explore the whitewashed towns of Fira and Oia with their views of the volcano which birthed the island, watch the spectacular sunset from the black-sanded beaches, or cruise the caldera on a boat tour.
Overnight: Santorini | Breakfast x 2
Santorini
Your tour of Greece ends today. Spend the morning at leisure before an included transfer to Santorini airport for your onward flight.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Hotels
In Greece a variety of hotels are used in various locations. The ones listed are examples of some commonly used hotels. We reserve the right to substitute these for ones of a similar standard when necessary.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
At a Glance
The tour was a great way to see Greece. It was a good mix of structured, guided daily tours and free time when on the Greek islands. Loved the locations of our hotels on Mykonos and Santorini. Both locations were on the beach and away from the really crowded craziness of the main towns yet still easy enough to access if we wanted to. The location in Athens was a little out of the way from the main centre especially the Plaka and we felt like we lost a night in Athens due to that location and the timing of being dropped off after the 2 day tour to Meteora. Otherwise, all transfers were on time and went according to schedule. Our guide was there to meet us on the first day and provided us with contact information in case we had questions and a detailed itinerary. He was easily accessible and made us feel like we were well taken care of. Overall, great vacation and I would recommend it to my friends.”
