Essential Tour of Greece

Awaken the Gods of Greek mythology on the Acropolis hill, the crowning beauty and glory of Ancient Greece. Atop a rocky cliff overlooking the city, the Acropolis tells the story of the glorious days of Athens. Visit the elegant Parthenon and explore the ancient treasures of the Propylea, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion. Delve into the history of classical Greece at the magnificent Acropolis Museum.

Enjoy a walk in historic Plaka, ‘the quarter of Gods’ and the oldest and most picturesque district of the city. Lined with authentic restaurants and lively cafés this is the ideal place to mingle with the locals.

In the evening transfer to Athens airport for a short flight to Heraklion, the capital of Crete and one of the Mediterranean’s most fascinating and vibrant cities.

Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Heraklion.

Travel back in time some 4000 years to the time of Knossos. Her magnificent Palace on the island of Crete is a window to the most ancient civilization of Europe, famous throughout the world through the myths of Europa, the Minotaur, the Labyrinth and Theseus, Daedalus and Icarus.

Discover the rich architectural heritage of Heraklion through its beautiful Venetian buildings, castle, fountains and impressive cathedral. Visit the Archaeological Museum, one of the largest and most important museums of its kind in the world.

In your free time venture out to Rethymno, the charming laid-back town built on a cape with a vast sandy beach and a beautiful old harbor lined with colorful buildings characteristic of Venice and the Ottoman Empire. Wander through the tiny alleys dotted with artisanal shops, family owned restaurants and cafés, making your way to the impressive Fortezza for a walk along the old defensive trenches.

Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Heraklion.

If there is a gastronomic equivalent to the Greek classics, that is undoubtedly the Greek olive oil. Visit an award-winning olive press in the beautiful Mirabello area to taste some spicy-bittery olive oil made from sustainably grown olives that are processed using environmentally friendly techniques.

Enjoy a drive along the coast through the striking gorge of St. George and past picturesque fishing villages, some of them featured in movies and TV shows. Board a boat and cruise along the bay of Elounda to a tiny uninhabited island. It was here that in the 15th century the Venetians built a massive fortress with 40 cannons to guard the bay and the island of Crete. Your local guide will explain what happened to the island community since then, the answer may surprise you.

Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Heraklion.

Travel by high-speed ferry to Santorini, one of most the romantic Greek islands. The iconic whitewashed buildings on top of the caldera rising out from the sea are one of the most beautiful views you’ll ever see.

Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Firostefanin.

One of the best things to do in Santorini is nothing. You can simply relax soaking up the views of the blue Aegean Sea and surrounding islands from the stunning Red Beach. Explore the charming village of Oia, hike to the top of the island to the Profit Elias Monastery or tour prehistoric Akrotiri.

Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Firostefanin.

Watch the sun rise over Santorini as the island slowly comes to life. Breathe in the fresh Mediterranean air and enjoy a walk through the town’s labyrinth of charming narrow alleys as you snap the last photos of this beautiful place.

Transfer back to Athens. In the remaining part of the day let the light of Attica lead you to streets filled with pulsating life and color, a different story in every shop. As night falls, begin your own Odyssey among the variety of restaurants, bars and clubs available for your entertainment.

Overnight at a 4-star hotel in Athens.

Private transfer to Athens airport. Return home.