Days
17
Price from
Soak up the best of Greece, from Athens to Delphi and the Cycladic Islands.
Embark on a curated journey exploring the best of mainland Greece and the Cyclades. Whether it’s tracing a path through ancient ruins in Delphi, visiting secluded monasteries high in the Meteora Valley, or watching as the sun sets over the white-washed domes of Mykonos, this is a country where the weight of history makes its presence felt. With plenty of opportunities to mingle with the locals, savour traditional Aegean cuisine and visit the acclaimed sites, this is a complete adventure into Greece’s sun-kissed heartland.
- Start
- Athens, Greece
- Finish
- Chania, Greece
- Destination
- Greece
- Style
- Peregrine
- Code
- PECGC
- Physical rating
- Trip rating
- 2 reviews
- Ages
- Min 15
- Group size
- Min 1, Max 12
Why you'll love this trip
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Experience a different side of Greece by staying in the medieval village of Dimitsana at a feature stay – a gorgeous 7th-century township set on top of two hills and a gorge in lesser-visited central Arcadia. Share a coffee or 'Greek delight' with a monk during a visit to nearby Prodromos monastery.
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Visit the legendary theatres of the very first Olympic Games – the stadium, gymnasium, wrestling school, priest houses, temples and hippodrome.
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With magical monasteries built on a series of ancient rock pinnacles, Meteora is one of Greece's most extraordinary sights.
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Stop over at a local tavern in the village of Vamos on Crete and enjoy a typical Greek moment with meze. Clink glasses with the locals and wash it all down with the traditional local white spirit, raki.
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Enjoy a sunset picnic overlooking Santorini’s caldera away from the crowds. Indulge in local cheese, ham and bread, all complimented by a local grape variety and a world-class view.
Is this trip right for you?
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Pickpocketing can be an issue in Athens, especially on public transport. If you keep your valuables concealed and secure while travelling on the metro or bus, you should have no problems.
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Summer temperatures in Greece can reach up to 40°C, so you will need to be able to cope with the heat if you're visiting during the warmer months. Please consider the time of year and your suitability to visiting during that season.
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As accommodation on this trip is twin share, single travellers will share a room with another traveller of the same gender. If you’d prefer not to share, a single-room supplement is available at an additional charge. On the other hand, sharing is a great opportunity to chat with like-minded travellers. Note that some hotels in Europe do not have double beds, but often two single beds that can be pushed together.
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This is a combination of two trips, Highlights of Greece and Greek Island Odyssey. This means your leader and the composition of your group may change on return to Athens on Day 8.
Gallery
Itinerary
This journey begins in Athens, Greece's storied capital. There is a lot to do and see here in one of the world's oldest cities, so you may wish to arrive a few days early to allow time for exploration. The Archaeological Museum of Athens is highly recommended. There are no activities planned for today, other than an important welcome meeting this evening. Afterwards, you will head out for dinner with the group and sample some traditional Greek fare. Toast the beginning of the adventure with a glass of raki or ouzo.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hermes or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
Meals Included
- Dinner
Special Information
An arrival transfer is included in the price of this trip. Please advise your travel agent of your flight details at the time of booking. It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
Today visit two of Athens' most impressive sites. The first is the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the largest temple in all of Greece. Then it's on to the famous Acropolis, one of the Western world's most important historical structures. Your guided tour will 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. Later in the afternoon, board your private minibus and drive north to the town of Kalambaka in the centre of the country. The town is nestled at the base of the striking Meteora Mountains. This evening you can choose to have dinner at the hotel or perhaps take a short walk into town and dine at one of the local tavernas.
Accommodation
- Hotel Famissi Eden or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Acropolis Archaeological Site Visit
- Visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus
Meals Included
- Breakfast
After breakfast, travel into the hills to see the monasteries of Meteora. The ancient stone buildings, which sit precariously on soaring cliffs, make these mountains one of Greece's most extraordinary sites. Settlement of the area dates back to the 11th century, when hermit monks first settled in the hidden caverns of Meteora. The monasteries attracted many writers, painters, poets and philosophers, who were responsible for keeping Hellenic traditions, culture and religion alive during Ottoman rule. On your visit to Meteora, you will visit two of the monasteries, one of which will be the Moni Varlaam (Varlaam Monastery) with its fine examples of late Byzantine frescoes. Return to Kalambaka in the afternoon.
Accommodation
- Hotel Famissi Eden or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Meteora Monasteries
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast before travelling to Delphi (approximately 4 hours). On arrival visit the fascinating Sanctuary of Apollo in Ancient Delphi, home to the Delphi Oracle. Legend has it that Zeus released two eagles from different ends of the world, and Delphi was where they came together. Zeus then threw a Sacred Stone at this same point, making Delphi the centre of the world. Walk through the complex and explore the Temple of Apollo, the most important building of the site. This is where statues and offerings to the gods were housed, and where cult rituals took place. You will also see the Sanctuary of Athena, the 4th Century BC theatre and the well-preserved stadium during your visit. There will be free time to visit the Delphi Museum.
Accommodation
- Nidimos Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Delphi Oracle & Temple of Apollo Visit
Meals Included
- Breakfast
After an early morning drive (approx. 3,5 hours) arrive at the archaeological site of ancient Olympia. En-route stop at the village of Galaxidi or Nafpaktos for a visit to a traditional family-owned bakery offering pastries, stuffed with cheese, spinach, chicken or potato, and the famous sesame round bread. Chat to the owner and get updated on the latest gossip. Olympia is a complex that once comprised temples and public buildings, and was the site of the first Olympic Games. Over the centuries, and both during times of war and peace, the games were held every four years without exception. Even during periods of battle, the ancient games were bound by a sacred truce that required city states to cease fighting and travel to Olympia to compete. See all the major sites including the main stadium, gymnasium, wrestling school (palaestra), priest houses (theokoleon), Temple of Hera, Temple of Zeus and the hippodrome. After your exploration enjoy some free time to visit the museum, which houses the impressive marble statue of Hermes of Praxiteles and sculptured head of Hera. Next is the charming medieval village of Dimitsana (approx. 2 hours), where you will spend the next two nights at our feature stay. Dimitsana's charm lies in its location, set amidst magical mountains in Central Arcadia.
Accommodation
- Guesthouse En Dimitsani (Feature stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Guided Tour of Olympia
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Today explore the central part of the Peloponnese peninsula and the spectacular Lousios Valley, one of the most scenic places in the central Arcadia region. Hidden deep in the valley, away from the threat of intruders, you'll walk to the incredible working monastery of Prodromos. This wood and clay structure, which has stellar views over the valley below, was built precariously into a rock face. The local monks will show you around on a tour of their home and offer you a coffee or the local specialty, the Greek delight. As part of your visit you'll see the splendid 14th-century frescoes decorating the rock walls inside the chapel. Further along on our hike, visit the 10th-century Byzantine monastery of Philosophou. This monastery was the base for a secret school known as 'Kryfo Scholio', which was run by monks during Ottoman rule to teach Greek children their own language and religion. Later on visit the medieval villages of Stemnitsa, Karitena (with a towering Crusader Castle) and Andritsena. Return to Dimitsana.
Accommodation
- Guesthouse En Dimitsani (Feature stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Lousios Valley Monasteries Hike
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s walking distance and time is approximately 7 km (3 hours). Please note that the roads in Central Arcadia are very windy. You might want to consider taking medication if you are prone to motion sickness.
This morning drive to the delightful seaside town of Nafplion (Nafplio), the original Greek capital. In your free time you might choose to explore one of the town's three fortresses, or perhaps wander through the narrow winding streets filled with Venetian houses and neoclassical architecture. The seaside promenade is lined with a multitude of lively cafes and restaurants, making it a great place to watch local life unfold. If you're still unsure what to do, your friendly Peregrine Leader will be on hand to offer suggestions. Later, continue to ancient Epidaurus (Epidavros), the most famous healing centre of the Greek and Roman world. The highlight of Epidaurus is the 3rd-century theatre, one of Greece's best-preserved classical structures. The theatre has incredible acoustics and is still used today for major performances. Return to Athens in the afternoon for the final night of the tour. Perhaps head out with your group for a final farewell dinner.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hermes or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Epidaurus Guided Tour
Meals Included
- Breakfast
There is a lot to experience in this ancient city, and you will have all day free to sightsee at your own pace. Explore the Varvakios Central Markets or take a stroll around the Plaka neighbourhood with its narrow cobbled lanes lined with tiny ceramic shops and tavernas. Later on, get updated on the next stage of your Grecian adventure with another briefing this evening – this time, there may be some extra travellers joining you! In the evening, enjoy dinner with the group at a local restaurant in the vibrant Psiri neighbourhood.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hermes or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
Meals Included
- Dinner
Special Information
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group will likely change at this location. There will be a group meeting to discuss the next stage of your itinerary. We suggest you attend, as this is also a great chance to meet your new fellow travellers. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
This morning travel to the town of Cape Sounion and visit the ruins of the ancient Temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea in classical mythology. The remnants are perched on the headland and surrounded on three sides by the sea, creating spectacular views of the Greek coastline. Look closely and you'll also find the ruins have been engraved with the name of English Romantic poet Lord Byron. Return to Athens in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day to explore. Perhaps visit the Parthenon or the Acropolis Museum, where you can find relics from Ancient Greece. Another option is to watch the uniquely theatrical changing of the guard at Parliament or see where the Olympics once took place at the Panathenaic Stadium. At dusk, pull up a chair at one of the local restaurants and dine on traditional souvlaki and ouzo.
Accommodation
- Hotel Hermes or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon
Meals Included
- Breakfast
This morning you will be transported to Athens' port at Piraeus and board a ferry bound for the island of Mykonos (often also spelled Mikonos). Ferries are a great way to travel between the islands and are the life blood of many remote islands in Greece's multitude of archipelagos. Mykonos, considered the most glamorous and cosmopolitan of the Cycladic islands, still holds on to its old-world charm and many locals maintain their peaceful island existence among the many foreigners who grace their shores. Upon arrival you will be transferred to the area of Tourlos, where the hotel is located. After settling in, you'll visit Mykonos’ charming Old Town, a captivating labyrinth of stone-paved laneways, traditional whitewashed houses and windmills. This evening you will make your way to the village of Ano Mera for a delicious dinner at a local taverna and taste the local Myconian delicacies mostra and louza.
Accommodation
- Hotel Alkistis or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Special Information
Please note that due to the island's topography our hotel in Mykonos is built into a slope. This results in there being a number of steps to navigate to get to your room. A staff member will be available to help with your luggage upon arrival and departure, but please keep in mind that steps are an inherent feature of staying on the Cycladic Islands.
Today you will make an excursion to the island of Delos, a short boat trip from Mykonos. Delos has a vast and interesting history and is one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. It's considered a sacred place. You will explore the site in depth and gain an insight into the island’s intriguing history. New discoveries of the ancient world are still made here from time to time. Delos is acclaimed as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis and has been inhabited since around 3000 BC. The earliest shrines and temples were built around the 8th century BC. When the Romans set their sights on the island in 167 BC it became a free trading port and home to a flourishing slave trade market, with thousands of slaves being traded daily. In the afternoon you will take a return ferry back to lively Mykonos.
Accommodation
- Hotel Alkistis or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Delos Archaeological Site
- Boat Tour to Delos Island
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Bid farewell to Mykonos and travel by ferry to spectacular Santorini, the southernmost island in the Cyclades group. Upon arrival in Santorini's capital, Fira (often also spelled Thira), you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a free afternoon to absorb this veritable paradise. Your leader will be able to offer suggestions on what to see and do. In the late afternoon you will view Santorini's world-famous sunset, which has been immortalised in many photos and works of art. Enjoy a sunset picnic overlooking the caldera away from the crowds. Indulge in local cheese, ham and bread, all complimented by a local grape variety and a world-class view.
Accommodation
- Santorini Palace Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Santorini Sunset Picnic
Meals Included
- Breakfast
In the morning, embark on a hike along Santorini’s legendary caldera. The island you see today is what remains from a huge volcanic explosion that destroyed the early settlements and created a geographical caldera. The spectacular natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place. Your walk begins at your hotel and you will continue along the north-western rim of the caldera, passing steep cliff faces and experiencing breath-taking views along the way. The walk ends in the town of Oia (pronounced ‘eeah’). Oia was built on a steep slope inside Santorini’s incredible volcanic caldera. Transfer back to Fira where you will visit the fascinating Prehistoric Museum of Thira and learn more about the incredible history of this unique island, as well as see masterpieces from the prehistoric Aegean age. The rest of the afternoon is free, so 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. The Santos Winery, a co-operative and the largest winery on the island, offers tours as well as wine tasting. It's also idyllically located, with marvellous views over the island and the sea – a lovely spot for a tipple.
Accommodation
- Santorini Palace Hotel or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Santorini Caldera Hike
- Thira Prehistoric Museum
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Special Information
Todays walking distance is approximately 10 km (3 to 3.5 hours). Please note that in summer the leader may decide to start the hike as the sun rises in order to avoid the heat of the day. Therefore it may be necessary for you to organise a takeaway breakfast, as the hotel will not serve breakfast this early.
The morning is free for you to explore Santorini as you please. You might like to simply relax on the beach, or perhaps take a boat tour to the hot water beaches and the summit of Nea Kameni (the still active but currently dormant volcano in the middle of the caldera). There is a lot to do on the island and your leader will be on hand to offer suggestions. Art Space, a local gallery, boasts wine caverns replete with an excellent collection of modern Greek painting and sculpture. In the afternoon transfer to Santorini’s port, where you will board another ferry and head across the Sea of Crete to Heraklion on the island of Crete (approximately 2 hours), where you will check into your accommodation for tonight. Heraklion (often also spelled Iraklio) is Crete’s largest city, and its capital. Not as pretty as Chania, the old city still has some noteworthy architectural delights, such as the Venetian loggia and the Morosini Lions Fountain. It is also well known for its culinary delights. Make sure you head out tonight to sample some of it.
Accommodation
- Lato Boutique Hotel or similar (1 night)
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Leave Heraklion behind and head to the famous ruins and archaeological site of Knossos (approximately 15 minutes), the former capital of Minoan Crete that is considered to be Europe's oldest city. Once home to 100,000 inhabitants the city was first established during the Bronze Age, well before the time of Classical Greece. According to legend, King Minos built a labyrinth in which the mythical Minotaur (a creature part man part bull) was to be held. Explore the ruins with a local guide before continuing to the traditional village of Vamos (approximately 2 hours). This area is renowned for its rich cultural heritage. Here you will take a short walk around the historical centre of the old neighbourhood with traditional old houses, ruins, ancient stone roads and secret nooks. Stopover at a local tavern and enjoy a typical Greek moment with meze, a meal shared around the table, done for centuries by the locals. Clink glasses with the locals and wash it all down with the traditional local white spirit ‘raki’. Then head to Chania (often also spelled Hania), your base for the next two nights. Your historic hotel, the former British embassy (the feature stay of the trip), is located a short distance from Chania's town centre, in a quieter part of town. After settling in you will take a walk into the Old Town. First stop at the agora (municipal market), then pass a number of historical churches. Discover the remains of a Venetian monastery and wander through the charming Old Harbour area, with its two Venetian shipyards and Great Arsenal building. Heading deep into the narrow cobblestone alleys of the Venetian town, discover a beautiful array of Venetian and Turkish architecture in the former aristocratic area.
Accommodation
- Hotel Halepa (Feature stay) or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
- Vamos Village Excursion
- Greek Meze Tasting
- Guided Tour of Knossos Archaeological Site
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Today is a free day for you to explore Western Crete. If you are looking to embark on a great walk on the island, there’s the chance to join an optional excursion to hike the famous Samaria Gorge (17 km; approximately 4–6 hours, depending on fitness level). Alternatively, you can relax on one of Chania’s city beaches. Nea Hora is a sandy beach west of the Venetian walls – it's decked out with sun beds and is close to restaurants. If you walk to the west of this beach you will come across quieter beaches. Another option is to take a local bus to Elafonissi Lagoon on the west coast. Elafonissi is considered Crete’s prettiest beach, and a daily bus goes there from Chania in the morning and returns in the late afternoon. It’s also possible to visit the lush surrounds of the Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete. This nearly 20 hectare garden was destroyed by wildfires in 2003, however it has since been carefully redeveloped. At the centre of the park lies a burnt centennial olive tree, a constant reminder of the devastating fire. Take the time to explore the park and discover some of the 150 species of fruit trees grown here, as well as a rich variety of herbs and plants. Your leader will be able to assist you with all the options available on your free day.
Accommodation
- Hotel Halepa (Feature stay) or similar (1 night)
Optional Activities
- Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete - EUR6
- Old Chania Market - Free
- Archaeological Museum of Chania - EUR4
- Samaria Gorge Day Trip (from) - EUR70
- Elafonissi Beach Day Trip (from) - EUR60
Meals Included
- Breakfast
All good things must come to an end, and your Greek adventure wraps up this morning. You may wish to stay longer and explore other parts of Western Crete or head further afield. Your leader will be able to assist you with suggestions on how to get around. Alternatively, simply stay in town to stroll around and admire the old Venetian town, or head to one of the seaside eateries for a leisurely lunch. If you'd like to remain in Chania for a few extra nights, Peregrine Adventures is able to arrange additional accommodation on request.
Meals Included
- Breakfast
Meals
15 breakfasts, 4 dinnersTransport
Ferry, Private vehicleAccommodation
Comfortable hotel (12 nights), Feature stay in Dimitsana (2 nights), Feature stay in Chania (2 nights)Included Activities
- Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
- Acropolis Archaeological Site Visit
- Visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus
- Meteora Monasteries
- Delphi Oracle & Temple of Apollo Visit
- Guided Tour of Olympia
- Lousios Valley Monasteries Hike
- Epidaurus Guided Tour
- Complimentary Arrival Transfer
- Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon
- Delos Archaeological Site
- Boat Tour to Delos Island
- Santorini Sunset Picnic
- Santorini Caldera Hike
- Thira Prehistoric Museum
- Vamos Village Excursion
- Greek Meze Tasting
- Guided Tour of Knossos Archaeological Site
Dates & availability
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Important notes
ARRIVAL TRANSFER
An arrival transfer from Athens Airport to the start point hotel is included in the price of the trip. Please advise your travel agent of your flight times at the time of booking.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
A single supplement is bookable on this trip, subject to availability at the time of booking. Please note that due to the small properties we use in Europe there is only a limited amount of single supplements available per trip departure. If you would like to book a single supplement and enquire about availability please speak to your booking agent.
ATHENS METRO
We have had reports of travellers being pickpocketed on public transport in Athens. Please be careful with valuables whilst travelling on the metro or the bus.
HOT WEATHER
Summer temperatures can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, which can be uncomfortable for those not used to the heat. Please consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
Essential trip information
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