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Days
16
Price from
7830USD
Map of Greece with Turkey by Land and Sea including Greece and Turkey

Soak up the best of Greece, from ruins to island relaxation

Explore the delights of Greece, plus a brief jaunt into Turkey, on this 16-day combined overland and cruising tour. This tour captures the ancient treasures, charming landscapes, sophisticated cities and turquoise coast that defines Greece. Wonder at the spectacular hanging monasteries of Meteora, dive into clear Aegean waters off the coast of uninhabited island Poliegos and stroll the cobbled streets of Santorini. Explore spectacular ruins with local guides, visit bustling white-washed old towns and unwind on the deck of your comfortable small ship with a drink in hand – this journey is a lesson in sun-soaked relaxation.

Start
Athens, Greece
Finish
Athens, Greece
Destinations
Greece, Turkey
Style
Peregrine
Theme
Adventure Cruising
Code
PEHTC
Physical rating
Ages
Min 15
Group size
Min 1, Max 47

This trip is no longer operating but a new adventure is waiting for you

Why you'll love this trip

  • Spend less time navigating and more time soaking up the history and majesty of Athens many sights under the guidance of a knowledgeable local.

  • Experience a different side of Greece in the medieval village of Dimitsana, a seventh-century mountain village, and grab coffee with a monk at a nearby monastery.

  • Indulge in freshly-baked pastries stuffed with cheese, hearty moussaka, grilled lamb, tzatziki and other local flavours in tavernas and small local restaurants.

  • Watch the spectacular colours of Santorini’s famous sunset bathe the caldera.

  • Get off the tourist trail with a stop in Amorgos, where a striking 11th-century monastery built into a cliff offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Summer temperatures can be extreme in many parts of this region (over 40°C). It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Please consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.

  • 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.

  • Part of travelling with Peregrine means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. When visiting churches, monasteries or other religious sites in Italy both men and women are required to have knees and shoulders covered.

  • This tour involves small ship Adventure Cruising, which means you’ll be sailing on a yacht with 30—50 other people. The boat is spacious and comfortable, but the itinerary focuses more on the destination than on-board activities. Instead of a pool, we have the sea itself. Instead of a casino, we’ve got board games and a good book. There’s also no formal dress code to worry about and Wi-Fi is available for a small charge.

  • Our ship moves under engine power, rather than sailing, so all cabins will experience light engine noise when the ship is moving (and occasionally when we drop anchor). It’s probably worth packing earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.

  • Onshore activities and excursions will involve a bit of walking. You’ll be visiting ancient sites and historical places, and at times you may have to cross cobbled streets and uneven ground, sometimes in hot conditions. If you have any concerns, please speak to your group leader before taking part.

  • Most of our departures run in peak season, when the seas are calmer. The ship will experience some roll and pitch in choppy conditions, however all of our ships come equipped with stabilisers to minimise movement. There will be seasickness tablets on board and your crew will do all they can to minimise any discomfort.

  • There are no lifts (elevators) on board our ships, so you’ll have to navigate a few steep flights of stairs (fitted with handrails) to access all the decks.

Greece, Santorini, Woman buildings domes
Greece, Athens, Acropolis Parthenon, Group
Greece, Meteora monastery, Cliff scenic
Greece, Mykonos, Windmill, Sunset island
Greece, Santorini, woman view village
Turkey, Ephesus, Library Celsus Ruins

Boats

Panorama boat on Cuba Greece Adventure Cruising

Panorama

Relaunched in 2014, the M/S Panorama offers the highest standards of comfort, safety and sustainability that cruising has to offer. This three...

Passengers
49
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Itinerary
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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, head out for dinner with the group and sample some traditional Greek fare and maybe 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 no later than 15 days before the tour begins. 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 and when 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
  • Athens - Acropolis Archaeological Site Visit with Local Guide
  • Athens - 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 - Hike & Monastery Visits with Local Guide
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 & Sanctuary of Athena
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

After an early morning drive (approximately 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 (approximately 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
  • Olympia - Archaeological Site Visit with Local Guide
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. Walk deep into the valley 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 tenth-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
  • Central Arcadia - Lousios Valley Hike
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
Today’s walking distance and time is approximately seven kilometres (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 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 third-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.
Accommodation
  • Hotel Hermes or similar (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Epidaurus - Guided Tour
Meals Included
  • Breakfast

Today is free for you to enjoy Athens at your own pace. Explore the ancient ruins, find a restaurant with a view of the Acropolis for dinner or indulge in a bit of retail therapy. The choice is yours. though keep in mind you will enjoy a guided tour tomorrow. There will be a meeting at 6 pm to welcome any new travellers joining you on the next stage of your adventure.
Accommodation
  • Astor Hotel (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Special Information
As this is a combination trip, your group leader and the composition of your group will likely change today. You will also need to check out of your hotel and walk a short distance to check in to your new hotel to start the next part of your trip. There will be a group meeting in the evening to discuss the next stage of your itinerary. It’s important that you attend the meeting as your new group leader will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

This morning, check-out of the hotel and enjoy a guided city tour taking in the historic Plaka neighbourhood and the Acropolis. This afternoon, take a private transfer to port and board the vessel at about 3 pm, setting sail at around 4 pm. The first stop of your journey is Sounion, where a memorable sunset dinner awaits. Get to know your fellow travellers as you dine under the magnificent temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea in Greek mythology. At a towering 65 metres (213 feet) above the Aegean Sea, its marble columns have inspired many who came before, including poet Lord Byron. Sail overnight to Poliegos.
Accommodation
  • M/S Panorama (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Sunset Dinner
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Arrive in Poliegos. Meaning ‘many goats’ in Greek, the aptly named island is uninhabited aside from a large goat population. Known for its untouched beaches, gorgeous rock formations and sea caves, it’s the perfect place to enjoy you first cruising excursion. Enjoy a swim in the clear Aegean Sea and a lunch barbecue on the beach before setting sail for Folegandros. Disembark and stretch your legs in the clifftop town of Hora, one of the oldest and most picturesque traditional towns in the Cyclades. Enjoy free time for dinner. Stay overnight at port.
Accommodation
  • M/S Panorama (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Beach BBQ
  • Taverna Lunch on Foliegandros
  • Local bus on Foliegandros
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Sail to los in the morning for a stop at Manganari Beach. Its remote location makes it a private paradise and an ideal spot for a relaxing morning swim. Enjoy a delicious onboard barbecue as you continue on to Santorini. In the afternoon, take a cable car from Thira Old Port up to town for a leader led orientation walk. Later transfer to Venetsanos Winery and enjoy some local tastings. Next stop is Oia for that picture- perfect view before having free time back in Thira to check out one of the many the local restaurants. Head back to the boat to relax and unwind perhaps under the stars on the deck.
Accommodation
  • M/S Panorama (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Orientation Walk Akrotiri
  • Sunset drink Santorini
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Depart early for Amorgos and spend half a day touring the island. This tour includes a visit to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa (Monastery of the Virgin Mary). Built precariously into the face of a cliff, the 11th-century monastery offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Follow this with a stop at Aegiali Beach where there’s time to swim and enjoy a barbecue on the beach. Sail overnight to Samos.
Accommodation
  • M/S Panorama (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Monastery of Hozoviotissa visit
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

After an early morning customs clearance in Samos, continue to Kusadasi, a resort town on Turkey’s Aegean coast and the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus. Tour this incredible archaeological site and learn about its varied history with a local guide. After a traditional Turkish lunch, indulge in some shopping and learn a thing or two about Turkish carpets. Spend the evening at port in Samos, then depart at midnight for Delos.
Accommodation
  • M/S Panorama (1 night)
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

In the morning, sail to the ancient World Heritage-listed site of Delos. The mythological birthplace of twin gods Apollo and Artemis, this tiny island is considered one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. Explore these incredible ruins with the help of a local guide, who will explain some history and point out key attractions. Head back to the ship for a late lunch and a swim stop, before continuing to Mykonos for an orientation walk with your leader followed by a free evening.
Accommodation
  • M/S Panorama (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Delos Archaeological Site
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Today is a free day to acquaint yourself with the glitz and glamour of Mykonos. The charming Old Town is a delightful maze of whitewashed houses and cobbled streets. Perhaps explore the chic boutiques that line the town’s photogenic walkways. Or you may opt to soak up the sun on one of the main beaches. Return to the ship for a captain’s dinner, then sail overnight to Athens.
Accommodation
  • M/S Panorama (1 night)
Included Activities
  • Captain's Dinner
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Enjoy a final breakfast with your fellow travellers before disembarking in Athens between 8—9 am.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

15 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, Small Cruise Ship, Bus

Accommodation

Comfortable hotel (5 nights), Feature stay in Dimitsana (2 nights), Small cruise ship (7 nights)

Included Activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Athens - Acropolis Archaeological Site Visit with Local Guide
  • Athens - Visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus
  • Meteora - Hike & Monastery Visits with Local Guide
  • Delphi - Oracle, Temple of Apollo & Sanctuary of Athena
  • Olympia - Archaeological Site Visit with Local Guide
  • Central Arcadia - Lousios Valley Hike
  • Epidaurus - Guided Tour
  • Sunset Dinner
  • Beach BBQ
  • Taverna Lunch on Foliegandros
  • Local bus on Foliegandros
  • Orientation Walk Akrotiri
  • Sunset drink Santorini
  • Monastery of Hozoviotissa visit
  • Delos Archaeological Site
  • Captain's Dinner

Essential trip information

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