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Greece Tours & Trips 2024/2025

Bask in the tranquillity of Amorgos, party 'til dawn in Mykonos or admire the blue-domed roofs in Santorini. A Greek vacation combining the gems of the Greek Islands with the wonders of Ancient Greece creates the perfect escape. Take an escorted adventure and see the Parthenon in Athens, hear tales of myths and legends in Rhodes, sink your teeth into the cheeses of Crete, or discover the incredible monasteries of Meteora. Travellers who go to Greece often take an island-hopping adventure tour to visit stunning Mykonos and Santorini. Add on a visit to Italy or Turkey too for the ultimate cultural immersion!

250+ Greece tour packages with 11,157 reviews

• Island Hopping

Best of Greece

• £100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sailing Greece - Mykonos to Santorini

Captain Ciaran was the best!!

• In-depth Cultural

Athens to Santorini

Olga is great. Easy going; very knowledgeable. 10 stars for Olga!!

Sailing Greece - Santorini to Santorini

Great trip with good mates

Greece Sailing Adventure: Cyclades Islands

Had an amazing time, the tour was very well organized, the boat very comfortable for the 12 people that traveled in it. We met some wonderful people from around the world, we visited amazing places, our tour guide George was very nice and knowledgeable and always went the extra mile to organize everything perfectly for us. The experience of a lifetime!!

Greece Classic Tour

Our tour guide George was absolutely amazing! He was knowledgeable and passionate about teaching us the history surrounding the sites that we visited. He remained calm and professional while dealing with the weather and some challenging personalities in our group. He was humorous and very entertaining. Our driver Vasili delivered us safely through the worst storm Greece has seen in 200 years. Highly recommended.

• £150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Classical Tour of Greece and Nauplion - 5 Days

Hotels were good, food was good. The bus driver was very skilled and the tour guide was excellent. Some of the hotels had amazing views from the balcony which was not expected. The hotel in Nafplio was especially nice with a spectacular view of the sea. The only negative was the undisclosed stops at various locations - such as the clay pot making "factory" and the icon "factory" which were basically tourist traps designed to sell stuff. After the tour guide did a little overview, we only had 20 free minutes to explore Mycenae which was one of the places I really wanted to see on this tour. We subsequently spent 50 minutes at the clay pot "factory". The one undisclosed stop that was not too bad was the one with the wine tasting and only because it had wine tasting.

Looking for tours beyond just Greece?

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Classic Greece

The tour was compact and very well organised. The locations were ideal and beautiful with lovely hotels (Hotel Europa, Olympia and Amalia Hotel in Delphi).

• Christmas & New Year

Overall, our 8-day trip to Greece in September of 2023 was fantastic! Our trip started in Athens where we had excellent accommodations (including breakfast) and a great tour of the Acropolis, the museum, and the Temple of Poseidon. We arrived in Mykonos on Day 3 to find our hotel had moved to a different location on the island. The company accommodated us with a vehicle as the hotel was in a completely different part of the island. Thankfully someone in our group was willing to drive! The hotel was really nice and located within walking distance of shops/dining. Our final part of the trip was in Santorini. The tours in Santorini were amazing (afternoon/dinner/sunset cruise on a catamaran and a bus tour of the island with wine tasting)! However, the hotel accommodations we less than desirable in Santorini. Our room was very old and rundown. All transfers to/from the airports/ferries were excellent, as well! I would highly recommend utilizing Tourratdar for your upcoming holiday! They were accommodating and communicative throughout the entire process. Personally, in hindsight, we would've planned for 1 additional day in Athens and 1 additional day in Santorini.

Athens, Santorini & Mykonos with 3 Guided Tours | SemiPrivate | 10 Days

I was very happy with our tour! Very nice accommodations, excellent tours, and very knowledgeable and friendly tour guides! Everything went very smoothly, and our tour company was super responsive!

Greek Island Hopping | SemiPrivate with 4* Hotels | 11 Days

The arrangements were seamless and took all the hassle out of the trip so we could just relax and enjoy. Personal touch such as hand delivery of documents and attention to detail such as breakfast boxes for an early start, were special . All worth every penny

Bewitching Greece with All Inclusive beach stay

Wow, really impressed with the team at TourRadar (Wendy, Rose, Alberto, Sam and others). Our first organized tour and they were fantastic! Planned us a great trip from beginning to end and were always there for us 24/7. We felt comfortable and reassured all the way. Thoroughly recommend you check them out as we will be next trip for sure. Cheers and thanks team TourRadar! Bryan and Karen

The Labyrinth of Crete

Very good tour. Accommodation and day tours were great. The major problem were the transfers. Dropped off on the side of the road and told to walk approximately 500 metres to the hotel with no directions, the tour pick-up point was a 10 minute walk from the hotel and finally after waiting for our airport transfer for over an hour at the designated pick-up location had to organise a taxi ourselves. We were refunded the allocated transfer amount not the actual cost of the taxi so out of pocket as well.

Treasures of Crete

All 4 excursions were very intensive, informative, well planned. My two room apartment at the Bells Vista hotel was nice. Besides me, a young couple participated in the same tour. Three of us had to

Grand Classical Tour Of Greece plus Mani and Monemvasia (Small group - In depth culture/Historical/Nature/Culinary guided tour)

My husband and I did the 10-day Grand Classical Tour of Greece as a private tour and loved it. With George as our guide, and Christos as our driver, it was one of our most memorable trips. George is incredibly knowledgeable and Christos a great driver. We learned so much about Greek history, mythology and culture. Greece is an amazing country - so the tour was really engrossing. We tried all sorts of Greek food- food is a big part of the experience. George knew all the best places to eat! Because my husband and I are physically active, George made sure that each day included a nice amount of walking - around archaeological sites, up to ancient castles, etc. (I think this level of activity may have been somewhat customized to us). Epos was very easy to book with- they were responsive, accommodating, and very knowledgeable- we really appreciated the personalized attention from Dionysis during the booking process. By the end of the tour, saying goodbye to George and Christos felt like saying farewell to family. Thank you George, Christos and Dionysis for a wonderful tour!

What people love about Greece Tours

Loved this sailing adventure and plan to do another one in the near future. The Captain Marius was excellent with a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of sailing and taking care of his passengers. Our group gelled well and we all had fun swimming, eating on board and going out to dinner and playing cards. I would definitely do this adventure again

Mia our leader gets 10/10! We were lucky to have her as our guide. She made everything easy and we saw so much in a short time. This has been a memorable trip. It's my first Intrepid tour. I will definitely be doing more and will recommend them to my friends!! Thanks Intrepid

Excellent tour, great skipper, Marios and great group participation. Though travelling alone, I never felt left out. Our skipper / guide did everything to make the tour a joy !

Greece Destinations

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• Greece Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day Greece Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Greece Vacation Packages 2024/2025
• 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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Fit for the gods

From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travelers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.

Destination Must-See's

This is the most spectacular destination in the Mediterranean and holds the most prehistoric settlement in the region. The ancient town of Akrotiri was once destroyed and consequently preserved by a volcanic eruption around 1450 B.C. The excavation site of this city is known as the “Minoan Pompeii.” But perhaps the island’s greatest draws are its vineyards, whitewashed chapels, volcanic cliffs, and famous wines of Santorini.

Known as the “whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades islands” or the “Island of the Winds,” it is said that the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. It also gets its name from the grandson of Apollo - “Mykonos.” In the island’s capital town you will find the church, town hall, castle, the Archaeological, Folklore, and Maritime Museums, and a shopper’s paradise – Matoyianni Street.

Athens is the capital city of Greece and the historical capital of Europe. It is home to many celebrated ancient monuments including the imposing Acropolis, the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Olympic Stadium, and Hadrian’s Gate – the symbolic entrance to the city. It also has the charming Plaka neighborhood which has been without interruption since antiquity.

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B.C. You can walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium, witness amazing sculptures at the museum, or even attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year.

Destination Must-Do's

Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

Delphi ruins:

Delphi was regarded as the center of the world and had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. The site includes two sanctuaries dedicated to Apollo and Athena, and other buildings that were mostly intended for sports. The earliest finds in Delphi date back to 4000 B.C. from the Korykeion Andron, a cave where the first rituals took place. The ruins are filled with an enormous amount of history and beauty.

Greek Olive Farm:

Olives and olive oil are staples of the Mediterranean diet, and Greece is a major grower and producer of olive products. A visit to a Greek olive farm can provide a taste of Greek culture and serve as a window into everyday life in the country. Tours, tastings, meals, and cooking classes hosted at olive farms are all wonderful options on the table when venturing into Greece’s countryside.

Travel back in time with a visit to Athens’s old city – the Plaka. The hilly cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings housing small shops, sidewalk cafes and family-owned restaurants making this neighborhood Athens’ crowned jewel. The neighborhood comes alive at night. The alleyways fill with music and dancing and locals and visitors alike dine on their favorite traditional dishes.

Expert Advice

Getting around is easier than you would expect. Greeks can speak English enough to assist travelers, and street signs are in both Greek and English.

Much of your trip may focus on the ancient past yet I suggest you also take time to explore the vibrant traditions that still live in today’s Greek culture.

Greece is a welcoming destination year-round. Consider visiting October through May to beat the summer bustle, and with Greece’s 250+ days of sunshine in an average year, don’t forget your sunglasses.

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13 best greece tours: acropolis, meteora & more.

Visit Greece's islands and historic sites on one of these highly recommended excursions.

The Best Greece Tours

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Explore everything from Greece's ancient history to beautiful beaches to caldera vistas on a guided tour. Many say a sunset tour in Santorini is an incredible experience.

Greece has plenty to offer travelers from the ancient remains in Athens to the picturesque beaches on Crete to the iconic white buildings that dot Mykonos . With more than 200 islands to explore, making a choice of what to see can be dizzying. That's where a guided tour comes in. In-the-know locals can help guide you to some of the best sights Greece has to offer. Using both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News gathered a selection of the best tours available in Greece.

Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises – Diamond Cruise

Price: From 230 euros (roughly $250) Duration: 5 hours

Several travelers call this tour the highlight of their Santorini vacation. Reviewers also praise Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises' friendly crew and the delicious lunch served on board. On the Diamond luxury catamaran cruise, up to 20 travelers will make stops at Hot Springs, Red Beach and White Beach (the lunch spot) for swimming and snorkeling. Along the way, you'll cruise by Aspronisi and Indian Rock, among other sights. The final stop is at the caldera for some photo-ops.

The five-hour trips depart year-round at either 9:30 a.m. or 2:45 p.m. (the afternoon sailing is a sunset cruise). Tickets for both cruises start at 230 euros (about $250) per person. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included, as well as a barbecue lunch, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, use of towels, bathrooms and showers. Gratuity for your crew is extra. Alternatively, the Platinum Cruise offers a similar itinerary at a slightly lower price.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Chat Tours – Delphi & Arachova

Price: From 88 euros (about $96) Duration: 10 hours

The Delphi Oracle was one of the most important fixtures in ancient Greece. The Greeks not only considered it the literal center of the world, but also traveled from all over to visit the Oracle and its priestess of Apollo – Pythia – to learn of the future. Chat Tours takes travelers to this famous site and the neighboring museum to learn all about its history and see plentiful artifacts. The tour also includes a scenic drive through both Arachova and Livadeia. Tourgoers say they enjoy the experience of this Delphia & Arachova tour and are impressed with the archaeology around the site.

Tickets start at 88 euros (about $96) for adults with discounts available for children. For an additional fee, you can add lunch. Trips run daily from April through October; they operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday from November to March. Tours last about 10 hours. Pickups from select Athens hotels begins at 7:30 a.m. Chat Tours runs several other day outings in Athens and also operates a few multiday Greece tours.

Rhodes Sea Lines – Sun & Sea All Inclusive Chilling Cruise

Price: From 45 euros (about $49) Duration: 3 hours

As the tour's name implies, Rhodes Sea Lines' Chilling Cruise is all about relaxation. For three hours, you'll get to lounge on the company's boat while the crew takes you to some of Rhodes' most beautiful inlets. There are also ample opportunities to swim and snorkel as you admire views of the Greek islands. Tour-takers urge future travelers to take the cruise, saying it was one of the best things they did on their vacation in Greece. They also appreciate the alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks and fresh fruit available.

Tours, which are capped at 28 passengers, depart at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Tickets start at 45 euros (approximately $49) per person. Transportation from your hotel is available on request. Rhodes Sea Lines also runs a trip to Lindos and another to Symi.

View & Book Tickets: Rhodes Sea Lines

Santorini Wine Adventure – Daytime Tour

Price: From 140 euros (about $153) Duration: 4.5 hours

During this 4.5-hour outing, travelers will sample as many as 12 different wines at three separate Santorini wineries. Tastings predominantly feature white wines (including those made from Assyrtiko, a grape native to the island), but you may also sample a few reds and some sweet varietals. In addition to wine tastings, you'll enjoy a tour of a volcanic vineyard. Travelers appreciate the ample snacks along the way – several say they didn't go hungry – as well as the informative guides. An added bonus is the small group size: only eight to 10 people can join.

Tours depart around 9:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday from May through October. Tickets start at 140 euros (around $153) per person. For an additional 10 euros (about $11), you can take this tour around sunset. Ticket fees include round-trip transportation from your accommodation. Santorini Wine Adventure also offers a few private wine-themed excursions throughout Greece.

View & Book Tickets:  Option 1 | Option 2

Athens Walking Tours – Athens City Tour, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour

Price: From 120 euros (about $131) Duration: 5.5 hours

When you purchase this tour, you'll have the option to get skip-the-line tickets to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum , which means you'll breeze by other visitors waiting in line. At the Acropolis, you'll see the monuments, incredible views of the city and ancient temples. The Acropolis Museum houses numerous artifacts discovered at the Acropolis. Plus, you'll get a morning tour of the city to see the Hellenic Parliament, the changing of the guards and the National Garden, among other sites. Travelers enjoy the tour, noting that visiting the Acropolis with a guide makes the trip much more interesting than if you had stopped here on your own itinerary.

This 5.5-hour tour operates year-round and departs at 9:30 a.m. Tickets including entrance fees to the attractions start at around 120 euros (about $131) for adults. Children may receive reduced or free admission. Tickets without attraction entry fees start at 67 euros (around $73). Athens Walking Tours also runs tours of the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum individually, among other options.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

Odyssey Boat Kos – Kos-3 Island Cruise

Price: Adults from 28.50 euros (about $31); kids from 15 euros (about $16) Duration: 7 hours

Tour-takers routinely call this trip "amazing." They say the friendly staff, delicious lunch and interesting stops on three Greek islands make for a great day. The seven-hour tours depart Kos at 10 a.m. and return around 5:15 p.m. The first stop is Kalymnos and its town of Vathi, where you can explore its shops. The next stop, Plati, allows you to jump off the boat to swim in turquoise waters. The final stop is Pserimos to check out its small town or relax on the beach. Along the way, you'll also be served lunch and drinks.

Tickets start at 28.50 euros (about $31) for participants 12 and older, and 15 euros (around $16) for children ages 3 to 11. Children younger than 3 are free of charge. These Greece tours depart daily, usually from May through October.

Meteora Thrones Travel & Tourism Center – Authentic Hiking Meteora Tour

Price: Adults from 26 euros (about $28); kids from 19 euros (around $21) Duration: 4 hours

Meteora – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – has been home to monasteries since the 11th century. The monasteries sit atop towering sandstone formations and are awe-inspiring to visit. On this four-hour hiking tour, you'll trek about 5 miles among the great rocks. You'll also get to visit the interior of one of the monasteries. (Keep in mind: Visiting the monastery will cost an additional fee. Attire-wise, all visitors must wear shirts with sleeves and women are required to wear knee-length or longer skirts to enter. Men should wear shorts that hit below the knee, or long pants.) Hikers rave about the sites and say the guides are knowledgeable.

Tickets start at 26 euros (about $28) for adults and 19 euros (around $21) for children ages 4 to 12. Transportation to the site is included. Tours run daily starting at 9 a.m. and will pick you up at your hotel in Kalabaka or Kastraki, which sit about 220 miles northwest of Athens. Staying in Athens? Meteora Thrones also runs a train tour to Meteora that departs from Athens.

Alternative Athens – Athens Highlights Mythology Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $71); kids from 52 euros (about $57) Duration: 4 hours

Chances are, you've heard a Greek myth or two in your lifetime. During this tour with Alternative Athens, you'll have a chance to learn about some of the most famous myths, including stories of Theseus and the Minotaur, as well as gods and goddesses like Zeus, Athena, Aphrodite, Dionysus and more. As your guide spins tales, you'll see the Theatre of Dionysus, the Acropolis and the Agora, among other famous sites. Travelers say the tour is great for all ages and compliment the guides for their masterful storytelling.

Tickets start at 65 euros (around $71) for adults and 52 euros (approximately $57) for children ages 6 to 17; kids 5 and younger can enjoy the tour for free. Entry fees to the temples are not included in your ticket. Tours depart daily at 8:30 a.m. and are offered in either English or French. You'll meet at the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Alternative Athens runs other outings in the city, including a street art tour, shopping tours and food tours.

Visit Meteora – Meteora Sunset Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers say seeing Meteora's majestic formations in the glow of the sunset is a must-do activity. Tourgoers took incredible photos and were thankful for the air-conditioned bus. Not only will you see the sunset over Meteora, but you'll also have the opportunity to visit a monastery, see the Kalabaka Byzantine Church and see the hermitages of Badova. Note: You will need to pay a small additional fee on-site to enter the monastery and the church, and modest clothing is required.

Tour tickets start at 35 euros (roughly $38) with discounts available for couples, families and children. The four-hour tour runs daily. Exact departure times vary based on the time of year to coincide with the sunset. Pickups are available from both Kalabaka and Kastraki. Visit Meteora offers a wide range of Meteora tours, including multiday adventures.

Santorini Day Tours – Santorini Catamaran Tour with Greek Meal and Hotel Transfers

Price: Adults from 150 euros (about $164); kids from 80 euros (about $87) Duration: 5 hours

Cruise the Aegean Sea, feast on a Greek meal and swim in Grecian waters on this catamaran outing with Santorini Day Tours. You'll sail near the Red and White beaches, snap photos of the Santorini coastline and swim in volcanic waters. (Note: The company recommends wearing a dark-colored swimsuit, as the waters near the volcano contain elements that may dye fabric.) Travelers compliment the gregarious staff and delicious food.

Trips depart April through October at 9:30 a.m. daily. Tickets for the five-hour tours start at 150 euros (about $164) for adults and 80 euros (about $87) for kids ages 4 to 10; children 3 and younger travel free. Tickets cover pickup from your hotel, drinks (including wine and beer), use of snorkeling equipment, lunch and use of towels, but does not include gratuity for your guide. Santorini Day Tours also runs land-based tours of the island as well as an Atlantis-themed tour.

Athens Walks – Athens Gourmet Food Tour

Price: Adults from 69 euros (about $75); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 4 hours

Samples of Greek coffee, wine, olive oil and doughnuts (loukoumades) – among other tastings – wow foodies who take this walking tour. The tour-takers also praise the savvy guides. Tours begin in Monastiraki Square. From here, your guide will lead you to local spots for food and drink samples. One stop is a specialty deli where you'll have the option to purchase cheese, olives, oils and other delights to take home. In total, you'll spend about four hours tasting your way through Athens.

Tickets start at 69 euros (about $75) for adults with discounts available for teens and children. Tours generally depart Monday through Saturday at multiple times each day. Athens Walks also operates tours of the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum and the Parthenon , among others.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide 

Abba Travel & Rentals – North Zante Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 60 euros (about $66); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 6 to 9 hours

Discover Zakynthos on this tour that explores both land and water. The day begins in Bochali, a small northern village, then stops at two beaches for photos. The second leg of the tour takes you to Agios Nikolaos Port where you'll board a glass-bottom boat to tour the Blue Caves then journey to Shipwreck Beach for a swim. You'll make additional stops at Greek villages and an olive oil factory before returning to your accommodations. Travelers say this outing was a great addition to their vacation. Others called it "perfect."

Fees start at 60 euros (about $66) for tour-takers 12 and older and 35 euros (about $38) for children ages 3 to 11. Tours depart daily, though departure times vary – they can leave as early as 8 a.m. Trips last six to nine hours. Abba Travel & Rentals also runs a trip to the southern part of Zakynthos.

Naxos Sailing – Rina Cave & Small Cyclades

Price: From 110 euros (about $120) Duration: 10 hours

This tour has three different routes, and the route you take depends on both your preferences and the ocean conditions on the day of departure. The first option takes travelers to Kalados Bay for swimming and a meal prepared by a local chef. The second option takes tourgoers to Iraklia or Schinoussa to explore the villages there. The third choice is a trip to the Koufonisia islands to see impressive sea-made tunnels and Pano Koufonisi's towns. No matter which route is chosen, all tours begin with a visit to the sea caves at Rina. Reviewers say they enjoy not only the scenery, but also the opportunity to help sail the boat.

Tours run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, departing from and returning to Naxos. Tickets start at 110 euros (around $120) per person. Keep in mind: The company owns one boat, so you may travel with people who chose a different tour. In this instance, the company says it will run the most popular tour choice (weather permitting).

View & Book Tickets: Naxos Sailing

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Greece Tours & Vacations

Astounding archaeological sites, fresh flavors and idyllic islands – Greece has it all.

This charismatic nation continues to grace us with all the good things in life, from its rugged coastlines and postcard-worthy vistas to its  beloved culinary traditions  and fantastical myths that bring life to ancient monuments. Whether you're island hopping on a  sailing trip through the Med , searching for answers at the Oracle at Delphi or enjoying the slower pace of smaller islands like Syros or Crete, a meal in a seaside taverna is non-negotiable. Befriend a few locals, tuck into a plate of baked feta and wash it down with a cloudy glass of ouzo. We promise you'll be saying 'opa!' in no time.

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Greece at a glance, capital city.

Athens (population 3.1 million)

10.6 million

(GMT+02:00) Athens, Bucharest, Istanbul

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Greece

Best time to visit.

Greece generally has a mild, Mediterranean climate, with July and August being the busiest months for tourism. With warm weather and plentiful sunshine, this is a great time for visiting the islands, swimming in the sea and lazing on the beach. Summers are generally hot and dry, with daytime temperatures rising to 85°-100°F ( 30°-38°C ).

By mid-September, temperatures begin to fall and crowds thin, but it can still be hot. The weather remains generally calm and balmy well into October. If you can't get to Greece in the spring, and beaches are not your primary goal, this is a fine time to visit. By late October, ferry service and flights are cutting back and most facilities on the islands begin to close for the winter. But the cooler atmosphere makes   Athens   and the mainland all the more pleasant.

Read more about the best time to visit Greece

Culture and customs

Greece’s culture is very much influenced by its ancient past. The hallmarks of Western medicine, philosophy, drama, and government can all be attributed to the mighty ancient Greek civilization – which is an incredible source of national pride. Traditional music and dance are still valued and used to commemorate celebrations throughout the year. The circle dance, for instance, dates to the Byzantine period. Even contemporary cuisine has its roots in ancient tradition.

Greeks place a high amount of value on ‘kefi’, which loosely translates to joy or passion. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest. For this reason, meals are leisurely and social gatherings are frequent, typically involving drinking, dancing and lively discussion. Common Greek customs, like smashing plates and dancing with a glass of water on your head, are considered expressions of kefi.

With more than 90% of the population being Greek Orthodox, religion plays an important part in everyday life. Religious festivals and ceremonies are commonplace, both in the mainland cities and small rural villages. Christmas and Easter are particularly important dates on the calendar, although religious celebrations are not limited to these times as there are daily, weekly and annual rites and rituals performed all throughout Greece’s mainland and islands. 

Food and drink

Greek cuisine favors simplicity and relies primarily on fresh local produce. Think vegetables, beans, nuts, and grains; grilled meats and fresh fish; parsley, garlic, dill, and mint; and punchy cheeses such as feta, kefalotyri, and halloumi. Drinks-wise, locals will savor a Greek coffee at a kafeneio (coffeehouse) or glass of anise-flavored ouzo (diluted with water) at an ouzeri – along with a couple of mezedhes (appetizers) – for hours. There’s also tsipouru (fermented distilled grape skins), raki (a tsipouru from Crete), and retsina (white wine flavored with pine resin).

Read about what to eat in Greece

Read about what to drink in Greece

Geography and environment

Sharing land borders with Albania , Bulgaria , Turkey, and Macedonia , Greece is located in Southern Europe and is surrounded by the Ionian, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas. Consisting of the mainland peninsula and an archipelago of more than 3000 islands, Greece is typically mountainous, containing peaks, karsts, and canyons all over. Despite the mountainous topography, there is much arable land in Greece with small-scale farms successfully producing olives, peaches, melons, grapes, tomatoes, and grain for export and local use. 

Greece’s highest peak, Mount Olympus, is famed for being the dwelling place of the 12 ancient gods in Greek mythology. The islands are mostly uninhabited and are formed in small chains (called archipelagos) within the Aegean Sea. Santorini , Mykonos, and Corfu are among the more popular islands with tourists, though Crete and Evia are the largest islands. 

History and government

Early history.

The early history of Greece is among the world’s most fascinating, and like the other ancient civilizations of Egypt and Rome, Greece has many monuments still standing after centuries. The Greeks have been both the conquerors and the conquered, withstood the Plague and other natural disasters, and birthed some of the greatest literature, scientific developments, mathematical formulas, and thought movements.

Recent history

In 1821, the Greeks fought against Ottoman rule during the Greek War of Independence, which resulted in Greece being recognized as an autonomous region in 1828. This was a time of great upheaval for the Greek people, with political assassinations, battles, and plundering. After autonomy was granted, many years of change followed, with continued war and confrontation alongside intermittent periods of relative peace. The two World Wars had a profound effect on Greece, with many battles fought in Greece during the early 1940s (during the Axis occupation). Athens was liberated from this occupation in 1944 and the Greek government was restored. Greece joined the United Nations (as a founding member) in 1945 and NATO in 1952. During this time, many Greeks started moving to other parts of the world in a mass wave of widespread migration. The USA , Australia, and Europe were popular destinations in this move, which saw hundreds of thousands of Greeks immigrate to other lands. In 2004, Athens successfully hosted the Summer Olympics once again. Yet more recently, Greece has come under the shadow of the European debt crisis which has crippled the economy. Despite this, the spirit of the Greek people endures as it has for eons.

Top 10 experiences in Greece

1. hike in syros.

Cruise around the Greek Islands and stretch your legs with a hike on the island of Syros. Discover golden beaches and sparkling blue water as you traverse the spectacular landscapes of one of Greece's most underrated islands. And, after all that exploring, treat yourself to some truly authentic Greek food at restaurants serving up tasty and fresh local produce.

Uncover one of Greece's best kept secrets on our  15 day Best of Greece Tour.

2. Swim in the Aegean Sea

Cross off another thing on your Greek bucket list by swimming and snorkeling in the azure Ionian Sea. Share the water with slow-moving sea turtles and catch a glimpse of playful dolphins as you effortlessly glide over colorful coral on a marine adventure you'll remember forever. While there are perfect locations to snorkel all over Greece, the best places include Corfu, Paxos and Lefkada.

Cruise the Ionian Coast on our  8 day Greece Sailing Adventure: Kefalonia to Corfu.

3. Discover Santorini

Greek islands don't get more picturesque than Santorini. From the epic sunsets that bathe the whitewashed buildings and volcanic-sand beaches in a golden glow each night to the clifftop villages full of ancient churches, quaint cafes, and neo-classical architecture sitting on cobbled streets, this island is like something straight out of your wildest dreams.

See Santorini from land and sea on our  8 day Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos trip.

4. Explore Mykonos

Claiming the title of 'most famous Greek island',  Mykonos  is a party-goers dream with bars and clubs scattered throughout the island. To make your trip to this magnificent island as memorable as possible, dine on traditional Mediterranean cuisine, lay out on beaches that look as if they've been created by the Gods themselves, and dance the night away with a cocktail in hand at a club by the water.

Enjoy the island's electrifying party scene on our  8 day Athens to Santorini trip.

5. Uncover Greek history in Athens

Athens can sometimes be overlooked in favor of islands boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear water but this ancient city is well worth a visit in its own right - especially if you're a history buff. Wander the glorious marble citadel, home to the renowned Parthenon, and take in its impressive structure and significant history as one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world.

History buffs, this one's for you: explore Athens and beyond on our  8 day Classic Greece tour .

6. Marvel at Meteora

While there are thousands of impressive rock formations scattered throughout the world, none of them quite compare to the majesty of the Meteora. Suspended more than 1,000 feet in the sky and perched atop soaring karst pinnacles, these 14th-century masterpieces are a must-visit. Home to monks for hundreds of years, this unique attraction has been recognized as a UNESCO World-Heritage listed site and remains important to the historical significance of the area today.

See these sky-high monasteries on our    8 day Mainland Greece Discovery tour.

7. Visit the ruins of Delphi

Turn your Greek adventure from a good one into a great one by visiting the sacred sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena among the mountaintop ruins of Delphi. Once considered the center of the Greek world, this UNESCO-listed site is not only incredibly beautiful with breathtaking views of the surrounding region but also offers an understanding of ancient rituals and worship undertaken by the people of Greece as early as 4,000 BC.

Step back in time on our  16 day Premium Greece in Depth tour.

8. Taste your way through Thessaloniki

This lively port city is the perfect combination of a thriving cultural scene, pulsing nightlife, delicious traditional cuisine, and storied historic sites, including the White Tower (which is a former prison and torture chamber) and the Arch of Galerius (part of Emperor Galerius's complex palace during his rule in 297-311 AD).

Explore the gastronomic capital of Greece on our  8 day Mainland Greece Discovery trip.

9. Get a classic Greek experience on Crete

Between Europe's oldest city, Heraklion, the rugged shores, forests and gorges, and the quaint and sleepy fishing villages, a visit to Crete will give you the quintessential Greek experience. As one of the sunniest places in Greece (and possibly Europe), Crete is perfect for hiking, swimming and enjoying an outdoor meal at a local taverna.

Explore this sun-kissed island on our  7 day Highlights of Crete tour.

10. Sail around Greece

You know those moments in life when you wonder, is this even real? On a sailing trip in Greece’s Cyclades Islands, that happens a lot. Learn more about our sailing tour in Greece .

From public markets and designer boutiques to European chain stores, Greece has every aspect of retail cornered.

If you are in the market for traditional Greek handicrafts, consider supporting the local economy by purchasing goods in the region that produces them. This includes silver from Ioannina; ceramics from Sifnos and Skopelos; and embroidery and lace from Crete, the Ionian Islands, Rhodes, and Skiros.

Shopping hours vary throughout Greece. Stores in large cities and tourist areas are typically open from 9 am to 9 pm, while shops in other areas close around 2 or 3 pm and reopen between 6 and 9 pm three days a week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday). Most stores are closed on Sundays.

Things to buy in Greece

1. Komboloi (Worry Beads)

These stress-relieving resin beads are meant to be turned through your fingers as you muse over life. With roots deep in ancient Greek cultural tradition, they make a great souvenir for friends wanting a slice of authentic Greece.

2. Botanical Skincare

Greece is home to many brands of premium, organic skincare. Stock up on luxurious olive oil soap or enriching yogurt-based moisturizers before you head home.

Travel safely and ward off evil by attaching a Mati (an ‘Evil Eye’) to your backpack. They’re cheap, available almost everywhere in Greece, and are a great reminder of your travels in the Aegean.

Whether you prefer gold, silver, amber resin or colorful beads, Greece has a huge variety of jewelry on offer. Prices are typically lower than in many other parts of the world, so it’s likely you’ll be able to snap up a few bargains.

Festivals and events in Greece

The Greeks have been partying since the dawn of Western civilization. Take Epicurus – he dedicated his life to seeking out pleasure, creating a philosophy now known as Epicureanism. As you travel through Greece you’ll encounter religious celebrations – Greek Orthodox is the main player here – that span the nation, as well as smaller celebrations that are regional affairs or isolated to particular islands. Expect food, drink, dancing and music, and plenty of throwbacks to the ancient Greeks. The only Greek tragedy is that you can’t fit every festival in.

Read more about festivals in Greece

Further reading

Greece travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

Greece is best experienced outside of winter for most travelers. The best time of year depends on what kind of holiday you’re after – whether you’re more interested in soaking up the island sun or ancient history.

Is it safe to visit Greece?

Greece has historically been a very safe place to visit though petty crime, like pickpocketing, can be an issue in well-touristed areas. Travelers should remain alert when visiting crowded places and keep an eye on their belongings.

Do you need a visa for Greece?

Greece is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Greece, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Greece.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Greece?

There is not a strong tradition of tipping in Greece, particularly among the locals, but it’s become expected that tourists leave small tips while traveling through the country.

What is the internet access like in Greece?

You’ll be able to find wi-fi at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants throughout the well-touristed areas of Greece. Alternatively, you can pick up a local SIM card with a data package for continued access.

Can I use my cell phone in Greece?

If you wish to use your cell phone while in Greece and you are not from an EU country, you’ll need to pick up a local SIM card or activate global roaming before you leave home.

What are the toilets like in Greece?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the norm in Greece. You may need to pay a small fee to use public toilets in some areas. Keep in mind that the Greek plumbing system isn’t the greatest and you may be asked to put toilet paper in the trash rather than flushing it.

What will it cost for a...?

Greece’s unit of currency is the euro:

• A takeaway souvlaki or gyros = EUR € 3-6
• Bottle of wine from the supermarket = EUR € 5–8
• Meal in a local cafe = EUR € 15
• Meal in a nice restaurant = EUR € 20­+
• Ticket for the Acropolis (including other ancient sites) = EUR € 10-20
• Domestic beer (Mythos or similar) at local bar = EUR €3-4.50
• Espresso coffee = EUR €1.50

Can I drink the water in Greece?

Drinking the water in Athens and Thessaloniki is safe unless otherwise marked. On the islands, however, the water may not be suitable to drink.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece?

Credit cards are widely accepted in  Greece , particularly in the tourist areas. It’s actually a legal requirement, as a response to the financial crisis, that working Greek citizens aged below 65 have a credit card so most hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants should offer the option of paying by credit card.

It’s still worth having some euros on hand, if only to tip the bartender at your favorite island bar and guarantee quick service all evening.

What is ATM access like in Greece?

ATMs can be easily found in cities and towns across Greece, including on the Greek Islands.

What is the weather like in Greece?

Greece’s coast and islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and windy, rainy winters, while the inland regions have a more continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. In the northern mountains, close to the Bulgarian border, the winters are cold with heavy snowfall , while the summers are relatively mild.

What public holidays are celebrated in Greece?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• Feb/Mar: Clean Monday
• 25 Mar: 25th of March
• Mar/Apr: Good Friday/Easter Monday
• 1 May: Labor Day
• June: Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday
• 15 Aug: Dormition of the Holy Virgin
• 28 Oct: The Oxi Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Synaxis of the Mother of God

Please note that Greece public holidays may vary. 

Is Greece safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Greece is one of the most popular LGBTQIA+ holiday destinations in the world, with a long history of same-sex relationships dating back to Sappho, the Greek poet, whose home island of Lesvos has become a pilgrimage site for lesbians. Though same-sex marriage is not legal, marriages performed in the EU have been recognized since 2018 and discrimination against sexual orientation or gender identity is banned by law.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Greece accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Though access to sights and hotels has improved in Athens over recent years, Greece is a difficult destination for travelers with disabilities. It’s a hilly, rocky place covered in cobblestones, particularly on the islands, and the economic situation has meant that there are minimal public funds to improve the situation.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Greece?

What to pack for Greece will depend on where you're going and what time of year you decide to visit. Comfortable walking shoes are essential all year round, as is a jumper in case a cool wind blows.

If you visit in summer, you’ll need light, breathable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear and sandals.

If you’re heading to the mountains on the mainland, it’s best to be prepared for everything as the weather can change quickly.

What are some common phrases to learn before traveling to Greece?

Greek is a very difficult language to learn. However, it's easy enough to master a couple of common words such as 'hello' (yah-soo) and 'please' (para-kah-LOE). Not only will this help you communicate with the locals, but it'll allow you to form a deeper connection to the places you're visiting and the people you meet along the way. 

How many islands are there in Greece?

There are roughly 6,000 islands and islets in Greece, of which only about 200 are populated. Each island offers spectacular views of the surrounding seas, golden beaches to lie out on, and ancient old towns full of fascinating sites.

How will I travel around Greece?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Greece, you may find yourself traveling by:

Live like a local resident by hopping on a local bus. Cheap, efficient and fast, it’s a great way to get around Greece’s busy cities.

Some of Greece’s most postcard-worthy scenery is best viewed from the water. Take in awesome views of quaint fishing villages, gorgeous   beaches  and the turquoise Aegean Sea as you hop between Greece’s famed islands aboard a ferry.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Greece support The Intrepid Foundation? 

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Greece directly support our foundation partner, Amurtel . 

Amurtel provides a safe space for refugee and migrant women and children in Greece. Donations from our trips help Amurtel provide displaced women and children with crucial education, emotional support and antenatal and postnatal care programs run by qualified midwives and expert consultants.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

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8 Day Greece Tour of Athens, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora

8 days, 1 country and 8 cities

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7 Breakfasts, 5 Dinners

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Walk in the very place western civilization was born as your travels reveal all the best of Greece highlights. From the other-worldly clifftop Meteora monasteries to walking the Sacred Way as the ancients once did in Delphi, this journey back in time will bring centuries of history to life.

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8 days itinerary trip from Athens to Athens visiting 1 country and 8 cities Select a Land Only Tour or Extend with a Cruise

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Choose your cabin category for the cruise portion of your tour. Each cabin class features air conditioning, safety deposit box and TV.

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with 3-night Aegean Cruise Premier

The Premier cabins on this 3-night cruise are located at exterior decks 3 and 4, and can accommodate up to four persons. 

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with 3-night Aegean Cruise Superior

The Superior cabins on this 3-night cruise are located at exterior decks 2 and 3, and can accommodate up to four persons.

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This tour operates in reverse visiting Athens, Olympia, Meteora and Delphi. 

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae and Corinth with a Local Specialist

Visit the Acropolis and Museum in Athens, the ancient ruins in Corinth, the ancient theater at Epidaurus, the Olympic Stadium in Olympia, the home of the Oracle at Delphi, and the incredible rock monasteries in Meteora

View the Parthenon, Agora, Royal Palace and Temple of Zeus in Athens, the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus and the battle site at Thermopylae

See the Corinth Canal, the Lion Gate and Agamemnon's Palace at Mycenae

Explore: Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae, Corinth, ancient Ephesus with a Local Specialist

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

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Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

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Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Spectacular Greece with Island Cruise

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Home › All Tours › Europe › Balkans › Greece › Spectacular Greece with Island Cruise

Athens, Mycenae, Nafplio, Olympia, Delphi, Mykonos, Crete & Santorini

The Greeks have a word for a feeling that expresses joy, fun, passion, and loving life: kefi. On our guided Greece land and cruise tour, we’ll explore the country’s classical cities and enjoy island hopping in the Mediterranean. We’ll visit must-sees like the Acropolis, Parthenon, the ancient theater of Epidaurus, the ruins of Olympia, the Acropolis of Rhodes, and picturesque Santorini. We’ll also visit the medieval town of Nafpaktos and enjoy some free time in the romantic city of Nafplio, and the ski resort town of Arachova, nestled in the mountains. We’ll slow down and savor Greek wines at a family-run winery where we’ll survey the vineyard and see the barrel-aging cellar. As we take in ancient archeological sites and the stunning vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, our smarTours guide brings the fascinating history and rich culture of Greece to life.

Shorten Your Trip!  Enjoy our  Spectacular Greece tour  visiting Greece’s highlights from Athens to Olympia to Delphi!

Itinerary at a Glance

Tour Itinerary:

• 2 nights in Athens
• 1 night in Olympia
• 1 night in Delphi
• 4-night Greek Island Cruise (including Mykonos, Crete, Santorini and more)

Tour Highlights

• Acropolis, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Mycenae archaeological site
• Visit the picturesque towns of Nafplio, Nafpaktos and Arachova
• Olympia, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Winery tour and tasting at family owned vineyard
• Ephesus, UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Rhodes with Philerimos and the Palace of the Knights

Your Tour Includes

• Optional round-trip airfare from the New York area (varies by departure) including taxes, fees & fuel surcharges
• Intra-Greece ground transportation and transfers by air-conditioned motorcoach
• Accommodation at first-class and deluxe hotels
• 4-night Celestyal Cruise (includes select alcoholic drinks with lunch and dinner*, gratuities for crew and port charges)
• 22 meals: 10 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 8 dinners
• Comprehensive sightseeing tours and entry fees as per itinerary
• Two included shore excursions and optional shore excursions available to purchase on board the cruise
• Professional English-speaking Tour Director throughout

Is this tour right for you? Find out What to Expect

Passengers who purchase flights will depart 1 day before the tour starts and return on the same day as the tour ends.

You can find more details on the Before You Depart page.

Day 1: Arrive in Athens

Welcome to Athens, the capital of Greece. Travelers who purchased our air-inclusive program will be met and transferred to our conveniently located hotel for some time to relax. Later, we'll come together as our tour director hosts a welcome dinner.

Day 2: Athens

Our guided morning tour takes us to the famed Acropolis, a must-see UNESCO World Heritage site described as the “most striking and complete ancient Greek monumental complex still existing in our times.” We'll see the stunning Parthenon, dedicated to Athena, the Erechtheum with its graceful Porch of Caryatids, and the ruins of the Temple of Zeus before descending the Acropolis for a panoramic drive past the Royal Palace, government buildings and elegant homes of modern Athens. We'll enjoy the afternoon at leisure to explore Athens independently. Consider exploring Plaka, Athen's lively old town which is located within easy walking distance of our hotel.

Day 3: Athens – Mycenae – Nafplio – Olympia

Today we take off for a three-day road trip to the classical cities of mainland Greece. We'll visit the wonderfully preserved 2,300-year-old theater of Epidaurus. Next, we'll visit ancient Mycenae, founded by Perseus and built with the help of the mythological Cyclops, or at least that’s what the poets say! Here, we'll see excavations that reveal the splendors vividly described by Homer including the Beehive Tombs, Treasury of Atreus, Lion Gate (Europe’s oldest known monument), the remains of Agamemnon’s Royal Palace, and the impressive fortifications of the Citadel. In Nafplio, a picturesque and romantic city, we'll have time to explore and relax. This afternoon, we'll depart for Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. We'll enjoy dinner at our hotel this evening after check-in.

Day 4: Olympia – Nafpaktos – Delphi

This morning, we'll join a local expert to tour the archaeological site and museum at Olympia, where the games were conceived as a tribute to Hercules, son of Zeus. As an enduring link between the ancient games and today’s Olympics, the Olympic flame is still lit here in Olympia. We'll view the impressive remains of the Gymnasium and the Temples of Hera and Zeus, as well as see the magnificent Hermes of Praxiteles, the most famous statue in the Olympia Museum. After visiting Olympia, we will pass through the beautiful medieval town of Nafpaktos on our way to Delphi. Tonight, we'll gather for dinner at the hotel.

Day 5: Delphi – Arachova – Athens

After breakfast, we'll visit Delphi archaeological site where we'll marvel at the ruins of Sanctuary of Apollo, walk the marble Sacred Way and admire the fourth-century BC theater still in use today. We'll also see the glorious “Charioteer of Delphi,” one of the best known and preserved examples of classical bronze statues. On our way back to Athens, we'll stop in Arachova, a ski resort town in the mountains, for some free time to wander around the town. After we arrive in Athens later today, we'll check into our hotel.

Day 6: Athens

Today, we'll visit a local winery in the outskirts of Athens for a wine tasting. Our tour starts with a walk by the vineyards up to the winery, as we learn about the different cultivation methods whilst enjoying panoramic views from the vineyard. At the winery and barrel ageing cellar, we'll learn about the different winemaking techniques followed by a tasting of 6 different wines focusing on primarily Greek grape varieties. We'll return to our hotel and have some free time this afternoon before we come together for dinner at a local taverna.

Day 7: Embark on Greek Island Cruise – Mykonos

Sailing is the best way to see the idyllic Greek Islands, and today we'll embark on four sun-kissed days and starry nights with the award-winning Celestyal Cruises! Refreshed with a sumptuous breakfast, we’ll journey to the port to board our ship and settle into the cruising lifestyle. Our first port of call is Mykonos, where iconic windmills and whitewashed homes harmonize with stylish restaurants and trendy clubs. We'll have have free time to stroll through the town, explore shops and winding streets, and watch the local scene from a seaside taverna or café before heading back to the ship.

Day 8: Greek Island Cruise: Kusadasi – Ephesus – Patmos

This morning, we dock in Kusadasi, Türkiye, a short drive from Ephesus. Considered the world’s best-preserved classical city and famous for its Temple of Artemis, Ephesus is one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. We'll return in time for lunch on the ship as we sail to scenic Patmos, a significant Christian pilgrimage destination and UNESCO World Heritage Site. See optional tours for information about an excursion to the countryside and the Grotto of Apocalypse. We'll enjoy dinner tonight on our ship.

Day 9: Greek Island Cruise: Rhodes

Today’s port of call is beautiful Rhodes, home to a large medieval city that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fascinating web of Byzantine, Turkish and Latin ruins. We'll visit the Acropolis of Rhodes where we'll wander through the ruins of the Hellenistic Temple of Apollo with its impressive columns. Next, we'll head for Philerimos, one of the great tourist attractions of the island with its beautiful Monastery. Back in Rhodes, we'll learn more about the Knights and how they lived in the Palace of Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes. This is one of the most atmospheric and intriguing areas of Rhodes, where you will delve into the very heart and soul of its history. We'll continue sailing later today.

Day 10: Greek Island Cruise: Crete (Heraklion) – Santorini

Awaken to Crete, an island rich with history and culture. We'll come ashore in the bustling capital Heraklion, where we can enjoy some free time to stroll the charming Lion’s Square, sample a bougatsa (local pastry) at a café or join an optional excursion to see the ruins of the Palace of Knossos.

We'll return to the ship in time for lunch, as we continue sailing to romantic and utterly breathtaking Santorini, set on a volcanic crater immersed in the sea. Santorini is actually a group of islands, and we'll stop in Thira. We'll fall in love with the whitewashed houses, narrow streets and outdoor cafes that line the steep cliffs, accessible by foot, cable car or mule. We might consider an optional tour of the photogenic Oia Village. Later, we'll return to the ship for a final night at sea.

Day 11: Disembark Cruise & Depart Athens

Today we bid farewell to the wonderful crew of our Celestyal ship near Athens. The ship disembarkation starts at approximately 6am. Travelers who purchased our air-inclusive package will transfer to the airport for our return flight, and will touchdown in the U.S. later today.

Note: For departures on United Airlines, the group transfer will disembark the ship and go straight to the airport. For departures on Emirates Airlines, the group will visit Sounio, a seaside town for free time to explore before heading to the airport.

Guided Tour Pricing

Plan ahead to maximize your savings!

Prices listed as “with flights” below include round-trip airfare from one or more airports in the USA. Travelers may choose to purchase the tour only, and arrange their own arrival in destination. Please note this may change your tour start date.

Rates are per person based on double occupancy. Single supplement applies when not sharing a room. Select a date above to see the rates for that specific departure.

For more information on this tour, please contact us here or call us during business hours (Monday-Friday from 9:00 am - 5:30 pm Eastern) at 1.800.337.7773 .

Reservations and Payments Reservations can be made online or by phone ( 1.800.337.7773 ) and will be confirmed upon receipt of your non-refundable, non-transferable deposit, which must be received at the time of reservation. Deposits are $300 per person. Full payment is due 120 days prior to departure. Space and prices subject to availability. Please see the smarTours Terms and Conditions for complete booking information.

Featured Accommodations

Nyx esperia palace hotel athens.

This 5-star, newly-renovated hotel is located on one of Athens' most well-known avenues and features a pool, spa, and 24-hour gym.

22 Stadiou and Edouardou Lo, Athens 10564, Greece

Hotel Europa Ancient Olympia

Located on the highest hill in Ancient Olympia, this 82-room, family hotel features a pool, beautiful taverna, as well as a pool and indoor bar.

1 Drouva Ancient, Archea Olimpia 270 65, Greece

Amalia Hotel Delphi

Located at the foot of Mount Parnassus, this 180-room hotel features panoramic views to the sea from room balconies and public areas.

1, Apollonos Street, Delphi, 33054, Greece

Celestyal Discovery

The Celestyal Discovery is recently renovated and the latest addition to Celestyal's fleet of ships. Celestyal Cruises organizes a variety of cruises in the Mediterranean with older and renovated ships offering comfortable and modest accommodations. Celestyal prides itself as being a Greek company made up of local experts, offering travelers wonderful experiences on their shore excursions.

Pre- & Post- Night Stays

Slow the pace of your tour with a pre- and/or post-night stay so you can arrive refreshed, acclimate to the time zone if needed, and depart leisurely, ensuring a seamless transition into and out of your journey.

Pre-Night in Athens

• From $229 per person based on double occupancy

Start our tour off on the right foot! Arrive a day early and enjoy more time to recover from travel, adjust to any time differences, and feel well-rested and relaxed on our first day of touring.

Post-Night in Athens

Extend your stay by one night at the end of our tour to make the most of additional free time for exploring our final city, shopping for last-minute souvenirs, or dining at that restaurant you’ve been wanting to try. Or, use this extra day to relax before beginning the journey home or to your next destination.

Optional Tours

Enhance your trip with these optional tours. Indicated optional tours are available to pre-book when you reserve your trip and can be added to your reservation up to final payment. This is the best option to guarantee your spot on your preferred optional tour! Optional tours require a minimum number of participants. Optional tours are non-refundable unless they do not operate.

Some optional tours can be purchased in-destination and may cost extra. The payment methods and currency information to purchase tours in-destination will be provided on final documentation.

Countryside Tour with Chora and the Grotto of Apocalypse

• $85 per person

Day 8 Afternoon Tour

The lovely island of Patmos is a UNESCO World Heritage Monument. Our panoramic excursion begins in the port of Skala, heading to the centre of the island and the capital of Chora. Here we'll see the Monastery of St John the Evangelist and visit the Grotto of the Apocalypse. This is where, according to the biblical account, Jesus spoke to John and told him of the Apocalypse. In the central area of Chora we find the silent windmills which stand sentry-like over the capital. Our tour continues as we head to some of the more desolate landscapes of the island, typical of the Dodecanese. Rocky hills, barren soil and promontories jutting into the sea creating dozens of coves and bays making up an intricate coastline. Here you might reflect on the legend of how the island lay at the bottom of the sea and how Zeus was prevailed upon to allow it to rise from the water.

AVAILABLE TO PRE-BOOK!

Palace of Knossos

• $88 per person

Day 10 Morning Tour

Heraklion is the birthplace of the Minoan civilization, and this optional tour takes you to the colossal palace of Knossos. Its maze of 1,500 rooms is linked to King Minos and mythic characters such as the Minotaur and Labyrinth.

Spectacular Oia Village Perched on the Caldera Rim

Day 10 Late Afternoon Tour

On this optional tour, we'll see one of the greatest spectacles—Oia village perched on the rim of a caldera, the remains of a volcanic eruption. First, we'll head to Megalochori, one of the most authentic and unspoiled villages on the island. Megalochori has retained its distinctive architecture, character, and charm. We'll continue eastward through a number of small, traditional communities like Firostefani and Imerovigli until we arrive in Oia. Here, we'll have plenty of time to explore, stroll the marble-paved alleys, and visit adorable shops. During our visit, we can admire the traditional buildings carved into the rocks and unusual captain's manors, and the settlement of Ammoudi at the foot of the caldera.

What to Expect

Max group size: 30 travelers, activity level: level 2.

Expect most included touring to require walking and standing periods up to 4 hours at a time (up to 2 times per day). Included touring may feature light hiking, and/or stairs on some hilly and/or uneven terrain. Learn More

Pacing Level: Moderate

Expect full-day tours most days with some limited free time at specific sites, for meals, and/or in the evenings. You can expect several early mornings and/or long travel days by bus (don’t worry—there are always comfort stops!), and you may expect to stay in most accommodations for 2+ nights (with limited 1-night stays). Learn More

New in 2025: ETIAS Visa Waiver Required for U.S. Passport Holders

A valid passport is required for international tours. Effective for travel in 2025, U.S. passport holders are required to apply for an ETIAS visa waiver. Please visit our Passports & Visas page to learn more about any required actions, next steps, and additional costs.

Most sites on the shore excursions and sightseeing include walking over uneven terrains and steps. It might not be best for those with walking difficulties. During the cruise, there are early wake-up calls as the touring starts as soon as the ship arrives at the port.

For more detailed information about this tour and destination, visit our Before You Depart section.

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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published July 2021 and updated March 2024

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Did you know that in Greece you can enjoy skiing with a sea view?

Greece' s official name is Hellenic Republic. However Greeks call their country Hellas or Hellada.

Continuously inhabited for over 7,000 years, Athens is one of the oldest cities in Europe.

Did you know that Epirus is the most mountainous territory of Greece and the poorest in the EU; however it has a unique natural wealth!

Do you know what rakomelo is? It is a Cretan hot cocktail! A delicious mixture of honey, spices and the alcoholic beverage tsikoudia. Bottoms up!

An old Greek legend says that when God created the world, he sifted all the soil onto the earth through a strainer. After every country had good soil, he tossed the stones left in the strainer over his shoulder and created Greece.

The species and subspecies of the native plants in Greece are about 6,000, almost as much as 50% of the native plants of Europe!

Greece has one of the richest varieties of wildlife in Europe, including 116 species of mammals, 18 of amphibians, 59 of reptiles, 240 of birds, and 107 of fishes.

Crete, Greece’s largest island and birthplace of the Minoan Civilisation, is the most southern one, except for the little island of Gavdos!

The very first sprint race of the first Olympic Games in 776 B.C. was won by Coroebus of Elis, a cook!

Athens is one of the few coastal cities worldwide that is surrounded by mountains. These are Mt. Hymettus, Mt. Penteli, Mt. Parnitha and Mt. Aigaleo.

Did you know that in Greece, 47 mountains are over 2000m., 105 mountains between 2000 and 1500m., 155 mountains are between 1500m. and 1000m. The number of mountains under 1000m. have yet not been recorded.

Feta, which is made from sheep and goat’s milk, is Greece’s national cheese. It dates back to the Homeric ages, and the average per-capita consumption of feta cheese in Greece is the highest in the world!

Did you know that Greece is the third largest producer of olive oil in the world? Greeks have cultivated olive trees since antiquity. Some of the olive trees that are still producing olives date back to the thirteenth century.

Greece has historically engaged in wine making. Take for example Dionysus, the son of Zeus, the god of the grape-harvest, winemaking and wine. His face is seen today on the sommelier’s pin which is a symbol of respect to wine’s contribution throughout history.

About 7% of all the marble produced worldwide comes from Greece.

The first philosopher is considered to be Thales of Miletus (c. 624 – 425 B.C.). He is credited as giving the first explanation for the origin of the world that was not mythological.

Greece is the place where democracy was born. But democracy in ancient Athens was significantly different from modern democracies. It was both more participatory and exclusive, and there were no political parties in Athenian democracy.

Greece is a leading producer of sea sponges.

Did you know that most days of the year are sunny in Greece? 250, to be exact.

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Myths and Symbols in Modern Greek Art

Athens – City Festival 2024

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ΑΣΤΥΓΡΑΦΙΑ / URBANOGRAPHY

East Med Multihull & Yacht Charter Show

XTERRA Greece Vouliagmeni

The Parthenon and Byron

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Τhe remote islands of ship owners

A Mise-en-Scène Island

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Greece Land & Sea Vacation Package: Athens, Mykonos & Cruise

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You have been dreaming about the wonders of Greece for years; now you can stop dreaming and start living through the majesty of the Mediterranean on this custom tailored tour that will bring those dreams to life. From the sensational ancient city of Athens to the wondrous ruins of Ephesus, the Acropolis of Lindos on Rhodes to the whitewashed walls of Santorini, the beauty is never ending, the splendor is everywhere; you just have to let the wonder wash over you.

Customizable Itinerary

Athens – athens unwrapped.

Welcome to the city of Athens. If you were able to untie the bow around a present and watch the wrapping fall away this would be what you find underneath. The Acropolis rises over the center of ancient Athens and glistens a subtle orange in the light. The Plaka , one of the oldest and longest consecutively used streets in the city, winds along the foothill. The path is paved with stone. Tradesmen welcome you into their shops with trinkets and sparkly jewelry, some made with bronze, other with silver. Restaurants stretch down the street giving the air a blend of luscious aromas, from crispy filo stuffed with cheese to gorgeous roasted lamb. The lively calls, lovely food, and range of ancient history are almost too much to bear…almost.

What's Included:

Athens – Antiquity at Your Service

Let the wonder of Athens wash over you as you venture deeper into the city’s history, both modern and ancient. Your tour begins once you leave your hotel and journey through the fabulous streets. Along the way you will stand beside the Panathenaic stadium, the first stadium to hold a modern Olympic games in 1896. The marble arena reaches far back from the street, wrapping round the track and giving space for plenty of spectators and fans. You can almost hear the roars of history’s cheers celebrating their country, their favorite runner, or the first javelin record archived.

Collect the jewel of Athenian history by witnessing the sensation of the Acropolis. The entire plateau is paved with marble, harkening back to the city’s Golden Age. The Erechtheion stands to the left of the Parthenon where Caryatids, robed female figures used as architectural support, decorate the temple with grace. An olive tree gives an air of earthen zest to the citadel, a gift from the goddess Athena to the city of her namesake. The Parthenon is one of the most famous temples in history, standing before you like something out of a postcard, almost unreal in its elegance and historical significance. Carvings grace the surrounding metopes of the temple. The porticos are decorated with people and their offerings to Athena. Upon the citadel it feels like you could step back and watch the opulent structures of the city remain just as sturdy and smooth throughout time.

Athens – A Wonderful Day for Exploration

The new day brings another chance to venture through the city at your leisure, finding the nooks and crannies that make Athens such a desirable city to visit. Whether you prefer the vibrant markets of Monastiraki or would rather stroll through the Cyclades neighborhood of Anafiotika, this day is for your whims. The New Acropolis Museum sits lavishly beneath Acropolis Hill with a splendid view of the Parthenon from the third floor. Enter the foyer and stand over the ruins of the ancient city that spread throughout the center of Athens. The large hall that houses busts and statues not only embraces the past but displays its charm and awe within the art that has decorated the past. A bust of Alexander the Great is positioned within the room almost highlighting each strand of hair within the sculpted marble. It is hard to imagine how detailed a sculpture can be, until you take a walk through the Acropolis Museum.

Mykonos – Island Ascension

The antiquity of Athens has been around for thousands of years and will wait for your return to the city but today you will depart for the inspired island of Mykonos. The beaches almost wrap around the entirety of the island like one stretch of ornate sand, where the water sparkles with the opulence of a sapphire. Mykonos Town gives a classic sense of the whitewashed walls of the Cyclades meandering beside the labyrinthine streets that offer simultaneous charm and trendiness to the day. Mykonos lets you settle in, relax, and enjoy its splendor.

Mykonos – An Ideal Favorite

Once settled onto the shores of Mykonos there is no wonder as to why the island is a favorite for people around the world. Today can be spent wandering along the island at your leisure, but if wandering doesn’t seem to be in the cards then grab a towel and venture to one of the many fabulous beaches that the island has to offer. Perch beneath an umbrella along the perfect sands of Paradise Beach. The calm water kisses the shore. The hot sands shimmer like gold beneath your feet. Beside the boardwalk brings a plethora of rich aromas, from melting cheeses to creamy tzatziki. You could even relax with a cool, sweet drink beneath the shade of a parasol. With the sound of the water in the distance, the icy glass in your hand, your cares melt away as you blissfully watch the day go by.

Mykonos – A Castle in the Clouds

It may not actually be in the clouds but with another day to traverse the sensational island the Castle Panigirakis is not to be missed. The castle overlooks the entirety of Mykonos Town, the white walls wrapping around the coastline and shining against the various shades of blue sea. Vibrant grass blankets the hillside and leads you to the famed stone archway that frames the town and ocean below. The breeze is sweet and cool. A windmill watches over the hillside. It is easy to lose track of time as you look below to the winding streets of town, and beyond to the archipelago created by the islands of Syros, Tinos, and Delos. Sit along the skyline, look into the horizon, and let the dusk roll across the sky.

At Sea – Where Cruisers Cruise

Today you will separate yourself from the land all together as you board your cruise ship and make way to the bordering waters of Turkey. The majesty of the water is alluring, drifting from turquoise to crystal clear to sapphire and back again. Sporadic islands drift by in the distance. The sea is filled with the sweetness of the mist rising from the sea and the wind blowing through your hair. The middle of the Mediterranean allows a sense of serenity to rush over the ship and urge you forward.

Patmos – Wondrous Ancients and Ancient Wonders

Step onto the shores of Kusadasi, a Turkish island that holds the secrets of the best preserved Greek and Roman ruins in Asia Minor. The stronghold was a center for trade amongst the East and the West for centuries. Where once the prominent city stood lay the ruins that now inspire and awe visitors. Mosaics date back to the ancient Greeks, one in particular that displays Medusa, pieced together with colorful tiles to outline the piece. The mythical icon boasts locks of brown hair from which the heads of two snakes peer. At the south end of Domitian Street is the temple of Domitian. Terraces continue to stand showing the original size of the structure as two stories. Marble columns stand in front of the cellar made of brick and sitting along the foothill of the surrounding slope.  There is tangible history that fills you with awe at the stunning remains of the ancient city.

The island of Patmos is known for housing the cave in which St. John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelation. Arrive in the port and explore the island at your leisure. The castle-like structure that looms over town is actually a monastery built over St. John’s cave. Patmos Town sits in whitewashed opulence beneath the monastery, with a sun-kissed sheen under the afternoon sky. The oldest homes of the island were built in the 12th century, the walls painted white and plastered. The walls were built higher than the roofs to discourage climbing, especially in the surge of pirate fears. The delicate perfume of bougainvillea and pastries drift from the square. Each street looks as charming as the last. You almost feel like you have stepped into a storybook because no town could ever be so seamless.

Rhodes – Who Needs the Colossus of Rhodes

The island of Rhodes no longer boasts the colossus that once stood as a symbol of power and prosperity for all who came within viewing distance of the island. However, the history of Rhodes is far greater than one single statue, set deep within the people and the remaining architecture of the city at large. Whether you choose to indulge in a tour or meander through the old town on your own, the gems of the island are far too great to be missed. A visit to the Acropolis of Lindos is filled with illustriousness from a heyday of ancient times. The plateau looks out over the Mediterranean giving a sense of blessing to those leaving the city and a beacon for those returning. The Doric Stoa was once shaped like a great hall of a university, flanked by structural wings. The pillars at the base of the stairs, and the stairs themselves, continue to decorate the Acropolis, giving you a sense of the enormity of the structure in its prime. The façade of Temple of Athena Lindia also continues to stand proud against the backdrop of ruins. Within the temple you can see the spot where the statue of the goddess once stood.

Crete – Castles and Calderas

Journey to the heart of Heraklion, Crete, at your leisure; stroll along its cobbled paths that rise and fall, narrowing and widening between hotels, shops, and restaurants. If you choose you can also visit the famed Knossos Minoan Palace where the infamous Minotaur was held captive. Along the port of Heraklion is the Venetian castle of Koules. The imposing two-story structure surrounds the harbor and once guarded entry to the port. Built by the Venetians, the castle has been restored by various occupiers over the years; however, the structure is no less powerful and inspiring. The cool stones stand at the water’s edge bracing against the rugged sea. Stroll along the stretch of the fortress walls and view the expanse of the Mediterranean as it extends away from Crete.

The latter half of the day brings you to the famous cliffs of Santorini. The whitewashed homes brace the precipice of the crescent shaped island. Once along the ridge of Santorini you can look into the caldera, the afternoon sea clamors against the rock. The volcano’s tip rises in the distance, looking like a tiny island within the beautiful blue sea. Stroll through the town of Fira, the island’s capital, where the panorama of the island will do nothing less than take your breath away. The lighthouse in the distance stands against the sometimes harsh wind of the island. The pleasant streets of the town allow you to stroll at your leisure, where local artesian shops mix with the rich flavors of local restaurants, all with a view of the open world beyond.

Santorini – It Doesn’t End

Today you will transfer to the Santorini airport to begin your journey home. As your  begin to relive your expedition to Greece you can feel the vibrant memories replaying through your head. The sights you’ve seen and the adventures you’ve had will never be taken away and, the best part is, they will never fade away. From the antiquity of Athens to the monastery of Patmos, the mainland to the islands, other holidays may come and go but the wonder of Greece never ends.

Consider extending or customizing this tour.  See the reviews for Greece and Santorini travel agents for additional information and ideas.

Trip Highlights

• Explore the ancient history of Greece including the famous Parthenon
• Luxuriate on the famous beaches of Mykonos known to jetsetters around the world
• Cruise through the stunning waters of the Mediterranean
• Discover the incredible Greek and Roman ruins of Ephesus on the Turkish island of Kusadasi
• Stand within reach of where St. John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelations
• Venture along the grandiose Acropolis of Lindos with a backdrop of the horizon
• Witness the fabulous panorama of the Santorini sunset

Detailed Description

Enjoy your journey into the unparalleled sights of Greece on this 12-day tour through the Mediterranean Sea. The antiquity brings with it a sense of nostalgia for a Golden Age which inspired the whole of Western Civilization. Cruise through the famous islands that combine pristine beaches, fabulous architecture, and some of the most well known ruins of the past. Your time along the shores will bring you not only to the grandeur of Greece, but the magic of its history.

The wonder begins with your arrival in Athens, the city that brought about the Golden Age. Tour through Greece’s past along the ruins of the Acropolis and within the New Acropolis Museum which houses much of the art from the surrounding city. Step onto the cruise ship and venture to Mykonos where the celebrated island brings about the luxuries of beaches and the charm of its town’s cosmopolitan streets. The days are yours to spend them as you wish, where the water is pure and the town has plenty to discover. A day cruising along the Mediterranean will bring you out of Greek waters and into the waters of Turkey.

On the shores of the Turkish island of Kusadasi you will find yourself wandering through the ancient city of Ephesus where the fabled temple of Artemis once stood. Today the ruin is a prized monument to the prosperous trading post it had been. On the island of Patmos you can stroll through town or within the walls of the monastery that commemorates St. John the Divine’s stay when he wrote the Book of Revelations. Travel to Rhodes where the island boasts the grand ruins of the Acropolis of Lindos which rise 400 feet above the sea. In Heraklion you can meander along the fortress built by Venetians during their occupation of the island in the 13th century before coming to the cliff side shores of Santorini. The whitewashed walls and blue roofs bring those famous photo images of Greece into three-dimensional relief. As you depart for home you can rest assured that the wonders of the Mediterranean were not just visited but experienced.  

Starting Price

$3,895  per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

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• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Mainland Greece Travel Guide

Greece › Mainland Greece Best Places Updated: April 17, 2023 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in Athens
• Where to Stay in Nafplio
• Where to Stay in Monemvasia
• Where to Stay in Thessaloniki
• Where to Stay in Delphi
• Where to Stay near the Meteora
• Best Greek Islands
• Where to Go in Peloponnese
• Where to Go in Halkidiki

The Meteora monasteries near the village of Kalambaka in central Greece.

The 12 Best Places to Visit in Mainland Greece Athens Greece’s capital and perhaps the most important mainland destination; any trip to mainland Greece requires a stopover for at least a day or two. Delphi One of Greece’s best must-see archaeological sites; located in southern Greece, just across the Gulf of Corinth from the Peloponnese. Ioannina A bustling, picturesque lake town that’s the gateway to northwest Greece and the key to Epirus – the Zagoria villages, Metsovo, the Epirus Riviera (Parga, Preveza, Syvota). Gytheio A small but important port in the South Peloponnese that’s growing in popularity as a destination. Weekly ferry link to Kythira and Crete. Kalambaka The main outpost for visiting the incredible (and must-see) Meteora Monasteries, built on immense rocky pillars. Kalambaka also serves as an important transit link to the mid-north (Grevena, Kastoria, Kozani). Kastoria A beautiful lakeside town similar in style to Ioannina. Great for nature, skiing, and transit connections to Greece’s mid-north and northern border regions. Monemvasia Charming stone village on a small island off the east coast of the Peloponnese (but linked to the mainland by a short causeway). A magnet for painters, writers and readers. Nafpaktos A pretty, breezy, and historically important seaside town on on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth. Nafplio Classy Peloponnese seaport retreat with neo-classical buildings and many excellent hotels. Olympia Along with Athens and Delphi, Olympia is one of of Greece’s three must-see archaeological sites. A small destination, but well situated for touring the west Peloponnese. Thessaloniki A strategic tourist travel position and airport hub in the central north, gateway to Greece for land arrivals from the Balkans and gateway to the Halkidiki peninsula. Veria A central and sizable northern town close to the Vergina and Pella archaeological sites, as well as the popular escarpment towns of Naousa and Serres.

Athens Athens is the nation’s capital and heartland, and an essential stop on any trip to the Greek mainland. Though it is a sprawling city of well over half a million, the city center is surprisingly small; all attractions listed here can be visited on foot. It’s also remarkably safe and welcoming, though it may appear chaotic and edgy at first. Athens is a great destination year-round, with the best times to visit being the spring and fall. It’s chilly (but relatively dry) in the winter months; midsummer sees the city emptying itself of locals, and can get unbearably hot. Allow for at least three nights in Athens, and stay as centrally as you can afford. Things to Do in Athens There are many great things to do in Athens , but if you have only 2-3 days, here are some of the highlights. Acropolis and Acropolis Museum : Athens is chock-a-block full of museums and ancient sites. If you must choose, then at least visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon Temple and its accompanying Acropolis Museum. • Map Concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus : If you plan to attend a concert in Athens, do it here. The atmosphere is electric. Check the Why Athens website for details of events during your visit. • Map Dining in Plaka or Psyri : A night out dining on the street is a must in Athens. The Plaka is touristy but has the location – right under the Acropolis. Psyri offers a more authentic experience. • Map: Plaka , Psyri Mount Lycabettus : For the highest and most spectacular views of Athens and the surrounding area, ascend to the summit of Lycabettus (Lykavittos) Hill. Take the cable car from the Kolonaki district, have lunch or a drink at the top then walk down. • Map The Changing of the Guard : It’s touristy, it’s a show, and it’s a shame not to see it. The Parliament building on Syntagma Square has two permanent Evzone Guards keeping watch, every hour on the hour, they swap places with new guards. Go on Sunday at 11am for the full show with elaborate costumes and a marching band. • Map Monastiraki Flea Market : Anything and everything can be bought in this chaotic bric-a-brac market that runs from Monastiraki Square westwards. Swords, vinyl records, coffee pots, and a thousand other items can be found here. • Map Recommended Athens Hotels AthensWas Hotel – One of a growing number of small boutique hotels opening in Athens’ inner core. AthensWas combines style, finesse, and spacious comfort with the convenience of a central location. • +30 21 0924 9954 • Map New Hotel – A superbly renovated central downtown hotel two minutes’ walk from Syntagma Square. Great rooftop bar and restaurant. • +30 21 0327 3000 • Map Royal Olympic Hotel – Among the royalty of Athens’ classic luxury hotels, the ROH simply enjoys a stunning location. Panorama rooms are unparalleled for the views over the Temple of Olympian Zeus. • +30 21 0928 8400 • Map Getting To and From Athens As the capital of the country, Athens has the richest and widest choice of transport options in Greece. Offering air, rail, road, and sea links, travelers to Greece will almost inevitably pass through Athens at some stage of their itinerary. Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Athens, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes can affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day . Ferry : The Piraeus ferry port is about 10 km south of the city center and has direct ferries to most Greek islands (with the exception of the Ionian islands on the west coast of Greece). The most popular routes to Mykonos , Naxos , Paros , Santorini , and Crete have several sailings per day in high season. Air : Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos Airport is a modern well-run establishment, with connections to all continents. The airport’s 35 km distance from the city center makes for a potentially costly transfer; options to reach the city are the bus, the metro, or taxi. Bus to/from Airport : The cheapest way to get into city center is the dedicated bus service that links the airport with the Kifissos bus station, the port of Piraeus, and the center. A bus ticket from the airport to Athens city center costs €6. Metro to/from Airport : The Athens Metro runs services to city center, Piraeus, and to Kiato in the Peloponnese. A metro ticket from the airport to central Athens costs €10. Taxi to/from Airport : A taxi from the airport to Athens’ city center will cost between €40 and €50. Taxis can be found outside the arrivals area. A good alternative is the Welcome Athens chauffeur service, which can be scheduled in advance. Getting Around Athens Foot : Athens is not a large city to walk around if you stick to the city center. You can cover most of the major sites on foot – use your favorite maps app to guide you accordingly. Buses, Trolleys, Trams, and Metro : Athens’ urban transit service, while efficient, can be crowded and confusing to first-time users. Rechargeable, multi-use Athe.ena tickets can be purchased and recharged at all Athens transport ticket offices, as well as the automatic ticket issuing machines located at transit stops. They can be used to transfer from one mode of transport to another, and are chargeable for 90-minute, all-day, or 5-day increments. Specialized tourist tickets are available that include 1 round trip to/from the airport by Metro or Express Bus, and 3 days of unlimited travel on all other modes. Purchase these before boarding. As mentioned above, transportation strikes are commonly held on May 1 each year, so avoid booking major travel on that date. Taxi : Taxis are cheap here in comparison with the rest of Europe, but hailing one often involves stiff streetside competition with other ride seekers. Drivers will sometimes pick up multiple passengers who are heading in the same direction. A handy smartphone app called Beat is a neat way of getting the cab you want at a time you need one. Suburban train : A wider though still limited service that runs in parallel to some routes to the Metro. Its main difference is that it runs out as far as Corinth and Kiato on the north coast of the Peloponnese. Athe.ena tickets can be used for the urban section of this line. Train : Athens’ main rail hub, Larissa Station , is located 3 km from Syntagma Square, near the M2 line Metro station and reachable by the No 1 or No 790 bus. Another important station is the SKA ( Railways Center of Acharnes ), located near the Attiki Odos ring road and handy if you are taking the Airport Suburban Rail line to connect with a mainline train service. Car : while Athens may look undrivable, it is no worse than any other major city. With the use of a GPS device or Google Maps on your phone, navigating is not difficult. The easiest way to get out of Athens is to make for the toll road known as Attiki Odos and follow it: to the east for the airport, to the west for the Peloponnese and to the main north junction at Metamorfosi for the North. The freeway from Piraeus joins this same junction. Delphi Built next to a cleft in the mountains of Central Greece, with a stunning view to the sea far below, Delphi was thought by the ancients to be the center of the known world. Princes and paupers alike would journey to Delphi to seek counsel from the mystic Delphic Oracle; the ancient temples and adjacent (and enchanting) Greek village have drawn dreamers, philosophers, writers, and hopefuls ever since. Today’s Delphi consists of an extensive archaeological site and museum, along with a couple of smaller, though not unimportant, classical offerings. Delphi village is a busy thoroughfare of two parallel streets crammed with quality hotels , restaurants, cafés and tourist shops. The center is compact and can be easily traversed in an hour or so. Delphi is worth at least a two-night stay to allow for a slow exploration of the Oracle site, and to soak up the still-present mystical atmosphere while watching the sunset over a panoramic dinner. Things to Do in Delphi The Temple of Apollo : This sprawling hillside sanctuary is where the High Priestess (the Delphic Oracle) held court; visitors in antiquity came from far and wide to seek her prophesies. Today, it’s the prime reason visitors come to Delphi. Read up beforehand to understand what it was all about, and come early to avoid the heat and crowds. Entry is €12. • Map The Kastalian Spring and Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia : Of perhaps lesser interest, but interesting all the same, the former is the site of the spring where ritual purification took place. It is best enjoyed late at night or at sunrise. The latter is Delphi’s most famous landmark photo op site (the ruins with the columns in a circle); this would be the first stop by ancient visitors on their pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Apollo. Map: Kastalian Spring , Sanctuary of Athena Delphi Archaeological Museum : The museum complements the Sanctuary site with model reconstructions, helpful historical information, and important artifacts from the site. Visit the museum first to gain context (go early – or late afternoon – to avoid the crowds), and head to the Sanctuary afterward. Your €12 ticket covers both entry fees. • Map Recommended Delphi Hotels Kastalia Boutique Hotel – An airy and friendly establishment with exceptionally comfortable rooms and mind-blowing views. An in-house restaurant and panoramic terrace make for an all-inclusive package. • +30 22 6508 2205 • Map Amalia Hotel – A sprawling hotel set in the hillside just outside of town, with an on-site restaurant and large outdoor swimming pool. • +30 2265 082101 • Map Acropole Delphi Hotel – Cozy, folksy lodging just below the main street in a quieter part of the village. Unparalleled views out over the valley below. • +30 22 6508 2675 • Map Getting To and From Delphi The most common forms of visitor transport to and from Delphi are bus tours and private vehicles. The only other way in and out is by bus. Bus : The main bus route runs back and forth from Athens, leaving Athens from Bus Station B at Liosion. Buses are plentiful along this route, and details are easier to follow at the Fokida KTEL Bus Station website . Travelers wishing to travel from Delphi to Meteora or Olympia will have to make at least one transfer: For Olympia, take a Patra-bound bus (change in Itea on the same ticket). In Patra walk 550m northeast from the arrival bus terminal on the port (corner Gerokostopoulou and Othonos & Amalias) to the Pyrgos bus station. From Pyrgos take a local bus or train to Olympia (see Olympia entry). For Meteora, take a bus to Amfissa (via Itea) and swap for a bus to Lamia. From Lamia you can either train it (from Leianokladi) to Kalambaka, or bus it via Trikala. Taxis : Though the village center is easily traversed on foot, taxis can be helpful in getting to some Delphi’s more distant attraction. They congregate opposite the bus stop at the eastern edge of the village. • Tel: +32 22 6508 2752 Be advised that most areas in Greece, including Delphi, have public transportation strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any major bus, train, or ferry trips that day. Ioannina Ioannina is the bustling mountain capital of the northwest Greek region of Greece known as Epirus. Think of it as Greece’s Scotland – with soaring, stunning mountains, and a lake with its own inhabited island. Linger and relax with an ouzo on ice by the lakefront, or take a slow boat ride to the Island for a meal of eels, trout, or even frogs legs. Ioannina has had a checkered past, from its founding in the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century AD, through the Ottomans and a bloodthirsty dictator. Today it is an important university town with a lively student café scene. It features a Turkish-inspired Old Town and walled ‘Kastro’ and is the gateway to Epirus’ little known Zagorochoria villages that seem to be straight out of Grimm’s, with fairytale stone houses, stone bridges over rushing rivers, and the awe-inspiring Vikos Gorge (the deepest in the world). Things to Do in Ioannina The Island :The only lake-island in Greece where people live all year round. It consists of a compact village, a monastery, and a shaded walking path around the island. It is home to the Ali Pasha Museum , dedicated to Ioannina’s infamous Ottoman-Albanian despot who ruled with an iron and often vicious hand. A passenger ferry boat leaves from the waterfront by the Kastro every 20 minutes. • Map The Castle/Kastro : More a walled mini-city than a castle the ‘Kastro’ consists of a living community, some small hotels, a large Byzantine museum, and a former mosque. Cobbled streets meander at will, but you will never get lost. • Map The Lake : No tour boats explore the vast green expanse of Lake Pamvotis, but cyclists can circumnavigate the Lake in about an hour and a half (24 km) on quiet rural lanes, a lakeside road, and a dedicated cycle path near the town itself. • Map Zagori Villages and Vikos Gorge : A 45-minute drive to the northeast of Ioannina leads visitors to the stunning scenery and topography of these two chart-topping sights. Don’t miss the awe-inspiring sight of Vikos Gorge from Monodendri. Take in a sophisticated rural lunch in the villages of Papingo or Mikro Papingo. Map: Zagori , Vikos Gorge Recommended Ioannina Hotels Saz City Life Hotel – Re-purposed from tired inner-city office buildings, Saz offers trendy urban accommodation in the heart of Ioannina. • +30 26 5107 8888 • Map Guesthouse Politia – One of the forerunners of the boutique studios scene, this cozy space occupies choice real estate in the Old Town. • +30 26 5102 2235 • Map Villa Vilielmini – Less a hotel and more luxury apartments, Villa Vilielmini enjoys a location close to the lakefront and its café scene. • +30 26 5103 0515 • Map Getting To and From Ioannina Travel to and from Ioannina has been difficult in the past, with air connectivity only to Athens and road transport slowed down by tortuous access routes and the town’s mountain setting. Since the opening of the Ionian Way (south) and the Via Egnatia (east-west), however, road transport to Ioannina is super fast and in 2018 Ioannina opened up international air links with flights to Europe and the Middle East. Bus : Ioannina’s busy bus terminal is located by the lakeside at Georgiou Papandreou 45 ; the KTEL bus website is rather clunky and ageing, but is at least offered in English. Connections are pretty well spread across the country you can even take a bus to Chania in Crete. Air : Air links are mostly still with Athens, but charter companies from places such as Sweden and Israel have recently started flying into Ioannina. The King Pyrros Airport is 4.5 km northwest of the town. Taxi : Order a local taxi by calling +30 26 5104 6777. As with Athens and Delphi, Ioannina is subject to Greece’s public transportation strikes throughout the year, but especially on May 1. Avoid scheduling any flights or buses that day. Gytheio Gytheio is a pretty, laid-back port town with an enticing and genuine Greek atmosphere that’s rare among Greek tourist ports these days. Once the port of Ancient Sparta, Gytheio is now the de facto ‘capital’ of the Laconian Mani region of the Mani Peninsula and primarily makes its living from fishing. Cafés and restaurants line its waterfront where a recently established pedestrian walkway allows for ambling and chatting before dinner. A small islet offshore adds to the mix, while south of the village a long sandy beach provides for swimming and sun-baking. Gytheio also serves as a primary contact point between the Greek mainland and Crete, with options to visit the islands of Kythira and Antikythira in between. Gytheio’s friendly and sunny disposition makes it an excellent choice for a casual sojourn for two to four days while touring the area or while waiting for the boat to Crete. Things to Do in Gytheio Marathonisi Islet : Said to be the ancient Cranae where Helen and Paris of Troy consummated their affair, thus irresponsibly starting the Trojan War. Today called Marathonisi, which means ‘fennel island’, this long, cigar-shaped islet features a lighthouse and a small tower, and is linked to Gytheio by a narrow walkway – perfect for a sunset stroll. • Map The Mani Peninsula : The Mani is the central finger-like peninsula of the Peloponnese and wild both in topography and its people, who are known to be stubbornly and proudly independent. Travel writer Patrick Leigh Fermor was inspired by this region to write his ‘Travels in the Southern Peloponnese;’ he settled and lived in Kardamyli in Messinian Mani. Travel slowly and take in the textures and subtleties of the region. • Map Recommended Gytheio Hotels Olive Yard Boutique Hotel – This small guest hotel north of central Gytheio offers a graceful and relaxing rural space to unwind and watch the sun go down. • +30 27 3302 9210 • Map Saga Pension – Directly over the best restaurant in town, in central Gytheio, right next to the port. • +30 27 3302 3220 • Map Mareggio – Fresh and modern beachfront suites and residences (some with private pools), 5 minutes north of town. • +30 27 3302 1113 • Map Getting To and From Gytheio Gytheio is an outpost, end-of-line destination, linked indirectly by bus to most Peloponnese destinations – typically via Sparti. It also has a little known and useful car ferry to Kissamos in Crete. Bus : The bus stop and ticketing agency is near the junction of Ermou and Vasileos Georgiou, a 650 m hike to the waterfront. Ferry : The car ferry Ionis makes a weekly run to and from Kissamos in Crete, though booking tickets online is next to impossible. See Rozakis Shipping Agency ( Vasileos Pavlou 5 , tel: +30 27 3302 2207) on the waterfront for bookings. Taxi : To get around by taxi call English-speaking Canadian-Greek Angeliki (tel: +30 69 4543 8209) for all the local gossip and lore as well a good way to get to local attractions. As mentioned above, Gytheio is subject to the public transportation strikes held throughout the year, with the largest taking place every May 1. Avoid scheduling any buses or ferries that day. Meteora (Kalambaka) The bright and cheery rural town of Kalambaka is the jumping-off point for visits to the soaring, suspended monasteries of Meteora. These monasteries grew out of a desire for prayerful isloation and the necessity for self-preservation, used by late Byzantine monks and hermits as a refuge and hideout against Ottoman incursions. Over the years, the monastery buildings grew organically and are now quite impressive in their size and appearance. Travelers can spot the tall sandstone pinnacles from afar as they rise unexpectedly from the surrounding plain, and the effect only gets more startling as you draw closer. The smaller settlement of Kastraki – a 15-minute walk west – is actually the heart of the Meteora monasteries and a more charming area to stay, though you can easily access the monasteries via a foot trail from the northern end of Kalambaka itself. While the bulk of visitors come for the monasteries, more athletic visitors come to climb the pinnacles themselves. The Kalambaka-Kastraki combination is a pretty destination package in itself with enticing restaurants , rustic wood and stone hostelries, and a vibrant atmosphere worthy of a day or three of lingering. The area is also an important transit point for travelers to Epirus or Western Macedonia. A winding 36 km road north leads to the junction with the Via Egnatia, where travelers can turn west for Ioannina or East for Kozani and Kastoria. Things to Do in Kalambaka The Meteora Monasteries : There are six major monasteries worth visiting, but unless you are a walker, or really like monasteries, you are better advised to stick with just two or three. Ideally, you will need transport to get around. The Great Meteoron is the biggest and most well-known. Start with that and choose another one or two based on proximity, or love of hiking. A small charge is levied to visit each monastery, and a strict dress code is enforced. Rock Climbing : You will inevitably spot specks of red, yellow and other visible colors edging their way up the vertical rock walls. These are real people doing what they love: climbing. If you climb, Meteora offers some serious challenges, and ClimbGreece can help you out. Hiking : You can enjoy Meteora without the need to actually visit the monasteries by hiking along a pretty well-defined series of hiking trails. Visit Meteora offers some excellent hiking and sightseeing tours. Recommended Kalambaka Hotels Hotel Doupiani House – Beautiful old-world retreat in Kastraki with a classy bar and fireplace lounge, plus a stone garden terrace with amazing views. • +30 2432 077555 • Map Tsikeli Hotel – Eco-friendly and adults-only, this stylish hotel in Kastraki offers e-bike rental and rooms with hot tubs or saunas. • +30 2432 022438 • Map Divani Meteora Hotel – Kalambaka’s more upscale traditional hotel. It offers an airy, modern interior and two swimming pools – one indoors, one in a lovely garden. • +30 24 3202 3330 • Map Getting To and From Kalambaka Kalambaka is a popular entry point for the monasteries of Meteora and is linked by rail and bus. Car : Travelers with cars are advised that the access route from the Via Egnatia to the north is a slow and winding route with many turns and bends – it may not suit people prone to motion sickness. Bus : The centrally located Kalambaka bus station (a simple street corner affair) is a subsidiary to the larger and modern Trikala bus terminal , 23 km away. Most ongoing services will involve a change of bus at Trikala. Trikala is linked to the most important mainland destinations. It takes about 6 hours to get from Athens to Kalambaka by bus (including the bus change in Trikala). Train : Kalambaka also boasts a train station with most services terminating at Paleofarsalos, where travelers can change trains for Thessaloniki or Athens, though there is one daily direct to/from service between Kalambaka and Athens (which takes just under 5 hours). Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 3202 2310. Like all major towns in Greece, Meteora (Kalambaka) holds annual public transportation strikes on May 1 and various dates througout the year. Avoid booking trains, buses, or any major travel on that day. Kastoria Kastoria is a pretty and picturesque town in western Macedonia that perhaps doesn’t receive as many international visitors as it deserves. Similar in many ways to its cousin Ioannina to the southwest, Kastoria features a large lake, as well as a prominent peninsula that juts out into the lake and upon which the Old Town is built. It is renowned for its serenity, beautiful nature, and skiing, with dappled mountain ranges and some of the best old mansion accommodation in the north. Very popular with domestic Greek travelers, Kastoria built its wealth on the fur trade and is still a major sale center for fur coats and fur products. Kastoria is not on any major thoroughfare but can be comfortably reached with an easy 40-minute drive off the cross-country Via Egnatia to the south. Things to Do in Kastoria Old Kastoria : Kastoria’s Old Town is focussed on the Doltso neighborhood, a labyrinthine collection of winding streets and imposing merchant mansions. Wandering this compact area, you will admire some very impressive old buildings, several of which have been turned into hotels for visitors. • Map Byzantine Museum : This impressive collection of Byzantine art and religious exhibits is worth an hour or two of study. Easy to find on Plateia Dexaminis in the center of the Old Town. • Map Cycling : The lake provides for a perfect circumnavigation on two wheels. O Podilatis hires out all kinds of bikes from serious to leisurely. The two and four seaters are great for fun with a group – and everyone gets to pedal. • Map Nestorio River Festival : Rock your socks off at this annual music fest by the river. Now into its 40th year, this five-day rockathon features contemporary and traditional Greek music. It takes place towards the end of July and you can camp. Buses take you there and back from Kastoria. • Map Arcturos Bear Sanctuary : Bears and other wild creatures have existed in this area for centuries, but have not always been appreciated. Located 37 km northeast of Kastoria, this wildlife sanctuary is worth a visit. Stop in the attractive nearby village of Nymfaio for lunch, or even to stay the night. • Map Recommended Kastoria Hotels Hotel Doltso – The best of Kastoria’s old town lodgings. Grandiose décor in a pleasing neutral palette. Cozy, comforting, and calming luxury dressed in stone. • +30 24 6702 2022 • Map Orologopoulos Mansion – This is another popular and spacious choice in old Kastoria. Tradition and luxury blend seamlessly in this striking looking building. • +30 24 6702 1604 • Map Vergoula’s Mansion – Traditional house offering old style comfort, lovingly renewed. Very convenient location in the Old Quarter. • +30 24 6702 3415 • Map Getting To and From Kastoria Car : Kastoria is a little bit ‘out on the edge’ and not on any major road routes, so it really lends itself to being visited by car – especially if you wish to see some of the surrounding countryside and make excursions to sights in western Macedonia. Bus : Nonetheless, it has a good intercity bus network and a centrally located bus station . Check the KTEL website for timetables. Kastoria is directly linked by bus to Thessaloniki, Athens, Volos, Kozani and Ioannina. Air : Kastoria is linked by air to Athens via Kozani with Astra Airlines . Taxi : Call a local taxi at +30 24 6702 1222. Avoid booking flights or buses on May 1, when the annual public transportation strike takes place. Monemvasia A Byzantine fortress town on the southeastern coast of Laconia. Dubbed Greece’s Gibraltar due to its location on the base of a large rock rising from the sea, Monemvasia is quite unique in Greece – a medeival village of picturesque cobbled streets and lovingly restored stone houses. In existence since the 6th Century AD, Monemvasia served as a refuge from mainland invasions (when it was still disconnected from the mainland) and later developed into an important trade and maritime center. Passed from the Franks to the Venetians and the Ottomans and finally to the Greek State after the War of Independence (1821), the village languished in relative obscurity in later years. Recently ‘discovered’ by curious travelers, Monemvasia is now a magnet for painters, writers, and readers – one of Monemvasia’s more famous sons is the Greek poet Yannis Ritsos who was born and lived in the village, and is now interred in the cemetery there. Things to Do in Monemvasia The Kastro : The best thing to do in Monemvasia is amble aimlessly along its Byzantine tangle of alleyways and back streets. The historic village is peppered with little churches, squares, and small restaurants and cafés. • Map Upper Town : From the heart of the village you can walk up to the ruins of Upper Town, now abandoned but once the site of the settlement’s grandest homes and churches – including beautiful Hagia Sophia. Picture-perfect views over the roofs of the houses out to sea make the strenuous climb worthwhile. • Map Yannis Ritsos’ Home : Of interest to poets and the literary-minded, Ritsos’ House is located at the beginning of the village just after the entry gate. Monemvasia’s most famous son, this iconoclastic left wing bard fought dictatorships with words. • Map Recommended Monemvasia Hotels Kinsterna Hotel – 5-star luxury estate with gardens, vineyards, olive groves, and stables. 10 minutes south of the castle. • +30 27 3206 6300 • Map Moni Emvasis Luxury Suites – The best of the romantic and historic castle properties, close to the gate and with excellent views. • +30 27 3206 2122 • Map Likinia Hotel – A newly-built but traditionally-styled hotel in the Old Town of Monemvasia. Rooms and suites have sea views and cooling sea breezes. • +30 27 3206 1939 • Map Getting To and From Monemvasia Because it is a somewhat remote outpost status, Monemvasia is not such an easy place to visit on public transport. Bus : There are buses from Athens, but a bus trip to Momenvasia will likely involve a change in Sparti or Molai. The KTEL Lakonia website goes some way to explaining the links. There are three daily services from Athens and four vice versa. Buses arrive at and leave from Gefyra across the causeway; hike from there to the entrance of Monemvasia, or take the shuttle bus that runs every 30 minutes from Gefyra to Monemvasia. Bus tickets can be obtained from Malvasia Travel in Gefyra. As with all other destinations mentioned, avoid taking public transportation to Monemvasia during the annual strike on May 1. Taxi : Arrivals from Kythira to the Peloponnese port of Neapoli are advised to seek a taxi (approx. €40) to Monemvasia. Call +30 69 3247 6486 (Minas Papoulis) or +30 69 7727 5414 (Ioannis Dertilis) or +30 69 7415 6097 (Georgios Minopetros) to arrange for a taxi to meet the incoming ferry. Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is a pretty, breezy, seaside town in the mostly overlooked mainland corner of Central Greece. A relaxing locale with a totally unpretentious Greek air, it’s worthy of a day or two of traveler time if heading out the little-known region of Greece known as Aitolo-Akarnania. A famous naval battle was once waged here between the Ottomans and a tri-part alliance of the Vatican, Spain, and Venice; today the town is a thriving and non-touristy seaside community with a postcard-pretty harbor full with restaurants and cafés. Nafpaktos is conveniently located halfway between Delphi and Olympia, making for a very convenient break between the two. Top class boutique accommodation rounds off the attraction. Things to Do in Nafpaktos The Harbor : Sitting at a café in this small and lovely harbor with its protective stone wall – sipping an iced frappé, or nursing an ouzo on ice – is a slow and unchallenging activity that nonetheless makes up a big part of the Nafpaktos scene. • Map Nafpaktos Castle : It is a bit of a strength-sapping hike up to the Kastro, but like all walks that involve an uphill climb for an hour or so, the view pays for the effort. The Kastro is in decent condition and its fortifications date back to Doric times. • Map Fethiye Mosque : Built by Sultan Bayezid II when he ruled the Ottoman Empire, this splendid mosque still stands and is open to the public. Exhibitions are held here in summer. • Map Botsaris Tower Museum : This gray-painted tower near the harbor, named after Souliot General Notis Botsaris, houses a small museum with paintings and engravings relating to the Battle of Lepanto. • Map The Nafpaktia Hinterland : Nafpaktos sits at the southern tip of a largely unknown and little-explored mountainous chunk of central Greece where a lot of outdoor activity takes place. A list of some of activities runs as follows: kayaking, climbing, hiking, rafting and paintballing. Driving north with a 4×4 to Karpenisi is a great eye-opener to another Greece. • Map Recommended Nafpaktos Hotels Apollon Library Suites – A modern concept hotel where the theme is artful reading. Twelve lovingly finished suites are fitted out in earthy textures and feature mini-libraries for guests. • +30 26 3403 8615 • Map Arhontiko Pepos – Occupying prime position in the pedestrian zone next to the harbour, Pepos is a sophisticated and elegant guesthouse with five tasteful element-themed rooms. • +30 26 3403 8185 • Map Hotel Akti – The exterior belies the interior in this affordable accommodation choice. Rich furnishing and lush lounges dominate while rooms are all tastefully appointed. • +30 26 3402 8464 • Map Getting To and From Nafpaktos Nafpaktos is on the main highway linking towns along the northern Gulf of the Peloponnese and is easily visited by travellers moving between Olympia and Delphi. (Travelers to Delphi will normally swap buses in the port of Itea.) Nafpaktos’ brand new KTEL bus station is unhelpfully located outside of the main town area , so you will need to take a cab (tel: +30 26 3402 5111) to/from the town center. Avoid bus travel on May 1, during the annual public transportation strike. Nafplio Nafplio is a classy weekend retreat or day trip from Athens for Greeks and travelers looking for a chic getaway close to the capital. Neo-classical and Venetian mansions, polished stone alleyways and thoroughfares, a couple of fortresses, beaches, quality hotels , and a picturesque harbor combine with fashion, gourmet food, and distinguished wines to create a winning destination in one of Greece’s most popular towns – all within easy driving distance to the significant archaeological attractions of the region such as Mycenae, Tiryns, and Epidaurus. Appointed Greek capital for one year after the liberation of Greece in 1821, Nafplio’s role as head city was passed over to Athens by Greece’s first King, Otto. That didn’t deter Nafplio from slowly developing into a swanky retreat for urbanites, artists, merchants and other posh people in later years. Today’s travelers are advised to make plans well in advance. Its gorgeous and sophisticated air ensures there are many visitors year-round – particularly in winter, though high summer sees a lot of northern Europeans drawn by its irresistible pull. Things to Do in Nafplio The Old Town : Nafplio’s primary attraction is the inimitable ambiance and taste of the streets of the traditional quarter. It invites strolling, browsing, shopping, eating, dining, seeing and being seen. Simple as that. • Map The Palamidi Fortress : Guarding the eastern flank of Nafplio town this enormous citadel can be approached by a steep climb, or a rather roundabout (but easier) drive. Go early if you plan to walk. It’s almost 1000 steps to the top. • Map The Bourtzi : Viewable from any part of Nafplio, this mini Venetian fortress sits asea and guards the harbour. Once a prison, it now accepts visitors by tour boat. • Map Archaeological Museum : This museum traces the history of the Argolis peninsula from its earliest days – well worth a pre-lunch, enlightening meander. • Map Akronafplia Fortress : Looming above the town is the unavoidable hulk of this immense natural bastion. Drive, walk or take the lift that’s located in the square near the “Five Brothers” cannons: it’s worth it for the views. • Map Komboloi Museum : Teeny tiny museum dedicated to komboloi ; the traditional worry beads that Nafplio is particularly known for creating. Located upstairs of a small storefront in Old Town – you can buy your own on your way out. • Map Recommended Nafplio Hotels Gambello Luxury Rooms – Utterly charming 11-room boutique hotel in a neoclassical mansion near the Nafplio harbor and waterfront promenade. Excellent views of Bourtzi fortress from some rooms. • +30 2752 023009 • Map 3Sixty Hotel & Suites – Cousin to the Ippoliti Hotel, the funky and elegant 3Sixty offers a modern twist on comfort and hosts a renowned gourmet restaurant. • +30 27 5250 0501 • Map Regno di Morea – Modern boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town Nafplio. • +30 27 5202 2232 • Map Getting To and From Nafplio Nafplio is connected to the rest of Greece by bus only, covered by the Argolis KTEL network . There are between 11 and 14 direct connections with Athens, as well as one or two services between other major Peloponnese towns such as Kalamata, Tripoli, and Patra. The bus terminal is on Andrea Syngrou on the eastern side of the Old Town where there is also a handy taxi stand. (Call +30 27 5202 6300 or get the app to arrange a taxi in advance.) Avoid taking public transportation on May 1, when most buses, trains, ferries, and flights are stopped. Olympia This pleasant, bucolic village in the northwestern Peloponnese is ancient birthplace of the Olympic Games, worth a day or two of traveling time in any trip to Mainland Greece. Olympia is a pleasant place to linger; there is a relaxed ambiance, fine dining, friendly cafés, and feeling that you are at one – if only for a day – with the principles of global harmony promoted by the games for centuries. Things to Do in Olympia Ancient Olympia : See where the Olympic movement started, including the spot where the Olympic flame is lit every two years. The site is enormous and requires some time to see. Start early to avoid the throngs of cruise ship travelers that arrive by bus and train by mid-morning, and read up (or visit the Archaeological Museum) in advance, so you know what’s what. • Map Archaeological Museum : Complementing the site itself is this impressive museum that features finds from the site of Ancient Olympia. It is advised to visit here on a separate day as the site itself, as there is a lot on display to absorb. • Map Museum of the History of the Olympic Games in Antiquity : A separate museum exhibition, this collection focuses on the Games themselves and is best combined on the day with the Archaeological Museum. Entry is on the same ticket as the Ancient Olympia site. • Map Recommended Olympia Hotels Hotel Europa – A grand resort style hotel with a pool and excellent outdoor restaurant. You’ll need a cab to get here as it’s a little outside Olympia village, but worth the effort. • +30 26 2402 2650 • Map Hotel Pelops – A more modest accommodation option for visitors to the village; a small family hotel with all the necessary comforts and a welcoming atmosphere. • +30 26 2402 2543 • Map Central Guest Room – Conveniently-located double rooms & apartments with balconies. • +30 69 3690 7066 • Map Getting To and From Olympia Olympia is not particularly well-connected by public transport to any major destinations, though there are a couple of options to choose from, traveling through Pyrgos. Bus : Olympia is accessible via local bus from the main Pyrgos bus station to Olympia. There are thirteen daily departures, and the trip takes about 45 minutes. Buses leave from platform 1. Train : There is a very good modern train service that links Olympia with the port of Katakolo, via Pyrgos. There are three departures daily from Pyrgos. Taxi : Taxis in Olympia depart from the train station. Avoid taking the bus or train on May 1, when the yearly public transportation strike takes place. Thessaloniki Thessaloniki’s maritime location makes the second-largest city in Greece seem less like a commercial center than a breezy seaside resort. A smoother sibling city to Athens down south, Thessaloniki is immediately likable; the pace is more relaxed and the air seems somehow brighter here. Many great hotels too. An ancient city by any standards (founded in 315 BC), Thessaloniki wears its checkered and multi-cultural past with panache and pride. It was the second-largest and wealthiest city in the Byzantine Empire, home to a large Jewish community under the Ottomans, and became part of the Greek State in 1912. It is now considered to be the cultural capital of Greece, and many would also say culinary capital too – some of the country’s finest dining can be enjoyed here. Fashionistas will find some of the trendiest items of apparel on its chic streets. Things to Do in Thessaloniki Like Athens, there is enough to see in Thessaloniki to keep you occupied for weeks. If you’ve only got two to three days at your disposal, here are some of the must-dos: the best and easiest Thessaloniki attractions and experiences. Archaeological Museum : History buffs will love to browse among this elegant collection of ancient Macedonian and Hellenistic finds from the area. The Vergina Tombs exhibits are located in Vergina (see Veria section). • Map Boat Cruise : Take a free evening boat ride around the waterfront bay and enjoy the lights of the city from the sea. Just buy a drink on board – that’s your ticket (or €3 if you don’t want to order anything). One of Thessaloniki’s best-kept tourist secrets. Look for the boats near the White Tower. • Map Ladadika Quarter : This once tumbled-down industrial district has been the home in recent years to some of the city’s best dining surprises. Buttressing the north-western flank of the waterside, Ladadika is a great place for a drink or for schmoozing around on foot for an hour or two. • Map Shopping : the eastern end of Tsimiski Street hosts a dazzling array of fashion outlets and shoe boutiques. Greece’s latest fashions are debuted here and prices are brilliant – especially during the sales season. • Map The Kastro : backing the modern city are the walls of the Kastro that today constitute the Ano Poli (Upper City). It’s cooler up here and walking its walled streets peppered with battlements and monasteries makes a nice escape from the city, as well as a great spot for a sunset dinner. • Map The White Tower : The ultimate symbol of Thessaloniki, all of the city revolves around this unmistakable landmark. Despite its somewhat gruesome past as a prison and torture house, it’s now a great historical landmark, regional museum, and viewpoint spot. • Map Recommended Thessaloniki Hotels Electra Palace Hotel – Sumptuous, classic 5-star hotel hospitality. The grand dame of the Thessaloniki hotel scene, the Electra Palace towers over Aristotelous Square in the heart of the city. • +30 23 1029 4000 • Map The Trilogy House – A great concept hotel with only seven different and artfully designed rooms, all housed in a turn of the century building. As central as you can get. • +30 23 1023 2305 • Map Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – Arty, funky, very cool and very central, Blue Bottle offers hip, modernistic rooms at a good price. Coco-Mat beds and large family rooms. • +30 23 1052 0090 • Map Getting To and From Thessaloniki Thessaloniki is a major hub both for ground transport around northern Greece and for international and domestic air connections. Air : Thessaloniki Airport is 16.5 km east of the city center, connected by the No. 78 bus that also links the train station and the main bus station. Bus : Intercity buses leave from the large bus station that’s located 6.2 km west of the city center. Both domestic as well as international routes are serviced here. Buses to Halkidiki leave from a smaller terminal at the 9th km of the Ring Road. Train : The train station is closer to the city center, offering daily departures to Athens and destinations in between, as well as to Alexandroupolis in the east. International routes for Belgrade, Sofia, and Bucharest also pass through here. Car : Drivers planning to circumvent Thessaloniki are advised to the use the outer peripheral ring road to avoid traffic delays in the city center. Thessaloniki generally has great public transportation, but like the rest of Greece it is subject to strikes throughout the year. These strikes affect all forms of transit, including, buses, trains, ferries, flights, and taxis. During strikes no buses, no ferries, and only a handful of trains and flights will depart on time (or at all); taxis tend to be the least affected mode of transport. Though strikes can occur any time, there is always a huge strike on May 1. Avoid booking any ferries, flights, trains, or buses that day. Veria Perched on the south-eastern escarpment of Mt Vermio, Veria is breezy, bright, and very un-touristy. It is popular in winter for skiing on Mt. Vermio, as well as year-round for its amiable charm and as a good base to visit a clutch of important archaeological sites. Veria is an ancient city, first mentioned by Thucydides in 432 BC. St. Paul preached here, and today it is a very popular religious pilgrimage destination for Greeks. It was home to a large Jewish community until WWII and the old neighborhood has been revived. Veria is conveniently located on the Via Egnatia, an hour’s drive west of Thessaloniki. From Veria, travelers can easily drive to the other pretty escarpment towns of Naousa and Edessa. Things to Do in Veria Archaeological Sites : The Vergina Royal Tombs Museum is the star archaeological exhibit in this town. An unearthed burial ground revealed the gold and splendor of Phillip II’s tomb (father of Alexander the Great). The Pella Museum explains the significance of Pella (the ancient kingdom of Macedon) in the ancient world. • Map: Vergina Tombs , Pella Museums : In Veria itself are two museums worth a look-in: The Archaeological Museum with Neolithic figurines and findings from Vergina, and the Byzantine Museum , comprising three floors of excellent Byzantine artifacts. • Map: Archaeological Museum , Byzantine Museum The Old Jewish Quarter : Barbouta, by the river, is the Old Jewish Quarter. Once derelict, it now possesses a classy charm. Next to the Old Synagogue is a scattering of tastefully restored houses, now hosting boutique hotels. • Map Skiing : Pack your woollies and winter gear and take a skiing holiday at Veria’s Seli Ski Resort , or others in Macedonia. There are more options than most would imagine. • Map: Seli Recommended Veria Hotels Kokkino Spiti – The first of the renovated lodgings in the old Jewish Quarter, Kokkino Spiti offers comfort and a well-tailored finesse. • +30 23 3107 4440 • Map The House by the River – Another lovingly restored hotel house on the Tripotamos river, with thoughtfully designed rooms in soft pastel furnishings. Wood and iron feature in the restored architecture. • +30 69 3723 2809 • Map Veritas Boutique Hotel – Tradition and modernity meet in a jazzy, art-inspired hotel in the center of the new town. Dine at the in-house V-Bistro & Bar. • +30 23 3106 8100 • Map Getting To and From Veria Veria is well placed for visitor access on the Via Egnatia (Egnatia Odos) between Thessaloniki and Ioannina in the West. Bus : Buses operate out of the small main bus station in the center of town with regular services to Athens and Thessaloniki and destinations in Western Macedonia. Buses to Ioannina depart from outside the Veria Restaurant at Pierion 155 , 2.2 km on the south side of town. Train : Veria has a train station on the north-east side of town with connections to Florina and Thessaloniki, but it may not be operating due to the ongoing upgrading of the Greece railway system. Check the Hellenic Train website for current updates. Avoid relying on trains or buses to get around on May 1, when the largest public transportation strike is scheduled each year.

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Discover Greece’s renowned cities and world-famous ancient architecture during this spectacular getaway, featuring an Aegean Sea cruise that visits five Greek islands and a Turkish coastal city. Arrive in Athens and stay at an upscale hotel conveniently located in the city center, perfect for individual exploration. Enjoy a guided tour of the Acropolis, Parliament, the Temple of Zeus, and the Olympic Stadium. Next, travel to Delphi for intriguing archaeological discoveries and tours of monasteries in the sky at Meteora. We then board our Celestyal Cruises ship for a four-night cruise with ports of call in Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes, Heraklion, Santorini, and Kusadasi, plus an included excursion to the ancient city of Ephesus. Delight in beautiful accommodations, wonderful amenities, and all meals included onboard. We disembark in Piraeus, then return to Athens for a visit to the National Archaeological Museum and time at leisure before celebrating our adventures with a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant.

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Aegean Sea Cruise

Enjoy 4 nights cruising the stunning blue Aegean Sea aboard the Celestyal Olympus ship. Featuring incredible stops at Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Rhodes, Heraklion/Crete, and Santorini, this cruise highlights some of the most spectacular attractions along the sea.

Immersive History & Culture

Greece is a county filled with fascinating history and incredible culture, and this tour takes you on an in-depth exploration of all the wonders it has to offer. Discover the iconic city of Athens, the mystical archaeological site of Delphi, the beautiful historic monasteries of Meteora, and so much more.

Spectacular Beauty

Not only is Greece known for its rich history and culture, it’s also famous for its unbelievably gorgeous scenery. Deep blue waters, vibrant cities, and breathtaking natural beauty await in every part of this unique destination, and you’ll have ample opportunity to take it all in on this adventure of a lifetime.

Additional Tour Information

Your holiday vacations experience includes:, all accommodations featuring.

• 2 nights at Divani Palace Acropolis in Athens
• 1 night at Grand Meteora Hotel in Kalambaka
• 1 night at Divani Palace Acropolis in Athens before our cruise
• 1 night at Divani Palace Acropolis in Athens after our cruise
• Four-night cruise on the Aegean Sea with Celestyal Cruises

Attractions & Highlights

• Athens guided city tour
• Acropolis guided tour
• Delphi Archaeological Site & Museum
• Meteora monasteries
• Battlefield area of Thermopylae
• Ephesus guided tour
• Rhodes guided tour feat. Lindos Acropolis & Palace of the Grand Master of the Nights
• National Archaeological Museum
• Heraklion/Crete

22 Excellent Meals Featuring

• Welcome Dinner in Athens
• Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant
• All meals included aboard ship

Exclusive Cruise Ship Benefits

• Ports of Call:

Day 1 : Fly to Athens

We board our overnight flight to Athens.

Day 2 : Arrive in Greece

Today we arrive in Athens and check in to our luxurious accommodations ideally located in the city center. We have the afternoon to explore the city or relax after our flight.

Day 3 : Athens City Tour

Today enjoy a guided tour of Athens. Visit the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, seeing firsthand the storied masterpieces of classical Greek architecture, and look out over the city from the ancient citadel. The city tour also takes us to Parliament, the Presidential Palace, the temple of Olympian Zeus, as well as the Olympic Stadium. Tonight, we have dinner at a Greek taverna.

Day 4 : Delphi

We depart Athens this morning for Delphi, one of the most important archaeological sites in the country. We arrive via Thebes, Livadeia and the picturesque village of Arachova on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, spending time at the site and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Afterwards, we pass through charming villages en route to our comfortable accommodations in Kalambaka.

Day 5 : Meteora

Travel to Meteora where several monasteries lie between Earth and sky atop huge rocks featuring priceless historical and religious treasures. These ancient pinnacles were once home to hermit monks as early as the 9th century, finding an ideal place for solitude and prayer. We visit two of these monasteries today – St. Stephen’s and Varlaam. Before returning to Athens we visit the Battlefield area of Thermopylae with a short stop to see the Leonidas Monument.

Day 6 : Cruise to Mykonos

Our casual cruise aboard the Celestyal Olympia begins today, taking us to five Greek islands plus Kusadasi, a Turkish coastal city. Say goodbye to Athens and leave from its port for Mykonos. Famous for beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife, there is time in the evening to explore this Mediterranean paradise’s open-air tavernas, whitewashed buildings, and cobblestone streets. Late this evening we depart Mykonos and set sail for Kusadasi.

Day 7 : Kusadasi & Patmos

Today we visit two ports of call: Kusadasi and Patmos, both brimming with historical sites. In the morning, we arrive on the Turkish coast for a guided tour of ancient Ephesus, one of the Mediterranean’s largest Roman archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the Library of Celsus, the Temple of Hadrian, the Houses of the Patricians, and more. In the afternoon, our ship sails to the island of Patmos. We enjoy free time in Scala Port or take optional tours of the Grotto of the Apocalypse or the Monastery of Saint John, who dictated the visions that became the Book of Revelations. After dinner, our cruise ship departs for Rhodes.

Day 8 : Rhodes

The largest island in the Dodecanese chain, Rhodes was once surrounded by Byzantine walls and fortresses built by the Knights of Rhodes in the 1300s. Present day Rhodes still looks much as it did then. Begin with a guided tour through Lindos and within its awe-inspiring acropolis, a clifftop archaeological site with extraordinary views of the Mediterranean Sea. Next we visit Rhodes Town for a guided tour of the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights with time to explore the Street of the Knights, winding alleys, towers, and decorated façades. After dinner, our ship sails for Crete and Santorini.

Day 9 : Crete & Santorini

Today we visit two ports of call: Heraklion on the island of Crete, and the volcanic isle of Santorini. In Crete we will view the astonishing Venetian fortress at the harbor gate with time to discover the “old town” areas such as the gorgeous pedestrian mall at the 25th of August Street, or take an optional tour of the Minoan Palace of Knossos. In Santorini we admire the breathtaking caldera, created by the island’s volcano in ancient times, or take an optional tour to the Oia, a romantic cliffside town that is the most photographed location in all of Greece, featuring whitewashed houses and spectacular sunsets.

Day 10 : National Archaeological Museum

We disembark after breakfast and return to Athens to visit the National Archaeological Museum, devoted to ancient Greek art and antiquities. The rest of the afternoon is yours for exploration and relaxation. Find unusual gifts at the Monastiraki flea markets, or take a stroll through Anafiotika or Pláka, both charming neighborhoods with great personality, shops and eateries. In the evening, we celebrate our adventure at a Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner.

Day 11 : Fly Home

We fly home with wonderful memories of our Greek adventure.

Today we arrive in Athens and check in to our luxurious accommodations that are conveniently located in the city center. The afternoon is yours to get settled in and relax or explore the city independently. This evening, we get to know our fellow travelers over a wonderful Welcome Dinner at the hotel.

After an included breakfast, we meet our local guide for a fascinating tour of Athens. We visit the Acropolis, seeing firsthand the storied masterpieces of classical Greek architecture, and take in beautiful vistas from the ancient citadel. The city tour also takes us to Parliament, the Presidential Palace, the Temple of Zeus, as well as the Olympic Stadium. This afternoon, we have free time in the heart of the city at Syntagma Square. We travel back to our hotel later, with time to freshen up and relax before dinner together at a local restaurant.

We depart Athens this morning for Delphi, traveling through the picturesque village of Arachova on the slopes of Mount Parnassus and Thebes, Livadeia. Upon arrival, we meet with our local guide and begin exploring the Delphi Archaeological Site & Museum. Admire the Oracle of Delphi, one of the most important shrines in ancient Greece, symbolizing unity. It was built over a sacred spring and considered the center of the world. Afterwards, we pass through charming villages en route to our comfortable accommodations in Kalambaka.

This morning, we travel to Meteora where several monasteries lie between the earth and sky atop huge rocks featuring priceless historical and religious treasures. Enjoy a guided tour through some of these ancient pinnacles that were once home to hermit monks as early as the 9th century, their ideal place for solitude and prayer. Before returning to our hotel in Athens, we visit the Battlefield area of Thermopylae with a short stop to see the Leonidas Monument.

Our spectacular four-night cruise on the Aegean Sea with Celestyal Cruises begins today, taking us to five Greek islands plus Kusadasi, a Turkish coastal city. Our first destination is Mykonos, famous for beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. Enjoy time in the evening to explore this Mediterranean paradise’s open-air tavernas, whitewashed buildings, and cobblestone streets. Later tonight, we depart Mykonos and set sail for Kusadasi.

We dock in Rhodes this morning, the largest island in the Dodecanese chain. Once surrounded by Byzantine walls and fortresses built by the Knights of Rhodes in the 1300s, the present-day city still looks much as it did then. Embark on a guided tour through Lindos and within its awe-inspiring acropolis, discover a clifftop archaeological site with extraordinary views of the Mediterranean Sea. Next, we visit Rhodes Medieval Old Town for a guided tour including the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights. The afternoon is free to explore the Street of the Knights, winding alleys, towers, and decorated façades. After dinner, our ship sets sail for Crete.

Our two ports of call today include Heraklion on the island of Crete and Skala on the volcanic isle of Santorini. In Crete, we view its astonishing Venetian fortress at the harbor gate with time to discover the “old town” areas, such as the gorgeous pedestrian mall at the 25th of August Street, or take an optional tour of the Minoan Palace of Knossos. In Santorini, we admire the breathtaking caldera, created by the island’s volcano in ancient times, or take an optional tour to Oia, a romantic cliffside town that is the most photographed location in all of Greece, featuring whitewashed houses and spectacular sunsets.

We disembark at the port of Piraeus after breakfast and enjoy a picturesque drive to Athens, where we stay in the same charming hotel that our journey began in. After a visit to the National Archaeological Museum, devoted to ancient Greek art and antiquities, the rest of the afternoon is yours for exploration and relaxation. Find unique gifts at the Monastiraki flea markets, or take a stroll through Anafiotika or Pláka, both charming neighborhoods with great shops and eateries. This evening, we celebrate our unforgettable Greek adventures at a delicious Farewell Dinner.

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Classical Greece Land & Cruise

Stories from europe, africa & the middle east, activity levels.

Tour days tend to be shorter in length, at a relaxed pace, and include lots of unscheduled time for leisure. Expect standing and walking for extended periods of time on flat surfaces, mostly low altitudes, and consistent temperatures.

Tour days usually move at a leisurely pace. Some days’ scheduled activities last longer than others. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on occasionally uneven terrain. You may experience changes in altitude or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a consistent pace, and may include long travel days. Expect standing and walking for long periods of time on uneven surfaces. Some destinations may have changes in altitude and/or temperature.

Tour days tend to be long, move at a brisk pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on uneven surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

Very Active

Tour days tend to be long, move at a vigorous pace, and may include lengthy travel days. Expect long periods of walking and standing on rough surfaces. Scheduled activities may require physical effort or have distinct changes in altitude or temperature.

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

• Main content

Ultimate Greece & Italy

Take the ultimate Greece and Italy vacation by combining two of YMT’s most popular tours.

Your tour begins in  Athens . See thousands of years of history in monuments including Hadrian’s Arch and the legendary  Acropolis . Next, travel by ferry to Mykonos. Be charmed by this island famous for its domed churches painted the colors of the Greek flag, and its hilltop windmills.

You’ll continue to Santorini, which many consider the prettiest island in the world. With its black sand beaches and incredible sunsets overlooking the caldera, you might soon agree! Spend a final day in Athens, then say  Buongiorno ! to Rome.

History buffs will not be disappointed on their Roman holiday. Enjoy guided tours of Vatican City and Rome, with highlights including the pristine Sistine Chapel and the Roman Forum.

Head next to peaceful villages and towns including  Orvieto ,  Bologna , Pisa, and Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Next, explore the canals of  Venice  on foot and by boat-automobiles are forbidden in this captivating city. Your final full day starts with a visit to Medieval Verona , the setting of Shakespeare’s  Romeo and Juliet . That evening, your Italy and Greece trip ends with a farewell feast in sophisticated Milan.

• 4 nights in Athens with sightseeing
• Visit Greece’s most popular islands—2 nights each in Mykonos & Santorini
• Visit the Acropolis & the Parthenon
• Visit Rome, Florence, and Venice—Italy’s three most spectacular cities
• See the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo frescoes in Vatican City
• See for yourself and marvel at the angle of the Leaning Tower of Pisa

Murano & Burano Tour

Discover the Islands of Murano and Burano on an unforgettable guided tour.

Activity level

• Very Active

Tour Includes

2 Countries

Sightseeing

• The Vatican City

Hotel Accommodations

• Moderate hotels based on twin/double occupancy
• 16 Breakfasts and 6 Dinners
• A professionally trained English-speaking local tour director who is knowledgeable of the area and will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.

Baggage Handling

• To and from your hotel room throughout your land tour for one piece of Checked Baggage per person.

Athens, Greece

Milan, Italy

Your vacation begins as you depart on your transatlantic flight. Overnight in flight.

Arrive in Athens, Greece, the land of great philosophers, artists and the birthplace of democracy. If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, you will be transferred to your hotel where the balance of the day is at leisure. This evening, you’ll get a chance to meet all your fellow travelers and your YMT Tour Director at the welcome briefing and dinner at the hotel. (D)

Moxy Athens City or similar

Enjoy a half-day sightseeing tour of Athens. You will see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, the Parliament, the monument of the Unknown Soldier, and Constitution Square. Then it’s on to the most famous site in Athens—the Acropolis, atop which lies the stunning 2,500 year old Parthenon Temple built to honor the goddess Athena. Finally, this morning you will visit the new Acropolis Museum. The afternoon is at leisure and you are free to explore the Plaka district in the shadow of the Acropolis, Athens’ oldest and most picturesque neighborhood. The maze of cobblestone pedestrian streets is lined with shops, boutiques, souvenir stands and flea market stalls that beckon all who enter. You will have plenty of time to browse through the many shops and souvenir stalls or you can relax in one of the many tavernas or cafes. This evening you can experience an optional fun and entertaining Greek night. (B)

Add-On : Dinner & Music at Zafiro’s.

Today you will have the full day to explore more of this ancient city. We recommend you join our full-day optional tour to Delphi and the Temple of Apollo, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greek history. Delphi was the center of the ancient world and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It sits at the foot of mount Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty overlooking the Gulf of Corinth. .If you are looking for a shorter adventure, consider joining the food market tour of Athens (B)

Add-On : Athens Food Market Tour & Lunch/ Delphi & the Temple of Apollo

Please note that you can only choose either Delphi or Plaka Food Market, as it’s not possible to do both on the same day.

This morning, we take the short drive to the port of Piraeus to board your ferryboat and cruise toward the islands. This afternoon, we arrive at the island of Mykonos, famous for its windmills, whitewashed buildings, and domed churches. This charming island is just 33 square miles, and has a resident population of around 10,000. This evening, you can enjoy a plethora of exceptionally fresh seafood in the waterfront cafes and tavernas in the area of Mykonos Town known as Little Venice. (B, D)

Hotel Kamari or similar

Note: Local regulations in Greece mandate that guests carry their own luggage on and off ferry boats.

Add-On : Delos Island Tour

El Greco Resort & Spa or similar

Add-On : Oia, Fira & the wines of Santorini

You have a full day to explore this unique island paradise at your own pace, or join our optional Island Highlights Tour where you’ll visit and see all the main sights. These will include Akrotiri, a Bronze Age settlement that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption during the 17th century BC and was preserved in perfect condition; the Red Beach; and several beautiful traditional villages. (B, D)

Add-On : Santorini Sunset Cruise

The last morning in the islands is yours to relax on the beach, or explore the array of shops for last minute souvenirs and gifts before we head to the port around lunchtime for our early afternoon ferryboat departure for Athens. We arrive back in the evening at the port of Piraeus and take the short transfer to Athens for the last overnight stay in Greece. (B)

Transfer to Athens airport to check in for your flight to Rome. A YMT representative will welcome you at Rome Airport and you will be transferred to your hotel. This evening learn about the next stages of your tour in Italy, then relax over a tasty Italian dinner. (B, D)

Hotel H10 Roma or similar

This morning, take a guided tour of Vatican City, home of the Pope. Explore the Vatican Museums, which house some of the most important and valuable art treasures in the world. Visit the Sistine Chapel to see floor-to-ceiling biblical frescoes painted by Michelangelo in around 1512, St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square. (B)

Note: Touring the Vatican Museums requires walking up several staircases and 2-3 hours of walking.

A full-day sightseeing tour includes the highlights of this Eternal City. Today’s sights include outside views of the Roman Forum, once a marketplace and center of daily Roman life, the Piazza Navona and the renowned Spanish Steps along with the fabled Trevi Fountain. (B)

Add-On : Ostia Antica tour with dinner

Depart Rome this morning and travel north into the picturesque Umbrian countryside. We stop and take the funicular up to the ancient town of Orvieto, where you can explore the rich history of this charming town and admire a variety of Etruscan, Medieval, and Renaissance art. The Orvieto funicular (a cliff cable railway) first opened in 1888 and uses water and gravity to transport its cars up and down the hillside. We then continue north and by late afternoon arrive at Montecatini Terme, a beautiful spa town that was built around its mineral water springs, where we spend the next two nights. (B)

Hotel Boston or similar

Add-On : Tuscan Wine Tasting Dinner & Music

Today’s full-day excursion starts with a short drive toward the Mediterranean coast and the city of Pisa. See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and enjoy a walking tour of Florence, during which you can see the 13th century Duomo with the Brunelleschi dome and Giotto’s Campanile (bell tower). See Ghiberti’s golden “Gates of Paradise” doors at the marble-clad Baptistery of St. John, the Piazza della Signoria and the Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge spanning the River Arno, complete with shops built along it. (B)

We drive northeast and stop in Bologna. Probably best known for its culinary tradition, Bologna also has an impressive history and is home to one of the world’s oldest universities, founded in 1088. Enjoy some time on your own and perhaps pasta with authentic bolognese sauce (ragu alla bolognese in Italian) before we continue toward the Adriatic coast. We’ll arrive in the Venice area by late afternoon and will stay just a few miles across the lagoon from the historic city. (B, D)

Smart Hotel Holiday Venice Mestre or similar

Add-On : Murano & Burano Tour

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of this amazing city, now a World Heritage Site, built on an archipelago of 117 islands in a lagoon. Transfer by boat to St. Mark’s Square where you’ll begin your walking tour to see the lavish Doge’s Palace, (entrance not included) and the fabled Bridge of Sighs as well as the Rialto Bridge, Venice’s oldest, spanning the Grand Canal. This afternoon you are free to wander through the labyrinth of canals and alleyways, lined with boutiques and souvenir shops, or perhaps relax and “people watch” over an espresso or tasty Italian gelato. If you want to get out on the water, there are a variety of boat rides available (not included) from water taxis to the traditional gondolas. (B)

A dd-On : Murano & Burano Tour

Today we head through the lush northern Italian landscape to Verona. A city best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, it also offers wonderful examples of Medieval and Renaissance art and architecture. Our walking tour includes the Duomo (cathedral), Piazza delle Erbe with the famous Torre dei Lamberti (high tower), and of course the house of Juliet, with its famous balcony. Continue west to Milan, capital of the region of Lombardy. Your panoramic sightseeing tour highlights will include Piazza del Duomo, the main central square surrounded by several important buildings, such as Milan’s Gothic cathedral and the Royal Palace of Milan. You’ll also have a chance to see Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an impressive and ornate indoor shopping arcade built in 1865, as well as La Scala Opera House. (B, D)

Novotel Malpensa or similar

Your Italy vacation comes to an end today as you depart for home with newfound friends and a suitcase full of memories to last a lifetime!

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Hotels may differ depending on date. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tour vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights. Please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

YMT Vacations itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.

Inquire Now

Per person, double occupancy, excludes roundtrip airfare. Passport required.

Add airfare?

We’ll get back to you soon. To secure an exclusive limited-time offer for your trip, call 888-860-1969 now to uncover our best-kept secret deals!

Unfortunately, additional nights are not available from YMT Vacations for this tour. Your YMT Sales Consultant will confirm the specific hotel related to your departure date, and you can then contact the hotel directly to arrange an extended stay.

No, triples are not permitted.

You should arrive in Athens no later than 3pm. Your flight home from Milan should depart no earlier than 10am.

No, not at this time.

Make your vacation extra special by adding optional excursions to your tour. It’s a great opportunity to enhance your trip, these experiences slot seamlessly into your package, and we’ll take care of all the logistics for you. Call us for pricing, and remember that adding an optional experience might increase the overall activity level of the tour, so always keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Enjoy an evening of dinner and dancing at Zafiros! Nestled in the hills of Attiko Alsos, enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Athens by night. Then get settled in as traditional Greek dancers go through the steps of the “zeibekiko” and the more intense “kalamatiano,” accompanied by live music. Don’t forget to partake in the traditional Greek “Zorba” dance with your fellow travelers! During this interactive dancing and music experience, enjoy a full buffet of Greek dishes, including Greek Salad, spinach pie, and a variety of meat, fish, and vegetarian options.

• Round Trip Transportation
• Traditional Greek Dancing and Music
•  Buffet style Greek dinner (water, soft drinks, and wine included)

Note: This is a public event and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well, however YMT guests will be able to sit altogether at the same table(s).

Duration: 4 hours (evening)

Activity Level: Easy

Price: $109 USD

Join your fellow travelers for an unforgettable afternoon as you discover the Islands of Murano and Burano. After your private boat ride from San Marco Square, see the exquisite glasswork of Murano and watch how the glassblowers create these works of art. Continue on to Burano, well known for the old tradition of lace making, where your guide will take you through the streets lined with quaint multi-colored homes.

•  Private boat ride from San Marco Square to Murano & Burano islands
• Complimentary tea or coffee at the Colleoni Glass factory
• Included workshop – Create your very own one-of-a-kind earrings or key ring of Murano glass to take home
• Tour of Burano

Duration: Approx. 5 hours (afternoon)

Activity Level: Active

Price: $39 USD

Join us on this culinary journey to learn about the best of Greek cuisine! Start your tour on Athinas Street in central Athens, famous for its homeware stores. Here we will explore the basics of the Greek kitchen, visit several bakeries, and stroll along a street dedicated entirely to cheese and spices. Next, continue to “Terra Fresh,” where we can taste a wide range of Greek nuts, fruits, herbs, olive oils, spices, and ouzo. We continue on to Varvakios Market, the oldest and most traditional food market in Greece, open since 1884 and a true testament to fresh Greek produce. Next, enjoy a visit to a Greek charcuterie, famous for it’s pastourma and soutzouki, as well as it’s aged cheese and salted meats. Don’t forget to sample a typical dessert of traditional Greek donuts and coffee! To complete your tour, we will head to the heart of Athens where we can enjoy a traditional lunch including one of the most popular Greek dishes, the “gyro”.

• Roundtrip transfers
• English speaking Guide
• Tastings throughout market tour
• Lunch including a variety of appetizers for the table, a main course of various grilled meats (beef, chicken, and pork), and fruit for dessert (includes bottled water, all other drinks not included)

Note: Substitutions or alternatives to accommodate food allergies, intolerances, or special diets may not be possible, subject to local conditions and specific food vendors. Please inform your guide or Tour Director if you have any allergy, intolerance, or special diet. This tour requires walking and standing for long periods of time. This tour and the full-day Delphi tour cannot be booked together, as the timing for both tours overlaps. This tour is private for YMT guests only.

Duration: Approx. 6 hours (morning)

Price: $149 USD

Visit one of the most important archaeological sites in Greek history with a tour to ancient Delphi and the Temple of Apollo. This full day excursion will begin with a scenic drive through the picturesque fertile plains of Boeotia to Delphi. Delphi, which lies on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, was considered the center of the ancient world dating back to approximately 500 B.C. and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Guided walking tour through the archaeological sites of Delphi and the Temple of Apollo
• Admission to the Treasury of the Athenians and the Delphi Archaeological
• 3 Course Greek lunch in the town of Delphi including water (no other drinks included)
• Short photo stop in the stunning mountain town of Arachova

Note: This tour involves walking/ standing for long periods of time over occasionally uneven terrain. This tour is not adaptable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This is a public tour and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well. This tour and the Plaka Food Market tour cannot be booked together, as the timing for both tours overlaps.

Duration: Approx. 10 hours (full-day)

Join your fellow travelers today on a short ferry ride from Mykonos harbor to the mostly uninhabited island of Delos. This island is strongly believed to be the birthplace of the god Apollo, and is considered one of the most sacred mythological, historical and archaeological sites in Greece. Delos, a World Heritage UNESCO site, is known as the largest open-air museum in Europe and is currently only inhabited by archaeologists conducting excavations. While on your guided tour of the island you will see the House of Cleopatra, Temple of Apollo, the famous Lion Terrace, and other breathtaking mosaics and statues. Your visit to the island is sure to capture the ancient ways the people lived!

• Approximately 45-minute relaxing ferry ride from Mykonos to Delos
• Guided walking tour through Europe’s largest open-air museum, containing Europe’s first synagogue, the first Egyptian temple, the famous Lion Terrace, the House of Cleopatra and a Temple of Apollo
• Approximately 1 hour of leisure time to explore the ruins on your own

Note: This tour requires walking and standing for long periods of time, often over uneven terrain. This tour is not adaptable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This is a public tour and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well.

Duration: Approx. 4 Hours (Afternoon)

Price: $99 USD

A trip to Greece would not be complete without witnessing a spectacular Grecian Oia sunset. Join your fellow travelers this evening on a sunset cruise aboard the largest sailboat in Santorini, the Afroditi. The cruise will take you to the middle of the Santorini Caldera where two uninhabited volcanic islands await. You will have the opportunity here to photograph and leisurely climb up a volcanic crater, offering an experience unlike any other. Upon leaving Nea Kameni you will arrive at the second volcanic island of Palea Kameni where you will have time to relax and unwind in the natural hot springs or remain on board and take in the beautiful scenery. Your captain will anchor near Thirasia Island where you will be able to enjoy your dinner on board and take in the mesmerizing scenery before departing into the Oia Sunset.

• A visit to the active crater in Nea Kameni
• Enjoy a traditional Greek meal on board, served buffet style and including many meat and vegetarian dishes. Softs drinks and Santorinian wine are included. Menu subject to change.

Note: This tour is not adaptable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This is a public tour and guests who are not part of your YMT Vacations tour may participate as well.

Duration: Approx. 7 Hours (Afternoon)

Upon arrival in the port of Santorini, enjoy this private guided tour to the most picturesque and emblematic sites of Santorini! Our first stop is the town of Oia (pronounced “EE-yah”), one of the most photographed places in Greece, famous for its breathtaking sunsets and white houses built in tiers along the hillside. Learn about the history of this fascinating town and its inhabitants, then continue on to a local winery to taste a variety of wine cultivated on the island. The scenic location of the winery affords the opportunity to enjoy the colors of the Santorini skyline and surrounding vineyard. After the winery visit, continue to Fira, where you will have free time to walk and browse the local small shops and cafes.

• Round Trip transportation
• English Speaking guide
• Wine Tasting

Note: Oia and Fira both involve extensive walking and standing over cobblestones and/or uneven terrain, as well as several steps. This tour is not suitable for wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers. This tour is private for YMT guests only.

Activity Level: Moderate

Enjoy your evening in classic Tuscan style with a vineyard tour, wine tasting and dinner. Your private coach will take you from your hotel to the Fattoria Il Poggio Winery, where you will be met by one of the property’s knowledgeable guides. Learn about the traditional wine making process and head to the converted wine cellar where your 3-course meal and wine tasting session await. Your first course will begin with an assorted antipasti menu paired with three white wines to sample, followed by three red wines to complement your main dish. Follow it up with local dessert paired with a traditional Vin Santo.

• Guided walking tour of the vineyard
• Dinner at a wine cellar with live music; Menu includes handmade pasta, a chicken, sausage, and ribs platter, and two sides of your choice. Dessert will be a tiramisu served and almond biscuits. All meals will come with red or white wine and unlimited water

Note: This tour involves an approximately 200-yard walk with a slight incline.

Duration: Approx. 3 hours (evening)

Price: $72 USD

Experience the majesty of ancient Rome on this historic tour. After picking you up from your hotel, your coach will bring you to the ruins of Ostia Antica on the mouth of the River Tiber, once a busy port city of the Roman Empire. After the tour, enjoy a delicious 3 course dinner at a restaurant nearby the ruins before returning to the hotel.

• Guided exploration of the Ostia Antica ruins
• 3-course meal including water, and a choice of a glass of wine or a soft drink

Note: This tour requires moderate walking and standing for long periods of time, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Terrain is mostly flat and even but may require walking some stairs in amphitheater. There is one step going into the restaurant entrance, two to access each room of the restaurant, and two to reach the toilets. If the tour falls on the first Sunday of the month, the price will be lower, as admission to Ostia Antica is free on such occasions.

Duration: Approx. 3 hours (afternoon)

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I Stayed in Greece's First Mandarin Oriental Hotel — Here's What It Was Like

I n a quiet corner of mainland Greece, a glamorous new resort offers access to extraordinary treasures, both natural and archaeological.

When Petros Themelis first visited the ruins of Ancient Messene in 1986, there wasn’t much to see: only a few broken columns, strewn around the vineyards and olive groves, and some of the colossal foundations of the city’s fourth-century B.C. fortifications. Over the intervening millennia, whole sections of the city walls had been carted away for use in other buildings. Farmers had wrenched the metal from monuments to make tools and used broken statues and epigraphs to build walls to protect their flocks and crops. Gradually, a city that had flourished for 800 years was turned into a de facto quarry, then covered with earth and used as farmland. 

Widely acknowledged as a leading archaeologist of his generation, Themelis had already worked on some of Greece’s most famous ruins: the palace of Vergina, the sanctuary at Delphi, the stadium of ancient Olympia. Ancient Messene must have seemed like a backwater in comparison — a waterlogged valley in the southwestern Peloponnese , huddled against the slopes of Mount Ithomi. But as Themelis dug deeper, an incredibly sophisticated settlement came to light, just as the second-century A.D. travel writer Pausanias had described it. 

Related: The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year

Right around the time Themelis was beginning his dig, 40 miles to the south a very different type of project was breaking ground — one that would also alter the fate of this often overlooked region. There, a local shipowner was quietly laying the foundations for the most ambitious luxury tourism development in Greece. He gradually bought up huge parcels of coastal land in Messinia, with a master plan to create a modern landmark of a very different kind. 

Though I grew up in Greece, I had never been to Messene. So I was totally blown away by the scale, splendor, and masterful reconstruction of the 2,500-year-old city that stretched before me as I stood on the veranda of the only taverna in Ithomi, a sweet village shaped like an amphitheater overlooking the monuments.

Over the course of four decades, I learned, Themelis revealed and restored a city that was said to be larger than ancient Athens. The egalitarian urban plan included an amphitheater, a stadium, a gymnasium, a wrestling ring, a marketplace with colonnaded galleries, bathhouses, fountains, temples and sanctuaries, and an assembly hall where the city council deliberated. Today, the sheer ambition of the place is heightened by the remoteness of the setting — a landscape of hills in every conceivable shade of green, receding to the horizon. 

You can almost hear the roar of the crowds in the marble bleachers, smell the olive oil that wrestlers rubbed over their bodies until they glistened, picture the mosaic artists laying the intricate floors stone by stone, imagine the incense smoke from pyres where Pausanias witnessed “burnt offerings of every kind of living creature, thrusting into the flames not only cattle and goats but finally birds as well.” (Occasionally, when site-specific performances take place, visitors really can see artists at work and hear live music reverberating off the columns.)

When I visited last September, only a handful of people were rambling among the ruins. That week, the Greek government had limited the number of visitors at the Acropolis in Athens to 20,000 per day. It is extraordinary that Ancient Messene is so little known — just as it is hard to conceive that 40 years ago, it was nothing but muddy fields. Countless archaeological digs in Greece progress in slow fits and starts because of funding and staffing issues. Themelis, who died in October, was undaunted by such obstacles. First, he persuaded the state and other entities to buy land on and around the archaeological site from private owners. Then he secured European Union funding and recruited local farmers and craftsmen to supplement his small team of archaeologists and conservators. 

Themelis also reached out to benefactors to sponsor the excavations. One of those supporters was Vassilis Constantakopoulos, a self-made tycoon who went to sea at the age of 18 on an unpaid internship and ended up founding the largest private cargo-shipping company in the world. “Captain Vassilis,” as he is affectionately known, remained deeply committed to his homeland of Messinia, an agricultural region of the Peloponnese that’s known for its kalamata olives. 

Related: This Abandoned Winery in Greece Is Now a Luxury Resort

A lifelong environmental activist, Constantakopoulos formulated a plan to transform the region into a model for sustainable tourism. Starting in the mid 1980s, he slowly bought up almost 2,500 acres of land. His dream was not simply to create a beach resort or a playground for his other passion, golf; it was to regenerate the whole of Messinia through investment, vocational training, and a philanthropic foundation. The name of this new coastal development was Costa Navarino.

The first phase of this $1 billion project, Navarino Dunes, launched in 2010 with two large but low-slung hotels, a spa that uses olive oil in its treatments, and an 18-hole golf course. When I stayed there during the opening season, I was struck by how cleverly the construction blended into the shoreline, even though the highly polished atmosphere within the complex at times felt at odds with the rural, rough-around-the-edges surroundings. (At that time, tourism had barely made a dent in the silvery olive groves and golden dunes of the wider region.) “This is Avatar in Greece — paradise not yet found,” the golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. told me on that visit. “My golf course will be like walking into a Monet painting.” 

Fast-forward 13 years and surprisingly little has changed. Campers and pickup trucks still outnumber bus tours on the roads, and the clack of backgammon still beats time in shady village squares. Plenty of beaches are still blissfully lounger-free, and many locals still depend, at least partly, on Messinia’s 15 million olive trees for their livelihoods. 

However, a lot has happened at Costa Navarino. New hotels, golf courses, and recreational facilities have sprouted along the coastline, including the impetus for my return visit: Greece’s first Mandarin Oriental , the newest star in the constellation. As I alighted at the Mandarin’s curvaceous entrance, a handsome trio in straw hats and linens ushered me into a lobby with a profusion of plants, art books, and plump cocktail chairs. Floor-to-ceiling windows drew my eye toward a terrace poised above the glassy disk of Navarino Bay, one of Greece’s largest natural harbors. The world’s last naval battle fought with sailing ships took place there in 1827 — a turning point in the Greek War of Independence — but today, only a pair of paddleboarders rippled the water.

"Though I grew up in Greece, I had never been to Messene. So I was totally blown away by the scale, splendor, and masterful reconstruction of the 2,500-year-old city that stretched before me as I stood on the veranda of the only taverna in Ithomi, a sweet village shaped like an amphitheater overlooking the monuments."

All 99 suites and villas at the Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino, have head-on views of the bay. Slotted into the hillside in rippling rows, the stone-and-cement buildings have rounded edges and “green roofs” covered with plants. Electric bikes and buggies purred up and down the lavender-scented paths to Ormos Beach Club, where futuristic floats were aligned in two sinuous pools and ranks of loungers were lined up in perfect symmetry on the raked sand. The international staff seemed to be everywhere all at once — refilling my dispenser of complimentary sunscreen, mixing me a peach daiquiri slushy, proffering a towel after I emerged from a dip off the jetty. 

From the water, it looked like a fleet of small spaceships had landed, but inside, the rooms felt like warm, silky cocoons. Rugs inspired by folk costumes, vintage engravings and textiles, and books related to the history and culture of the Peloponnese gave my villa a sense of place. But the true flavor of Messinia came from the kitchen. “I try to source products from within a thirty-mile radius,” said Bertrand Valegeas, the burly, smiley executive chef, as he talked me through all 10 dishes on the breakfast paramana — an upscale take on the meze tray brought to the table in traditional tavernas that lets diners pick whatever tickles their fancy. 

It required enormous restraint not to take everything: cold cuts with pickled okra, sheep-milk yogurt that tasted like whipped cream, warm pies, and irresistible petit fours. This sweet-and-savory smorgasbord appeared before I’d even glanced at the à la carte options, which included a sensational Greek spin on eggs Florentine with spanakopita stuffing and a feta-dill hollandaise.

Related: The Best Greek Islands to Visit, and Where to Stay on Them

After an afternoon of guided meditation and a meridian alignment in the spa, dinner at the flagship restaurant, Oliviera, was an elevated riff on Greek cuisine. Stuffed tomatoes had been transformed into a risotto swirled with smoked sfela, a local cheese made of sheep and goat milk cured in brine, and sardines swaddled in vine leaves and dotted with ouzo jelly. Even the cocktails, mixed tableside, had a Greek twist — a dash of tsipouro (Greece’s answer to grappa) in the martini or a feta emulsion in the Bloody Mary. 

Guests at the Mandarin Oriental can make use of a dizzying range of facilities and activities across

Costa Navarino’s properties — they can eat Peruvian or Japanese, hit up an escape room or open-air cinema, try yoga or yachting, wing foiling or wakeboarding. But the truly authentic side of Greece will only come into focus when they venture beyond the rarefied bubble of the resort. 

For those excited by history, Messinia is a thrill a minute: Neolithic settlements, Mycenaean palaces, classical temples, Byzantine churches, medieval castles, and Ottoman fortresses are scattered all around. The stones that made up the city walls of Ancient Messene were used to construct the seaside garrisons of Pylos, Methoni, and Koroni, a trio of pleasantly unspoiled towns, each guarded by its own heavily fortified castle. My favorite was Koroni, where everything from the flowerpots to the electricity meters in the lopsided alleys had been painted in bright colors. Real life seemed to take precedence over the trappings of tourism there. Within the castle’s walls are whitewashed cottages, a cemetery, and a nunnery — all but the cemetery still inhabited by living souls. Dinky wooden fishing boats supply the lively waterfront restaurants, but the thing to order is the crispy roast suckling pig at Café Synantisi, which has been a local hangout for generations. 

"Sprinkled with sea salt and slick with fruity olive oil, the tomatoes had been sun-ripened in the garden below the taverna’s terrace, which seemed to float above the ruins of Ancient Messene."

From the Mandarin Oriental, it’s an easy bicycle ride past the seaside strip of Gialova (worth a detour only for the excellent Anama restaurant) and the tantalizing sliver of Golden Beach. The coastal road peters out at a footpath, which follows the ragged cliffs up to the overgrown remains of a 13th-century fortress. I clambered over the ramparts and was suddenly teetering above Messinia’s most famous pinup: the perfect semicircle of Voidokilia Beach. The photogenic bay backs onto the Gialova lagoon, a habitat for hundreds of species of birds, with hiking and biking trails threaded through the reeds. 

Messinia is a habitat for hundreds of species of flora and fauna. “This biodiversity is very beneficial for our olive trees,” said Cristina Stribacu as we sniffed and swilled a selection of olive oils in the Mandarin Oriental’s Three Admirals Lounge. Fizzing with energy, Stribacu has won multiple awards for her extra-virgin Liá olive oil, extracted from the fruit of ancestral groves around Filiatra, a coastal town about 20 miles north of the resort. She and her brother Konstantinos are among a small group of young farmers hoping to revive the industry (most farmers in the region are well into their sixties). “I worry about who will produce our food ten years from now,” Stribacu said. “Smart, regenerative farming is very different from what our mom and dad did. Agriculture is also about entrepreneurship now. Otherwise, it’s not sustainable.” 

It’s an idea that circles back to Constantakopoulos’s original vision: to regenerate Messinia by preserving what has been there for generations, while creating new prospects for nearby communities. To this end, his charitable foundation has cofounded an agricultural entrepreneurship center to support the future of Messinian farming. One of its simplest initiatives is to protect rare local crop varieties, such as heirloom tomatoes. I’ve never tasted a sweeter, fleshier tomato than the Chondrokatsari variety served at the taverna in Ithomi. Sprinkled with sea salt and slick with fruity olive oil, the tomatoes had been sun-ripened in the garden below the taverna’s terrace, which seemed to float above the ruins of Ancient Messene. For the setting alone, Ithomi’s tomato salad just beat the San Marzano tomato marinara served at the Mandarin Oriental’s “omakase” pizza bar. There, elated by a flight of exceptional Italian wines, I tried eight different pies that were flipped, fired, and primped just a few feet away. 

In this surprising corner of Greece, I really could have it all: hospitality of the highest caliber, and a truly authentic experience. 

Costa Navarino: The Lay of the Land

With four branded resorts, four golf courses, dozens of bars, shops, and restaurants, and activities for all ages, Costa Navarino is one of the most ambitious tourism developments in the Mediterranean. It’s an easy 3½-hour drive from Athens or a 45-minute drive from Kalamata’s scrappy international airport—named after none other than Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos. 

The two adjacent resorts at Navarino Dunes are primarily tailored toward families and golfers. The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort is a little more sedate than the Westin Resort, Costa Navarino , which features a water park, bowling alley, NBA basketball school, and a soccer camp. 

About six miles south, on the Navarino Waterfront, the Agora, a mall and street-food hub, is popular with both hotel guests and locals. The Agora is sandwiched between the W Costa Navarino and the Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino . A fifth cluster of resorts, Navarino Blue, is also in development, located on a sandy beach a 10-minute drive from Kalamata airport.

A version of this story first appeared in the May 2024 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Of Sea and Stone ."

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .