Take a fabulous journey around the highlights of Greece with handpicked local guides at each major site of interest. From ancient Athens to breathtaking Santorini, this itinerary is packed with unforgettable ancient Greek sites to visit, along with stunning beaches, vineyards, whitewashed villages and local cuisine. Look forward to absorbing the unique history, culture and heritage of this multi-destination holiday, which is ideal for couples, small groups & families.

Highlights
Visit the Acropolis with an informative local guide
Marvel at the archaeological sites of Ancient Olympia, Delphi and Mycenae
Enjoy scenic drives and breezy ferry trips on this Best of Greece adventure
Explore the delightful islands of Mykonos and Santorini
 

Day 1   Arriving in Athens City

Welcome to Athens, a vibrant city brimming over with striking ancient landmarks at every turn and lively, ultramodern museums, multi-arts spaces, shops, and cafes. Take a leisurely stroll and explore the beating heart of the city; Explore the colorful network of streets in the town center and in the island-like paths of Plaka neighborhood in Acropolis, and end your day relishing an elegant Greek dinner at a scenic restaurant overlooking the beautifully-lit Parthenon.

Overnight: Athens

 

Day 2 The Acropolis and Acropolis Museum

This informative Acropolis Tour explores the major sights of Athens (and a few less-known hidden gems) at a gentle pace. There’s plenty of time to ask questions and listen to your licensed English-speaking guide who is a local expert in archaeology.

Begin with a stroll through Anafiotika, a delightful Plaka neighborhood with quintessential whitewashed cottages, narrow alleyways and, vibrant bougainvillea. This pretty village nestles beneath the shadow of the Acropolis and the equally imposing Parthenon. Follow your guide further up the slopes of Mars Hill to the Rock of Ares (Aereopagus) outcrop, once the site of the judicial court and the burial place of kings and nobility.

Continue the scenic walk to Philopappou Hill, passing Socrates Prison where classical Greek scholars can pay their respects to this revered philosopher. The reward for the hilltop ascent is a breathtaking view over Athens. Return to the bustle of the city via Dionysiou Areopagitou, the longest traffic-free walkway in Athens. This open-air living museum is known for its history, culture and, nightlife.

Back in the cobbled pedestrianized alleys of Plaka, experience local Greek hospitality with a relaxed lunch in an authentic taverna. The afternoon continues with an optional archaeologist-led tour of the Acropolis Museum – the perfect end to the ultimate Acropolis Tour experience.

Overnight: Athens

 

Day 3 Ancient Mycenae

After a delicious Greek breakfast, you can look forward to the relaxing 90 km (56 miles) drive to Ancient Mycenae. This atmospheric archaeological site dates back to the second millennium B.C. when the city was a fortified stronghold. The palace complexes remain a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the Mycenaeans and provide a glimpse into everyday life in the Late Bronze Age. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Cyclopean architecture before driving west to Olympia for the night.

Overnight: Ancient Olympia

 

Day 4   Ancient Olympia

Today your Best of Greece Tour features the sites of Ancient Olympia, surely the jewel in the crown of the western Peloponnese region. The impressive archaeological site is dominated by the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Hera. Built over 2,400 years ago, the magnificent Greek Temple of Zeus with its Doric columns once housed the statue of Zeus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. You can reflect on the highlights, including the site of the Olympic flame and the Museum of Olympia, as you journey by road to Delphi for the night.

Overnight: Delphi

 

Day 5   Delphi

No holiday in mainland Greece is complete without a trip to Delphi. Follow our local expert archaeologist guide and immerse yourself in 3,000 years of history, cultural heritage and traditions.

Combine your awe-inspiring visit with a guided tour of the Archaeological Museum of Delphi, one of the most significant museums in Greece.

Delphi enjoys a stunning location on the sacred slopes of Mount Parnassus overlooking the Pleastos Valley. This ancient archaeological site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unique place in Ancient Greek mythology, culture and Hellenic unity.

Home of the Muses, the Sanctuary of Apollo was where people consulted the Oracle of Delphi for wisdom before any major decisions were made. Stand in awe of the ruined Temple of Delphi with its 4th century BC Doric columns – all that remained after an earthquake in 375BC. Admire the ancient Theatre nearby, carved out of the hillside to give spectators the best views of the sanctuary and valley far below. It’s breathtaking.

This fascinating site in Delphi also includes the Treasury, Castalian Spring and the stadium where the Pythian Games were held every four years to commemorate Apollo’s victory over the serpent Pytho.

The private tour concludes in the timeless village of Arachova. Stroll through cobbled streets admiring the Byzantine architecture and pause to photograph the breathtaking mountain views. This laid-back tour of Delphi includes lunch at an authentic taverna enjoying traditional cuisine, local formaela cheese and wine, in true Greek style.

Overnight: Athens

 

Day 6   Ferry to Mykonos

Welcome to Mykonos, an idyllic getaway for cosmopolitan fun-lovers. A magnet to the world’s most glamorous personalities since the 70s, Mykonos today also attracts nature lovers, foodies, and athletes. During your Greek islands holiday, you will discover remarkable beaches, adrenaline-rich water sports, the refined local cuisine, and an unprecedented bar scene, all among picturesque architecture, breathtaking views, iconic windmills, and maze-like streets.

Visit Delos where you will enrich your knowledge of ancient Greek history. The Cyclades fulfil their collective name (kyklos means circle) by encircling the sacred island of Delos Unesco World Heritage Site, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, and the birthplace of twins Apollo and Artemis.

Overnight: Mykonos

 

Day 7  Santorini

Take the ferry to Santorini, a highlight of our private Greece tours. With its colorful cliffs and white Cycladic houses, the island is an unforgettable destination with a flourishing wine industry. Voted one of the world’s most beautiful islands by Travelers Choice Awards, our land trip includes Oia, one of the most photographed hilltop villages in the Southern Aegean. Relax and enjoy a coffee and a sweet pastry before exploring the Panagia Church, castle ruins and charming main square. Our tour includes sampling traditional cuisine in the upscale ambiance of our handpicked restaurant. Don’t forget to watch the sunset light up the red cliffs at dusk.

Overnight: Santorini

 

Day 8 Visit Santorini Wineries

The second day on Santorini focuses on the island’s wine industry. These heritage vineyards are among the oldest in the world, dating back over 3,500 years. Thanks to the well-drained volcanic ash soil and sunny climate, Santorini wines are noteworthy. We visit local boutique wineries and learn about the grapes and wine-making process before sampling the distinctive local produce. Made from the Assyrtiko grape, Santorini wines include white, rosé and the sweet Vinsanto dessert wine.

Overnight: Santorini

 

Day 9 Athens

Take a scenic ferry trip back to Athens for a free day to explore your own particular interests around the city center. The National Archaeology Museum, the ancient marketplace of Agora, the fascinating Byzantium Museum, the frescoed Church of the Holy Apostles with its Ashlar exterior and the Panathenaic Stadium are some of the outstanding Greek sites to visit. See the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square and shops for souvenirs in the pretty Plaka neighborhood as a fitting end to your private Greece tour.

Overnight: Athens

 

Day 10 Athens – Trip end

All too soon your Best of Greece Tour comes to an end. It’s time to pack your bags and be transported to the airport or to the port for your journey back home or to your next destination.

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