29/08/2024
Ancient Ruins, Mykonos, Paros & Santorini
Experience the history and culture of Greece. Discover the ancient Acropolis of Athens and the atmosphere of the capital's vibrant neighborhoods. Continue to the mysterious sanctuary of Delphi and the gravity-defying monasteries of Meteora. Go island-hopping to discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mykonos, the idyllic villages and beaches of Paros and the sublime sunsets of Santorini!
Day 1
Ready to dive into the wonders of one of the greatest civilisations of all time and walk in the footsteps of the greats, from Socrates to Aristotle? Head to your departure airport, ready for a flight to Athens*, the Greek capital. Night on board.
Day 2
Arrive at Athens International Airport and transfer to your hotel for check in. The remainder of the day at leisure to enjoy your first taste of Athens and rest after your flight. Discover Plaka, the oldest district of Athens, located under the Acropolis, the only district where you may see the Greek capital as it was 100 years ago or enjoy a spot of shopping at Ermou, Kolonaki and Voukourestiou streets. Overnight stay in Athens.
Day 3
Breakfast at the hotel. Today enjoy an Athens Sightseeing Tour including the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum. Begin in the center of the city, visit Constitution Square (Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier and the National library.
On-route to the Acropolis you will see the Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and a quick stop at Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. During the Acropolis visit witness the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally the famous Parthenon.
Your first taste of Athens would not be complete without a visit to the Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural building where you can admire the wonders and architectural masterpieces of the classical era. Return to your hotel with the remainder of your day at leisure. Overnight stay in Athens.
Day 4
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, head for Delphi. On-route discover the cities via Thebes, Levadia and the picturesque village of Arachova, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
Arrive in Delphi and visit the Archaeological Site of the 4th-century-B.C. This extensive mountainside archaeological complex contains the beautiful remains of the sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena Pronaia, as well as an ancient stadium and theater. Next, depart for Kalambaka, passing through picturesque villages and towns of Central Greece. Dinner and overnight stay in Kalambaka.
Please note: At Delphi, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and includes a number of stairs and steep paths. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. During the excursion, travelers are advised to bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
Day 5
Breakfast at the hotel. Today you’ll visit the striking rock formation, Meteora, an incredibly unique scenery with ageless Monasteries protruding from the rocks. These priceless historical and religious treasures stand between sky and earth on the top of the cliffs. An incredible sight to behold.
In the afternoon return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae with a short stop to see Leonida's Monument. Arrive in Athens early in the evening and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Athens.
Please note: At Meteora, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and you will be required to climb a number of stairs in order to visit the monasteries. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. Modest dress is required to enter the monasteries of Meteora as it is a sacred place. This includes a long skirt (not trousers) and covered neckline/shoulders for women, and long trousers for men.
Day 6
Breakfast at the hotel*. In the morning transfer to the port for your ferry to Santorini**. Upon arrival on the Island of Santorini, transfer to your hotel for check in.
In the afternoon enjoy a transfer to the town of Oia. With its cycladic architecture, famous blue domes and the white washed cave houses overlooking the volcano, it’s the jewel of Santorini. Enjoy free time to wander around the village, take in the stunning surroundings and be amazed by the incredible views and colors of the sunset. Overnight stay in Santorini.
*Please note: You may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast this morning due to the early departure time of the ferry to Santorini. However, you can request a "breakfast box" during check-in to take with you.
Day 7
Breakfast at the hotel. Today you have the day to discover Santorini at your own pace. Why not relax in one of the cafe's while you watch the world go by or explore the volcanic surroundings of the island known worldwide as the 'island of romance'. To make sure you get the most out of your itinerary, why not enjoy one of our recommended optional excursions listed below*. Overnight stay in Santorini.
*Please note: Due to timings, you will only be able to enjoy one of the optional activities listed below, so please pick the one you prefer.
Optional Full Day Santorini Traditional Bus Tour: Walk through the maze-like settlement of Emporio, enjoy free time for lunch at the best-known black sand Perissa Beach. Head up Profitis Ilias Mountain, Santorini’s highest peak, to the hilltop village of Oia. Enter a Greek orthodox chapel and end the day with the magnificent sunset.
Optional Santorini Volcano, Hot Springs and Thirassia Island Tour: Cruise around Santorini's volcanic islands on a traditional Greek boat. First, sail to Nea Kameni lava islet. Enjoy a guided walking tour to the crater of the active volcano. Enjoy the view of Santorini from this spectacular angle. Continue to Palea Kameni and dive into green sulfur thermal waters. Finally, enjoy free time for lunch in Thirassia.
Optional Volcanic Islands Sunset Dinner Cruise: Sail towards the volcano and its sulfur waters on a traditional Greek boat. First, enjoy a guided walking tour to the crater of Santorini’s volcano. Take in the spectacular sights of the islands from above. Next, dive into the Aegean Sea, swim near the shores to find the volcanic sulfur waters to experience bathing in its warm therapeutic mud. As the sun sets over Oia, enjoy dinner and wine aboard the ship with the breathtaking views in the backdrop.
Optional Santorini Sunset Wine Tour: Learn about the island’s unique climate and volcanic soil at Gavalas Winery. Explore the beverage’s local history at Wine Museum Koutsogiannopoulos, and admire the epic sunset. Continue with a private session of tasting at a winery by the sea. End your tour at the best place to watch the sunset. Relax and enjoy your wine in this idyllic space, as you watch the sun dip into the sea.
Day 8
Enjoy your early morning breakfast* and at indicated time transfer to the port to catch your ferry** to Paros. This beautiful Greek island in the Aegean Sea is best known for its beaches and traditional villages. Upon arrival on transfer to your hotel for check in.
The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure and discover this beautiful island. We recommend a stroll around Naoussa’s picture-perfect streets. Overnight stay in Paros.
*Please note: You may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast this morning due to the early departure time of the ferry to Paros. However, you can request a "breakfast box" during check-in to take with you.
Day 9
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy your day at your own pace as today is free for you to enjoy at your leisure. We recommend heading to Kolymbithres Beach, famous for its unique granite formations and crystal clear waters, and a walk around picturesque Parikia Village brimming with cafés and restaurants. Overnight stay in Paros.
Day 10
Enjoy your early morning breakfast*, and at indicated time transfer to the port to catch your ferry to Mykonos**. This beautiful Greek island in the Aegean Sea is best known for its beaches and lively atmosphere.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel for check in.
The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure and discover the island. We recommend a stroll around the capital town of Hora, a Cycladic maze brimming with trendy bars and restaurants. Overnight stay in Mykonos.
*Please note: You may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast this morning due to the early departure time of the ferry to Mykonos. However, you can request a "breakfast box" during check-in to take with you.
Day 11
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy today at your leisure and discover the magical island of Mykonos at your own pace. Why not do some sightseeing, explore the towns’ winding narrow streets, visit Paraportiani, one of the many churches on the Island, or enjoy a drink in Little Venice. We recommend an exciting excursion to the mythical island of Delos*. Overnight stay in Mykonos.
*Optional Tour of Delos Island: A well-rounded tour of this beautiful and historically important island. Having been inhabited between 2500 and 69 b.C. Delos has kept many treasures from these times. Agora, an ancient marketplace, the famous terrace of the Naxos lions, the holy lake, the ancient living quarter and theater that will transport you to daily life back then. Visit and learn about The houses of Dionysos, Kleopatra, the Trident, the Masks and the Dolphins with their mosaics, all fantastic art experiences not to be missed. Note: Travelers must walk approximately 1 km from the parking area to the port to board the tour. Upon arrival, vouchers must be exchanged for tickets at the check-in counter located in the entrance cabin. Additionally, please be aware that the tour may be canceled due to weather conditions.
Day 12
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the port to catch your ferry to Athens*. Overnight stay in Athens.
Day 13
Breakfast at the hotel.* After an unforgettable journey through Greece's ancient sites and idyllic islands, it's time to bring your trip to a close. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight back to Canada**.
From Saskatoon
prices start at $4099 per person (including airfare)
March 31- April 11
April 4-15
Other dates may be available
Prices are not guaranteed until booked
Please contact me directly (messenger or email) for more information
