Treasures of Greece & The Islands

Welcome to Athens

An Insight host will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel, where there is time to settle in and relax. At 19:00, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Reception, and get to know your fellow travellers over a delightful evening of dinner.

Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott

• Athens

Athens, City of Gods

Today your mythical Grecian discovery encapsulates the intriguing history of ancient Greece. Begin with an exploration revealing the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian. Next, your Local Expert takes you to the Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world. Crowning the top is the Parthenon, visible from almost everywhere in the city. See the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of the Wingless Victory, and the six stone-carved caryatids that make up the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion. Continue to Thermopylae, famous as the mountain pass where King Leonidas led his Spartan army, along with fellow Greek soldiers, into battle against the Persians in 480 B.C. See the memorial dedicated to Leonidas and his courageous Spartans. Then on to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner from a fresh, seasonal menu.

Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka

• Athens
• Thermopylae
• Kalambaka

The Pinnacles of Meteora Relaxed Start

With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning 'in the air.' The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a science fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a relaxed walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum.

Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka

• Kalambaka
• Meteora
• Kalambaka

The Sacred Way and onto Olympia

Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You'll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,' rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner is served in your hotel.

Amalia Olympia, Arty Grand Hotel, Olympia.

• Kalambaka
• Delphi
• Archaeological Site of Olympia

Ancient Olympia

It's all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C., in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honour the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef for an entertaining cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek flavours, as you savour dishes prepared for your dinner.

Amalia Olympia, Olympion Asty

• Archaeological Site of Olympia

Mycenae and Nafplio

Visit the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones used to build the city walls. Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio, known for its beautiful architecture, colourful shops and cafes. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet Maria and her daughter to learn about the ancient techniques of hand weaving. Your journey continues, following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal, dividing the Peloponnesse and mainland Greece, and arriving in Athens. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style, complete with wine and good cheer.

Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott

• Archaeological Site of Olympia
• Archaeological Site of Mycenae
• Nafplion
• Athens

Across the Mediterranean to Santorini

An early departure takes you to the port of Piraeus where your high-speed ferry awaits to whisk you over to the truly beautiful island of Santorini. On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel.

NOŪS Santorini, Orama, Santorini, The Majestic, Santorini

• Athens
• Santorini

The Sunsets of Santorini Relaxed Start

With two more sun-drenched days on one of the most romantic islands on earth, you won't ever want to leave. Relax in clifftop restaurants, laze on the sun-soaked beaches or observe history unearthed at the site of Akrotiri. In the evening, you'll witness the first of the golden sunsets for which the island is famous.

NOŪS Santorini, Orama, Santorini, The Majestic, Santorini

• Santorini

Santorini Your Way Relaxed Start

Another day to relax and unwind on the black, red and white beaches, or why not take a caique (traditional Greek fishing boat) over to the volcanic islands for a swim in the hot springs? The island's delicious cuisine, whitewashed houses that gleam in the bright Aegean sun, narrow cobblestone streets and world-renowned sunsets all combine to make Santorini a truly unique holiday experience.

NOŪS Santorini, Orama, Santorini, The Majestic, Santorini

• Santorini

Set Sail for Mykonos

Board the high-speed ferry bound for the island of Mykonos, playground of the rich and famous. You are met at the port and transferred to your hotel.

Despotiko, Mykonos, Dorion, Mykonos, Porto Mykonos

• Santorini
• Mykonos

Mykonos Mystique Relaxed Start

This day is the first of two glorious days at leisure. Explore the town with its winding maze of walkways, white-washed houses, magnificent windmills and uninhibited nightlife. Perhaps watch the sunset at Shirley Valentine Beach or take a short boat ride to Delos?

Despotiko, Mykonos, Dorion, Mykonos, Porto Mykonos

• Mykonos

Mykonos at Leisure Relaxed Start

Another day to explore or relax as you wish. Perhaps swim the endless array of dazzling beaches that surround the island? Or maybe enjoy a cocktail on the waterfront at Little Venice?

Despotiko, Mykonos, Dorion, Mykonos, Porto Mykonos

• Mykonos

Return to Athens

In the morning, grab your final glimpse over the lustrous Aegean. You are transferred to the port for your return ferry to Athens.

Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott

• Mykonos
• Athens

Depart Athens

Bid farewell to Athens. Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport.

• Athens