Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Departure Day

Board your overnight flight to Athens, Greece, where ancient history, breathtaking islands, warm Mediterranean hospitality, and unforgettable cuisine await. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your flight as your journey to one of the world's most fascinating civilizations begins.

Day 2 – Athens

Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival in Athens, meet your Program Director after clearing customs and transfer by private motor coach to your centrally located hotel.

After time to settle in, enjoy an orientation walking tour through the historic heart of Athens. Wander lively squares, charming pedestrian streets, and inviting cafés as your Program Director introduces you to the city where ancient monuments stand alongside vibrant modern neighborhoods. You'll quickly discover why Athens has captivated travelers for thousands of years.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a traditional Greek taverna. Enjoy authentic regional cuisine, local wine, and warm Greek hospitality as you begin getting to know your fellow travelers.

Day 3 – Athens

Step back nearly 2,500 years as you explore the birthplace of Western civilization.

This morning, enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has overlooked Athens since the 5th century BC. Walk among the legendary Parthenon, the graceful Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike while learning how ancient Greece shaped democracy, philosophy, literature, and architecture throughout the Western world.

Continue to the award-winning Acropolis Museum, where remarkable sculptures, statues, and archaeological treasures bring ancient Athens to life and provide fascinating insight into everyday life during Greece's Golden Age.

This afternoon, enjoy free time in the charming neighborhood of Plaka, often referred to as the "Neighborhood of the Gods." Stroll its narrow cobblestone streets lined with family-owned boutiques, artisan shops, cafés, and hidden courtyards, or simply relax with a traditional Greek coffee while admiring spectacular views of the Acropolis.

This evening, immerse yourself in Greek culture during a festive dinner featuring regional specialties, live music, and traditional folk dancing!

Day 4 – Saronic Islands Cruise

Today, experience the beauty of the Aegean Sea on a full-day cruise through the picturesque Saronic Gulf, visiting three unique islands, each with its own character and charm.

Your first stop is Aegina, famous for its world-renowned pistachios, waterfront cafés, and rich archaeological history dating back more than 2,000 years.

Continue to Poros, one of Greece's most picturesque island ports, where colorful neoclassical homes climb the hillside above a lively harbor watched over by the island's iconic clock tower.

Your final destination is enchanting Hydra, one of Greece's most elegant islands. Because automobiles are prohibited, the island has preserved its timeless charm. Wander narrow stone lanes lined with elegant mansions, art galleries, boutique shops, and inviting waterfront cafés while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere that has inspired artists and writers for generations.

A delicious lunch is served onboard as you sail between islands, offering spectacular views across the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean.

This evening return to Athens to explore at your own pace and discover one of the city's many outstanding restaurants, whether you prefer a traditional neighborhood taverna or a rooftop terrace overlooking the illuminated Acropolis.

Day 5 – Santorini

This morning, board a ferry to breathtaking Santorini, one of the world's most iconic islands. Formed by a massive volcanic eruption more than 3,500 years ago, Santorini's dramatic cliffs rise hundreds of feet above the deep blue waters of the caldera, creating one of the Mediterranean's most spectacular landscapes.

Upon arrival, visit the remarkable archaeological site of Akrotiri, often called the "Pompeii of the Aegean." Buried beneath volcanic ash for centuries, this sophisticated Bronze Age settlement offers an extraordinary glimpse into one of Europe's earliest advanced civilizations.

Later this afternoon, travel to the postcard-perfect village of Oia, where whitewashed homes, blue-domed churches, and narrow marble pathways overlook the sparkling Aegean Sea. Gather at Oia Castle to witness Santorini's legendary sunset as the sky transforms into brilliant shades of gold, pink, and crimson.

Following sunset, enjoy a memorable group dinner at a local restaurant while savoring authentic Greek cuisine.

Day 6 – Santorini

This morning, embark on a relaxing sailing cruise through Santorini's spectacular caldera. Cruise beneath towering volcanic cliffs while learning about the powerful eruption that forever shaped the island's unique landscape. Along the way, admire the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, with an opportunity to swim in the naturally heated mineral hot springs.

Following the cruise, enjoy time to explore the lively capital of Fira. Browse elegant boutiques, art galleries, and local shops, relax at a cliffside café, or simply take in the panoramic views stretching across the caldera.

Dinner is on your own this evening, allowing you to select from Santorini's many exceptional restaurants, each offering spectacular views and outstanding local cuisine.

Day 7 – Santorini

Enjoy a leisurely morning to experience Santorini at your own pace. Relax by the hotel, visit one of the island's unique volcanic beaches, browse the charming shops, or simply soak in the incredible scenery from a café overlooking the sea.

This afternoon, visit one of Santorini's wineries for a guided tour and tasting. Thanks to its mineral-rich volcanic soil and centuries-old winemaking traditions, Santorini produces some of Greece's finest wines, including the crisp and distinctive Assyrtiko varietal. Learn about the island's unique basket-trained vineyards while enjoying tastings paired with breathtaking caldera views.

Following the wine tasting, the remainder of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy. Continue exploring Santorini's picturesque villages, browse local artisan shops and galleries, discover hidden cafés, or simply relax and take in the island's unforgettable beauty. Dinner is on your own this evening, giving you the opportunity to choose from one of Santorini's many outstanding restaurants!

Day 8 – Crete

This morning, continue your island-hopping adventure as you board a ferry to Crete, Greece's largest island and the legendary birthplace of Zeus. Rich in history, mythology, and culinary traditions, Crete offers a completely different perspective on Greek life.

Upon arrival in Heraklion, enjoy a guided walking tour through the island's vibrant capital. Discover the impressive Venetian Fortress guarding the harbor, the elegant Morosini Fountain, the historic Venetian Loggia, and bustling market streets filled with local shops selling olive oils, herbs, ceramics, wines, and handcrafted goods.

This evening, gather for a group dinner featuring traditional Cretan cuisine and warm island hospitality.

Day 9 – Western Crete

Today's excursion explores the authentic traditions and timeless beauty of western Crete.

Travel to the beautifully preserved Venetian town of Rethymno, one of Greece's finest medieval cities. Stroll through its charming Old Town, where narrow alleyways, colorful balconies, Venetian architecture, and centuries-old churches create an unforgettable atmosphere. Visit the picturesque Venetian Harbor before climbing to the impressive Fortezza, where sweeping views overlook both the town and the sparkling Mediterranean.

Continue to the traditional village of Vamos, where local families continue agricultural traditions passed down for generations. Visit a local olive oil producer to learn how Crete's world-famous extra virgin olive oil is produced before enjoying an olive oil and Cretan wine tasting featuring some of the island's finest local products.

Later, enjoy a leisurely farm-to-table lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients while learning about Cretan traditions, hospitality, and the celebrated Mediterranean diet.

Following your hearty, late lunch, the evening is yours to enjoy. Explore Heraklion at your own pace, browse the local shops, relax at a waterfront café, or enjoy a light dinner at one of the city's inviting tavernas. After such this afternoon’s large lunch, you may even decide to skip dinner and simply treat yourself to a scoop of authentic Greek pagotó or another traditional dessert!

Day 10 – Crete

Enjoy a relaxed final day on beautiful Crete. Spend the morning at your leisure. Relax by the Mediterranean, stroll Heraklion's charming waterfront, or browse local boutiques for handmade ceramics, textiles, olive oil, spices, and other authentic Cretan specialties.

This afternoon, participate in a hands-on Cretan cooking class led by local chefs. Using fresh seasonal ingredients and family recipes passed down through generations, you'll learn to prepare traditional regional dishes before sitting down together to enjoy the delicious meal you've created.

This evening, gather one final time for a special farewell dinner celebrating the friendships, experiences, and unforgettable memories made throughout your journey across Greece.

Day 11 – Departure Day

Transfer to Heraklion Airport for your return flight to the United States, taking home unforgettable memories of Greece's ancient wonders, spectacular islands, welcoming people, remarkable history, world-renowned cuisine, and timeless Mediterranean charm.