The Wonders of Greece

Welcome to Greece! This custom itinerary will help you discover the country who's classical history has distinctly influenced modern thought; democracy, philosophy, art, architecture, and literature. Your adventure begins with a visit to the bustling city of Athens with its ancient roots and modern energy. Next, it’s off to the islands of Crete, Santorini, Paros, and Rhodes. Here, you will have the opportunity to soak up the fascinating ancient culture and natural beauty of the Greek Islands. With engaging private tours and ample free time to explore each destination, your travels in Greece will be sure to leave a deep and lasting impression!

Daily Itinerary

Day 1: Athens Arrival

Athens Arrival
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Accommodation: Electra Metropolis Athens

Upon arrival in Athens please exit the luggage claim area and look for our transfer agent, who will be holding a sign with your name on it. You'll then be transferred directly to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Upon check-in you'll receive your Welcome Package. It is important for you to review all of the information included in your Welcome Package, as it will help guide you through your entire trip! Your Welcome Package includes:

1) Guidance Sheet (Helps you navigate through your Welcome Package)
2) A detailed itinerary
3) All of your transfer tickets (Ferry & Air)
4) A transfer sheet (Detailed outline of all of your transfers)
5) Instructions on any pre-packaged meals and/or activities
6) Recommendations Guides

Athens

The capital of Greece has recently undergone a major face lift thanks to the 2004 Olympics and has become more visitor-friendly than ever. Not only does it offer several of the world's most significant archaeological sites, structures and museums, it now has a wide selection of restaurants, ranging from basic indigenous food to fine gourmet dining, and a similarly wide selection of shops and goods. Whether visiting the incomparable Acropolis or the new subway system, you will find that Athens rewards your time before setting off for the islands of Greece.

Day 2: Athens

Athens
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Acropolis & Athens City Tour
  • Accommodation: Electra Metropolis Athens
  • Meals: B

Acropolis & Athens City Tour

Meaning “peak of the city” in Greek, the Ancient Acropolis stands proudly above the city of Athens. Follow your guide up the historical steps to gaze at the Acropolis, home to the architecturally unique Parthenon. Visit the stunning, new Acropolis Museum, home to many valuable and rare artifacts. Your guide will show you significant sites such as the Parliament Building, the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, the Columns of Olympian Zeus, and the Presidential Mansion. With an abundance of locations, your guide will give you a glimpse of ancient and modern Greek life, with the possibility of exploring the Ancient Agora or visiting one or more museums. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 3: Athens

Athens
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Delphi Full Day Tour
  • Accommodation: Electra Metropolis Athens
  • Meals: B

Delphi Full Day Tour

Surrounded by the beautiful forests of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is one of the most famous and significant remains of ancient Greece. According to Greek mythology, the god Zeus sent two eagles flying from east and west in search of his ‘Grandmother Earth’ (or Gaia in Greek), and the birds met here. The exact location became a spiritual center that was also known as ‘the navel of the earth.’ Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi was most famous for being a sanctuary of the Delphic Oracle, which was consulted on important decisions throughout the ancient classical world. Your guide will walk you through this extraordinary archaeological site and bring the captivating myths and legends of ancient Greece to life. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 4: Athens

Athens
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Jewish Heritage of Athens
  • Accommodation: Electra Metropolis Athens
  • Meals: B

Jewish Heritage of Athens

With a presence in Greece for more than 23 centuries, the Jewish culture is undoubtedly a big part of Greece. Start your tour with a visit to the Athens Jewish Museum, where you will be able to see the history of the Jewish community in Greece - you will be guided through the Museum by a knowledgeable museum staff member. Continue your tour with a visit to one synagogue of Athens and complete your Jewish heritage discovery with a visit to the Holocaust Memorial in Keramikos. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 5: Athens

Athens
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Electra Metropolis Athens
  • Meals: B

Enjoy this free time exploring Athens at your own pace.

Day 6: Athens - Crete

Athens - Crete
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Transfer - Domestic Flight - Transfer
  • Transportation (Air): Domestic Flight
  • Accommodation: Domes Zeen Chania
  • Meals: B
Domestic Flight
Athens - Crete (Chania)
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD

Enjoy your morning in Athens on your own until your transfer to the airport in good time to board your domestic flight to Crete. Upon arrival in Crete, you will be picked up at the airport and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Crete Island

Crete is something more than an island – it’s almost like a country on its own. It is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean, and one of Greece’s premier destinations. The island is home to impressive peaks that rise high above its picturesque coastal cities, beach resorts that rank among the world's finest, historic remains from the Minoan civilization, and above all, the intense and vibrant inhabitants who make each encounter and flavorful meal memorable. Crete’s natural beauty and impressive history make for a distinctive land that has been attracting millions of visitors over the years, rewarding them with both satisfying and surprising experiences

Day 7: Crete

Crete
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Chania Walking Tour
  • Accommodation: Domes Zeen Chania
  • Meals: B

Chania Walking Tour

Chania may be one of the best preserved old towns in Crete. Follow your guide on this 3 hour tour though a magical and romantic maze full of surprising architectural details, Venetian buildings, Venetian shipyards, old Turkish baths, Italianate churches, Synagogues, Muslim mosques and minarets. Visit the Venetian harbor and just above it the Ancient site of Kydonia, the biggest and most powerful town of the western Crete in Minoan times. Explore the Chania Maritime Museum and learn about the importance of the sea to Cretan history. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 8: Crete

Crete
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Domes Zeen Chania
  • Meals: B

On this free day, you may like to dig into some famously fresh, local seafood, or enjoy the amenities at your accommodation. Whatever you choose, you can't go wrong!

Day 9: Chania - Elounda

Chania - Elounda
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Internal Transfer
  • Accommodation: Elounda Gulf Villas
  • Meals: B

This morning you will be picked up at your hotel Chania and transferred to Elounda to check-in to your new accommodations. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 10: Crete

Crete
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Knossos Palace & Heraklion Archaeological Museum
  • Accommodation: Elounda Gulf Villas
  • Meals: B

Knossos Palace & Heraklion Archaeological Museum

Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site in Crete, is considered Europe’s oldest city. Discover the Palace of Knossos and travel back to a time when the Minoan Civilization ruled supreme throughout the Aegean. Legend has it that in a labyrinth on the grounds of Knossos Palace roamed a creature that was half bull and half man. As you explore the stone corridors, you will quickly understand why the ancient people believed that this was where the legendary Minotaur lived. Continue with a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, where you will learn about priceless artifacts and genuine masterpieces and gain additional insight into the fascinating history of Crete which spans from the Neolithic period to Roman times. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 11: Crete

Crete
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Elounda Gulf Villas
  • Meals: B

Today is open for self-exploration in Elounda.

Day 12: Crete - Santorini

Crete - Santorini
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Harbor Transfers
  • Transportation: Heraklion - Santorini (Ferry Ticket)
  • Accommodation: Astra Suites
  • Meals: B

This morning you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the Heraklion Harbor in good time to board your ferry to Santorini. Upon arrival to Santorini's Harbor, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel in Imerovigli. (This service is on a private basis.)

From Heraklion on Crete, you will be taking a ferry to the island of Santorini. The crossing takes about 2 hours.

Santorini Island

One of the premier luxury destinations in the world, Santorini is arguably the most popular Greek island vacation spot for a romantic vacation. The Santorini Caldera, a site of fascinating beauty that developed after a volcanic explosion in the 2nd millennium BC, will certainly enchant you with its white-washed houses literally hanging from the multi-colored cliffs. The villages of Oia, Fira, Imerovigli and Pirgos provide the ideal setting for an unforgettable Greek islands vacation or Santorini honeymoon.

Day 13: Santorini

Santorini
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Santorini Sailing Trip
  • Accommodation: Astra Suites
  • Meals: B, L

Santorini Sailing Trip

Step aboard a luxurious catamaran, on your unforgettable private Santorini sailing trip and embark on an experience that won't be "just another boat ride!" You will sail past the spectacular White & Red beaches, Hot Springs, the Venetian lighthouse and visit remote locations where you will be able to swim and snorkel in the clear waters. Enjoy grilled shrimp, a freshly prepared meat barbeque (chicken or pork) served with a Greek appetizer, salad, and dip, accompanied by white wine, beer, and soft drinks. This spectacular sailing trip runs for approximately five hours and will be one of the highlights of your adventure. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 14: Santorini

Santorini
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Oia Exploration
  • Accommodation: Astra Suites
  • Meals: B

Oia Exploration

Discover Oia’s secret spots and the beauty of its surrounding villages. Wander through this town’s enchanting alleys, explore the blue domed churches, and visit a picturesque settlement sculpted into the banks of a ravine. This guided walk will give you the opportunity to enjoy amazing views, learn about Santorini’s rich history, and visit some of the lesser-known spots of the greater Oia area. You'll discover this world famous town and experience its breathtaking beauty through the eyes of a local. This experience also includes a visit to a local wine estate where you'll enjoy a wine tasting session of high quality volcanic wines. Approximately 4 hours and 3 miles /5 km in length, this is an inspiring moderate grade walk. Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 15: Santorini

Santorini
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Astra Suites
  • Meals: B

Take this last day to spend as you wish, luxuriating in the beauty of Santorini!

Day 16: Santorini - Paros

Santorini - Paros
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Harbor Transfers
  • Transportation: Santorini - Paros (Ferry Ticket)
  • Accommodation: Parilio Hotel
  • Meals: B

This morning you will be picked up at your hotel in Imerovigli and transferred to the Santorinti Departure Harbor in good time to board the ferry to Paros. Upon arrival, you will be picked up at the harbor and transferred to your hotel in Kolymbithres. (This service is on a private basis.)

From Santorini you will be taking a ferry to the island of Paros. The crossing takes about 2 hours.

Paros Island

Located in the heart of the Cycladic islands, Paros combines impressive landscapes, lovely sandy beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and a traditional laid-back island atmosphere. It is an island that boasts rich Byzantine and Venetian history, and an interesting cultural dimension that few Greek islands can claim. Paros has also been known throughout history because of its famous white marble. If you are looking for an island that offer traditional charm, natural beauty, and a relaxing feel, Paros is a perfect choice.

Days 17 - 18: Paros

Paros
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Parilio Hotel
  • Meals: B

Spend these free days wandering the charming streets of Paros and admiring the lovely coastal views.

Day 19: Paros - Rhodes

Paros - Rhodes
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfers
  • Transportation (Air): Domestic Flight
  • Accommodation: Melenos Lindos
  • Meals: B
Domestic Flight
Paros - Athens
Flight #: TBD
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD

Athens - Rhodes
Flight #: TBD
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD

Today, you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the Paros Airport in good time to board your domestic flight to Rhodes. Upon arrival, you will be picked up at the Rhodes International Airport and transferred to your hotel. (This service is on a private basis.)

Please note, you will have a connection through Athens. Total flight time is about 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Rhodes Island

"The Island of the Sun" is one of the earliest and still favored destinations, offering visitors a wide spectrum of pleasure from fine beaches and fertile countryside, elegant restaurants and traditional tavernas, grand resorts and atmospheric hotels to shops with every possible kind of goods. There can be no denying that the main attraction of the island is the Old Town of Rhodes, the medieval quarter of the capital city, but from the village of the inherently beautiful traditional settlement of Lindos to the forest of the Valley of the Butterflies and the natural beauty of the southern part of the island, Rhodes presents an ideal environment for numerous pleasant days of discovery.

Day 20: Rhodes

Rhodes
Daily Summary
  • Tour: Rhodes Town Medieval History Tour
  • Accommodation: Melenos Lindos
  • Meals: B

Rhodes Town Medieval History Tour

There’s no denying that the main attraction of Rhodes Island is its medieval town, called Rhodes town. Built by the Knights of St. John during the late 15th and early 16th century, the large towers, imposing gates, and impressive bastions stand as a reminder to all visitors of the power once wielded by this island. You will explore the monumental Palace of the Grand Masters and learn about the fascinating history that shaped the island. While walking through the narrow streets you’ll have the opportunity to learn about many of the town’s interesting landmarks. Churches, synagogues, public buildings, archways, and gardens will all blend together to create a unique and enchanting experience. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 21: Rhodes

Rhodes
Daily Summary
  • Accommodation: Melenos Lindos
  • Meals: B

You have a free day today to further explore Rhodes!

Day 22: Rhodes - Athens

Rhodes - Athens
Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfers
  • Transportation (Air): Domestic Flight
  • Accommodation: Electra Metropolis Athens
  • Meals: B
Domestic Flight
Rhodes - Athens
Flight #: TBD
Departs: TBD
Arrives: TBD

This morning you will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the Rhodes International Airport in good time to board your domestic flight. Upon arrival to Athens, you will be picked up and transferred to your hotel for a relaxing evening. (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 23: Athens Departure

Daily Summary
  • Transportation: Airport Transfer
  • Meals: B

After breakfast this morning, the time has come to say farewell to Athens. You will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to the airport in good time to board your international departure flight. We hope you had a wonderful time discovering Greece, and we wish you a pleasant and safe journey home. (This service is on a private basis.)

Accommodation

Electra Metropolis Athens

Electra Metropolis Athens

Located in the beating heart of Athens’ historical district and only steps away from the scenic neighborhood of Plaka, the Electra Metropolis is an exemplary hotel that combines the retro chic mood of the 1950s with the contemporary style of modern-day Athens. Its 216 rooms and suites are all designed with the needs of the modern traveler in mind, offering comfortable beds, sleek furnishings, and a host of tech mod cons. The Metropolis Roof Garden that is located on the 10th floor of the hotel offers sweeping panoramic views of the Acropolis and the city’s skyline while offering creative Greek cuisine that is mainly focused around the use of fish and meat. Stylish, modern and sophisticated, the Electra Metropolis is easily one of Athens’ finest hotels.

Domes Zeen Chania

Domes Zeen Chania

Located near the city of Chania, one of the most picturesque settlements in Crete, Domes Zeen is designed to give the impression of a “modern village”. A perfect sanctuary surrounded by the pristine nature of the Cretan coast, Domes Zeen is an ideal place to take a break from the stress of daily life and rejuvenate your senses. Made up of 106 soulful rooms divided into several different categories, this luxurious hotel is perfectly equipped to cater to the needs of diverse range of travelers. All rooms are decorated with handmade furniture, perfectly harmonized with the earthy and sophisticated theme that permeates the property. At the Beach House Restaurant you can enjoy a delectable selection of dishes featuring pronounced Greek and Venetian influences, while the in-house Jungle Spa provides a wide range of massage treatments and therapies for moments of bliss and relaxation. Revel in life’s simple pleasures and enjoy exploring this tropical haven on western Crete.

Elounda Gulf Villas

Elounda Gulf Villas

Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites, a proud member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World, is an exclusive hotel featuring ten individually designed luxury suites and eighteen luxury pool villas. Built on a hillside overlooking the Gulf of Mirabello on the island of Crete, this private luxury hotel complex offers excellent facilities and a very high level of personalized services. Its exceptional location - between the coastal towns of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos -overlooking the Aegean Sea, makes the Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites a haven for couples and families seeking an authentic and more "off-the-beaten" path Cretan experience.

Astra Suites

Astra Suites

The Astra Suites is located in the peaceful village of Imerovigli on the island of Santorini. This distinguished suites hotel is situated on the volcanic cliffs of Santorini island and offers a stunning view of the Aegean Sea. Among some of the top luxury boutique hotels of Greece, the Astra Suites has earned recognition for its world-class service and exceptional hospitality.

Parilio Hotel

Parilio Hotel

Ideally located on the northern coast of Paros near the stunning Kolymbithres beach, the stunning Parilio Hotel exemplifies the new face of Parian hospitality, seamlessly combining the luxuries of modern life with the timeless appeal of the simple yet potent Cycladic style. The property is made up of 33 suites clad in a soothing color palette, featuring a blend of contemporary Greek design pieces alongside objects d’art by leading European designers and exquisite North African ceramics. A large pool framed by two impressive, large boulders offers the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun while a state-of-the-art on-site Asian spa offers a range of facial and body treatments that will rejuvenate your mind and elevate your senses.

Melenos Lindos

Melenos Lindos

In the heart of the high rocky flank of the ancient Lindos Acropolis on the island of Rhodes, lies the Melenos Lindos boutique hotel, a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World. This luxury boutique hotel was built based on the traditional architectural design of Lindos Rhodes, enriched with echo-friendly materials and the personalized touch of the hotel's owner. This luxury boutique hotel with its panoramic sea views and relaxed atmosphere of its public areas gives a sense of time travel to all of its guests while in Rhodes. Comprising of a total of twelve suites, this authentic boutique hotel on Rhodes island is the ideal choice for the discerning traveler seeking more than just a hotel. The Melenos Lindos comprises of fully equipped suites, featuring distinctive individual ambiance based on hand-picked furniture and hand-crafted ceilings and walls. Equally elegant for couples and families, this traditional style boutique hotel introduces its guests to Greek heritage and culture.

Pricing and Details

Starting from $ 23,280 per person

*Pricing is based on two persons traveling together, based on availability, subject to change.

Price Includes

  • Full support before, during & after your trip
  • Meals as mentioned
  • Accommodation as mentioned
  • Tours/activities as mentioned
  • Transport as mentioned

Price Excludes

  • International & domestic flights
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Entrance visas when applicable
  • Other services not mentioned
  • Tips and gratuities to guides, drivers
  • Taxes and fees

Why Global Basecamps

Unparallelled Customer Service
As dedicated travel specialists, we are here to help you plan the perfect trip. Were with you from the beginning, during the crucial planning stages, throughout your trip in case anything comes up, and afterwards to make sure everything went perfectly. If anything were to go wrong during your trip (missed/delayed flights, etc.), we and our local in‐country partners are here for you.
Hand‐crafted Trips
While we have sample itineraries to help you create the perfect trip, we encourage you to travel at your own pace with a custom itinerary ‐ or simply book accommodation and excursions to travel with full flexibility. We also give you access to an amazing product line that would be very difficult to find otherwise.
Social Responsibility
Our trips directly benefit local communities through a variety of educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives. Additionally, all of our partners have been qualified as upholding a level of service that we truly stand behind. We strive to work exclusively with like‐minded partners who are committed to making sure tourism does not have a negative impact on destinations.

Request Free Quote

Our entire team is dedicated to making this custom journey come true. Request a free quote by filling out the form and please share any details to help us customize this perfect trip just for you.

Can’t wait another minute? We understand, call us directly at (866) 577-2462 and speak with one of our extraordinary travel specialists.

Clients Love Us

  • National Geographic
  • Union Tribune
  • CNBC
  • ATTA
  • APTA
  • IATA
  • STI
  • TIES
This is just one of many authentic travel experiences offered by Global Basecamps. If you are interested in more unique destinations to Greece with unprecedented planning and extraordinary service visit our main Greece tours page to browse other sample trips.
© 2024 Copyright - Global Basecamps. All rights reserved - globalbasecamps.com - Privacy Policy - Site Map