Best of Greece in 15 days from Athens to Santorini

Best of Greece in 15 days from Athens to Santorini

When you saddle a trip with a moniker as lofty as “Best of Greece,” you’d better make sure it lives up to the hype. This one does. Compiling the top moments from our best-selling trips in the region, this comprehensive tour through the cradle of Western Civilization brings the distant past and vibrant present into sharp focus. Between the must-see historical sites of Athens and Delphi, the rugged plateaus of the fabled Samariá Gorge, personal encounters in isolated Cretan villages and the breezy sway of Santorini at sundown, you won’t have a moment to waste. Witness Greece—in all her timeless glory—with us.

Day 1 Athens

We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city. There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting. Included Activities: Arrival Day and Welcome Meeting

Day 2 Athens

Take an orientation walk in Athens with the rest of the day free to explore. Opt to visit the Acropolis site, the new Acropolis Museum, the Roman agora and the National Archaeological Museum. Included Activities: Orientation Walk

Day 3 Athens / Meteora

Travel to Kalambaka, a good base for visiting the monasteries of Meteora. Transport: Train (5.00 hour(s))

Day 4 Meteora

Take a bus up to see several monasteries in the area situated at 613m (2011 ft) above sea level, on a precipitous rock pinnacle. The day is yours to choose which monasteries to visit or perhaps take a hike in the scenic local area. Included Activities: Meteora Monasteries Visit

Day 5 Meteora / Delphi

Travel through mountain scenery around Mt Parnassos to Delphi. Enjoy a visit to the ancient city of Delphi and the Temple of Apollo, then spend the evening exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley. Included Activities: Ancient Delphi Tour Temple of Apollo Visit Transport: Private Vehicle (5.00-6.00 hours)

Best of Greece in 15 days from Athens to Santorini

Day 6 Delphi / Náfplio

Described as one of Greece’s prettiest towns, the narrow pedestrian streets of old town are begging to be strolled upon.

Opt to climb to the Acronafplia and Palamidi Fortresses. The views from the top are phenomenal. Transport: Private Vehicle (5.00 hour(s))

Day 7 Náfplio / Chaniá

There is a wealth of ancient sites within easy reach of Nafplio. Opt for a guided tour of Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites.

Opt to visit the famous Mycenae, also close by, with its spectacular treasury and ruins, or for another lesser-known Mycenean site, visit Tiryns, just in the suburbs of Nafplio itself. Transport: Private Vehicle (1.75-2.25 hours, 137km) Ferry (8.00 hour(s))

Day 8 Chaniá

Arrive on Crete and enjoy the day relaxing at one of the many harbour-side cafés. Wander the streets of the old town with its fascinating blend of ancient and modern Turkish and Venetian architecture, reflecting the diverse history of the island.

Day 9 Chaniá / Agia Roumeli

Travel by private transfer and ferry to hike in the Samariá Gorge. Spend the night in Agia Roumeli, a remote fishing village. Connected with neighbouring towns by sea or footpaths, the town has retained its charm. Enjoy time for swimming or relaxing on the beach. Additional Notes: Please bring a day pack with any essentials needed during the hike, and ensure to wear proper hiking attire. Included Activities: Samariá Gorge Hike Transport: Local bus (1.50 hour(s))

Day 10 Agia Roumeli / Loutro

The majestic scenery, crystal-clear Mediterranean water, friendly people and peaceful atmosphere all make Loutro an ideal place to relax after all the distance travelled. Transport: Ferry (0.50 hour(s))

Day 11 Loutro

Enjoy a cooking class and lunch with a local family. The rest of the day is free for exploring the area. Enjoy a swim and tasty seafood meals at secluded restaurants or hike Aradine Gorge. Included Activities: Cooking Class with a Local Family

Day 12 Loutro / Irákleion

Travel to Iraklio. Enjoy a visit to Knossos, site of a Minoan palace and residence of King Minos. Included Activities: Knossos Site Visit Transport: Ferry (0.50 hour(s)) Local bus (3.50 hour(s))

Day 13 Irákleion / Santorini

Fira, the main town, sits perched on the edge of the caldera with breathtaking views of multi-coloured cliffs, sugar-cube architecture, and great shopping.

Travel from sea level to the crater rim either by bus, gondola or donkey. Transport: Ferry (2.00 hour(s))

Day 14 Santorini

Enjoy a free day to explore. Opt for a half-day volcano tour, shopping, relaxing on the beach, or make your way to the crater’s rim to savour the breathtaking view. Opt to finish the day off with a sunset cruise.

Day 15 Santorini

Depart at any time.

Visits: 178