Explore the Best of Greece – 10 Days
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- Duration
- 10 days
- Guiding Style
- Partially Guided
- Hotel Rating
- 3 or 4 star hotels
- Start / End
- Athens → Athens
- Group Size
- Min 1 / Max 40
- Physical Rating
- Easy Travelers can expect some light physical activities
Highlights
This 10-day tour takes you through the very best of Greece, blending ancient history, myth, and breathtaking island scenery — from the legendary Acropolis of Athens to the ancient oracle at Delphi, the mystical rock monasteries of Meteora, the iconic caldera views of Santorini, and the rich Minoan heritage of Crete.
Combining guided tours with free time, the itinerary offers the ideal balance of culture, history, and natural beauty — with hand-picked accommodations and seamless transfers throughout.
- Guided tour of Athens – visit the Panathenaic Stadium, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, Parliament Building, and Constitution Square (Syntagma)
- Explore the Acropolis – the timeless emblem of democracy and learning – and visit the spectacular Acropolis Museum, a modern marvel standing side by side with ancient ruins (admission included)
- Discover Delphi – the acclaimed center of the ancient world – and explore the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Theatre, the Stadium, and the Museum on the slopes of Mount Parnassus
- Visit Meteora – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – where over 20 monasteries crown towering sandstone rock pillars in one of Greece's most awe-inspiring settings
- Stop at Thermopylae and discover the legendary battle between the Greek Spartans and Persians
- Relax on Santorini – enjoy glamorous caldera views, unique black sandy beaches, and the world-famous romantic sunsets
- Optional boat cruise to the volcanic islets of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni with swimming in the warm orange-colored hot springs of the Santorini Caldera
- Explore Crete – Greece's largest island and cradle of Europe's advanced civilization – with its mountainous landscapes, scenic beaches, and the famous Knossos Palace
- 9 nights hotel accommodation – choose Tourist Class or First Class hotels in Athens, Kalambaka, Santorini, and Crete
10-Day Explore the Best of Greece Tour Itinerary
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Day 1
Arrival in Athens and Hotel Transfer
Welcome to Athens! As soon as you arrive, a pre-arranged chauffeur will be at hand to receive you and take you to the hotel to check in. The rest of the day is available to be spent at your discretion.
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Day 2
Sightseeing in Athens
Today, you'll join our tour escort on a morning exploration tour of Athens, to visit the historic treasures of the city. The excursion will take you through the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament, and the memorial of the Unknown Soldier — as well as a stop by the Academy, the University, the National Library, and the Constitution Square.
Your tour of Athens is incomplete without a visit to the Acropolis, an ancient citadel on a rocky height that contains the ruins of several antiquated buildings of great historic importance. Wrap up your tour with a visit to the spectacular Acropolis Museum, just five minutes away from the Acropolis by foot — an impressive modern structure built side by side with ruins of ancient buildings, blending modern and ancient civilizations. There is no better place to learn about the age of Greek history, art, and civilization than here. After the tour ends, you can have the rest of the afternoon to yourself.
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Day 3
Athens – Delphi – Kalambaka
After breakfast, you'll join our bus for a day's trip to Delphi, the acclaimed center of the world and the city where the popular oracle of ancient Greece is located. In Delphi, you'll ascend the slopes of Mount Parnassus to get to the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythius. The view from the sanctuary is incredibly beautiful. You'll also visit the Treasury of the Athenians, the Theatre, the Stadium, and the Museum — housing the famous sculpture of Antinoos and the special bronze sculpture of the Charioteer of Delphi dating back to 470 BC, as well as the statue of Aghias of Pharsalia, a champion of Panhellenic games in the 5th Century.
As the tour bus drives through the beautiful towns of Amphissa, Lamia, and Trikala on your return trip to your Kalambaka hotel, let your eyes roam and admire all the picturesque views of the Thessalian fields. Dinner will be available at the hotel before you retire for the day.
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Day 4
Meteora – Athens
Enjoy breakfast at the Kalambaka hotel before proceeding on today's trip to Meteora. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, the rock formation is home to a complex of over 20 monasteries — one of the largest in the world. Some of the monasteries are seated high at the top of the mountain, while others occupy the natural caves on the rock. Meteora is a representation of historical and religious gems rolled into one, offering an amazing picture of the surrounding town.
On your trip back to Athens, stop by the coastal town of Thermopylae, close to Lamia, and take a dip into the town's history — particularly the legendary battle between the Greek Spartans and Persians. You'll arrive in Athens later in the evening.
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Day 5
Athens – Santorini
In the morning, after you're done packing, you will be driven to the port of Piraeus, where you'll board a ferry boat to Santorini. Once you arrive at the island, you'll be taken to your hotel where you'll rest before exploring the magnificent island.
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Day 6
Santorini
Day at leisure. What better place is there to relax than in Santorini? With the glamorous views, the black sandy beaches, and the beautiful sunset sights. Our suggestion is to join the non-obligatory half-day tour (with extra charge) to the tiny volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, located in the middle of the Santorini Caldera, and swim in the orange-colored warm springs there. If you travel with a partner, seize the opportunity to treat your lover to a romantic dinner at the edge of the Caldera, looking over what might be the most astonishing scenery in the world.
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Day 7
Santorini – Crete (Heraklion)
Spend the morning at your discretion, then join the transfer to the port from where you'll be ferried to Crete (Heraklion). From the drop-off point in Heraklion, you'll be driven to your hotel. Finish off the rest of the day as you deem fit.
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Day 8
Crete – Heraklion
Free day. Today, you'll be exploring Crete, the largest and most inhabited island in Greece. Heraklion, situated on the northern coast of the island, is the capital of Crete. The island, which is remarkable for being the cradle of Europe's advanced civilization, offers a beautiful topography dotted by fascinating mountainous cliffs, steep canyons on hills, and waterfalls that empty into river tributaries and water bodies. You'll fall in love with the picturesque views of the fertile valley from the slopes of the mountains and the scenic beaches. Complete your visit to the island by dropping by the Knossos Palace, the famed hotbed of Minoan Civilization.
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Day 9
Crete – Athens
In the morning, you'll be transferred to the airport to catch your flight to Athens (not included). Upon arrival in Athens, you'll be transferred to your hotel to settle in and spend the night.
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Day 10
Departure
Depending on your flight schedule, you will check out of the hotel at the appropriate time and be dropped off at the Athens airport. All the while, your mind won't stop shuffling between the memories of Greek heritage — the iconic monuments, the enchanting islands, and the timeless beauty of this remarkable country.
What's Included
Accommodation
- 9 nights hotel accommodation in Athens, Kalambaka, Santorini, and Crete – Tourist Class or First Class Hotels (standard room)
- Tourist Class Hotels: Athens – Crystal City, Athenian Montaza, Jason Inn, Dorian Inn; Santorini – Nikolas, Sunrise, Zephyros, Makarios, Caldera Romantica, Santellini, Sigalas; Crete – Marin Dream, Atrion (or similar)
- First Class Hotels: Athens – Athenaeum Hotels, Athens Avenue, Athens Key, President, Stanley, Golden Age; Santorini – Aegean Plaza, Rose Bay, El Greco, Santorini Palace, Strogili, Kallos Imar, Goulielmos; Crete – Astoria Capsis, Ibis Styles, Castello City (or similar)
Guided Tours & Experiences
- Half-day Athens sightseeing tour – English-speaking guide / SIC basis
- 2-day Delphi and Meteora tour on half-board basis – English-speaking guide / SIC basis
- Ferry tickets Piraeus–Santorini (07:25–14:50) – Economy class (Free Seating)
- Entrance fees to the sites during guided sightseeing tours
Transport
- All transfers as mentioned in the program
- Transfers from/to airport on arrival and departure
Meals
- Daily breakfast
- Dinner on Days 3 and 4 (half-board during Delphi–Meteora tour)
Not Included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- High-Speed Boat Tickets (Highly Recommended) – available to add during the booking process
- Pre & post tour accommodation
- Optional experiences
- City tax (payable directly at the hotel)
- Any item, product or service not specifically listed under Included
Additional Information
- You will receive an e-ticket for this tour.
- This tour operates year-round, subject to availability.
- English-speaking guides provided for all included guided activities.
- The sequence of the tour may change depending on the departure date.
- Tour reference code: 210361
Dates & Availability
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour includes 9 nights hotel accommodation (Tourist Class or First Class), daily breakfast, a half-day Athens sightseeing tour, a 2-day Delphi and Meteora tour on a half-board basis, ferry tickets from Piraeus to Santorini in economy class, entrance fees to sites during guided tours, an experienced English-speaking guide, and all transfers as mentioned in the program including airport transfers on arrival and departure.
The tour starts and ends in Athens. Airport transfers are included on arrival and departure days. Accommodation throughout the tour is based in Athens, Kalambaka, Santorini, and Crete (Heraklion).
The Athens guided city tour covers the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament Building and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, University, National Library, and Constitution Square (Syntagma). The tour then proceeds to the Acropolis, followed by a visit to the Acropolis Museum with admission fees included.
In Delphi, you will ascend the slopes of Mount Parnassus to explore the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythius. Highlights include the Treasury of the Athenians, the Theatre, the Stadium, and the Museum, which houses the famous sculpture of Antinoos, the unique bronze Charioteer of Delphi dating back to 470 BC, and the statue of Aghias of Pharsalia, a champion of Panhellenic games in the 5th Century.
Meteora is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in central Greece, designated in 1988, featuring over 20 monasteries dramatically perched atop or built into towering sandstone cliffs. Some monasteries sit high at the top of the mountain, while others occupy the natural caves in the rock. It is a representation of historical and religious gems rolled into one, offering an amazing picture of the surrounding town and a sense of being suspended between earth and sky.
You travel to Santorini by ferry from Piraeus port. Economy class ferry tickets are included (departure 07:25, arrival 14:50). High-speed boat tickets are available as an optional upgrade and are highly recommended.
The free day in Santorini is yours to enjoy at leisure. Relax on the black sandy beaches, enjoy the glamorous caldera views, and experience the world-famous sunset sights. Optionally, at extra charge, you can join a half-day cruise to the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni to swim in the warm orange-colored hot springs in the heart of the Santorini Caldera, and consider a romantic dinner at the edge of the caldera.
Crete is the largest and most inhabited island in Greece, and the cradle of Europe's advanced civilization. Heraklion, the island's capital on the northern coast, offers a beautiful topography of mountainous cliffs, steep canyons, waterfalls, fertile valleys, and scenic beaches. A highlight of the visit is the Knossos Palace, the famed hotbed of Minoan Civilization.
Guests can choose between Tourist Class or First Class hotels. Tourist Class options in Athens include Crystal City, Athenian Montaza, Jason Inn, and Dorian Inn; in Santorini, Nikolas, Sunrise, Zephyros, Makarios, Caldera Romantica, Santellini, and Sigalas; in Crete, Marin Dream and Atrion, or similar. First Class options in Athens include Athenaeum Hotels, Athens Avenue, Athens Key, President, Stanley, and Golden Age; in Santorini, Aegean Plaza, Rose Bay, El Greco, Santorini Palace, Strogili, Kallos Imar, and Goulielmos; in Crete, Astoria Capsis, Ibis Styles, and Castello City, or similar.
The tour starts from US $2,019 per person, reduced from the standard price of US $3,155 — a saving of 36%. Price varies by departure date and hotel category selected.