Treasures of Greece & The Islands
Soak up the best of the Greek Isles on this 2-week guided tour that starts in Athens. See the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian before ascending to Athens’ most iconic landmark The Acropolis and its towering Parthenon, a temple built for the goddess Athena. Walk through the Lion Gate to the ruinous city of Mycenae, then meet the family of artisans behind a stunning pottery studio, who will show you their unique wares. Sail to Santorini for two sun-drenched days on the idyllic island, where you can unwind at clifftop restaurants or wander its cobblestone streets before settling in to watch one of the best sunsets on Earth. Get happily lost on the maze of walkways in white-washed Mykonos, and sun yourself on one of its dazzling beaches.
- 07 Jun 2026 – 20 Jun 2026
from $10,295 pp twin share * - 21 Jun 2026 – 04 Jul 2026
from $11,250 pp twin share * - 19 Jul 2026 – 01 Aug 2026
from $11,250 pp twin share * - 16 Aug 2026 – 29 Aug 2026
from $11,250 pp twin share * - 30 Aug 2026 – 12 Sep 2026
from $12,095 pp twin share * - 13 Sep 2026 – 26 Sep 2026
from $13,025 pp twin share * - 27 Sep 2026 – 10 Oct 2026
from $12,925 pp twin share * - 11 Oct 2026 – 24 Oct 2026
from $12,550 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – 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. Join your Travel Director and get to know your fellow travellers over a delightful evening of dinner. - Day 2 – Athens, City of Gods:
Begin your journey into ancient Greece today, where the history of this remarkable civilisation comes to life. Explore Athens with an Insight Choice experience. Choose to visit the city’s renowned ancient sites with a Local Expert, or venture into the dynamic Plaka neighbourhood, guided by your Travel Director. Next, venture to Thermopylae, the mountain pass where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their legendary stand against the Persians in 480 B.C. Pay tribute at the memorial honouring their courage before continuing to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. - Day 3 – 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. - Day 4 – 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. - Day 5 – 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. - Day 6 – 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. - Day 7 – 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. - Day 8 – 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. - Day 9 – Santorini Your Way Relaxed Start:
Another day to relax and unwind on Santorini’s black, red, and white beaches, or take a caique (traditional Greek fishing boat) to the volcanic islands for a swim in the hot springs. Alternatively, explore the prehistoric site of Akrotiri on an Optional Experience, where a Bronze Age settlement remains remarkably preserved in volcanic ash. 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. - Day 10 – 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. - Day 11 – 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? - Day 12 – 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? - Day 13 – 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. - Day 14 – Depart Athens:
Bid farewell to Athens. Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport.
Highlights
- Explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens.
- Sail to the idyllic islands of Santorini and Mykonos.
- Immerse yourself in local culture with artisan visits and scenic hikes.
Soak up the best of the Greek Isles on this 2-week guided tour that starts in Athens. See the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian before ascending to Athens’ most iconic landmark The Acropolis and its towering Parthenon, a temple built for the goddess Athena. Walk through the Lion Gate to the ruinous city of Mycenae, then meet the family of artisans behind a stunning pottery studio, who will show you their unique wares. Sail to Santorini for two sun-drenched days on the idyllic island, where you can unwind at clifftop restaurants or wander its cobblestone streets before settling in to watch one of the best sunsets on Earth. Get happily lost on the maze of walkways in white-washed Mykonos, and sun yourself on one of its dazzling beaches.
Inclusions
- Athens: Get up close and personal with ancient Greece as you explore Athens with your Local Expert.
- With your Local Expert, visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian.
- Then, ascend to the iconic Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers commanding views of the city.
- Discover the intricacies of the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of Wingless Victory, and admire the six exquisite Caryatids supporting the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
- Athens: Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods” under the guidance of your Travel Director.
- Nestled beneath the Acropolis, explore Plaka’s timeless charm, discovering the historical treasures and hidden corners, before enjoying time at leisure along Adrianou, a bustling pedestrian hub, brimming with vibrant shops and traditional cafes.
FAQs
- Amalia Olympia, Arty Grand Hotel, Olympia.
- Amalia Olympia, Olympion Asty
- Despotiko, Mykonos, Dorion, Mykonos, Porto Mykonos
- Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka
- Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott
- NOŪS Santorini, Orama, Santorini, The Majestic, Santorini
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 14 days and 13 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 07 Jun 2026 and 24 Oct 2026, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: Insight VacationsFine Print
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