Picture blue skies, whitewashed houses, sparkling waters, ages-old structures and ruins, miles of vineyards, and picturesque sandy beaches. All of that is Greece…and much more. On this trip to one of the world’s most stunning countries, we take you to the most popular spots in the country, ranging from a vibrant ancient city to bucolic islands known not only for their history but also their magnificent beauty.

 Walk in the footsteps of ancient philosophers, mathematicians, and artists when you visit amazing Athens, where you’ll stay for three nights and enjoy plenty of leisure time as well as a guided tour of the city’s most lauded attractions including the Acropolis and its accompanying museum, the Ancient Agora, the historic Plaka district, and The National Garden. As the political, financial, and cultural center of Greece, Athens is also a contemporary urban metropolis, full of excellent restaurants, fun shopping experiences, and plenty of cultural events.

Next, travel to the island of Mykonos, a 33-square-mile gem that provides the perfect place to relax after a busy stay in Athens. Settle in for a 2-night stay at one of the island’s wonderful luxury hotels and take time to lounge on the sand and bathe in the warm waters of the Aegean Sea. On a private tour, see the ruins of Delos and then return to your hotel for dinner and a leisurely evening or a fun-filled night on the town.

Depart Mykonos and hop aboard a ferry for a relaxing trip to Santorini, 120 miles from the mainland and one of the most picturesque islands in the archipelago. Visit the capital city of Fira, which clings to the side of a cliff, or head to the archaeological site of Akrotiri and explore the ruins of the Minoan era. Taste the islands award-winning wines, relax on a black sand beach, or explore the whitewashed houses and pretty neighborhoods of this lovely island.

Now you’ll head to Crete, where you’ll complete your tour with a 3-night stay on this most populous of all the Greek Islands. Once the center of Minoan civilization, Crete provides a lesson in Greek traditions and culture and remains a popular vacation destination not only for international travelers but for other Greeks as well. On your guided tour, you’ll visit the archaeological sites of Knossos and Phaistos and make a stop at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, where you and fellow travelers will learn more about the ancient Minoan culture. During your free time, lounge on pretty Vai or Elafonissi Beaches, visit the Historical and Folk Art Museum, explore local villages like artistic Kritsa, take the kids to Aquaworld Aquarium, or stroll along the Old Venetian Harbor.

Tour Overview

Day 1              Arrive in Athens, remainder of day at leisure

Day 2              Enjoy a private city tour of Athens

Day 3              Leisure time in Athens with optional side trips

Day 4             Depart for Mykonos with an afternoon tour of Delos

Day 5              Leisure time in Mykonos

Day 6              Depart for Santorini; optional wine tasting tour

Day 7              Half-day private tour of Santorini, remainder of day at leisure

Day 8              Leisure time in Santorini

Day 9              Depart for Crete, remainder of day at leisure

Day 10            Full-day tour of Crete including Knossos and Phaistos archaeological sites

Day 11            Leisure time in Crete, optional village tour

Day 12            Depart for home