Greece (7 Nights)

Upon your arrival at Athens Airport, you will be greeted and assisted with your transfer to your hotel in the city. After a scenic drive through the heart of Athens, you will check into your hotel, where you can settle in and freshen up after your journey.

Once you’re ready, the rest of the day is yours to either relax and unwind after your flight or to begin exploring this vibrant city at your own pace.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast at your hotel, begin your day with a visit to Hadrian’s Arch, an impressive monument that marks the boundary between ancient Athens and its Roman counterpart. Standing tall and grand, it’s a remarkable symbol of the city’s rich history and transition from Greek to Roman influence. From here, it’s just a short walk to the Temple of Zeus, one of the grandest temples of ancient Greece, where you can marvel at the remaining columns that once surrounded one of the largest statues of Zeus, crafted by the famed sculptor Phidias.

Next, make your way to the Parthenon, the iconic symbol of ancient Greek civilization. This ancient temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, dominates the Acropolis skyline. As you stand before the Parthenon, you can admire the incredible architecture and imagine the temple’s grandeur in its prime. The sight of this ancient wonder, perched atop the hill overlooking Athens, is both awe-inspiring and humbling.

After soaking in the Parthenon’s majesty, head to the nearby Acropolis Museum, a modern, glass-walled building that beautifully complements the ancient ruins. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and excavation of the Acropolis, housing numerous artifacts and sculptures recovered from the site, including the famous Parthenon marbles.

With your exploration of Athens’ ancient monuments coming to a close, you’ll have time to enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the cafés nearby, where you can sample Greek specialties and reflect on the morning’s sights. In the afternoon, you’ll prepare for your next adventure: the overnight ferry to Rhodes. As evening approaches, you’ll head to the port and board the ferry, ready to embark on a scenic and relaxing journey across the Aegean Sea to the beautiful island of Rhodes.

After a relaxing breakfast at the hotel, you can head towards the Valley of the Butterflies, located about 30 minutes from Rhodes Town. This lush, green valley is a serene natural reserve where thousands of butterflies gather during the summer months. As you walk along the shaded paths, surrounded by trees and the soothing sound of water, you can marvel at the beauty of the vibrant butterflies in their natural habitat. It’s a peaceful and picturesque spot, ideal for nature lovers.

Once you’ve explored the valley, head toward Kallithea Springs, a historic site known for its healing waters and striking architecture. The springs have been used since ancient times, and the area has been beautifully restored in recent years. Take a stroll through the gardens, admire the colorful mosaics, and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. You can even take a dip in the refreshing waters if the mood strikes you.

In the afternoon, return to Rhodes Town and enjoy lunch at one of the seaside tavernas or in the Old Town, where you can savor traditional Greek dishes. After lunch, delve into Rhodes’ rich history with a visit to the Jewish Museum of Rhodes, located in the heart of the Old Town. The museum provides an insightful look into the Jewish community’s history on the island, particularly before World War II, and its cultural contributions to Rhodes over the centuries.

Next, make your way to the Botanical Garden of Rhodes, a peaceful oasis on the outskirts of the city. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped grounds, where you’ll encounter plants from around the world, including many native species that thrive in the Mediterranean climate. The garden offers a quiet break from the bustling town and is a perfect spot for some relaxation and reflection.

As the day begins to wind down, head to Fort Saint Nicholas, a medieval fortress that overlooks the harbor. This well-preserved site offers fantastic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding coastline, providing a sense of the island’s strategic importance during the Middle Ages.

For dinner, choose a taverna with a sea view where you can enjoy fresh seafood or other local specialties. Afterward, take a leisurely evening walk around Rhodes Town, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the Old Town’s ancient streets. As the evening draws to a close, you might want to enjoy a quiet drink at one of the local bars before heading back to your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s adventures in this captivating island paradise.

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, make your way to the port to catch the ferry to Symi Island, one of the most picturesque spots in the Dodecanese. As the ferry sets sail, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Aegean Sea, with its deep blue waters and rocky coastline. The journey itself is a calming prelude to the beauty that awaits you on the island.

Upon arrival at the harbor, you’ll immediately notice Symi’s unique charm. The harbor is lined with neoclassical buildings painted in vibrant shades of yellow, pink, and orange, all set against the backdrop of steep, rugged hills. Take a moment to wander through the narrow streets of the main town, where small shops, cafés, and local boutiques offer everything from handmade crafts to fresh local produce. The town’s atmosphere is both lively and peaceful, a perfect place to get lost in and explore at your own pace.

From the harbor, head towards the Monastery of the Archangel Michael—an essential highlight of the island. The monastery is located on a hilltop, offering magnificent views of Symi’s landscape and the surrounding waters. To get there, you’ll need to climb a series of steps that wind up the hillside, but the journey is well worth it. The panoramic views alone are breathtaking. Once at the monastery, you can explore the serene grounds, visit the chapel, and admire the intricate frescoes that adorn the walls. The monastery’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning location make it an ideal spot for reflection and quiet contemplation.

After visiting the monastery, return to the town and spend the rest of your day exploring more of what Symi has to offer. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a short hike up to the Kali Strata, a winding staircase that leads up to the top of the hill and offers breathtaking views of the harbor and the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass traditional houses and enjoy the island’s quiet charm from above.

Alternatively, you can head to one of the island’s beautiful beaches. Nos Beach is just a short walk from the harbor and offers a relaxing spot to swim and unwind. The crystal-clear waters and the gentle waves provide a perfect way to cool off after a morning of exploring.

For lunch, you can enjoy fresh seafood or local specialties at one of the harborside tavernas, where you can dine while overlooking the water. Afterward, take some time to simply relax and soak in the atmosphere of the island, whether that means sipping a coffee in a quiet café or taking a leisurely walk along the coastline.

As the afternoon draws to a close, you’ll have some free time to further explore the narrow streets of Symi, discovering hidden gems and charming spots along the way. The island’s slower pace makes it ideal for a leisurely day of exploration, and by the time you board the ferry back to Rhodes, you’ll carry with you memories of a peaceful, picturesque escape.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, a driver will arrive to take you on a scenic journey to Santorini, one of Greece’s most iconic and picturesque islands. The drive will be comfortable and relaxing, offering you the chance to sit back and take in the stunning landscapes as you approach the island. Upon arrival in Santorini, you’ll be dropped off at your chosen hotel, where you can settle in and begin your adventure on this beautiful volcanic island.

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, enjoying some fresh Greek pastries and coffee while soaking in the morning views. Once you’re ready, head towards Fira, the island’s bustling capital. Wander through the narrow, winding streets, where whitewashed buildings with blue-domed churches create the quintessential Santorini atmosphere. Take your time exploring the charming shops, art galleries, and the vibrant market stalls that offer local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Next, make your way to Oia, the island’s most famous village. Known for its stunning sunsets and iconic blue-domed churches, Oia offers panoramic views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea. Stroll through its quaint streets, which are lined with traditional Cycladic architecture, boutique shops, and restaurants offering delectable Greek cuisine. As you walk, you’ll find numerous spots perfect for photos, with the bright white houses contrasting beautifully with the deep blue of the sea and sky.

For lunch, settle into a taverna with a view of the caldera, enjoying some fresh seafood or a traditional Greek dish like moussaka or fava. Afterward, take a short trip to Imerovigli, a quieter village perched higher up on the caldera edge. Here, you can enjoy panoramic views and more serene surroundings compared to the more tourist-heavy spots of Fira and Oia.

In the late afternoon, visit Santo Wines Winery, where you can sample some of the local Assyrtiko wine and enjoy a breathtaking view of the caldera. The winery is the perfect place to unwind and learn about the island’s rich winemaking history while sipping on some of the best wines Santorini has to offer.

As the evening approaches, make your way back to Oia for the legendary Santorini sunset. There’s no better way to end the day than by watching the sun sink into the horizon, casting a golden glow over the sea and the island’s whitewashed buildings. Find a spot along the caldera or at one of the many rooftop bars that offer front-row seats to this natural spectacle.

After sunset, enjoy a delicious dinner in one of Oia’s fine restaurants, savoring Greek dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. Afterward, take a peaceful evening stroll along the cobbled streets, enjoying the calmness of the night before heading back to your accommodation.

Start with a relaxing breakfast at your hotel.  Once you’re energized, make your way to the black sand beaches of Kamari or Perissa. Both beaches offer unique opportunities to unwind, whether you prefer to take a refreshing dip in the Aegean Sea or lounge under the sun on the volcanic sand. Kamari is a bit more lively with seaside cafés and bars, while Perissa offers a quieter, more laid-back vibe. Either way, you’ll enjoy the stunning contrast of the black sand and crystal-clear waters.

After spending the morning by the beach, head toward the archaeological site of Akrotiri, the ancient Minoan city that was preserved under layers of volcanic ash following the island’s catastrophic eruption in the 16th century BC. Known as the “Pompeii of the Aegean,” the ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the advanced civilization that once inhabited the island. Walk through the well-preserved remains of homes, streets, and frescoes, and imagine what life was like for the inhabitants of this ancient settlement.

For lunch, stop by a nearby taverna in Akrotiri or Red Beach, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while taking in views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Afterward, take some time to visit Red Beach, which is famous for its striking red cliffs and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect spot to relax, swim, and enjoy the natural beauty of the island.

In the afternoon, drive to Pyrgos, a charming village located in the heart of the island. Pyrgos is less touristy than Fira and Oia, making it a peaceful retreat with traditional Cycladic architecture and narrow, winding streets. As you walk through the village, you’ll pass by small churches, local homes, and quiet squares. Head to the Pyrgos Castle, perched on a hill, for incredible panoramic views of the island. The castle offers a peaceful escape, with its labyrinth of alleys and panoramic vistas that overlook the caldera and beyond.

As the evening approaches,  You can opt for a seaside taverna offering traditional Greek dishes like grilled octopus or saganaki (fried cheese) or find a more upscale dining experience with fresh local ingredients and a view of the caldera. Enjoy your meal while watching the sunset begin to cast its warm glow over the island’s dramatic cliffs and waters.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets of Fira or Oia. The evening atmosphere is magical, with soft lighting illuminating the whitewashed buildings and the air filled with the gentle hum of evening activity.

After enjoying your breakfast at the hotel, you’ll prepare to leave the beautiful island of Santorini and head back to Athens Airport. Depending on your preferred mode of travel, you’ll either take a short flight or a ferry back to the mainland. Once you arrive at Athens, you’ll have ample time to catch your connecting flight or make your onward journey, bringing with you unforgettable memories of your time in Santorini.