Greek Isles
THIS TRIP IS COMPLETED!
17 Day Custom Tour designed exclusively for Focus Travel Club
$6699.00 PP based on double occupancy
May 5 – 21, 2016
Athens –Crete – Anogia – Axos - Enagron - Rethymnon – Chania – Santorini -
Naxos-Nafplio - Spetses
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The Back Roads and Hidden Sights of the Greek IslesWe have traveled to Greece in past years but we always wanted to go back to explore and experience the Greek Isles in more detail. Join us and explore the many not- so- visited locations on these amazing islands and experience the wonderful people that call it their home.
Highlights include:
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Depart U.S.A for Athens, Greece
Day 2: Arrive Athens, Greece (WD)
Arrive today in Athens! A representative will meet you at the airport and help you transfer to your hotel.
This evening we will gather for a welcome dinner at the hotel and meet our Tour Director. Our Tour Director will also give us a short orientation of the exciting activities ahead
Dinner and overnight at Hotel New or similar
Day 3: Athens (B, D)
Today we enjoy a tour of Athens, combining many of the city's principal modern and classical sights. This tour includes an overview of the modern city and the striking contrasts of the remains of the past. Drive by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament House on Constitution Square, and the Panathenian Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. See the Presidential Palace, the former Royal Palace, government buildings and elegant homes. Drive along Panepistimiou Avenue and view the Catholic Cathedral, the Academy, University, National Library and Omonia Square.
In contrast, we will see the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus and visit the crowning glory of Athens, the Acropolis, with its many monuments on top of its mountain perch, as well as the awesome Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion with its Porch of Maidens.
After lunch, we will visit the New Acropolis Museum, which has been lauded as the best in the world. The museum offers all the amenities expected in an international museum of the 21st century.
Dinner at local restaurant in Monastiraki area
Overnight at Hotel New or similar
Day 4: Athens - Crete (B, L)
After breakfast at our hotel, we meet with our coach and assistant for our transfer to Athens airport and enjoy the quick flight to Heraklio. Upon arrival to Crete’s largest city, we’ll make our way to the impressive Minoan Palace of Knossos. The Palace of Knossos was built at the height of the Minoans’ glory, in around 3400 to 2100 BC, reflecting their wealth and sophistication. The original site was huge, and so interconnected that it was rumored to have been the original labyrinth of King Minos and the legendary Minotaur. An earthquake destroyed the original palace around 1700 BC, which was then rebuilt into a more sophisticated complex until it was again destroyed, but by a fire in 1400 BC. Sir Arthur Evans started renovating the ruins and has brought to life the palace’s most significant parts, including the reconstructed columns; painted deep brown-red with gold-trimmed black capitals, they taper gracefully at the bottom. Explore the palace’s Throne Room, where you can see a simple, beautifully proportioned alabaster throne and walls decorated with frescoes of griffins, mythical beasts regarded as sacred by the Minoans. Wander through the lavish royal quarters and explore the corridors and labyrinth-like alleyways that lead to intriguing rooms such as the Theatral Area – a place that may have once existed as a theater. Read Mary Renault’s evocative novels The King Must Die and Bull from the Sea to bring the time of King Minos and the Minoan civilization to life.
In the afternoon, visit the Boutaris Winery to taste some of Crete’s popular white, rose, and red wines. Grape cultivation has taken place in Crete since the Minoan era, 4,000 years ago and has helped make Crete one of the most traditional vineyards of Europe.
Dinner and overnight at the Lato Boutique Hotel
Day 5: Crete- Village of Anogia & Axos- Enagron (B, L, D)
After breakfast, meet with your local coach and guide to travel up the Psiloritis Mountains to visit the villages of Anogia and Axos. Enjoy the drive through the wild mountains, which are protected by UNESCO and learn about the people of these villages. The Ideon Cave, located in the mountain's stunning Nida Plateau, is one of the greatest cave sanctuaries and famous for being the place where the Father of Gods, Zeus, was born and grew up. Just past the cave is the beautiful village of Anogia,known as being the most picturesque mountainous village of Crete with a powerful and tragic history. The village was burned by the Turks during the Ottoman occupation and, in 1944, German forces destroyed every building except the church and killed all the men in Anogia as a payback for the kidnapping of the German General Von Kreipe by the local resistance fighters. After the war, the inhabitants returned, rebuilt their homes and today Anogia lives again as a reminder of the struggles of the Cretans against all the invaders of the tragic island, their determination and their love of their homeland. Due to its secluded location, the village retains its strong authentic character, the local customs, traditional costumes and its old Cretan dialect. We’ll have time to stroll through the narrow streets and the square of Agios Georgios, a splendid exhibition of local life and a good place to stop for coffee, buy local cheese and visit the small church of the same name.
Situated at the foothills of Mount Psiloritis in Axos, surrounded by beautiful olive groves and vineyards, lies Enagron. The popular traditional houses provide an ideal retreat for environmentally friendly travellers, with a restaurant that serves traditional Cretan cuisine from it's own farm on the grounds.
Dinner and overnight at Enagron
Day 6: Enagron (B, L, D)
Today is ours to enjoy as we like at the Enagron farm. Choose anything from cooking classes at the farm to exploring nature on donkey-back.
Dinner and overnight at Enagron
Day 7: Enagron - Rethymnon (B, D)
After breakfast, depart Enagron and travel to the charming western Crete Venezian city of Rethymnon. The old town of Rethymnon is one of the best-preserved towns of the Renaissance, combining the oriental features of the Turkish period with Renaissance-style Venetian architecture. Wander around and admire Venetian monuments like the 16th-century loggia, and the Great Gate and wall remnants. After lunch on our own by the Venezian Port, we will check-in at our hotel with time to rest before an evening visit to the Agreco estate. Everything grown on the farm ends up in the kitchen, where Agreco's chef prepares the traditional Cretan dishes featured on the tavern menu. A large olive tree and vines wrapped around the wooden beams of the pergola, shade the stone-laid terrace with a magnificent view of the Cretan coast.
Dinner at Agreco
Overnight at Palazzo Vecchio Residence
Day 8: Chania City - Agia Triada (B, D)
After breakfast, we leave with our guide for a visit to the restored monastery, the Agia Triada (Holy Trinity). We will visit the monastery church, wander through the beautiful complex, and even buy traditional olive oil from the monks. Next, we’ll discover the beautiful city of Chania, preserved in its original colors and historical character. We’ll wander along the scenic harbor and streets while learning about the Venetians, Romans and Ottoman Turks, who ruled Chania at different times in the city’s rich history; hear of the Venetian fortifications that once surrounded the Old Town, and see how the city today blends old monuments with modern landmarks.
This evening we will be treated to the experience of preparing dinner with the chef for a traditional Greek meal, with a fantastic view and atmosphere.
Dinner at local tavern in Rethymno
Overnight at Palazzo Vecchio Residence
Day 9: Rethymnon - Santorini Island (B, L)
After breakfast, we depart for the Port of Heraklion and board the boat to Santorini Port. Upon arrival, meet with your coach for the transfer to the town of Fira for check-in and lunch at a local tavern. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour through the quaint cobbled streets of Santorini's capitol. Hear about the local traditions, the museum that is housed in a cave, and many of Fira's interesting stories.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight at Hotel El Greco in Fira Town.
Day 10: Santorini Island tour and Caldera cruise (B, L, D)
After breakfast, enjoy a full day island tour with sights of Santorini's traditional villages, countryside and the most beautiful black sandy beaches. Start at Pyrgos, for a short stop to stroll through the village. This village was once the ancient capital of Santorini and has more than 50 churches, a Venetian castle and incredible views. We’ll visit a local winery for a tour and introduction to the local wines followed by a wine tasting with local tomato, olive, cheese and barley rusks. Next, we head up to Profitis Ilias for a short photo stop and then drive to one of the famous black sandy beaches of the island with lunch at local restaurant by the black Sand beach of Kamari.
After the bus tour of Santorini we will proceed to the port, where we'll embark for a boat trip to the volcano. With a 1 hour stop there is enough time to walk to the crater and observe the smoke with traces of sulphur that is emitted from a number of spots. Leaving the volcano behind, the boat now sails to the Hot Springs, where you can swim in the green sulphur waters (the stop lasts about 30 min). From there the boat sails to the nearby island of Thirassia, where you can swim at the beach next to the port or visit the traditional village Manolas by the winding steps, either on foot or by riding a donkey. The boat tour continues on to the village of Oia, to admire the sunset, one of the most spectacular sights in the Cyclades.
Dinner at local restaurant in Oia village
Overnight at Hotel El Greco in Fira Town.
Day 11: Santorini - Naxos Island (B,L,D)
After breakfast, transfer to the Port of Athinios for a boat ride to Naxos Island. Upon arrival, stop for lunch at a local restaurant and check-in to the hotel. In the afternoon meet with your local guide for a tour of the traditional village filled with beautiful old churches, monasteries and Venetian castles coexisting harmoniously with Cycladic cubic houses. See the Temple of Apollo before heading on the coastal road towards Old Town. There we can visit the Castle of Naxos, the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Museum, the Metropolis site, and the Folk Museum. Stroll along the traditional alleys towards the old market and then to the beautiful beaches of Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka.
Dinner at local traditional beach tavern
Overnight at Hotel Nissaki Beach
Day 12: Naxos Island (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we set off to the eastern foothills of the Fanaria Moutains to the scenic village of Apiranthos. Steeped in rich history and tradition, this "Marble Village" is the heart and soul of the island's cultural life. The architecture in this town is very interesting with the Venetian influence clear. One can see houses with coats of arms above their doors and there are also some ornate balconies on view. The village is also home to a number of museums, including the Archaeological, the Folklore, the Natural History and the Visual Arts Museum. Take a stroll through marbled alleyways, sip coffee in a traditional café and look out for the church of Panagia Aperathitissa which is one of the oldest on the island.
Next, enjoy the drive just north east of the island to the beautiful fishing village of Apollonas. This coastal village lies within a lovely cove with a nice beach surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Apollonas’ most famous landmark can be found at the top of the village, in an area called Kastraki. It’s an unfinished statue dating from the 6th Century BC that stands at 10.5 meters tall. Known locally as Kouros, archaeologists believe that the statue depicts the ancient Greek god Dionysus. Enjoy free time shopping and eating seafood delicacies while overlooking the northeastern Aegean Sea.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight at Hotel Nissaki Beach
Day 13: Naxos - Nafplio (B,L)
After breakfast, enjoy free time at your leisure before meeting with the group for lunch at a local restaurant. Next, sail to the Mediterranean's largest and historical Port Piraeus on a high speed boat. Upon arrival in the early evening, journey along the coast towards Nafplion, stopping at the impressive Corinth channel for a refreshment and a breath taking view. The famous Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. The canal is 6.4 kilometers in length and only 21.3 meters wide at its base, making it an incredible sight when ships pass through and a popular spot for bungee jumpers. Earth cliffs flanking either side of the canal reach a maximum height of 63 meters. Though only completed in the late 19th century, the canal was an idea and dream that dates back over 2000 thousand years.
In the afternoon we arrive in Nafplio, one of the most elegant and romantic cities in the country. Nafplio was the first capital of Greece after the Independence and has been a major port since the Bronze Age. The beautiful old city has a wealth of narrow alleyways and streets, steep stairs, taverns serving delicious Greek food, lively bars, clubs and cafés, a lovely seafront promenade, and elegant Venetian houses. After check in, stroll around the narrow streets and climb the famous 999 steps to the fortress of Palamidi. This architectural masterpiece was built by the Venetians between 1711 and 1714 and consists of eight bastions, each self contained, ensuring that if one bastion was breached the others could still be separately defended. The most important, and best preserved, is the western Agios Andreas Bastion , which stands at the top of the steps from town. It was the home of the garrison commander, and it is named after the tiny church in the interior courtyard. Also learn about the fortress Bourtzi, located on a small island close to Nafplio. Originally the fortress was part of the city's defenses against pirates, and was turned into a residence for the execuctioner of Palamidi's prisoners when the community didn't want to be neighbors with people in that profession. Now it has become the symbol of the city and even hosts music festivals.
Overnight at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Nafplion Town
Day 14: Nafplio (B, L)
After breakfast, explore one of the most impressive and famous archaeological sites in Greece: Mycenae. Dating from the Late Bronze Era, this was the kingdom of the legendary king Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks in the Trojan War. It was an influential center of that time and in fact it gave its name to an entire civilization, the Mycenaen civilization. The ancient town was surrounded by gigantic walls, while the most famous spot is the Lion Gate, the entrance to the town with two female stone lions above. Even though the archaeological evidence speaks against the famous golden mask of Agamemnon actually belonging to the famous king, the mask is one of the most famous findings of the ancient world. It is on display in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, along with several other objects from the excavations in Mycenae.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Built in 340 BC by an Argos architect, this theatre is the most beautiful and best preserved among all the ancient theatres. It is situated near the ancient sanctuary of Asklepios, a celebrated healing center of the classical world and was used as a therapeutic and religious centre dedicated to Asklepios, the god of healing. Destined for the fun of the patients of Asklipieio, it had a capacity of 13,000 spectators. It was divided into two parts: A 21-rows of seats part, aimed for the citizens and a 34-rows of seats part aimed for the priests and rulers. Due to its incomparable acoustics the actors can be perfectly heard by all 15,000 spectators, as you can even hear the sound of a pin dropping. It has been known from antiquity until the present day for its size, unique architecture and harmonious proportions.
Overnight at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Nafplion Town
Day 15: Nafplio (B,L,D)
Today we delight in a full day cruise to Spetses, a beautiful island famous for its beautiful beaches, elegant mansions, and history. In Medieval times, the island flourished with trade and the locals constructed elegant mansions that survive until today. When the Greek Revolution of 1821 broke out, the local commercial ships were turned into military ships and contributed to setting the country free. It was here that the revolution flag was raised on 3rd April 1821. The island has managed to retain its individual traditional character thanks to its well-preserved grand captain mansions, still bearing eloquent witness to the island’s glorious past. We’ll visit the House of Bouboulina, the heroine who played a significant role in the 1821 War of Independence and admire her house with it's wood-carved Florentine ceiling, 18th and 19th century furniture, and interesting collection of old weapons, fine porcelain and rare books. Another memorable stop in Spetses is the Cathedral of Ayios Nikolaos, the cathedral where the island's Independence flag was raised. Also, it is the place where the body of Paul Bonaparte, nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte, was kept in a barrel of rum for three years after he fought on the side of the Greeks. Enjoy your free time with a walk along the lovely sea promenade of the town and/or swim from the secluded beaches.
Dinner and overnight at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Nafplion Town
Day 16: Nafplio – Athens (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we leave Nafplio for Athens and enjoy lunch at the picturesque port of Mikrolimano in Piraeus area before checking into our hotel. We will leave Athens for a wonderful drive along the scenic coastal road known as "the Riviera of Attica", which affords a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf, passing through some of Athens most beautiful suburbs (Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, Lagonissi and Anavissos) to Cape Sounion the southern-most point of the entire peninsula. Cape Sounion is the first place mentioned by Pausanias (the ancient author), the travel writer of the second century A.D. in his description of Greece as the "sacred promontory of the Athenians", the temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. According to Mythology, Poseidon had his palace in the depths of the sea and his temple on a windswept rock rising above the Aegean Sea. The position of Cape Sounion was of strategic importance in ancient times so the Athenians established a small naval base and a fortress to protect the ships carrying grain to Piraeus, the port of Athens. We visit the temple of Poseidon, built near the edge of the cliff, one of the most beautiful monuments of the classical times to have survived to the present day, and enjoy a magnificent sea view. Upon completion of the tour, enjoy a lovely and scenic return to the hotel.
Farwell dinner at Dionysos Café and Restaurant
Overnight in Athens
Day 17: Athens – Depart Home (B)
After our included breakfast transfer to the Airport for our flight home.
For more information, contact
Ellie Leinaweaver.
Highlights include:
- Special “Joe Green” dining experiences and unexpected pleasant surprises. Breakfast each day on tour, plus a total of 22 lunches and dinners including cooking demonstrations and participation!
- Spectacular, unique, and extensive sightseeing program
- Small group size
- First Class and boutique centrally located hotels that were handpicked for FTC
- Deluxe Motor Coaches
- Wonderful meals, sights and experiences in the usual FTC style
- No-rush sightseeing with expert guides and our Tour Manager
- Round trip airfare from Denver
DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Day 1: Depart U.S.A for Athens, Greece
Day 2: Arrive Athens, Greece (WD)
Arrive today in Athens! A representative will meet you at the airport and help you transfer to your hotel.
This evening we will gather for a welcome dinner at the hotel and meet our Tour Director. Our Tour Director will also give us a short orientation of the exciting activities ahead
Dinner and overnight at Hotel New or similar
Day 3: Athens (B, D)
Today we enjoy a tour of Athens, combining many of the city's principal modern and classical sights. This tour includes an overview of the modern city and the striking contrasts of the remains of the past. Drive by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament House on Constitution Square, and the Panathenian Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. See the Presidential Palace, the former Royal Palace, government buildings and elegant homes. Drive along Panepistimiou Avenue and view the Catholic Cathedral, the Academy, University, National Library and Omonia Square.
In contrast, we will see the Roman Temple of Olympian Zeus and visit the crowning glory of Athens, the Acropolis, with its many monuments on top of its mountain perch, as well as the awesome Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion with its Porch of Maidens.
After lunch, we will visit the New Acropolis Museum, which has been lauded as the best in the world. The museum offers all the amenities expected in an international museum of the 21st century.
Dinner at local restaurant in Monastiraki area
Overnight at Hotel New or similar
Day 4: Athens - Crete (B, L)
After breakfast at our hotel, we meet with our coach and assistant for our transfer to Athens airport and enjoy the quick flight to Heraklio. Upon arrival to Crete’s largest city, we’ll make our way to the impressive Minoan Palace of Knossos. The Palace of Knossos was built at the height of the Minoans’ glory, in around 3400 to 2100 BC, reflecting their wealth and sophistication. The original site was huge, and so interconnected that it was rumored to have been the original labyrinth of King Minos and the legendary Minotaur. An earthquake destroyed the original palace around 1700 BC, which was then rebuilt into a more sophisticated complex until it was again destroyed, but by a fire in 1400 BC. Sir Arthur Evans started renovating the ruins and has brought to life the palace’s most significant parts, including the reconstructed columns; painted deep brown-red with gold-trimmed black capitals, they taper gracefully at the bottom. Explore the palace’s Throne Room, where you can see a simple, beautifully proportioned alabaster throne and walls decorated with frescoes of griffins, mythical beasts regarded as sacred by the Minoans. Wander through the lavish royal quarters and explore the corridors and labyrinth-like alleyways that lead to intriguing rooms such as the Theatral Area – a place that may have once existed as a theater. Read Mary Renault’s evocative novels The King Must Die and Bull from the Sea to bring the time of King Minos and the Minoan civilization to life.
In the afternoon, visit the Boutaris Winery to taste some of Crete’s popular white, rose, and red wines. Grape cultivation has taken place in Crete since the Minoan era, 4,000 years ago and has helped make Crete one of the most traditional vineyards of Europe.
Dinner and overnight at the Lato Boutique Hotel
Day 5: Crete- Village of Anogia & Axos- Enagron (B, L, D)
After breakfast, meet with your local coach and guide to travel up the Psiloritis Mountains to visit the villages of Anogia and Axos. Enjoy the drive through the wild mountains, which are protected by UNESCO and learn about the people of these villages. The Ideon Cave, located in the mountain's stunning Nida Plateau, is one of the greatest cave sanctuaries and famous for being the place where the Father of Gods, Zeus, was born and grew up. Just past the cave is the beautiful village of Anogia,known as being the most picturesque mountainous village of Crete with a powerful and tragic history. The village was burned by the Turks during the Ottoman occupation and, in 1944, German forces destroyed every building except the church and killed all the men in Anogia as a payback for the kidnapping of the German General Von Kreipe by the local resistance fighters. After the war, the inhabitants returned, rebuilt their homes and today Anogia lives again as a reminder of the struggles of the Cretans against all the invaders of the tragic island, their determination and their love of their homeland. Due to its secluded location, the village retains its strong authentic character, the local customs, traditional costumes and its old Cretan dialect. We’ll have time to stroll through the narrow streets and the square of Agios Georgios, a splendid exhibition of local life and a good place to stop for coffee, buy local cheese and visit the small church of the same name.
Situated at the foothills of Mount Psiloritis in Axos, surrounded by beautiful olive groves and vineyards, lies Enagron. The popular traditional houses provide an ideal retreat for environmentally friendly travellers, with a restaurant that serves traditional Cretan cuisine from it's own farm on the grounds.
Dinner and overnight at Enagron
Day 6: Enagron (B, L, D)
Today is ours to enjoy as we like at the Enagron farm. Choose anything from cooking classes at the farm to exploring nature on donkey-back.
Dinner and overnight at Enagron
Day 7: Enagron - Rethymnon (B, D)
After breakfast, depart Enagron and travel to the charming western Crete Venezian city of Rethymnon. The old town of Rethymnon is one of the best-preserved towns of the Renaissance, combining the oriental features of the Turkish period with Renaissance-style Venetian architecture. Wander around and admire Venetian monuments like the 16th-century loggia, and the Great Gate and wall remnants. After lunch on our own by the Venezian Port, we will check-in at our hotel with time to rest before an evening visit to the Agreco estate. Everything grown on the farm ends up in the kitchen, where Agreco's chef prepares the traditional Cretan dishes featured on the tavern menu. A large olive tree and vines wrapped around the wooden beams of the pergola, shade the stone-laid terrace with a magnificent view of the Cretan coast.
Dinner at Agreco
Overnight at Palazzo Vecchio Residence
Day 8: Chania City - Agia Triada (B, D)
After breakfast, we leave with our guide for a visit to the restored monastery, the Agia Triada (Holy Trinity). We will visit the monastery church, wander through the beautiful complex, and even buy traditional olive oil from the monks. Next, we’ll discover the beautiful city of Chania, preserved in its original colors and historical character. We’ll wander along the scenic harbor and streets while learning about the Venetians, Romans and Ottoman Turks, who ruled Chania at different times in the city’s rich history; hear of the Venetian fortifications that once surrounded the Old Town, and see how the city today blends old monuments with modern landmarks.
This evening we will be treated to the experience of preparing dinner with the chef for a traditional Greek meal, with a fantastic view and atmosphere.
Dinner at local tavern in Rethymno
Overnight at Palazzo Vecchio Residence
Day 9: Rethymnon - Santorini Island (B, L)
After breakfast, we depart for the Port of Heraklion and board the boat to Santorini Port. Upon arrival, meet with your coach for the transfer to the town of Fira for check-in and lunch at a local tavern. In the afternoon, enjoy a walking tour through the quaint cobbled streets of Santorini's capitol. Hear about the local traditions, the museum that is housed in a cave, and many of Fira's interesting stories.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight at Hotel El Greco in Fira Town.
Day 10: Santorini Island tour and Caldera cruise (B, L, D)
After breakfast, enjoy a full day island tour with sights of Santorini's traditional villages, countryside and the most beautiful black sandy beaches. Start at Pyrgos, for a short stop to stroll through the village. This village was once the ancient capital of Santorini and has more than 50 churches, a Venetian castle and incredible views. We’ll visit a local winery for a tour and introduction to the local wines followed by a wine tasting with local tomato, olive, cheese and barley rusks. Next, we head up to Profitis Ilias for a short photo stop and then drive to one of the famous black sandy beaches of the island with lunch at local restaurant by the black Sand beach of Kamari.
After the bus tour of Santorini we will proceed to the port, where we'll embark for a boat trip to the volcano. With a 1 hour stop there is enough time to walk to the crater and observe the smoke with traces of sulphur that is emitted from a number of spots. Leaving the volcano behind, the boat now sails to the Hot Springs, where you can swim in the green sulphur waters (the stop lasts about 30 min). From there the boat sails to the nearby island of Thirassia, where you can swim at the beach next to the port or visit the traditional village Manolas by the winding steps, either on foot or by riding a donkey. The boat tour continues on to the village of Oia, to admire the sunset, one of the most spectacular sights in the Cyclades.
Dinner at local restaurant in Oia village
Overnight at Hotel El Greco in Fira Town.
Day 11: Santorini - Naxos Island (B,L,D)
After breakfast, transfer to the Port of Athinios for a boat ride to Naxos Island. Upon arrival, stop for lunch at a local restaurant and check-in to the hotel. In the afternoon meet with your local guide for a tour of the traditional village filled with beautiful old churches, monasteries and Venetian castles coexisting harmoniously with Cycladic cubic houses. See the Temple of Apollo before heading on the coastal road towards Old Town. There we can visit the Castle of Naxos, the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian Museum, the Metropolis site, and the Folk Museum. Stroll along the traditional alleys towards the old market and then to the beautiful beaches of Agios Prokopios, Agia Anna, Plaka.
Dinner at local traditional beach tavern
Overnight at Hotel Nissaki Beach
Day 12: Naxos Island (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we set off to the eastern foothills of the Fanaria Moutains to the scenic village of Apiranthos. Steeped in rich history and tradition, this "Marble Village" is the heart and soul of the island's cultural life. The architecture in this town is very interesting with the Venetian influence clear. One can see houses with coats of arms above their doors and there are also some ornate balconies on view. The village is also home to a number of museums, including the Archaeological, the Folklore, the Natural History and the Visual Arts Museum. Take a stroll through marbled alleyways, sip coffee in a traditional café and look out for the church of Panagia Aperathitissa which is one of the oldest on the island.
Next, enjoy the drive just north east of the island to the beautiful fishing village of Apollonas. This coastal village lies within a lovely cove with a nice beach surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Apollonas’ most famous landmark can be found at the top of the village, in an area called Kastraki. It’s an unfinished statue dating from the 6th Century BC that stands at 10.5 meters tall. Known locally as Kouros, archaeologists believe that the statue depicts the ancient Greek god Dionysus. Enjoy free time shopping and eating seafood delicacies while overlooking the northeastern Aegean Sea.
Dinner at local restaurant
Overnight at Hotel Nissaki Beach
Day 13: Naxos - Nafplio (B,L)
After breakfast, enjoy free time at your leisure before meeting with the group for lunch at a local restaurant. Next, sail to the Mediterranean's largest and historical Port Piraeus on a high speed boat. Upon arrival in the early evening, journey along the coast towards Nafplion, stopping at the impressive Corinth channel for a refreshment and a breath taking view. The famous Corinth Canal connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. The canal is 6.4 kilometers in length and only 21.3 meters wide at its base, making it an incredible sight when ships pass through and a popular spot for bungee jumpers. Earth cliffs flanking either side of the canal reach a maximum height of 63 meters. Though only completed in the late 19th century, the canal was an idea and dream that dates back over 2000 thousand years.
In the afternoon we arrive in Nafplio, one of the most elegant and romantic cities in the country. Nafplio was the first capital of Greece after the Independence and has been a major port since the Bronze Age. The beautiful old city has a wealth of narrow alleyways and streets, steep stairs, taverns serving delicious Greek food, lively bars, clubs and cafés, a lovely seafront promenade, and elegant Venetian houses. After check in, stroll around the narrow streets and climb the famous 999 steps to the fortress of Palamidi. This architectural masterpiece was built by the Venetians between 1711 and 1714 and consists of eight bastions, each self contained, ensuring that if one bastion was breached the others could still be separately defended. The most important, and best preserved, is the western Agios Andreas Bastion , which stands at the top of the steps from town. It was the home of the garrison commander, and it is named after the tiny church in the interior courtyard. Also learn about the fortress Bourtzi, located on a small island close to Nafplio. Originally the fortress was part of the city's defenses against pirates, and was turned into a residence for the execuctioner of Palamidi's prisoners when the community didn't want to be neighbors with people in that profession. Now it has become the symbol of the city and even hosts music festivals.
Overnight at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Nafplion Town
Day 14: Nafplio (B, L)
After breakfast, explore one of the most impressive and famous archaeological sites in Greece: Mycenae. Dating from the Late Bronze Era, this was the kingdom of the legendary king Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks in the Trojan War. It was an influential center of that time and in fact it gave its name to an entire civilization, the Mycenaen civilization. The ancient town was surrounded by gigantic walls, while the most famous spot is the Lion Gate, the entrance to the town with two female stone lions above. Even though the archaeological evidence speaks against the famous golden mask of Agamemnon actually belonging to the famous king, the mask is one of the most famous findings of the ancient world. It is on display in the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, along with several other objects from the excavations in Mycenae.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Built in 340 BC by an Argos architect, this theatre is the most beautiful and best preserved among all the ancient theatres. It is situated near the ancient sanctuary of Asklepios, a celebrated healing center of the classical world and was used as a therapeutic and religious centre dedicated to Asklepios, the god of healing. Destined for the fun of the patients of Asklipieio, it had a capacity of 13,000 spectators. It was divided into two parts: A 21-rows of seats part, aimed for the citizens and a 34-rows of seats part aimed for the priests and rulers. Due to its incomparable acoustics the actors can be perfectly heard by all 15,000 spectators, as you can even hear the sound of a pin dropping. It has been known from antiquity until the present day for its size, unique architecture and harmonious proportions.
Overnight at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Nafplion Town
Day 15: Nafplio (B,L,D)
Today we delight in a full day cruise to Spetses, a beautiful island famous for its beautiful beaches, elegant mansions, and history. In Medieval times, the island flourished with trade and the locals constructed elegant mansions that survive until today. When the Greek Revolution of 1821 broke out, the local commercial ships were turned into military ships and contributed to setting the country free. It was here that the revolution flag was raised on 3rd April 1821. The island has managed to retain its individual traditional character thanks to its well-preserved grand captain mansions, still bearing eloquent witness to the island’s glorious past. We’ll visit the House of Bouboulina, the heroine who played a significant role in the 1821 War of Independence and admire her house with it's wood-carved Florentine ceiling, 18th and 19th century furniture, and interesting collection of old weapons, fine porcelain and rare books. Another memorable stop in Spetses is the Cathedral of Ayios Nikolaos, the cathedral where the island's Independence flag was raised. Also, it is the place where the body of Paul Bonaparte, nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte, was kept in a barrel of rum for three years after he fought on the side of the Greeks. Enjoy your free time with a walk along the lovely sea promenade of the town and/or swim from the secluded beaches.
Dinner and overnight at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Nafplion Town
Day 16: Nafplio – Athens (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we leave Nafplio for Athens and enjoy lunch at the picturesque port of Mikrolimano in Piraeus area before checking into our hotel. We will leave Athens for a wonderful drive along the scenic coastal road known as "the Riviera of Attica", which affords a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf, passing through some of Athens most beautiful suburbs (Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, Lagonissi and Anavissos) to Cape Sounion the southern-most point of the entire peninsula. Cape Sounion is the first place mentioned by Pausanias (the ancient author), the travel writer of the second century A.D. in his description of Greece as the "sacred promontory of the Athenians", the temple of Poseidon on Cape Sounion. According to Mythology, Poseidon had his palace in the depths of the sea and his temple on a windswept rock rising above the Aegean Sea. The position of Cape Sounion was of strategic importance in ancient times so the Athenians established a small naval base and a fortress to protect the ships carrying grain to Piraeus, the port of Athens. We visit the temple of Poseidon, built near the edge of the cliff, one of the most beautiful monuments of the classical times to have survived to the present day, and enjoy a magnificent sea view. Upon completion of the tour, enjoy a lovely and scenic return to the hotel.
Farwell dinner at Dionysos Café and Restaurant
Overnight in Athens
Day 17: Athens – Depart Home (B)
After our included breakfast transfer to the Airport for our flight home.
For more information, contact
Ellie Leinaweaver.
