Best of Greece

Intrepid Travel · 15 days

4.5

13 Reviews

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Duration

15 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Explore islands, olive groves, crumbling ruins and crumbling feta on this 15-day trip through Greece. Travel the best of Greece’s mainland and islands, visit the well-known Acropolis and ancient Agora and unwind on the beaches in Syros.

Highlights

Discover thousands of years of civilisation in Athens with a visit to the famous Acropolis and the Agora. Walk through the ancient ruins and learn about the social, political and cultural events that these buildings used to host.
Visit the home of the Oracle of Delphi in the Sanctuary of Apollo, one of Greece's most important archaeological sites and walk in the footsteps of the pilgrims before you.
Wander through Syros before heading to a remote village for dinner. Indulge in local seafood cuisine at a traditional taverna as Rembetika music surrounds you.
Embrace your hedonistic side as you explore the boutique culture, gorgeous beaches and thumping nightlife on the chic isle of Mykonos.
Watch the sunset over Santorini and the Aegean Sea. Walk along the volcanic rim of the island from Thira to Oia, passing through white villages that cling to plunging cliffs.

Trip Details

Duration

15 days

Transportation

Train,Private vehicle,Ferry,Public bus,Taxi,Metro

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Athens, Greece

Finishes

Santorini, Greece

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Athens

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Named after the goddess of wisdom, the birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens has an amazing array of historic sites to explore; a weighty history that spills out over the modern city, represented most dramatically by the ancient Acropolis. There's much to be seen in the ancient capital of Greece, vibrant and refreshed following the 2004 Olympics, yet still retaining so much visible history. After the welcome meeting, perhaps head out for some gyros and ouzo with your new travel companions.

Optional Activities:

Athens - National Archaeological Museum (15 EUR)
Athens - Lycabettus Hill - Free
Athens - Dora Stratou (20 EUR)
Athens - Numismatic Museum (15 EUR)
Athens - Day trip to the Saronic Islands (140 EUR)
Athens - Acropolis Museum (30 EUR)
Athens - Half day trip to Cape Sounio (55 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Athens / Thessaloniki

This morning head out to visit the famous Acropolis, one of the Western world's most important historical structures. Start with an ascent to the top of this sacred rock via the towering entrance, the Propylaia. Once inside, encounter the Parthenon – the greatest Doric temple in the ancient world. In the afternoon board a train to cosmopolitan Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. This city especially comes alive in the evening, thanks in part to its large student population, so make sure you hunt down the perfect gyros or some live music.

Included Activities:

Athens - Acropolis Archaeological Site Visit with Local Guide
Athens - Acropolis Local Guide

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Thessaloniki

Relax in the splendour of what is regarded as the cultural capital of the country. Walk along the waterfront to the White Tower, take in the Byzantine churches (like the beautifully frescoed Church of Saint Nicholas the Orphan), Ottoman sites and Roman ruins, and appreciate the wonderful views over the gulf. On a clear day you might even catch a glimpse of the home of the gods, Mount Olympus. If you’d like someone to show you the way, perhaps join an Urban Adventure for a local view. The city is undoubtedly the gastronomic capital of the Greece and its flavours are unique. For 2,000 years it’s been a melting pot of cultures, with eastern spices, French, Balkan and Mediterranean tastes. Seek out the eateries in the area around the agora, where age-old columns and arches brush up against modern apartments and the ancient Rotunda. Don't forget to stop by at NAOMI,an NGO workshop supporting refugees with skill training and learn about the amazing work and the challenges they are faced with today.

Included Activities:

Thessaloniki - NAOMI Ecumenical Workshop for Refugees visit

Optional Activities:

Thessaloniki - Museum of Byzantine Culture (8 EUR)
Thessaloniki - White tower of Thessaloniki (6 EUR)
Thessaloniki - Thessaloniki water boats to beach (7 EUR)
Thessaloniki - Visit Historical & Cultural Monuments of Thessaloniki with public Bus "Cultural" Route No 50 (2 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Kalambaka

Travel by train and private transfer to Kalambaka (approximately 3.5 hours). Upon arrival embark on on a short orientation walk of town, where your leader will point out amenities and help you get your bearings. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the scenic area around Kalambaka and Meteora, where the views are stunning whichever way you look. Having two days here allows you to explore at your own pace, discover the history and legends, witness the incredible views of one of the few World Heritage sites listed under both nature and art at different times of the day, and avoid the crowds. Your leader will have suggestions on hand. In the evening, maybe head to a taverna for dinner and stroll the main square for a taste of Thessalian life.

Optional Activities:

Meteora - Natural history Museum of Meteora (6 EUR)
Meteora sunset tour (35 EUR)
Meteora - Digital centre of Meteora Projection (3 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Meteora / Kalambaka

Climb into the heavens, just like monks have done for centuries, towards ancient monasteries precariously placed atop 400-metre-high rock formations. Meteora is home to 24 14th century monasteries that sit at the top of karst pinnacles, though only six are still occupied. They were once only accessed by rope ladders, but thankfully there are now steps. The cliff faces also feature caves where hermits lived an even simpler life than those in the teetering monasteries. The monasteries, which used to be supplied by rope and pulley systems, house woodcarvings, frescoes, paintings, and one even features the skulls of the first founders. You’ll enjoy some great views back over the town. The area makes for incredibly dramatic photos – multi-colour streaked rock, bright green forest, and the pale terracotta of the monastery roofs against the Grecian sky. The mists that can surround the pinnacles make the constructions seem like they’re floating in the air. Hawks drift on the valley thermals looking for prey, and black-frocked priests shuffle silently around.

Included Activities:

Meteora - Monastery Visits with Local Guide

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Delphi

Travel by private transfer to Delphi (approximately 4 hours). On the the way, stop at our favourite camping site where you'll enjoy a tasting of different type of olives, oil and tapenade that's produced on their farm and special to the region. Your lunch will also be included here and enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming, with a view overlooking the Delphi Valley, a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then continue to Delphi. Located on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, by a valley of cypress and olives trees, this modern town and ancient ruins overlooks the Gulf of Corinth. The ancient Greeks regarded Delphi as the centre of the world (legend says that Zeus sent two eagles flying from opposite ends of the world and they crossed paths over Delphi), and today it’s one of the country's most inspiring and memorable archaeological sites. On arrival, your leader will take you on an orientation walk of the cliffside town of Delphi. Then, follow your local guide for a guided tour through the amazing archaeological sites and museums. Here you’ll find the famous sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena, which contain numerous monuments, temples, a well-preserved theatre, and the impressive reconstructed Athenian Treasury. The site was also home to the Delphic oracle, said to have spoken for Apollo himself – she sat on a chasm, inhaling vapours from the Earth and entering a trance-like state, her cryptic answers to questions translated by priests. There’s also a mountain-top stadium, which were used for the Pythian Games (an Olympic Games precursor), held every four years as early as 586 BC.

Included Activities:

Delphi - Archaeological Site & Museum guided tour
Delphi - local lunch & olive oil tasting with a view of Delphi Valley

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Athens

Travel back to Athens today by bus, arriving in the late afternoon (approximately 3,5 hours). Shop for the perfect souvenir at the Monastiraki flea market or take a relaxing stroll through the Greek national gardens. If you haven’t already, check out the Temple of Olympian Zeus or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guard. While in the neighbourhood explore the excellent Museum of Athens, Syntagma square with the Parliament building, and the Panathinaiko Stadium which housed the first Olympic games in 1896.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Athens

Enjoy a free day in Athens today exploring the countless great sites of this ancient capital. Highlights include the renowned changing of the guard at Syntagma (Parliament) Square, the National Gardens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and so many more. There will be a group meeting at 6 pm at your hotel, when you'll meet your new travel mates.

Optional Activities:

Athens - Acropolis Pass for 5 Sites (30 EUR)
Athens - National Archaeological Museum (15 EUR)
Athens - Day trip to the Saronic Islands (140 EUR)
Athens - Day Trip to Delphi (60 EUR)
Athens - Lycabettus Hill - Free
Athens - Numismatic Museum (15 EUR)
Athens - Twilight Athens Urban Adventure (99 EUR)
Athens - Acropolis Museum (30 EUR)
Athens - Half day trip to Cape Sounio (55 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Syros

Today travel by metro to the port of Piraeus, then catch a relaxing scenic ferry to Syros (approximately 4 hours). In the heart of the Cyclades, Syros offers a rare opportunity to see the islands as the Greeks do. One of the Aegean's most underrated islands, the island features typical whitewashed houses, farms, terraced fields and gorgeous sandy beaches. Your leader will take you on a wander through the main town of Ermoupolis, home to well preserved neoclassical mansions and 19th-century tenement blocks. Syros is also home to delicious sweets. Stop at a family run traditional loukoumi workshop where you will be shown the procedure of how these multi-coloured fruit-flavoured jellies (also called Greek Delight) and chalvadopita (hazelnut, almond or honey-filled wafers) are made - make sure you try some of them. You'll have plenty of time to explore tomorrow, so perhaps kick up your feet at a waterfront cafe and watch the setting sun turn the houses pink.

Included Activities:

Syros - Loukoumia Workshop Visit

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Syros

Take a walk through the fortress-like town of Ano Syros, which offers great views of the Aegean Sea. Wander the narrow alleyways, pass handmade-souvenir shops and keep an ear open for traditional Rembetiko music floating out of the family-run tavernas. Enjoy free time to further explore Syros at your own pace. Discover abandoned windmills, ancient ruins and charming villages on a network of stone-paved tracks that crisscross the island. Perhaps head to the various archaeological sites on the island, or you might prefer to simply hole up on a beach for the afternoon. Outside of Ermoupolis are many small tranquil coves, while the most popular beaches are on the southern side of the island. While some are sandy and others pebbly, all boast crystal clear waters for swimming in. In the evening, take taxis to a taverna to a remotely located village in the rugged northern part of the island to sample delicious local specialities during an included meal, all while watching the sun set over the Aegean Sea.

Included Activities:

Syros - Ano Syros Walk
Syros - Dinner at remotely located village

Optional Activities:

Syros - Archaeological Sites & Ruins (5 EUR)
Syros - Industrial Museum of Syros (2 EUR)
Syros - Historical tour of Ermoupolis Textile Heritage Museum (20 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 11: Mykonos

Today board a two-hour ferry to Mykonos, a beautiful island named in honour of Apollo's grandson. Known in ancient Greek mythology as the battlefield where Zeus fought the Gigantes, today the island is best known for its decadence, style, and nightlife. Join your leader for a walk through the maze-like old town and be captivated by the quintessential Greek Isles vista of squat white houses brightly juxtaposed against the cerulean sea. Browse the chic galleries and boutiques, follow flower-lined paths past age-old churches and tiny restaurants to secluded, sandy beaches, and spend the afternoon soaking up the rays and splashing in the water. Settle into your lovely room at the hotel. As the sun sets, maybe join Europe's party crowd at one of the many bars and clubs on Mykonos, or take a more traditional approach with a meal at a delightful backstreet restaurant.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 12: Delos / Mykonos

This morning you will take a half-day trip out to the nearby island of Delos. One of the most important archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands, a sacred area that was once the political and religious centre of the Aegean, Delos is considered to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. A living museum, the wealthy built mansions in the town that developed around Apollo’s sanctuary, decorating them with luxurious frescoes, mosaics and statues. The island is overflowing with archaeological finds like the Terrace of the Lions and the Sacred Precinct, with many more still being uncovered. Later on today you might like to head to one of Mykonos' many beaches, which are some of the nicest in Europe. Take a short bus ride to the pumping Paradise or Super Paradise beach bars, or perhaps find a quieter spot to relax along the beautiful coastline. You could also check out the 19th-century House of Lena or the Aegean Maritime Museum in town. This evening you could make your way to the village of Ano Mera and seek out a tavern for a seafood dinner or perhaps wander down to Little Venice, where colourful balconies hang precariously over the sea.

Included Activities:

Delos - Day Trip to the Island of Delos
Delos - Archaeological Site

Optional Activities:

Mykonos - Aegean Maritime Museum (4 EUR)
Mykonos - House of Lena (2 EUR)
Mykonos - Trip to Village of Ano Mera (by public bus) (4 EUR)
Mykonos - Paradise Beach (by public bus) (4 EUR)
Mykonos - Super Paradise Beach (by public bus) (10 EUR)
Myconos - Cooking Class in Myconian house & farm (150 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 13: Santorini

Take another ferry and arrive on the spectacular southern island of Santorini (approximately 2.5hrs hours). Renowned for its amazing natural beauty, Santorini is one of Europe's tourist hotspots, the home of the iconic image of the Greek islands – whitewashed, blue-domed buildings clinging to the cliff face with sparkling water in the background. Discover the hilltop ruins of Ancient Thira and its fascinating Prehistoric Museum, as well as the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that gives an insight into how the people here lived before the eruption. Check out the range of restaurants and shops in the island's capital, interchangeably called Thira or Fira. If you have time while you're here, perhaps head to one of Santorini's volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos or Agios Georgios. Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious food – the nutrient-filled volcanic soil makes the ingredients grown here full of flavour.

Optional Activities:

Santorini - Museum of Prehistoric Thira (10 EUR)
Santorini - Volcano & Hot Springs Half Day Trip (by boat) (25 EUR)
Santorini - Beer tasting at local brewery (30 EUR)
Santorini - Wine museum and wine tasting from (25 EUR)
Santorini - Archelogical site of Akrotiri (20 EUR)
Santorini - Sunset Cruise & Dinner (90 EUR)
Santorini - Semi Private Sunset Catamaran cruise & Dinner (160 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 14: Santorini

In 1500 BC a volcanic eruption sank the center of Santorini, forming one of the most significant geological formations on the planet – the awe-inspiring caldera. The spectacular natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place. Today make an excursion along the crater rim, starting in Thira town and walking through little villages all the way to Oia, passing steep cliff faces and experiencing breathtaking views along the way. If you have time, you might also like to take a half-day trip to the island's volcano and hot springs in the centre of the lagoon. Or perhaps visit one of the island’s wineries – the vines here are cultivated in a very unusual way, with the plants being pruned to form a low basket shape that sits on top of the volcanic soil to protect the grapes from strong winds. On the last evening of your adventure, rub shoulders with friendly locals in packed pubs and cafes, sipping a cocktail as you witness a magnificent Santorini sunset.

Included Activities:

Santorini - Caldera Rim Hike to Oia

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 15: Santorini

Today your Greek Islands adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. You might want to extend your stay to see all Santorini has to offer. We are happy to book additional accommodation, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $6,555

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 15 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 15 Apr 2026

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Suganya

Traveled, September 2022

10/12/2022

I had lovely guides Maria Christina Bava (mainland) and Sylvia Vasliki Athanasopoulou (Cyclades islands) who were excellent in giving information and very helpful. They covered things on agenda and advised optional activities that would be attractive to us. I felt that good amount of time was given for each activity. During the main land part of the tour, Maria Christina ordered food for us as a group so that we could try more delicacies instead of being restricted to what we ordered. We had a great group of people who happily split the bill between us. This lead to me being able to have a taste of most of the great Greek food. Sylvia was very knowledgable about the Cyclades, helpful and focussed on getting us the best experience. I sprained my ankle while in Santorini which prevented me from the hike that I was looking forward to. Sylvia was quick to give first aid and advice. No wonder why her nick name is Mama. As a solo female traveller, I felt that I was safe throughout the travel.

4.5

Cheryl

Traveled, September 2023

10/13/2023

A great trip for people who want to see both the mainland and several islands. There are lots of included activities but enough downtime so you are not exhausted. Greece was so much more than I expected .

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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