Duration: 11 Days
The locals say that the best way to drink a glass of ouzo, the Greek anise-infused liquor, is with a cool splash of water. This refreshing tour of Greece creates a big splash with an enlightening tour of Athens followed by a 7-night cruise to the Greek Isles and Turkey. Walk in the footsteps of celebrated philosophers, run down the same paths as ancient Olympians, and then dive into the ancient ruins and resorts of the Aegean where legendary harbours, charming villages, and pristine beaches await. From the vibrant volcanic island of Milos to the whitewashed villas of Santorini, and from wonder-filled Crete to the modern getaway of Mykonos, it’s hard to say which sparkles more - the crystal-clear water of the Aegean or the hidden jewels along its storied shores.
Traveller Notes
We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect holiday—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides (with headsets to hear every word), to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi.
Welcome to Athens!
At 6 pm, meet your Globus Host and travel companions for a welcome drink.
Marvels & Myths
ATHENS Guided sightseeing includes a visit to the Acropolis and a stop at the Panathenaic Stadium. Free time this afternoon and evening. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOTS Explore the heart of Ancient Greece, in the historic empire where 5th-century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, never fail to amaze! See the Panathenaic Stadium one of the venues of the first modern Olympic Games.
Beyond the Shore
ATHENS Embark on your Greek Islands cruise. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Set sail from Athens for a captivating course on the blue Aegean Sea to explore the exquisite beauty of the Greek islands and Turkey. Marvel at the beauty of the island of Mykonos, also known as the island of the winds, revel in the unspoiled panoramas of Patmos, the magic of medieval Rhodes, Minoan Crete, and serene Santorini- with a special stop on the Turkish coast to see the amazingly preserved Greek, Roman and Byzantine excavations of Ephesus.
Island Life & Times
THESSALONIKI Enjoy free time to explore. (B,L,D)
FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE with leisure time in the Greek port city of Thessaloniki on the Aegean Sea. You'll find remnants of fascinating Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman history in this cultural capital of Greece. Dine on delicious Greek specialties and wander the lively streets, or simply stretch out on the shore to take it all in.
Turkish Treasures
KUSADASI Visit the excavations of Ephesus. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT Pull into port in Turkey to explore the fascinating Greek, Roman, and Byzantine excavations of Ephesus - one of the best-preserved ancient cities in the world - with the historic ruins of the Library of Celsus, the Basilica of St. John, and the Temple of Artemis.
Greek Mythology & Marvels
HERAKLION Visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
MYTHS & LEGENDS Marvel at the architecture of the Palace of Knossos in Crete’s city of Heraklion. Here, you’ll envision epic tales of Greek mythology - the Labyrinth, the Minotaur half-man/half-beast, and the legends of Daedalus and Icarus.
Sun, Sand & Sea
SANTORINI Free time (weather permitting). (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT With its postcard-like scenery, the lofty volcanic footprint of Santorini’s Oia caldera landscape embodies the essence of the Cyclades Islands. Spend free time amid azure seas and white and blue houses that line the maze of alleyways.
Mediterranean Magic
MYKONOS Enjoy free time exploring Mykonos. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS Your dreams of the Greek Islands come true with free time in Mykonos. This Aegean paradise of pristine waters and beaches, mixed with a lively nightlife scene is only made brighter by the iconic 16th-century windmills that dot the hillside above.
Goddess of Love
MILOS Enjoy free time to explore. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Like love, Milos is both beautiful and dramatic in nature, with its enticing beaches and volcanic terrain. Here, an iconic statue was found hundreds of years ago - known as the famous Venus de Milo - a tribute to the Greek goddess Aphrodite.
Amazing Athens
ATHENS Disembark your ship for a free day in Athens. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE There are countless ways to enjoy free time in the birthplace of democracy, arts, science, and the philosophy of western civilisation! Explore the urban landscapes and lively restaurants in this historic capital and enjoy the sunny slopes of this iconic city. Stroll in the shadow of the Acropolis in the village atmosphere of Plaka. Walk along the narrow cobblestone streets to browse jewellery stores and ceramics shops, then linger in a sidewalk cafe or taverna to celebrate your Greek adventure.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
