Greece: Ancient Ruins & Iconic Islands

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore the ancient temples of the Acropolis and the legendary Agora with an archaeologist.

• Step into the Bronze Age Mycenae citadel on the storied Peloponnese Peninsula.

• Cruise to Náxos and Santorini, exploring whitewashed towns and golden sand beaches.

• Learn how to put together a platter of meze— Greek-style appetizers—with a local expert.

DAYS 1–2 I ATHENS, GREECE Arrive at any time. The next day, set out to explore the Greek capital, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Join an archaeologist guide to discover the Acropolis, the columns of the Parthenon, and the Agora, where ancient Athenians gathered to discuss the day’s affairs.

DAYS 3–4 I ATHENS/DELPHI/OLYMPIA Explore Athens on your own. Journey to Delphi, considered by ancient Greeks to be the center of the world. The next day, take a guided tour of the mystical ruins here, then enjoy free time or examine artifacts at the archaeological museum. Cross the scenic Gulf of Corinth by way of the impressive Rio–Antirrio cable bridge onto the Peloponnese Peninsula. We’ll wind our way to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, where ancient athletes would gather every four years to compete in honor of Zeus. DAY 5 I OLYMPIA/NÁFPLIO Visit the Olympia Museum this morning, then travel to evocative Náfplio, modern Greece’s original capital. Wander the old town’s winding lanes, and glimpse the sapphire Aegean Sea from the hilltops.

DAY 6 I NÁFPLIO Head to the Bronze Age city of Mycenae, where the legendary King Agamemnon ruled. Take a guided tour of the walled ruins, and enter through the monumental Lion Gate. Return to Náfplio and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Opt to climb up to the Akronafplia fortress.

DAYS 7–8 I ATHENS/NÁXOS See the ancient site of Epidaurus and the ruins of Corinth. From Athens, board a ferry for the Cyclades Islands. Enjoy sparkling views of the sea, and disembark at Náxos. The next day, explore the storybook old town of the archipelago’s largest island. Opt to walk to the emblematic Temple of Apollo, or unwind at the beach.

DAYS 9–10 I SANTORINI Catch a ferry to legendary Santorini. Get to know its candy-hued doorways and sugarcube buildings at your own pace, and take in a spectacular sunset from Oía village. Sail Santorini’s spectacular sunken caldera, and learn about its volcanic origins.

DAYS 11–12 I ATHENS Fly back to Athens. Shop at a market with a local expert, then put together a platter of appetizers, called meze, in a teaching kitchen. Pair the spread with some ouzo, an anise-flavored liqueur. Depart at any time the next day.

12 DAYS FROM $3,199

PER PERSON. AIRFARE TO/FROM IS NOT INCLUDED.

MY OWN ROOM OPTION: + $999 MAXIMUM GROUP SIZE: 16

All transport between destinations and to/from included activities, and activities as listed in the itinerary. Optional activities are at an additional cost.

ACCOMMODATIONS Comfortable, mid-range hotels (11 nights)

MEALS INCLUDED 11 breakfasts, 1 dinner. Allow an additional $560–$730 per person for meals not included.

TRANSPORTATION Ferry, private vehicle, plane

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES If you’re booked, you’re going.

DATES

2022: Departures available May–October 2023: Departures available May–September

Please visit our website for departure dates.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

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