Greece: Athens and Walking in the Greek Islands - 10 Days

Itinerary

• Days 1-0: Athens: Ancient and Modern GreeceArrival Day

  Athens, named after the greek goddess of wisdom, Athena, is a place so rich in cultural history it can be hard to take in the magnitude of its contributions to the world we live in today. From the world's most influential philosophers-Socrates, Aristotle, Plato-to the thinkers who brought about the first democratic political systems, Athens has more than its fair share of history to uncover. Welcome to Athens, and to Greece, and we invite you to join us in discovering what makes Greece the perfect blend of the ancient and the modern. Arrive at any time. After meeting fellow travellers and your CEO during the welcome meeting. Head out on foot to a nearby local taverna and enjoy your first meal together in Greece.

• Days 2-1: Athens: The Acropolis to Ancient Agora

  Socrates said "I am a citizen, not of Athens, or Greece, but of the world". Well today you are all citizens of Athens. Explore two of the most important monuments in history. From the home of the Goddess Athena to the peoples places, dive into the history of Athens, greek mythology and the birth of democracy. After a comprehensive tour of the Acropolis with your local guide, meander down the hill to the Ancient Agora, where you continue to explore the history of this ancient city. Leave the sites behind in time to take a tour of Shedia Home and enjoy lunch at the Shedia Cafe. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring. Your admission pass today includes entry in to four additional historical sites. This evening join your CEO as we head up to Filopappou Hill for a wonderful sunset over Athens.

• Days 3-2: Athens: Arrival to Tinos

  Athens has always been the gateway to the Greek islands and a ferry ride to the Islands is a quintessential part exploring these magnificent islands. Picture the warm sun on your face, the blue water that turns to azure as you get closer to the island and the beautiful white village that starts coming into focus. You've made it, welcome to Tinos! An early start allows you to make the most of the day. From the port of Rafina, board a ferry to Tinos and make sure to find a good spot to sit and enjoy the view. Upon arrival to Tinos, dive straight into it with a walking food tour of the old town. Remember, there is no such thing as too much tzatziki.

• Days 4-3: Tinos: A Hike Around the Castle

  Lesser known and lesser visited, Tinos is what you imagine in your mind's eye when you picture the Greek islands. In the southern part of the island, a rocky outcrop known as the castle is your backdrop as you hike around the castle from village to village and learn about the history and culture of the island. After a delicious breakfast, set off for the trailhead and begin your hike in Exombourgo. Pass through various small towns on this moderate hike and finish in time to gather for a well deserved lunch at a local restaurant. The rest of the day is at leisure. Spend time relaxing by the pool overlooking the Agean or walk down to the beach right from the hotel. Some time in the water is calling your name.

• Days 5-4: Naxos: The Cheese and Wine Trails

  Each Greek island is distinct from the other and has its own unique feel and specialties that can be found only there. This is one of the main reasons why island hopping in Greece is so rewarding; each day is a unique adventure. Naxos welcomes you with an exclusive food and wine experience making and tasting local Arseniko cheese and visiting a vineyard to learn and sample some of the locally produced wine. Leave Tinos by Ferry for Naxos. After a fulfilling-and filling-afternoon discovering Naxos' cheese and wine trail, arrive at your hotel in time for a late afternoon swim.

• Days 6-5: Naxos: A Hike Back in Time

  Even though we may love our modern conveniences, it's impossible not to imagine what life was like over 500 years ago, especially, on a small island. Here on Naxos you have the chance to briefly step back in time on a hike that gets you out into the countryside with a local guide, learning about how the valley of Tragea helped the entire island to flourish economically and socially over 500 years ago. Transfer from your hotel to the trailhead where you start our journey. Along the way, discover this island's hidden treasures, meet locals and enjoy a delicious lunch. Early afternoon is spent at the hotel, with some time off to refresh and relax, an opportunity to enjoy the local beach right down the street from your hotel.

• Days 7-6: Naxos: Sailing and Snorkeling

  There is no better day in the Aegean than sailing around the Islands, jumping off to cool down, swimming in the azure water or snorkelling to search for fish and lost treasures. A trip to the Greek islands wouldn't be complete without a day out on a boat. Head out for the entire day on a small sailing yacht. Stop at Piso Livadi in Paros, where you will have time to explore and choose from one of the local tavernas to grab a bite to eat. You return to your hotel in the late afternoon.

• Days 8-7: Santorini: Your OMG day

  There is no island more famous in Greece than Santorini. Its white building with blue domes are famous the world over and there is no better place to end our island hopping. Upon arrival, let your interests and energy level guide you. You have the choice between two fantastic and distinct experiences today. If you are ready to get out and walk, choose to hike from Fira to Oia. If you would rather take it easy, join a guided tour of Santorini by vehicle. Both experiences end in Oia, so you may even run into your fellow travellers along the way. Board the ferry to Santorini and in no time at all you will recognize the white villages high above. Whether you choose to hike or to take a guided tour, we know Santorini will impress you.

• Days 9-8: Santorini: Fira and Sunset Cruise in the Caldera

  Explore Fira this morning with a CEO-led orientation walk before using free time to personalize your time. End the day with a beautiful sunset cruise. Head to Fira for a short orientation walk of the town where you can enjoy lunch on your own. This evening, head back to the port to embark on a sunset cruise. Bring your bathers, as there will be time for snorkelling and swimming. A beach barbecue will be served during your cruise.

• Days 10-9: Santorini

  Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in the Greek islands will live on. Depart at any time. Please note, your transfer to the airport is included.