Greek Mainland & Saronic Islands Sailing Trip - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Athens

Welcome to Greece! You'll begin your trip in Athens, home to the iconic Acropolis and so much more. The mythology of this spectacular city stretches back for millennia, and its still-towering temples to Classical deities and the ruins of ancient marketplaces rub shoulders with buzzing nightlife, crowded flea markets, and contemporary cuisine. Make the most of your time in the city at some of these spots:

• Check out the views of the can't-miss Parthenon. (Pro tip: The Parthenon is the temple, the Acropolis is the hill.) This temple to Athena has enchanted visitors since its construction was completed in 438 BC. It's probably the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of ancient Greece and is visible from many of the city's high points.
• Stop at the sprawling National Museum for a crash course in ancient iconography. Be sure to seek out the room housing the Antikythera mechanism, essentially an ancient astronomical computer.
• Visit a smaller archaeological site at the Tower of the Winds, then stroll down neighboring pedestrian Aiolou Street to stop at shops and cafes. 
• Find your perfect souvenir or sun hat in the busy stalls of the Monastiraki flea market.
• Spend your evening exploring the up-and-coming Pangrati neighborhood or amid the nightlife and mezze of the Psyrri district.

Day 2: The Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum

During your half-day tour, you'll see many of the famous sites of the ancient and modern city of Athens. 

We start from Panathinaiko Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games took place in 1896. It is the only stadium in the world built out of white marble. Visit the Areopagus, the hill from which Apostle Paul spoke to the Athenians. Your guide will then accompany you on a visit to the stars of the Acropolis—the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon and the Erechtheion.

Continue with a walk past the Herodion and Dionysos theatres, to reach the Acropolis Museum. Here you'll be able to skip the line and go straight to the main attractions, such as votives, artifacts of everyday life, statues from archaic period, the Caryatids, and of course, the Parthenon Hall with its impressive metopes and pediments.

Day 3: Aegina / Catamaran Sailing Yacht Cruise

Start your sailing holiday in Aegina, a small island that once served as the first capital of the newly formed Greek state after the country won independence from Ottoman rule in 1821. Today, Aegina is more famous for its pistachios, the ancient Temple of Aphaia, and the horse-drawn carts that amble along the port next to the traditional fishing boats. 

The Temple of Aphaia is exceptionally well preserved. Ancient myths say that is was dedicated to Vritomartis, the daughter of Zeus and Karmis who, in order to escape from King Minos and a fisherman who had fallen in love with her, hid in a forest on the island protected by Artemis.

You'll overnight on the catamaran yacht.

Day 4: Poros / Catamaran Sailing Yacht Cruise

Poros is a welcoming island in any season, whether you’re staying in the main marina or anchoring offshore. During this low-key harborage, you can visit the Monastery of Zoodohou Pigis, walk around the archaeological site with the remains of the Temple of Poseidon, or just relax on the yacht and enjoy views of the island and the sea.

Overnight on the catamaran yacht.

Day 5: Moni/ Catamaran Sailing Yacht Cruise

Your last day at sea will be spent exploring and relaxing on Moni. The island is covered in pine trees and its only inhabitants are friendly deer, wild goats, and peacocks. Its secluded beaches and tranquil vibe make it a favorite for boaters who are looking for privacy and relaxation.

You'll return to Athens later in the day, where a car will be waiting to transfer you to ancient Epidauros and Nafplio, 2 hours away.

Day 6: Ancient Epidauros, Ancient Mycenae & Nafplio

Visit the first capital of modern Greece, Nafplio, with its Venetian fortress of Palamidi and the fortified islet of Bourtzi.

Around Nafplio explore the Argolis region and the remains of the ancient city of Mycenae a major center of Greek civilization from 1600BC to 1100BC.

Visit the archaeological site, home to the kingdom of mythical Agamemnon. You will see the Cyclopean Walls, the Lion’s Gate, the Royal Tombs, including that of Agamemnon's wife, Clytemnestra, and the Treasury of Atreus, a magnificent 14th-century BC structure.

You will continue your journey to the ancient Theatre of Epidauros. The huge, tiered amphitheater dates back to the 4th century BC and was extended in Roman times. Check out the exceptional acoustics, which delivered remarkable unamplified sound to all 14,000 seats. Epidauros was also a healing center for the Classical World. The well-preserved Asclepeion (healing temple) provided a sanctuary for the sick and was a place of pilgrimage.

Day 7: Monemvasia

Explore the fairytale-like castle town of Monemvasia in the southeastern Peloponnese, known as one of Greece’s most stunning and romantic destinations. 

Once reachable only by boat, the medieval town was carved out of the rock on which it stands, rising up majestically from the sea. Everywhere you look as you stroll along narrow, cobblestone streets, you will be awestruck by dramatic sea views and gorgeous architecture that transports you to another era. Walk to the Upper Old Town—a challenging hike that will reward you with breathtaking views of Monemvasia town and the southeastern part of the Peloponnese, as well as a visit to the superbly preserved 12th-century Church of Aghia Sophia.

Dinner, accompanied by delectable local Malvasia wine, awaits you on a terrace overlooking the Upper Old Town and the magnificent Byzantine Castle of Aghia Paraskevi. Night owls are welcome to join us for after-dinner cocktails at Monemvasia’s stylish and cozy bars.

Day 8: Acrocorinth and Ancient Corinth

On the way back to Athens take a short deviation to explore Corinth. With its majestic Acropolis of Acrocorinth, Corinth was one of ancient Greece’s greatest cities, located at a key commercial trade junction and military chokepoint—the narrow isthmus connecting the Peloponnese to the rest of mainland Greece.  Corinth was a gateway and major East-West trading center that also developed a flourishing 7th- and 6th-century BC industry for the production and exportation of its own distinctive pottery.

This evening, it's back to Athens for the final leg of your tour.

Day 9: Athens biking tour

Have fun while cycling and uncovering the charms of Athens with this popular morning city bike tour. Ride around the historic center at a relaxed pace, using a safe route far away from traffic. You will get to know Athens from a different point of view, passing by all the must-see locations and many hidden spots. Our aim is to make your last day in Athens a most pleasant one.

We'll take a 20-25 minute coffee break at a nice local cafe to experience Greek coffee culture, learn some Greek words and hear some interesting and fun stories about daily life in Athens. By the end of the tour, we will have shared our most valuable local tips on how to spend the rest of your free afternoon in Athens. 

Day 10: Trip end

All too soon, it’s time to pack your bags and be transported to the airport in plenty of time for your flight back home or ferry to your next destination.