Travel through the rich mythology and history of Classical Greece from the mainland to the islands and back. You'll start and end in Athens, beginning by taking in the city from above from the Acropolis and its famous Parthenon. Then down into the islands, with stops at the sacred site of Delos off of Mykonos, prehistoric Akrotiri in Santorini, and the Palace of Knossos on Crete. Return to the mainland to see the Cyclopean walls of Mycenae, stroll the stadium grounds at Olympia, and more before your return to the modern era.

Highlights

  • Consult the oracle at the sacred site of Delphi
  • Explore the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis with a day trip to Delos
  • Walk the labyrinth of Knossos
  • Experience the site of the Eleusinian Mysteries at Eleusis
  • Get hands-on with the Iliad at Mycenae

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Arrive in Athens Athens
Day 2 Guided Acropolis Visit Athens
Day 3 Museums & Ancient Cooking Class Athens
Day 4 Architecture of Athens Tour Athens
Day 5 Day Trip to Delphi Athens
Day 6 Ferry to Mykonos Mykonos
Day 7 Day Trip to Delos Mykonos
Day 8 Ferry to Naxos Naxos
Day 9 Ancient Naxos Guided Hike Naxos
Day 10 Ferry to Santorini, Explore Santorini
Day 11 Discover Prehistoric Akrotiri, Ferry to Crete Heraklion
Day 12 Guided Knossos & Heraklion Tour Heraklion
Day 13 Transfer to Chania Chania
Day 14 Ancient Aptera Tour Chania
Day 15 Return to Athens, Visit the Archaeological Site of Eleusis Athens
Day 16 Transfer to Nafplio via Mycenae Nafplio
Day 17 Day Trip to Olympia Nafplio
Day 18 Olive Experience Nafplio
Day 19 Monuments of Epidaurus Tour Nafplio
Day 20 Return to Athens, Sunset at Cape Sounion Athens
Day 21 Depart Athens  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Athens

Monastiraki Square and the Acropolis
Monastiraki Square and the Acropolis

Welcome to Greece! You'll begin your trip in Athens, home to the iconic Acropolis and much more. The mythology of this spectacular city precedes it, with towering temples to Classical deities and the ruins of ancient marketplaces rubbing shoulders with lively 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, and the Acropolis is the hill.) This temple to Athena has enchanted visitors since its construction was completed in 438 BCE. 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 cafés. 
  • 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: Acropolis & Ancient Greek Mythology & Museum Tours

Caryatid Porch of the Erechtheion
Caryatid Porch of the Erechtheion

Today you'll get to experience the mighty Acropolis—ruins of the iconic fifth-century BCE complex located on the rocky hilltop overlooking the city. Take a guided tour of the entire settlement with an English-speaking professional guide who will share the stories of the country's most famous monument. In addition to the iconic Parthenon, dedicated to the city's patron goddess Athena, you'll view and learn about the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the most sacred temple of Erechtheion, all located on the sacred rock of the Acropolis.

Complement your tour with a trip to the nearby modern Acropolis Museum. Many of the more delicate statues and other artifacts found initially at the Acropolis have been moved here, but you can imagine them in their previous home as you explore the exhibits. Complete your visit with a stop in its café for lunch, a simple snack, and coffee.

Stop to explore the Anafiotika neighborhood on the northeast side of the hill before you leave. The oldest neighborhood in the city, Anafiotika's classic white geometric architecture echoes the motifs of the Cyclades in this tranquil urban oasis.

Day 3: Morning Visit to Museums, Afternoon Ancient Cooking Class

Museum exterior
Check out Athen's Benaki Museum Cafe Restaurant before your afternoon cooking class

Start your morning at one of Athens' more off-beat museums. Some of your options include:

  • Museum of Cycladic Art, where you can also buy some truly unique souvenirs
  • The interactive digital museum at the Platonic Academy, next to the site where the actual Academy stood
  • Museum of Ancient Greek Technology in the center of Athens, featuring a working model of the Antikythera mechanism, which can roughly be described as the first analog computer. It was used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses years in advance.

Have a light lunch, but don't get too into the cafés as your afternoon class will teach you to cook and eat like an ancient Athenian. A resident chef will take you on a journey of discovery into the methods used by the ancient Greeks to cook their meals. You'll use ingredients available today to reproduce the distinct flavors found in classical dishes over the course of this three-hour class. And no class is complete without the opportunity to sample the fruits of your labor over dinner (with wine included, of course).

Day 4: Architecture of Athens Tour

Hadrian's Arch
Check out Hadrian's Arch on a guided tour of Athens and its architecture

With centuries of history piled on top of each other, Athenian architecture deserves an experience of its own. Set out after breakfast with your private guide to discover the secrets of modern architecture, rubbing shoulders with neoclassical construction and the iconic Athenian two-storied houses adorned with tiny geranium-bearing balconies. You will explore the urban evolution of Athens throughout its history, gaining insight into the city's character and the factors that shaped its environment. Athens has a lot of stories to tell through its bricks-and-mortar!

Once you've completed your tour, visit Hadrian's Arch, the gateway to the city. Made of Pentelic marble, this archway has been standing for nearly 2,000 years. Spend your evening in the posh Plaka district, where outdoor tables line the streets. Diners feast on Greek favorites such as the classic horiatiki (village salad) salad, souvlaki (pieces of grilled meat), lamb dishes, and more. Go mezze-style to try them all.

Day 5: Day Trip to Delphi

The Treasury of the Athenians at Delphi
The Treasury of the Athenians at Delphi

Today, you'll seek out the oracle during a day trip to the ruins of Delphi, once home to priestesses of Apollo who Ancient Greeks believed could predict the future. After being transferred from your hotel to Delphi (about 2.5 hours from the city), you'll take a guided tour through this sprawling archaeological site, with stops such as the Treasury of the Athenians, the Temple of Apollo, and an expansive theater.

Explore the ruins or venture up an ancient footpath once used by worshippers of the god Pan, who started from the temples of Delphi and proceeded to Corycean Grotto for their religious rites, surrounded by the valley of olive trees and views of the Corinthian Gulf and peaks of the Peloponnese on your way. Outside the ruins, you'll head to an old town district that used to serve as the leather tanner's district. One of Greece's last bellmakers keeps his workshop here; if you're lucky, he may be on-site for a visit. Enjoy lunch under the plane trees in the town square, with cheeses, Amfissa olives, and traditional home cooking.

Head indoors after lunch to the museum, a short downhill walk away. Wander through its halls to find the bronze Charioteer of Delphi, the marble Sphinx of Naxos, and what may be the first recorded notation of a melody once inscribed on the walls of the Athenian Treasury.

You'll be transferred back to Athens in the late afternoon to rest or spend the evening in the city.

Day 6: Ferry to Mykonos, Explore

Bright balconies of Little Venice
Bright balconies of Little Venice

You'll start your time on the islands of Mykonos, one of the most famous islands in the Cyclades chain. Known for its glitzy restaurants and nightlife, art scene, and jet-set crowds (recently home to a Gucci pop-up boutique), Mykonos will throw you headfirst into your island adventure. Your first day's itinerary is up to you. You'll receive a personalized list of tips for exploration, but some highlights include:

  • If you need to get your toes in the sand immediately, head to remote Agios Sostis beach to find your isolated paradise.
  • For a more active experience, Ftelia Beach is known for its excellent windsurfing.
  • Stroll through Little Venice, an 18th-century neighborhood where colorful former captains' mansions and seaside restaurants seem to sprout straight from the sea. It's also right next to the island's famous hillside windmills for great photo ops.

Day 7: Day Trip to Delos

Terrace of the Lions
Terrace of the Lions

Travel back in time after breakfast with a morning boat ride to Delos's archaeological site. You'll board a small boat at the old port to cruise for 45 minutes to one of ancient Greece's most sacred sites. This small island was the center of the Cyclades during the Classical era and the mythological birthplace of the twin deities Apollo and Artemis. Pilgrims from around the region regarded the site as magical and helped it evolve into one of the largest trade centers of the Mediterranean.

Your guided tour will wind you through the foundations of former traders' mansions, temples, and landmarks such as the Terrace of the Lions. Don't skip the island museum, where many smaller artifacts and frescoes have been relocated to protect them from any damage.

You'll return to Mykonos in time to catch up on your shopping in the afternoon as you explore some of the best boutiques in the Aegean or check out the weathered Faros Armenistis Lighthouse perched high above the Aegean on the island's northwestern tip, with views across to the neighboring island of Tinos.

Day 8: Ferry to Naxos, Explore

Looking back from the Portara
Looking back from the Portara at the Temple of Apollo, Naxos

Time to ferry over to bustling Naxos after breakfast. With a busy main town where you can shop and admire Venetian architecture, a historic Kastro (castle) area, and expansive beaches, the island offers opportunities for laidback relaxation and water or land activities. The rest of the day is yours to unwind as you choose. Try out some of these options:

  • Hike up to the summit of Mount Zas, the mythological childhood home of Zeus, the ruler of the gods, and the highest point in the Cyclades.
  • Head inland to the town of Chalki, home to the island's oldest market and a shady square perfect for whiling away the afternoon. Stop at the Kitron distillery to sample the local liqueur and learn about its distillation process over the years.
  • Visit the Temple of Demeter at Sangri on your way. Multiple deities of fertility were worshipped here, particularly the goddess Demeter. The temple was constructed in 530 BCE, during the tyranny of Lygdamis, and represents a precursor of classical Athenian architecture. 
  • Stroll to the Portara, the entrance to the Temple of Apollo. Construction on the temple began in the sixth century BCE but was never finished, but the still-standing entranceway has become one of the hallmarks of the island. You can find it on the islet of Palatia, just over a causeway from the heart of Naxos Town (Chora).

For dinner, wander up the hill through the streets of the Kastro neighborhood to pick out your favorite of the area's tavernas, where you can sample the island's fresh produce in its best forms.

Plan your trip to Greece
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Day 9: Guided Ancient Naxos Hike

Kouros in the shade
Kouros statue on Naxos island, Cyclades, Greece

After breakfast, head to the village of Myli, where you'll pick up an old footpath that leads to the island's ancient aqueduct. Hike up to the nearby quarry, where you'll find two large kouros, unfinished statues of ancient Greek gods, lying on the ground. Originally intended to hold up a temple roof, these giant statues were abandoned by their ancient sculptors when they discovered faults in the marble, but they're no less impressive for that today.

Pass the statues along with olive groves, orchards, and a shady riverside. You'll visit the Catholic church of Theoskepasti, also known as Agios Mamas, the island's oldest chapel, along with Episkopi, the summer residence of the Catholic archbishop, on this 2.5-hour guided hike.

Stop in Mesi Potamia on your way back to town to take a break at a taverna under the trees on the river bank. Spend your afternoon exploring the town along with its neighboring riverside settlements at Ano Potamia and Kato Potamia, connected by a walking path, or return to town for a well-deserved beach break.

Day 10: Ferry to Santorini, Explore

Caldera-side lights
Caldera-side lights

After breakfast at your hotel, you'll get an early ferry to Santorini. Nothing says "good morning" like watching the sun coming up over the island's iconic cubic architecture. Upon arrival, you'll take in the island's central caldera—the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history—rising above you.

The island's volcanic history has led to the formation of some of the more unique beaches in the Greek islands, along with the dramatic cliff views on the island's caldera side. Spend your day relaxing at the beach or catching some exercise—and even more views—from one of Santorini's more than 12 scenic walking routes, ranging from two to eight miles each. Sample the island's signature cherry tomatoes and white eggplants at dinner as guest stars in seafood dishes or the main event.

Day 11: Morning Tour to Prehistoric Akrotiri, Afternoon Ferry to Crete

Explore the wonders of Akrotiri
Explore the wonders of Akrotiri

Take a guided tour of one of the Aegean's most significant prehistoric settlements. You'll head to the excavated city at Akrotiri, hidden away at the southern tip of Santorini on the caldera's slopes. These ruins were once the site of one of the Bronze Age's most advanced settlements, which prospered for centuries before being buried by a volcanic eruption in the mid-second millennium BCE. You'll have the morning to explore its well-preserved (thanks to the volcanic eruption) streets alongside a local guide who will share its stories.

The Museum of Prehistoric Thera and Archaeological Museum of Thera complement your visit with findings, including murals preserved from Akrotiri and the settlement of ancient Thera once found on the eastern part of the island. On your way back, stop to see the three bells of Fira. The trio of bells atop this blue-domed church is pictured on many of the postcards you'll find on the island, and now it's your turn to take a photo of your own.

Once you've wrapped up, you'll catch a ferry to Crete, the largest and most populous of the 230 inhabited Greek islands. 

Day 12: Guided Knossos & Heraklion Tour

Palace at Knossos
Palace at Knossos

Set off for a guided exploration of the magnificent Palace of Knossos. This 3,500-year-old Minoan palace is a sprawling maze of royal chambers, grand staircases, storerooms, and workshops. The evocative Bronze Age site is believed to be Europe's oldest city; it flourished for nearly 2,000 years as an economic center, trading with cities across the Mediterranean.

Follow it up with a guided stroll through the streets of Heraklion, exploring the old city's medieval streets with architecture representing the island's Venetian past. Highlights include the elegant arches of the Loggia, now in use as the town hall, and the Koules Venetian fortress along the harbor walls. In the afternoon, make sure to visit the Archaeological Museum, home to one of the world's largest collections of Minoan artifacts.

Spend the evening strolling with the locals through the old town of Heraklion. A pleasant pedestrian street connects the port area with the Lions' Square and Venetian Fountain of the lions.

Day 13: Transfer to Chania, Explore

Chania's old town harbor
Chania's old town harbor

Today, you'll continue to Chania, a city (and region) on the northwest coast of Crete. Chania is the second largest city in Crete and one of the most scenic spots on an island, with stiff competition for that title. Life in this former Venetian city revolves around its charming 14th-century harbor, narrow streets with winding alleys, and colorful architecture influenced by past Ottoman and Egyptian eras.

While you're exploring the area, don't miss some of these spots:

  • The elevated neighborhoods of Topanas, Splantzia, Kolombo, and Kasteli for panoramic harbor views, Cretan taverns, and architectural history. You can see the ruins of the Minoan city of Kydonia and the high walls of former Venetian moats integrated into the city.
  • The Municipal Market of Chania and the neighboring Municipal Garden to enjoy a coffee amid the shade of the trees or garden clocktower. 
  • The Botanical Parks and Gardens of Crete to enjoy Cretan nature at its finest. The unique microclimate formed in this area allows plants from three different climate zones to grow in the park.
  • The olive-oil-producing region of Vouves, to the west of the city, complete with a museum and one of the oldest olive trees in existence.
  • Falassarna and Elafonissi beaches, also to the west, where you can find solitude on the sands.

Top it all off with a sunset drink on the rooftop at trendy Pallas, or visit Cafe Koukouvaya for a pastry and a view of Chania town and harbor.

Day 14: Ancient Aptera Tour

Surround yourself with history
Surround yourself with history at the ancient site of Aptera

Travel back in time after breakfast with a guided trip to the archaeological site at ancient Aptera. The ruins of this once-powerful city are filled with traces of the past, from the times when archers used to inhabit the city for centuries before an earthquake destroyed it. Find out more from your guide, or just indulge in the extraordinary views toward the Souda Gulf.

Your free afternoon and evening back in Chania will leave you plenty of time for souvenir shopping and exploration. Sample some of the area's Turkish influence with mezzes at Tamam, a taverna located inside a former Turkish bath in the old quarter, or opt for a creative modern twist on Cretan cuisine at Portes.

Day 15: Return to Athens, Visit the Archaeological Site of Eleusis

Part of the ruins
Part of the ruins

Return to Athens this morning to continue your explorations on the mainland. Your main activity for today is a visit to the archaeological site at Eleusis, located just outside of the city of Athens, via the Hiera Odos road. These ruins were the site of one the most compelling rituals of the ancient world: an initiation ceremony into the cult of Demeter. So little is known about the ritual that it's still referred to as the Eleusinian Mysteries. Explore the site and see what you can find out.

The site has also been named the European Capital of Culture for 2021, so you'll be ahead of the crowds as you learn about its transformation from an ancient religious site to an industrial center.

Pay a visit to the nearby fisherman's village of Pachi for lunch, where they still use traditional fishing methods. Sit at a table by the sea and take your pick of the day's catch before you return to Athens for a relaxing evening in the city.

Day 16: Transfer to Nafplio via Mycenae

The Lion Gate
The Lion Gate

Start the day early with a guided trip back to a true classic. You may recognize Mycenae from its role in Homer's "Iliad." It was home to the famous Helen, whose husband was Menelaus, king of Sparta, who led his people to war when she left him for Paris of Troy. See its Cyclopean walls, whose construction method is still a mystery. They got their name due in part to the belief that only the mythical Cyclops would have been strong enough to lift their boulders. You'll pass through the Lion Gate with your guide to enter the city's ruins, wandering past the tombs of Aegisthus and Clytaemnestra and the Treasury of Atreus.

You'll go on to Nafplio, one of the prettiest seaport towns in the Peloponnese peninsula and once believed to have been founded by the son of Poseidon. The town was the first capital of the new Greek state after the War of Independence in the 1800s. You'll take a guided stroll through the old town, passing statues honoring significant figures from Nafplio's history, Ottoman fountains, and Venetian architecture along the winding streets, topped off by the Bourtzi Castle in the middle of the harbor.

Later, don't miss the climb up 1,000 steps to see the view from Palamidi Castle. Spend a relaxing evening wandering the quiet streets or walking along the waterfront.

Day 17: Day Trip to Olympia

The former stadium
The former stadium

In the morning, you'll be transferred from Nafplio to the other side of the Peloponnese to explore the site of the first Olympic Games at the archaeological site of Olympia. And there's a lot to cover—it's one of the largest sites in the country, surrounded by wild olives and plane trees. Once you arrive, your comprehensive guided tour will take you under the grand temple columns, past the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, and through the onsite Archaeological Museum.

There will also be free time after the tour to explore the site on your own. Scope out the treasuries, sacrificial altars, and ancient stadium once used by the ancient world's best athletes.

You can add on a hike if you're feeling athletically inspired in the surrounding area or check out the fortress of Acronafplia once you return to Nafplio later in the day. This Roman and Byzantine fortress is the oldest in the city.

Day 18: Day Trip to Rural Village & Olive Experience

A favorite in all seasons
A favorite in all seasons

Greece has been enjoying the benefits of olive oil for centuries, and now you can take part in this culinary tradition. You'll begin after breakfast by driving to a rural village roughly 5 miles (8 km) outside of Nafplio. Visit the local owners to see how the olive oil-making process works, learn about its steps, and meet some of the farm's other inhabitants with a sheep-milking session. Next, visit the groves themselves, enjoying a picnic experience underneath the shade of the trees and lunch in a family taverna. If you arrive in the harvest season, your experience will even include picking olives in the orchard alongside the workers.

Head back to town in the late afternoon, where you'll have a new appreciation for your dinner's ingredients. Top it off by buying a bottle of wine in a local shop to take home. You're in one of Greece's most notable wine areas, after all. Look for an Agiortiko or another native grape varietal.

Day 19: Monuments of Epidaurus Tour

Theater at Epidaurus
Theater at Epidaurus

Today's hourlong guided tour will introduce you to the Epidaurus region's highlights. You'll learn about the local history and traditions as you explore the remains of this ancient city, one of the most visited healing centers in the world during its peak. The sick would travel to the Sanctuary of Asklepios, the god of medicine and healing. They would spend the night in the temple's sleeping hall, hoping that the deity would appear in the dreams with a diagnosis and cure for their condition, whatever it may have been.

You'll also see the city's third-century theater, one of the best remaining examples of its type due to the excellent acoustics and aesthetic arrangement and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was originally designed for musical and singing competitions and is the largest stone resonator in the world. Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides all had plays performed here. Depending on the timing of your trip, you may even be able to catch a performance on the ancient stage. 

In the afternoon, you'll return to Nafplio, where you can take a long walk along the beautiful promenade, which heads from the town's harbor around the point and continues down the coast all the way to Karathona Beach. For dinner, check out Aiolos Taverna in the old town.

Day 20: Return to Athens, Sunset at Cape Sounion

Temple of Poseidon
Temple of Poseidon

Return to Athens in the morning. In the afternoon, you'll be transferred down to the Athenian Riviera, full of history and stunning island views. Your adventure will take you along the coast to visit the Temple of Poseidon while being provided with historical background on the way. The views overlook the Saronic Gulf, with one of Greece's best sunset views. Sip a complimentary beverage, take in the sunset while listening to music, and immortalize the moment with a Polaroid-style photo.

You'll be transferred back to your lodging in the evening just in time for a late (Greek-style) dinner. Or, if you're not ready to call it a night, you can request a drop-off at some of the most popular beach bars to dance until the sun comes up.

Day 21: Depart Athens

Wave to the city
Wave to the city

Time to say farewell to Greece. Enjoy your final Athenian breakfast before your transfer to the airport.

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Map

Map of Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades & Crete - 21 Days
Map of Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades & Crete - 21 Days