Greece Insiders

The planning process, our driver, and each and every guide…all were spectacular and exceeded our expectations!

It was the trip of a lifetime. My wife and I were taken care of from the minute we landed in Naples, Italy till the minute we boarded our return flight home. The drivers, guides, excursions, line free admissions and experiences were 100% first rate. Chris and Maria put together a vacation that was completely worry and question free. We were informed in advance who, what and where we were going to experience each day to come. The drivers and guides were native of each city and area we visited and were incredibly personable and knowledgeable about the history and shorter routes. They gave us wonderful recommendations on additional places to visit or eat and even set up reservations where applicable. I learned about kimkim from a friend. Now, I will be the friend who tells others about kimkim for their travel plans. If another travel destination is in future, we will most certainly reach out to kimkim to see if that location is in their planning abilities.

I can't say enough great things about our local specialist, Chris Gravas! He did a fantastic job of helping us plan and manage our trip to Greece and Turkiye - even helping us to coordinate with another couple who joined us mid-trip. His recommendations for locations, selection of hotels, and the tours he picked were all superb and helped to make our trip an all-around great time. He was very communicative, ensuring we were well prepared in advance with contact information and itinerary updates, and even helped us navigate more than a few questions and changes we had on the fly.

Overall it was a fantastic trip that we couldn't have done with Chris' help. Thank you, Chris, and everyone for a truly spectacular time!

Hotel Reviews

Burdock Hotel Istanbul

Istanbul

The Burdock Hotel in the Beyoglu neighborhood is truly incredible, with the one of the most comfortable beds we've slept (except of course, of our bed at home). With an onsite spa, delicious food available at the bar, their restaurant, or for room service, and a staff that consistently go above and beyond, it was a pleasure just being at this hotel. As for food, I highly recommend the chicken skewers, meatballs, San Sebastian cheesecake, and one of their pasta dishes with eggplant (I can't recall the name and their menu isn't listed online) delivered to your room. The bartenders and servers are prompt, accommodating, and friendly. Easily one of the best hotels I've ever stayed at, without being the priciest.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Mr. and Mrs. White Santorini

Oia, Foinikia

Mr. and Mrs. White Santorini in Oia offers spectacular views right outside of our room and even included a relaxing pool to lounge by or jump in to start your day. The staff are exceptional, the included breakfast is delicious, and the drinks were amazing (I highly recommend the Mr. White's Garden - they're addictive!)

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Elia Ermou Athens Hotel

Athens

The rooftop restaurant has a fantastic view of the Acropolis with delicious food and drinks (the Greek orange pie was my favorite!). The breakfast buffet each morning was one of the best we've had in all our travels, and the staff are very helpful and accommodating.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Bohemian Beyoglu neighborhood walk

İstanbul

We greatly enjoyed exploring the Beyoglu area, taking in the many sites, scenes, and overall vibes of the neighborhood. Our tour guide (Emrecan again) was exceptional and tailored the tour to our interests and needs wonderfully. The unique architecture and shifting cultures over the centuries make for a truly interesting and immersive experience, including a variety of locations, buildings, streets, and scenes. Seeing the panoramic views of the city from Galata Tower was possibly my favorite part, though it was a bit pricey (going up to the top wasn't originally part of the itinerary and our tour guide warned us it was a little expensive and mentioned some alternative views that were free, but considering our limited time, we opted to anyway - which she pivoted to easily, showing us numerous highlights and nuances we likely wouldn't have noticed without her).

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Emre is one of the best tour guides we've ever had!

Transport

Traditional Villages

Santorini

The tour was filled with fantastic views from all over the island, interesting history about the many villages and Santorini as a whole, and included a wine tasting at a winery that has been on the island for generations. Our tour guide, Giannis, was funny and knowledgeable about all of the locations we visited and made an fantastic recommendation for dinner at an excellent restaurant (41) located on a black sand beach on the south of the island.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Giannis is one of the best tour guides we've ever had!

Transport

Delphi Day Trip From Athens

Greece

Our day trip to Delphi was filled with great views and interesting histories from our guide. The ruins themselves gave you a true sense of the old temple, and the museum is filled with beautiful artifacts, interesting history, and plenty of stories. The stop in Arachova was the best part, with a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, amazing views, picturesque side streets, and shops with tasty treats.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Athens Morning Food Tasting Tour

Athens

Included a large variety of great food, with an excellent tour guide (Lev) who was engaging, knowledgeable, and able to get the entire group to interact and participate. Easily one of the best food tours we've ever done.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Early Access To The Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour

Athens

The tour of the Acropolis was a great time, though I would definitely take the recommendation to go early before the cruise ships overflow the place. The views are amazing and the history was fun to learn about. The Acropolis Museum was very nice, full of interesting artifacts and historical information, but having just been to the Acropolis, it felt a little less exciting and a tad redundant. If I had to do it again, I might pick another museum.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Istanbul in a Day: From Hagia Sophia to the Grand Bazaar

İstanbul

We had an incredible tour guide, Emrecan, who effortlessly tailored the trip to our needs, kept the conversation going (we were pretty exhausted the first day), and had wonderful recommendations for food. We enjoyed the Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Grand Bazaar very much, and had a wonderful time sitting in the Sultanahmet Square, hearing of all the history that has transformed the area over the centuries.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

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Diamond Caldera Morning Cruise

Santorini

The Diamond Caldera Sunset cruise was a blast, with a fun and interactive crew, who took us to a number of beautiful spots, allowing us to jump in at numerous locations. The included meal, which was cooked on the boat, was one of the best meals we had all trip.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

For those of you who simply want the readers digest version of this Review... Best trip ever and don't go anywhere else! Being retired Navy and traveled the world, I wasn't too concerned with planning my trip. However with this being my Wife's first time overseas I wasn't taking any chances. Having done research regarding KimKim company I decided to give them a shot. From the very beginning "ANNA" was Phenomenal!!! I provided her with my wants and time frame and she made it all happen... And then SOME!! As for my trip details.. Flew into Athens Greece and was greeted by our "Driver". No, wasn't picked up in a YUGO but a clean Merc. Benz. Driver was very informative and respectful. First hotel was in the heart of Athens which proved to be wonderful. My wife and I were able to walk to all the sights to include the trip ANNA planned out for us. Two days in ATHENS then of to NAXOS Island. Flew there and again picked up by our "Driver". First Class as it was everytime we were picked up. Again, walking distance to the marina where all the fun happens. Took a ferry to Paros Island and took in the sights there as well. Took an Awesome Ferry from Naxo to Athens and flew home. Trip was 8 days and perfect. ANNA maintained contact with us throughout our trip and ensured we had no needs or issues. She was even available on the weekend and ensured we made it home safely. Truly went out or her way to ensure we had the best trip ever. She also plans trips to Italy so.. Anna will be recieving a call soon! Can't say enough about all the places we stayed and friendly service by all the staff!! Again, Anna Killed it and can't say enough about her and the company!! Don't waste another minute kicking idea's or other companies around. KIMKIM is the way to go!!! Thanks ANNA for all you have done! Mike

Hotel Reviews

NLH KERAMEIKOS - Neighborhood Lifestyle Hotels

Athens

Room and STAFF were fantastic!!! Only stayed one night but room was Awesome.. Had a huge balconey that overlooked downtown ATHENS.. Looking forward to going back soon!!

Authenticity & Character

Up to date and wonderful room!!

Location

Walking distance to all the fun!!!

Staff

Went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed..

Cleanliness & Comfort

Elevators were a little tricky... but very cute!! Place was wonderful!!

Naxos Green Village Hotel

Naxos

OMG!!!! Room was astonishing.. We were greeted and I wish I wrote down her name, but she was there everyday and always had a smile. Never hesitated to ensure my wife and I had everything we needed. Our room came with a Sauna.. Can't share the photo but... WOW!!! Cat's ran around like they owened the place which was pretty awesome.. Spent some unexpected money on Cat Food which was a huge treat for my wife and I. Almost took one back home!! Room came with breakfast voucher for the Cafe' on site. The owner and staff were flawless!!! Wish I had names to put out there but can't say enough great things about them all!!! We were walking distance to the Marina were all the fun happens!!! Great time looking forward to going back soon!!! Mike

Authenticity & Character

Looking forward to going back!!!

Location

Walking distance to Marina.. STAFF and CAFE' ROCKED IT!!!

Staff

Beyond AWESOME!!!

Cleanliness & Comfort

Was like coming home everyday... STAFF and Cleaning crew.. Priceless!!!

14 Reasons Why

Athens

From the minute we walked in my wife and I felt like we were family. Lyna greated us and ensured we had any and everything we needed.. Room was tight, but didn't really spend much time there anyways. Took in the sights and ate some wonderful food. Looking forward to going back soon!! Breakfast was stupid GOOD. Billy was attentive and the cooks were awesome. Breakfast was so good and so big it was hard to eat another meal... But my wife and I managed!! Five Thumbs UP!!!!

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Activity Reviews

Naxos Day Cruise

Naxos

Man... what a great time. Weather was a little windy but the boat was awesome!!! The Skipper, Kartsioukas Sotirios and his mate were polite and informative.. They went above and beyond to answer questions and provide advise for other attractions in Naxos. Felt like family and looking forward to another trip soon. Thanks guys!!!

Quality of Experience

Highly recommend Captain Kartsioukas and his crew!!!

Food

Food was Homemade and delic!!!!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Awesome!

Transport

Roots & Recipes: Greek Cooking Class With Family Farm Visit

Naxos

Can't say enough about this Family. My wife and I felt like we were part of the family from the moment we walked in. Cooking class was informative and totally enjoyed the journey in their vegetable farm. Two Thumbs UP!!!!

Quality of Experience

Felt like family!!! Thanks a Ton!!

Food

Speechless!!!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Owner was wonderful and very informative!!

Transport

Our "Driver" was very informative and polite!!! Car was clean and very comfortable!!!

Early Access To The Acropolis & Old Athens Walking Tour

Athens

Tour guide Ms. Lydia was awesome.. very informative and was willing to answer everyone's questions. Great trip recommend the smaller group as we did...

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Lydia was wonderful!!!

Transport

Hi Kimkim,
Our trip to Greece was EXCEPTIONAL! We went as a group of 6 (3 different couples), and Chris was flexible and made it work for all of us (special room reservations, etc.). The tours were all high-quality- we really couldnt pick one that was better than the rest. The hotels were also all just right for our group - very good quality and in the "quiet areas" as we wanted. Chris highly recommended the island-hopping private boat tour, and we all agreed that was a highlight of Greece. All in all, we love dour experience with Chris and with KimKim!

Anna did a phenomenal job coordinating our last-minute trip to Greece. She built us a custom itinerary based on our travel style and thoughtfully positioned our hotels in spots that optimized our trip.

Along the way we had some exceptional tour guides - notably Grigori in Heraklion on the private Minoan Tour of Knossos & Archaeological Museum tour, Christina in Athens on the small group Acropolis & Old Athens walking tour, and Vasiis in Santorini on the private Traditional Villages tour. Something to note with morning tours, in Greece hotel breakfasts are served later than in the USA so have an alternate plan for breakfast if you venture out before 8:30 AM. Our hotel in Crete did offer an early continental breakfast if coordinated the day before which was really helpful.

We had a great experience with kimkim and will definitely consider using them for future trips.

Anna did a wonderful job ....easy to work with, highly organized, and very responsive
Classic Hotel by Athens Prime Hotels: great location and good accommodations
Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour Guide: Mr Dimitris, outstanding tour guide, was very pleasant & knowledgeable

Delphi Day Trip from Athens
I cancelled this tour because it went from a small group tour to a tour of 50

All drivers in Athens and Naxos where on time and very professional
Naxos Resort was very pleasant
Food tour in Naxos was outstanding Mrs Katia was knowledgeable, professional and very pleasant

Hotel Reviews

Sofitel Athens Airport

Athens

A bit pricey for a late check in and very early departure however very convent to the airport

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Naxos Resort Beach Hotel

Naxos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Classic Hotel by Athens Prime Hotels

Athens

Authenticity & Character

Location

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Short Walk for Sofitel to Athens International Airport

Athens International Airport (ATH)

Naxos Villages Food Tour

Naxos

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Delphi Day Trip from Athens

Greece

canceled this tour because it went from a small group tour to a large 50+ group tour

Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Guided Tour

Athens

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

This was a dream trip. The thoughtful planning, recommendations, highly knowledgeable guides & deft drivers made our experience enjoyable & flawless.

Hotel Reviews

Kasimatis by La Perla

Santorini

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Naxos Resort Beach Hotel

Naxos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Great location, quiet w/ direct beach access, 10 minute walk to all the action. Great restaurant and pools.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Niche Hotel

Athens

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Naxos Wine & Mythology Sunset Tour

Naxos

Stratos was an excellent guide and we enjoyed all the various experiences. My only suggestion is that it did feel a little long, and I think the honey tasting could be removed. The olive oil tasting lunch wine, tasting, and visiting the villages was spectacular.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We Guide You In The Past

Santorini

Quality of Experience

Absolutely fantastic experience. Panos was excellent.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Sunset Cheers & Dine

Santorini

Panos was an excellent guide & we thoroughly enjoyed all the historical knowledge and scenic places we visited. The only drawback was the end of night meal. We were the only people in the restaurant which was awkward and our main meal was just pasta with chicken.

Quality of Experience

Food

We were the only people in the restaurant which was very very awkward, and the main meal was not very good. The view was spectacular though.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Santorini Wonders

Santorini

We had already done quite a bit in previous tours and realized we did not need this tour. Hercules was great, he just didn’t have a lot to share with us.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Island Hopping Cruise

Santorini

Spiros was an excellent captain, very generous with his time & knowledge. He was also very flexible & showed consistent concern for our comfort & safety

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Spiros was fantastic!

Transport

Naxos Day Cruise

Naxos

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Mediterranean Diet: Food & Lifestyle

Naxos

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Acropolis Guided Tour

Athens

Guide was excellent, fun & very knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Chris was wonderful to deal with, we didn’t make it easy for him, constant changes and re-jigging but he was always patient and understanding, and helped us achieve our goals.
Acropolis Hill Hotel was a great location, wonderful view, and lovely accommodations. Walking tour of Acropolis and biking tour of Athens was a perfect overview of Athens.
We loved Santorini best, Cliff Side Suites was second to none. Our room was huge, beautiful views and sunsets. Many restaurants within walking distance. Took a couple days to tour towns and relax on beaches, a good mix of activity and down time.
Naxos was lovely, Naxos Beach Resort was a great location in Naxos Town, a lot within walking distance. Full day catamaran tour was good, our day the waters were choppy with high winds, so didn’t swim as much as we would have, but a great crew, great food, it was a fun day.
All air and ferry transfers Chris organized were seamless and all drivers meeting us to move us were outstanding.

We had a wonderful two-week trip through Greece with my two boys, combining Athens, Delphi, Olympia, the Peloponnese, Costa Navarino, Nafplio and Mycenae. Overall, the itinerary was very well designed: it gave the children a real sense of Greek history while leaving enough time for swimming, boating and simply enjoying the country.

Some of the highlights were the guided visits to Delphi, Olympia and Mycenae, as well as our day on the water with Andrea / Mani. Guides in Delphi and Olympia were amazing. From our discussion and written descriptions, it seemed that it’d be more interactive / digital but in practice none of this - that being said worked really well with paper bc my kids are used to this but for other families that could be a surprise. Costa Navarino was also a great choice with children and gave us a very welcome few days to slow down after the more active part of the trip. But some recommendations & conditioning could have been done. The balance between cultural visits and downtime worked particularly well for a family trip.

Anna was very responsive and helpful throughout the planning process and while we were in Greece. She was also flexible when we wanted to adjust a visit on our last day.

Where the experience was less strong was in the overall value added by booking through Kimkim. For a fairly high-end trip, I still found myself managing or researching quite a few details during the vacation — restaurants, activities, some logistics and what to do in our free time. A few more tailored recommendations and arrangements could also have been more proactive or more carefully tailored to traveling with two young children. At times, it felt more like a collection of well-booked components than a fully curated trip where everything had been anticipated for us. A good example are the stops on the road which felt generic to anyone vs to us. So, magnitude of markup from Kimkim I don’t think is justified and for this reason I’m not sure I’d book again with kimkim.

That said, the core itinerary was excellent, the local guides and experiences were very good, and most importantly my boys and I came home having had a fantastic and very memorable trip to Greece.

Hotel Reviews

Nafplia Palace Hotel & Villas

Nafplio

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Looks old - was modern 20yeara ago. There were ants in our bedroom.

Costa Navarino The Westin Resort

Messinia

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Europa Hotel Olympia

Olympia

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Amalia Hotel Delphi

Delphi

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Restaurant staff was ok but not so accommodating. Food was average, subpar to what one may expect

Cleanliness & Comfort

Electra Metropolis

Athens

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Acropolis & Acropolis Museum For Families

Athens

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Delphi Guided Tour

Greece

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Mycenae Guided Tour

Greece

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Boat Trip Adventure to Limeni

Pylos

Skipper had to bring the boat full speed an hour away and bring it back in the evening. That probably increase the cost significantly. Having this discussion may have helped reduce cost and find an alternative

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Ancient Olympia Guided Tour

Greece

Guides, Drivers and Staff