Classical Greece & Idyllic Islands - 12 Days

Classical Greece & Idyllic Islands - 12 Days

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12 Days From

$3135

$2508

Classical Greece & Idyllic Islands - 12 Days

12 Days Starting in Athens and ending in Santorini

Visiting: Athens, Epidaurus, Archaeological site of Mycenae, Olympia, Zakinthos, Delphi, Kalabaka, Meteora, Thera, Santorini

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 45

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

Children are welcome on these tours. However please note that finding family rooms for 2 adults and 2 children can be difficult - please check with the Ground Handler before confirming any family bookings. 

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3135 $2508 Operator discount: -$627 -20%

NB: Prices correct on 02-Jul-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

SEMI-INDEPENDENT TOUR: Discover Greece’s extreme beauty on this 12-day tour travelling from ancient Athens uncovering centuries of civilization at the astounding archaeological sites Acropolis, Olympia and Meteora; soaking up the gorgeous beaches of Zakynthos and the outstanding scenery of the Peloponnese before discovering the magical island of Santorini. Athens - Discover one of the world's oldest cities, from the ancient. Acropolis and temple of Zeus to the modern Panathenaic Stadium on this tour.

Highlights

  • Athens - Discover one of the world's oldest cities, from the ancient Acropolis and temple of Zeus to the modern Panathenaic Stadium

  • Peloponnese - Cross the rocky peninsula at the heart of Greek history, home to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and the Corinth Canal

  • Olympia - Learn about the site of the original Olympics, where the Statue of Zeus - an ancient Wonder of the World - once stood

  • Delphi - Follow the Sacred Way in the footsteps of pilgrims who sought the oracle's advice at this holy sanctuary

  • Meteora - Admire the stunning, UNESCO-listed rock formations and clifftop monasteries

  • Thermopylae - Relive the Spartans' famous last stand against the Persians on this narrow pass

  • Zakynthos - Explore the famous Navagio shipwreck beach and swim in the azure blue waters at the Blue Caves

  • Santorini - Relax on one of Greece's most beautiful islands, where whitewashed villages perch on volcanic cliffs

  • Nafplion - Stroll through the labyrinthine streets and discover the Venetian and Turkish architecture

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Athens

Location: Athens

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: No Meals

Welcome to Athens! On arrival you will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel, where you have the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 2 : Athens & The Acropolis

Location: Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today explore the most important landmarks and monuments of the historical city of Athens on a coach tour. You'll see the Panathenaic Stadium, home of the first modern Olympic Games and other iconic landmarks including the Zappeion, the temple of Olympian Zeus, and Hadrian’s wall. Then visit the iconic Acropolis and enjoy a guided visit to Propylae, the temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Acropolis Museum, recently voted one of the best museums in the world. This afternoon is free for you to independently explore – wander through the picturesque old neighbourhood of Plaka or shop for souvenirs on Ermou Street.

Day 3 : Epidaurus & Mycenae

Location: Athens, Epidaurus, Archaeological site of Mycenae

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Athens - Epidaurus - Mycenae - Olympia. This morning bid farewell to Athens and travel to the Peloponnese, home to many of Greece’s greatest archaeological sites. First stop is the impressive Corinth Canal which separates the Greek mainland from the Peloponnese before travelling on to Epidaurus, a hub of ancient healing famous for its giant theatre.

This afternoon there's a brief stop in Nafplion, a beautiful town filled with numerous Venetian and Turkish buildings nestled in a labyrinth of narrow streets. Then continue to Mycenae, one of the most famous archaeological sites in the country. The site includes the towering Cyclopean walls, the beehive tomb of Agamemnon and the famous Lion's Gate. In the afternoon, cross the Peloponnese Mountains to Olympia, where there's time to freshen up or relax before dinner at the hotel.

Day 4 : Ancient Olympia

Location: Olympia, Zakinthos

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Olympia - Zakynthos. This morning enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site of ancient Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games. Highlights include the Temple of Zeus, the Palestra and Phidias’s Workshop. Then continue to one of the richest museums in Greece, home to the impressive Hermes of Praxitelis statue.

In the afternoon leave the rest of the group and take a private transfer to the port of Kyllini to board a local ferry to the island of Zakynthos, one of the most popular islands on the Ionian Sea. After checking into our hotel the rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore.

Day 5 : Zakynthos Island Tour

Location: Zakinthos

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Early this morning embark on a coach tour to the north-east part of Zakynthos and learn about the history and mythology of the island en-route. There's a brief stop at Alykes Hills for the perfect photo opportunity with great scenery overlooking the whole of the island, mainland Greece and the neighbouring island of Kefalonia. Then arrive at a small fishing village and board a boat to travel around the north shores of the island, arriving at Navagio beach, the most photographed beach in the world, before the crowds. The boat then continues to the famous “Blue Caves” (subject to weather conditions), one of the islands most famous natural attractions. Take a dip in the caves rich waters which appear to turn everything below the water blue. On your way back to the port look out for dolphins and sea-turtles before stopping at the sea-spa of Xingia, a small sandy beach with turquoise waters containing traces of Sulphur and collagen. Enjoy a swim that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.

Day 6 : Zakynthos

Location: Zakinthos, Delphi

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Zakynthos - Delphi. This morning there's free time to enjoy the town of Zakynthos before your transfer to Kyllini port where you will board the ferry back to the mainland. From here continue your tour of mainland Greece. It's a scenic drive around Oatras and over the Rio-Antirio bridge to the picturesque town of Delphi in time for dinner at the hotel. Watch the sunset over the Gulf of Corinth and soak up the incredible views of Delphi's dramatic landscape.

Day 7 : Delphi & The Temple Of Apollo

Location: Delphi, Kalabaka

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Delphi - Kalambaka. Delphi, one the most sacred pilgrimage centres in the world, is yours to explore on a guided tour today. Admire the Sanctuary of Apollo and walk up the Sacred Way to reach the incredible Temple of Apollo. After exploring this spectacular archaeological site, see the bronze Charioteer statue and the mythical omphalos stone at the fascinating Delphi Museum. This afternoon cross the mountains of central Greece on your journey to Kalambaka, the gateway to Meteroa. After dinner at the hotel, the evening is free to explore the town.

Day 8 : Monasteries Of Meteora

Location: Kalabaka, Meteora, Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kalambaka - Meteora - Athens. After breakfast visit the extraordinary Meteora World Heritage Site, where Byzantine monasteries are perched on top of towering rock formations. Marvel at the surreal landscape and explore two of the Orthodox monasteries, which provided a sacred retreat for monks over centuries. From Meteora it's a long drive back to Athens with a stop en route at Thermopylae, where King Leonidas and 300 Spartans made a famous last stand against the Persians in 480 BC. Upon arrival bid farewell to your fellow travellers and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 9 : Athens To Santorini

Location: Athens, Thera

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Athens – Santorini. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the port of Piraeus to catch the local ferry to the magical island of Santorini. The journey takes roughly 8 hours and on arrival you'll be met and transferred to your hotel.

Day 10 - 11 : Santorini R&R

Location: Thera

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Breakfast x 2

The next two days are free for you to relax and explore the beautiful volcanic island of Santorini. No trip to the island would be complete without exploring the whitewashed towns of Fira and Oia which boast amazing views of the volcano that birthed the island. Sit on the black-sanded beaches for one of the best sunsets in the Aegean or cruise around the caldera on a boat tour.

Day 12 : Santorini

Location: Thera

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your tour of Greece ends today. Spend the morning at leisure before an included transfer to Santorini airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    3-4 star hotels

  • 11 nights 3-4 star hotels

  • 11 breakfasts and 3 dinners

  • One arrival transfer on Day 1 (Athens) and one departure transfer on Day 12 (Santorini) included per booking

  • Entrance fees for all included sites

  • Services of an English-speaking tour guide for all scheduled sightseeing

  • Guided sightseeing in Athens, Olympia, Zakynthos, Delphi, and Meteora

  • Two ferry tickets - Kyllini - Zakynthos and Praeus - Santorini

  • Note: Touring is operated in conjunction with other tourist groups, not solely On The Go. You will join travellers who booked through other operators for sightseeing each day, some staying in different hotels, and spend your evenings at leisure. The group

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

  • Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

  • A hotel tax of €3.00 per room per night to be paid directly to the hotel at time of check in. Please budget Euro 18, for the duration of the tour. See Trip Notes additional info for details

  • A hotel tax of €3.00 per room per night to be paid directly to the hotel at time of check in. See Trip Notes additional info for details

Age Policy

Children aged up to 12 are welcome on these tours. However please note that finding family rooms for 2 adults and 2 children is not easy - so please check with the Ground Handler before confirming the booking. 

Accommodation

Polis Grand



In the heart of Athens, the Polis Grand is a contemporary hotel with excellent facilities. Guest rooms are well appointed with elegant furniture and all modern conveniences. Some rooms are equipped with a balcony with fantastic views over to the Acropolis. The hotel benefits from a number of eateries which serve up an array of Greek and international cuisine as well as tasty coffee and delicious pies. Definitely head for a cocktail in the evening at the roof garden bar for amazing views across the city.





The Golden Age Hotel of Athens



The Golden Age Hotel of Athens is a 4 star hotel, located close to the Kolonaki District. A 5 minute walk from the Megaro Mousikis Metro Station, the urban chic property is 2 stops away from the centre of Athens. Each guest room is soundproofed, air conditioned and feature an ensuite bathroom and blackout drapes. Be sure to try the hotel's daily American buffet breakfast, that includes traditional Greek options. There are two restaurants onsite that serve gourmet Meditteranean cuisine.





Titania Hotel



Nestled in the historic centre of Athens, the Titiana offers beautiful accommodation all classically designed. The ensuite guest rooms are furnished to a high standard with neutral tones and wooden flooring. Breakfast is served in the impressive rooftop Olive Garden restaurant which affords amazing views across the city including the Acropolis. The hote offers complimentary Wi-Fi and a fitness centre.





Hotel Arty Grand



Located on top of a hill overlooking Olympia, the Arty Grand Hotel is all about the guest experience. From the welcoming reception hall, up to the spacious rooms and beautiful verandas, the Arty Grand provides world-class treatment. Arranged over three floors, there is an outdoor swimming pool and spa centre, where you can relax with a rejuvenating massage after a day of exploring. The hotel serves a daily breakfast buffet and you can order from the lunch and dinner menu. Then take your pick between the hotel or poolside bar to enjoy an evening drink.





Hotel Europa



Set at the top of Drouvas Hill, Hotel Europa offers views of the Arcadian Mountains and Alfios Valley from your own private balcony. The spacious guestrooms also feature marble floors and modern amenities, with free WiFi and breakfast included. Relax on the comfortable sunbeds by the outdoor pool that is surrounded by luscious greenery. Within the garden there is a Greek tavern where you can enjoy a delicious feast of Mediterranean cuisine prepared with natural and organic ingredients.





Hotel Amalia



Located at the foot of Mount Parnassus, Hotel Amalia overlooks a picturesque green valley and the Ionian Sea. Guestrooms are spread over four levels, offering plenty of natural light and all the essential amenities. Relax in the main lounge where you can enjoy the magnificent vistas by a rustic fireplace. Next to the beautiful gardens you will find the main restaurant, serving up a rich American breakfast buffet and a la carte lunch and dinner featuring Greek cuisine. You can also enjoy coffee, fresh juice and cocktails as you unwind at the poolside bar.





Hotel Apollonia



Situated in an ideal location within the modern town, Hotel Apollonia provides the perfect base for exploring ancient Delphi. Offering a majestic view of the Corinthian Gulf, the hotel combines wood and stone in a traditional-style build. The spacious guestrooms and modern facilities offer a very comfortable stay, with a delicious breakfast and dinner served in the hotel restaurant. You can also relax by a cosy fire with a drink or two from the bar.





Hotel Amalia



Hotel Amalia is embedded on 14 acres of beautiful greenery. Built from traditional materials to match its surrounds, the hotel features extensive gardens, a large swimming pool and distant views of the Meteora Rocks. Guestrooms are spacious and fully equipped with the latest facilities. In the dining area, a rich American buffet breakfast is served with both local and international cuisine available for lunch and dinner. Relax by the fireplace in the hotel’s cosy lounge bar and listen to piano music as you sip a cocktail.





Hotel Divani Meteora



Offering the chance to enjoy traditional Greek hospitality within a contemporary setting is the Hotel Divani Meteora. Surrounded by natural beauty, the hotel is set in front of the World Heritage-listed Meteora sandstone monasteries. The fully renovated hotel has a welcoming decor, with warm shades and a luxury wooden floor. A tranquil restaurant offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine and there is an outdoor and indoor pool. You can also unwind after a day of exploring in the sauna steam bath or bubbling Jacuzzi.





Orizontes Hotel & Villas Santorini



Located in the village of Pyrgos, the Orizontes Hotel was recently renovated and is surrounded by vineyards. Guest rooms have private balconies looking out to the sea or the garden and are equipped with lots of modern conveniences. The hotel also has a couple of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. Plus there is a lovely outdoor pool to cool down in and lots of sunbeds.





El Greco Resort & Spa



Conveniently located just minutes from the centre of Fira, El Greco is a beautiful white washed complex in the classic Santorini style. All guest rooms are air conditioned and reflect the Cycladic style whilst including all mod-cons and exception ensuite facilities. The resort benefits from an outdoor pool, on site restaurant and adult-only Spa Centre for guests.

Check out our Q&As

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    International flights and visas are not included.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    45

  • Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?

    Yes

  • Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

    Yes

  • What is the tipping policy?

    An entirely personal gesture.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    3-4 star hotels

  • Are airport transfers included in this tour?

    One arrival transfer on Day 1 (Athens) and one departure transfer on Day 12 (Santorini) included per booking are included.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Paul Kelly (Google Reviewer)  

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9...

26-Feb-2023

TOTALLY MOROCCO We booked a 9 day tour of Morocco visiting many main cities and places of interest. The coach was very comfortable and we felt safe with the driver Suliman. The guide was Hicham Touraouine and he was fantastic. He spoke perfect English as well as French, Arabic and Berber. He was so kind and considerate and made a good tour great. We particularly enjoyed ‘glamming in the Sahara Desert. So much to see and do and great food and company. We would definitely use On The Go Tours again, especially if Hicham was the guide. Paul & Penny

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

brandy hoffman (Google Reviewer)  

I had used them once...

09-Aug-2023

I had used them once before and loved them. I decided to try them again for a Baltic tour not knowing that they put me on another Tour group- Baltic vision. Loved that tour but was not impressed they marked up the cost for me over 100%. I understand taking some for yourself because of paperwork, but over double the cost everyone else paid on the tour. Just double check before you book with them that you’re not over paying.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.