Antiquity to Present Day: A Journey Through Classical Greece

On this Greek odyssey – which will take you from Athens to Crete to the Peloponnese – you will discover the secrets of Greece’s ancient ruins, unearth archaeological jewels, and explore iconic towns and waterfront villages. ​

When to go
May-Sept
From Price
£13,200 PP*
Ideal Length
10 Nights

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Experience Highlights

  • Spend two days exploring Athens with an expert guide as you wander through the ancient ruins of the Parthenon and visit the New Acropolis Museum
  • From Crete, explore the surrounding towns and islands of Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, visit the famous Knossos Palace and set sail around the coast of Elounda
  • Uncover the Peloponnese peninsula by hiking, biking, boating, and sea kayaking, with mythical theatres, temples, citadels and hidden coastal wonders all just a stone’s throw away
  • Sample a variety of delicious Greek cuisine at each destination, with special regional tasting sessions and a traditional Minoan cooking class

ANCIENT RUINS IN ATHENS​

Your first stop on your Greek odyssey is Athens, the historical capital of Europe and modern-day Greece. You’ll spend two days here, exploring its labyrinthine streets, tree-covered squares, and sun-drenched ruins. By day, immerse yourself in this thriving metropolis and by night, rest your head at the luxurious Hotel Grande Bretagne. With a prime spot opposite Constitution Square and the House of Parliament, its location is unbeatable, boasting views over the original Olympic Stadium, the Acropolis, and the Parthenon from the rooftop restaurant.

ANCIENT RUINS IN ATHENS​

Accompanied by an expert local guide, you’ll meander through the picturesque streets and alleys, transported on a captivating journey through time as you learn about ancient Greece and the extraordinary culture that exists today.

ANCIENT RUINS IN ATHENS​

Steeped in culture, your guide will show you the ancient ruins of the Parthenon, Ancient Agora, the Plaka and Parliament Square. Once a gathering place for locals, Ancient Agora is the best-known example of an ancient Greek market and is a fascinating insight into the day-to-day lives of this ancient civilisation.

You’ll also have the opportunity to indulge in a few culinary delights, enjoying delicious Greek food with a traditional tasting experience.

HISTORICAL CRETE

Next up is Crete, Greece’s largest island, where you’ll explore its stunning beaches, magnificent mountains, fertile valleys and rich culture (and, of course, significant archaeological sites). You’ll visit the renowned Knossos Palace, the centre of Minoan civilisation and where (according to myth) King Minos kept the legendary Minotaur in his labyrinth.

Discover Heraklion, overflowing with history and culture, where your guide will take you around the city and to the Koules Fortress situated on the westernmost side of the old Venetian port.

ENCHANTING ELOUNDA

Afterwards, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to the east of Elounda, snaking your way through the countryside. This region is home to the historic port town of Agios Nikolaos where you can expect museums, Byzantine churches, a beautiful marina, and traditional squares brimming with lively cafés and restaurants. This coastal town is also home to Lake Voulismeni where, according to legend, the goddess Athena bathed. As you explore, you will be introduced to Minoan cuisine as you participate in a cooking lesson, trying traditional cooking methods as you test your skills at creating the perfect pita.

ENCHANTING ELOUNDA

The following day, after exploring Spinaloga island aboard an authentic Greek fishing boat, set sail around Elounda. One of Greece’s most exclusive destinations, Elounda Village features a spectacular coastline, shaded beaches, crystal clear seas and more than a few of its own sites of archaeological interest. As you cruise along the coastline, your guide will take you to secret spots known only by true locals, stopping along the way to hop off the boat to explore lesser-known inlets and marine life.

ENCHANTING ELOUNDA

Whilst in Crete, you’ll stay at Domes of Elounda – a laid-back yet luxurious property with a never-ending list of amenities (think several first-class restaurants, a spa, multiple pools and watersports). Through tailored menus and dedicated facilities, its bespoke approach caters to guests of all ages, especially families, making it the perfect base for your Cretan adventure.​

PEACEFUL PELOPONNESE

After a short flight back to Athens, hit the road to visit the Peloponnese peninsula. For the final stretch of your trip, you’ll stay in one of Greece’s most luxurious spots: Amanzoe. A modern-day Acropolis from which 360-degree views encompass olive groves and the Aegean Sea, this property would wow even the most discerning deity. From here, visit nearby archaeological sites such as the iconic Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, the Temple of Hera and the legendary citadel of Mycenae, with pretty Spetses and Hydra close by.

PELOPONNESE Activities

Uncover the region’s small towns and islands, from exploring Spetses by bike or ATV (there are no cars here) to taking a sea kayak out from Nafplio and paddling the Argolis Gulf. Your journey through the Peloponnese region will reveal its captivating past and showcase some of the culinary highlights of the area, such as its famous citrus fruits, sweet olives, diverse seafood and wine, while a trip to visit a local beekeeper and honey museum can also be arranged. Ending your trip on a magical high, hike through the pine trees at Katafiki Gorge before stopping for a delicious picnic alongside the small church of St. Anargiri, where unsurpassed views over this magical landscape await.  

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