Compare Best of Greece by Intrepid Travel vs Classical Greece & Islands of the Aegean by Titan Travel

Day 1 Athens

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Named after the goddess of wisdom, the birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens has an amazing array of historic sites to explore; a weighty history that spills out over the modern city, represented most dramatically by the ancient Acropolis. There's much to be seen in the ancient capital of Greece, vibrant and refreshed following the 2004 Olympics, yet still retaining so much visible history. After the welcome meeting, perhaps head out for some gyros and ouzo with your new travel companions.

Day 2 Athens / Thessaloniki

This morning head out to visit the famous Acropolis, one of the Western world's most important historical structures. Start with an ascent to the top of this sacred rock via the towering entrance, the Propylaia. Once inside, encounter the Parthenon – the greatest Doric temple in the ancient world. In the afternoon board a train or a bus to cosmopolitan Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. This city especially comes alive in the evening, thanks in part to its large student population, so make sure you hunt down the perfect gyros or some live music.

Day 3 Thessaloniki

Relax in the splendour of what is regarded as the cultural capital of the country. Walk along the waterfront to the White Tower, take in the Byzantine churches (like the beautifully frescoed Church of Saint Nicholas the Orphan), Ottoman sites and Roman ruins, and appreciate the wonderful views over the gulf. On a clear day you might even catch a glimpse of the home of the gods, Mount Olympus. If you’d like someone to show you the way, perhaps join an Urban Adventure for a local view. The city is undoubtedly the gastronomic capital of the Greece and its flavours are unique. For 2,000 years it’s been a melting pot of cultures, with eastern spices, French, Balkan and Mediterranean tastes. Seek out the eateries in the area around the agora, where age-old columns and arches brush up against modern apartments and the ancient Rotunda. Don't forget to stop by at NAOMI,an NGO workshop supporting refugees with skill training and learn about the amazing work and the challenges they are faced with today.

Day 4 Kalambaka

Travel by public bus or train to Kalambaka (approximately 3 hours). Upon arrival embark on on a short orientation walk of town, where your leader will point out amenities and help you get your bearings. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the scenic area around Kalambaka and Meteora, where the views are stunning whichever way you look. Having two days here allows you to explore at your own pace, discover the history and legends, witness the incredible views of one of the few World Heritage sites listed under both nature and art at different times of the day, and avoid the crowds. Your leader will have suggestions on hand. In the evening, maybe head to a taverna for dinner and stroll the main square for a taste of Thessalian life.

Day 5 Meteora / Kalambaka

Climb into the heavens, just like monks have done for centuries, towards ancient monasteries precariously placed atop 400-metre-high rock formations. Meteora is home to 24 14th century monasteries that sit at the top of karst pinnacles, though only six are still occupied. They were once only accessed by rope ladders, but thankfully there are now steps. The cliff faces also feature caves where hermits lived an even simpler life than those in the teetering monasteries. The monasteries, which used to be supplied by rope and pulley systems, house woodcarvings, frescoes, paintings, and one even features the skulls of the first founders. You’ll enjoy some great views back over the town. The area makes for incredibly dramatic photos – multi-colour streaked rock, bright green forest, and the pale terracotta of the monastery roofs against the Grecian sky. The mists that can surround the pinnacles make the constructions seem like they’re floating in the air. Hawks drift on the valley thermals looking for prey, and black-frocked priests shuffle silently around.

Day 6 Delphi

Travel by private transfer to Delphi (approximately 4 hours). On the the way, stop at our favourite camping site where you'll enjoy a tasting of different type of olives, oil and tapenade that's produced on their farm and special to the region. Your lunch will also be included here and enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming, with a view overlooking the Delphi Valley, a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then continue to Delphi. Located on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, by a valley of cypress and olives trees, this modern town and ancient ruins overlooks the Gulf of Corinth. The ancient Greeks regarded Delphi as the centre of the world (legend says that Zeus sent two eagles flying from opposite ends of the world and they crossed paths over Delphi), and today it’s one of the country's most inspiring and memorable archaeological sites. On arrival, your leader will take you on an orientation walk of the cliffside town of Delphi. Then, follow your local guide for a guided tour through the amazing archaeological sites and museums. Here you’ll find the famous sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena, which contain numerous monuments, temples, a well-preserved theatre, and the impressive reconstructed Athenian Treasury. The site was also home to the Delphic oracle, said to have spoken for Apollo himself – she sat on a chasm, inhaling vapours from the Earth and entering a trance-like state, her cryptic answers to questions translated by priests. There’s also a mountain-top stadium, which were used for the Pythian Games (an Olympic Games precursor), held every four years as early as 586 BC.

Day 7 Athens

Travel back to Athens today by bus, arriving in the late afternoon (approximately 3,5 hours). Shop for the perfect souvenir at the Monastiraki flea market or take a relaxing stroll through the Greek national gardens. If you haven’t already, check out the Temple of Olympian Zeus or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guard. While in the neighbourhood explore the excellent Museum of Athens, Syntagma square with the Parliament building, and the Panathinaiko Stadium which housed the first Olympic games in 1896.

Day 8 Athens

Enjoy a free day in Athens today exploring the countless great sites of this ancient capital. Highlights include the renowned changing of the guard at Syntagma (Parliament) Square, the National Gardens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and so many more. There will be a group meeting at 6 pm at your hotel, when you'll meet your new travel mates.

Day 9 Syros

Today travel by metro to the port of Piraeus, then catch a relaxing scenic ferry to Syros (approximately 4 hours). In the heart of the Cyclades, Syros offers a rare opportunity to see the islands as the Greeks do. One of the Aegean's most underrated islands, the island features typical whitewashed houses, farms, terraced fields and gorgeous sandy beaches. Your leader will take you on a wander through the main town of Ermoupolis, home to well preserved neoclassical mansions and 19th-century tenement blocks. Syros is also home to delicious sweets. Stop at a family run traditional loukoumi workshop where you will be shown the procedure of how these multi-coloured fruit-flavoured jellies (also called Greek Delight) and chalvadopita (hazelnut, almond or honey-filled wafers) are made - make sure you try some of them. You'll have plenty of time to explore tomorrow, so perhaps kick up your feet at a waterfront cafe and watch the setting sun turn the houses pink.

Day 10 Syros

Take a walk through the fortress-like town of Ano Syros, which offers great views of the Aegean Sea. Wander the narrow alleyways, pass handmade-souvenir shops and keep an ear open for traditional Rembetiko music floating out of the family-run tavernas. Enjoy free time to further explore Syros at your own pace. Discover abandoned windmills, ancient ruins and charming villages on a network of stone-paved tracks that crisscross the island. Perhaps head to the various archaeological sites on the island, or you might prefer to simply hole up on a beach for the afternoon. Outside of Ermoupolis are many small tranquil coves, while the most popular beaches are on the southern side of the island. While some are sandy and others pebbly, all boast crystal clear waters for swimming in. In the evening, take taxis to a taverna to a remotely located village in the rugged northern part of the island to sample delicious local specialities during an included meal, all while watching the sun set over the Aegean Sea.

Day 11 Mykonos

Today board a two-hour ferry to Mykonos, a beautiful island named in honour of Apollo's grandson. Known in ancient Greek mythology as the battlefield where Zeus fought the Gigantes, today the island is best known for its decadence, style, and nightlife. Join your leader for a walk through the maze-like old town and be captivated by the quintessential Greek Isles vista of squat white houses brightly juxtaposed against the cerulean sea. Browse the chic galleries and boutiques, follow flower-lined paths past age-old churches and tiny restaurants to secluded, sandy beaches, and spend the afternoon soaking up the rays and splashing in the water. Settle into your lovely room at the hotel. As the sun sets, maybe join Europe's party crowd at one of the many bars and clubs on Mykonos, or take a more traditional approach with a meal at a delightful backstreet restaurant.

Day 12 Delos / Mykonos

This morning you will take a half-day trip out to the nearby island of Delos. One of the most important archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands, a sacred area that was once the political and religious centre of the Aegean, Delos is considered to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. A living museum, the wealthy built mansions in the town that developed around Apollo’s sanctuary, decorating them with luxurious frescoes, mosaics and statues. The island is overflowing with archaeological finds like the Terrace of the Lions and the Sacred Precinct, with many more still being uncovered. Later on today you might like to head to one of Mykonos' many beaches, which are some of the nicest in Europe. Take a short bus ride to the pumping Paradise or Super Paradise beach bars, or perhaps find a quieter spot to relax along the beautiful coastline. You could also check out the 19th-century House of Lena or the Aegean Maritime Museum in town. This evening you could make your way to the village of Ano Mera and seek out a tavern for a seafood dinner or perhaps wander down to Little Venice, where colourful balconies hang precariously over the sea.

Day 13 Santorini

Take another ferry and arrive on the spectacular southern island of Santorini (approximately 3 hours). Renowned for its amazing natural beauty, Santorini is one of Europe's tourist hotspots, the home of the iconic image of the Greek islands – whitewashed, blue-domed buildings clinging to the cliff face with sparkling water in the background. Discover the hilltop ruins of Ancient Thira and its fascinating Prehistoric Museum, as well as the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that gives an insight into how the people here lived before the eruption. Check out the range of restaurants and shops in the island's capital, interchangeably called Thira or Fira. If you have time while you're here, perhaps head to one of Santorini's volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos or Agios Georgios. Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious food – the nutrient-filled volcanic soil makes the ingredients grown here full of flavour.

Day 14 Santorini

In 1500 BC a volcanic eruption sank the centre of Santorini, forming one of the most significant geological formations on the planet – the awe-inspiring caldera. The spectacular natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place. Today make an excursion along the crater rim, starting in Thira town and walking through little villages all the way to Oia, passing steep cliff faces and experiencing breathtaking views along the way. If you have time, you might also like to take a half-day trip to the island's volcano and hot springs in the centre of the lagoon. Or perhaps visit one of the island’s wineries – the vines here are cultivated in a very unusual way, with the plants being pruned to form a low basket shape that sits on top of the volcanic soil to protect the grapes from strong winds. On the last evening of your adventure, rub shoulders with friendly locals in packed pubs and cafes, sipping a cocktail as you witness a magnificent Santorini sunset.

Day 15 Santorini

Today your Greek Islands adventure comes to an end. There are no activities planned and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. You might want to extend your stay to see all Santorini has to offer. We are happy to book additional accommodation, subject to availability. Please enquire at the time of booking.

Day 1 UK - Athens
Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home, for your flight to Athens. On arrival, you are met by Voyages to Antiquity representatives and transferred to your hotel.

Day 2 Athens
Athens has been influenced by many, and has itself influenced the world. Choose to visit to the Acropolis, the 5th century BC site dominated by the Parthenon; or visit Illissia Mansion, home to the Byzantine and Christian Museum which holds the world’s largest collection of icons, and then the Byzantine Monastery of Kaisariani with its fine frescoes and elegant gardens.

Day 3 Athens - Delphi
We drive to Osios Loukas, a World Heritage-listed Byzantine monastery, en route to Delphi. Rooted deep in ancient Greek myths, a sanctuary to Apollo was created here and, between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, the Delphic Oracle sat within it, channelling the god’s wisdom. It was also the site of the Pythian Games, the second most important after the Olympics. We stay at a hotel in Delphi tonight.

Day 4 Delphi - Nauplia
Mycenae was one of the greatest cities of the Mycenaean civilisation. Hear stories of great Greek victories and tragedies on a tour of a town that rivalled Troy, before we continue to Nauplia, where we stay tonight.

Day 5 Epidaurus - Piraeus
We visit Epidaurus, known throughout the Hellenic world for its unique medical facilities. Most of the ruins of Epidaurus have been reduced to their foundations, with the exception of the theatre. We continue to Piraeus to embark Aegean Odyssey (4T).

Day 6 Santorini
Enjoy the wonderful scenes and visit the picturesque villages of Santorini, including Oia, a village famed for its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. Then choose from Akrotiri, an archaeological site that reveals an amazingly well-preserved city of houses, streets, squares and workshops, or Argyros Winery. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 7 Heraklion
We spend the morning at the magnificent Palace of Knossos, with its flamboyant decoration, courts, audience chambers and residential areas is an impressive and inspiring site. The guided tour will take you through this legend-rich, entrancing complex that sprawled across five acres, where everything from the throne room to royal living quarters is reconstructed with meticulous care. On our return to Heraklion, we will visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the greatest museums in Greece and the best in the world for Minoan art, as it contains the most notable and complete collection of artefacts of the Minoan civilisation of Crete. An optional afternoon tour to explore Cretan village life is also available.

Day 8 Agios Nikolaos
A day at leisure to enjoy the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos.

Day 9 Karpathos
Enjoy the dramatic scenery and wild mountains in Karpathos, a craggy island that has largely escaped commercialisation. Karpathos has many customs practised nowhere else in Greece, and women can still be seen wearing the island’s traditional, colourful clothes. It is believed that Prometheus and his Titans were born here.

Day 10 Rhodes
Leave behind the port where the Colossus once stood and discover a stunning ensemble of Gothic architecture in Rhodes Town. Many structures date to the era of the Knights of St John. Visit the restored Grand Master’s Palace which served as a fortress and later, a summer residence of Mussolini. Or you may prefer to take an excursion to the Acropolis at Lindos. At the summit is the Doric Temple of Lindian Athena, an archaeological jewel with views over St Paul’s Bay, where the Apostle is said to have sought shelter.

Day 11 Nisyros
Discover the treasures of beautiful Nisyros, created according to mythology, during the war between Gods and Giants. The long history has left faint traces of Minoan and Mycenaean cultures, many classical sculptures, Roman baths and byzantine churches, although standing in ruins today. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 12 Delos - Mykonos
Discover the tiny, deserted isle of Delos, the religious centre of the Cyclades. Some of the richest archaeological treasure troves in Greece await as you leave the sacred harbour on your guided walking tour, including the spectacular Avenue of the Lions and the guardians of the sacred lake where Leto gave birth to the twin gods, Artemis and Apollo. The afternoon is then at leisure in Mykonos, a cosmopolitan island said to have been formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. This charming, whitewashed resort also offers spots of historical interest. Ship to shore tender service.

Day 13 Piraeus - Athens - UK
We transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.