Highlights of Greece with Island Hopping | 2025
Highlights of Greece with Island Hopping | 2025
Highlights of Greece with Island Hopping | 2025
14 Days Starting and ending in Athens
Visiting: Athens, Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Nafplio, Olympia, Delphi, Mykonos, Paros, Naoussa, Santorini, Chora
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SGGIAP20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 30
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Greece with the "Highlights of Greece with Island Hopping | 2025" tour. Begin your adventure in Athens, exploring its ancient treasures and vibrant old town. Marvel at the engineering feat of the Corinth Canal and delve into the rich history of Mycenae and Olympia. Discover the sacred site of Delphi before setting sail to the stunning Greek islands. Experience the charm of Mykonos, the beauty of Paros, the iconic landscapes of Santorini, and the rugged allure of Ios. With guided tours, private transfers, and reserved ferry seating, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and island relaxation.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Start Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation: Arion Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Arion Hotel (or similar)
Welcome to Athens, Greek adventurers! The clock starts now on uncovering this ancient country and all its quirks. We're calling it now, that this trip is THE ancient history lovers dream. Settle in to your hotel before catching up with the crew and get right into the Greek way of life.
Day 2 : Athens To Olympia
Location: Athens, Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Nafplio, Olympia
Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Olympia (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Amalia Hotel Olympia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Not a second of today will go to waste. Europe’s oldest city will unfold itself this morning as we take to the Parthenon and the Acropolis with the knowledge of a local, then explore the first modern Olympic Stadium from the 1896 Games. That's some really old Olympic vibes right there.
Rugged mountains, cypress trees and citrus groves will pepper our pretty tour from Athens to Corinth, where we will stop to get a look at a man-made canal that squeezes ships through its tight cliffs in what seems like an impossible feat.
What was once a military hotspot is now a jaw-dropping archaeological site amidst the mountain ranges of Greece. Our Trip Manager will uncover the 4,000 year history of Mycenae and Agamemnon’s Palace in a tale of heroics, myths and curses.
We make a short stop at the cute coastal town of Nafplio i.e the first capital of Greece. Let's grab some lunch (gyros, anyone?) and take a stroll through the ancient city. Next up - the wispy mountains of Arcadia to Olympia. Save some room on your camera roll for this one...
And so the historical uncoverings continue as we land in Olympia, the place where the Olympic Games were birthed, and what is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 3 : Olympia To Delphi
Location: Olympia, Delphi
Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Delphi (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Amalia Hotel Delphi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Fun fact: the first Olympic Games was held in 776BC, let's just let that number sink in for a moment...Wow. Today our Local Guide will show us all the important sites of those games, giving you the chance to sit in the 45,000 seat stadium where it actually first took place. If that's not a spine-tingling moment, we don't know what is. We'll wrap it up at the Temple of Hera (Queen of the Greek Gods), and place where the Olympic flame is lit every four years. We'll also visit the ruins of Zeus' temple before we head off on our journey, where you'll be sure to feel the vibes of one of the most well known Greek gods.
The sacred lands of Delphi will be ours this afternoon, again allowing us the chance to uncover world history right here in Greece. Despite being a place of monumental importance, it happens to have a cute little bar scene, and is a great place to sample the national drink of ouzo.
Day 4 : Delphi To Athens
Location: Delphi, Athens
Accommodation: A conveniently located hotel
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Through the limestone columns of the Sanctuary of Apollo, we continue tapping into what was once the centre of the universe for Ancient Greeks. The remains of this Doric style building stands tall with it's remaining 6 (out of an original 15) pillars, and is the perfect spot to absorb the last bit of beauty that is the slopes of Mt. Parnassus before we jump on the trail back to Athens.
You have a night to make Athens yours before ‘hopping’ out to marvellous Mykonos on the morrow.
Day 5 : Athens To Mykonos
Location: Athens, Mykonos
Accommodation: Paradise Beach (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Paradise Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
With no time to waste, we'll start our island hopping adventures today with our first destination: Mykonos.
Let's do this! Two nights on the island of Mykonos, how did we get so lucky? Even the boat ride across the Aegean will have you awe struck and in love. Tonight, you'll have the option to join an exploration of Mykonos by night on a locally guided walking tour of the town's cobbled streets.
Day 6 : Mykonos
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation: Paradise Beach (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Paradise Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get ready for a day full of viewing coastal windmills, stuffing your face with olives, feta, and tzatziki. We'll stroll down storybook streets dotted with those gorgeous blue domes and we'll pick up some evil eye ornaments along the way to keep the bad vibes away. And this is all before you've even taken a dip in the ocean! Doesn't get much better than this... The day is yours to soak up the sunshine and play in the sea.
Day 7 : Mykonos To Paros
Location: Mykonos, Paros
Accommodation: Siroco's Rooms & Studios (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Siroco's Rooms & Studios (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we're on to our next Greek island, Paros. Let's spare a thought for all those travellers who only get to visit just one Greek Island, and then remember how lucky we are.
Beaches, naturally sculpted swimming coves, a Byzantine church and traditional villages: we must be in Paros. You're free to get into the sun and sea vibes. Those who feel like exploring can sign up for an optional trip to a traditional village where you'll visit a local family-run bakery and shop the local handicrafts.
Day 8 : Paros
Location: Naoussa, Paros
Accommodation: Siroco's Rooms & Studios (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Siroco's Rooms & Studios (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Another day, another Greek Island delight. Hold tight - today we're off for a visit to Naoussa, a fishing village with colourful fishing boats and white-washed houses. Tonight, we'll tuck into an included dinner at a local restaurant, before heading out to sample the local nightlife.
Day 9 : Paros To Santorini
Location: Paros, Santorini
Accommodation: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Paros, it's been magical – but today we're taking to the seas again, this time in search of Greece's most insta-famous island: Santorini.
Santorini, we have arrived! Tonight you'll have the chance to join us on a cruise and take in the iconic Fira.
Day 10 : Santorini
Location: Santorini
Accommodation: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise and shine, Greek Island travellers! The island of Santorini won't explore itself. Today is your day to take a swim at Perissa Beach, eat the local specialty of fried tomato balls known as domatokeftedes, or roam and explore. You can even opt to take a visit to incredible Oia followed by a visit to the black sand beach of Santorini.
Day 11 : Santorini To Ios
Location: Santorini, Chora
Accommodation: Far Out Beach Resort (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Far Out Beach Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A bit more rugged and remote than Santorini and Mykonos, Ios will prove a nice change of scenery for our final Island night. And thankfully, there will be no change in the good vibes or the time spent ocean side. We'll join together for an included dinner tonight, with another free evening on the cards afterwards.
Day 12 : Ios
Location: Chora
Accommodation: Far Out Beach Resort (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Far Out Beach Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our final Island day, and your last chance to soak up the Greek sun and frolic in the sand without a care in the world. Now is your chance to get some adrenaline in with a speedboat safari, or take a leisurely stroll around the pretty village of Ios Chora and enjoy some stuffed zucchini flowers or baked feta drizzled with olive oil at a local cafe. It's a free evening tonight, so you're going to need the fuel if you want to hit the party scene of Hora until the break of dawn.
Day 13 : Ios To Athens
Location: Chora, Athens
Accommodation: Dorian Inn (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Dorian Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
While choking back the tears and waving a sad goodbye to the dreamy islands of Greece, try to think positive thoughts: we have a boat ride to enjoy this morning, as well as one more night together in the city of Athens.
Ready for one more dose of Athens and one last chance to hang out together? We'll soak up the last rays of the Mediterranean sun this afternoon before an optional farewell dinner together.
Day 14 : End Athens
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
And just like that, it's time for the goodbyes. As sad as they are, at least you have the memories. And another 300 Contiki trips to jump aboard! Make the most of your last free breakfast before you kick on to your next port of call.
What's Included
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Expert Local Guides
Enjoy the expertise of local guides at key historical sites for an in-depth and enriching experience.
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Accommodations
Stay in a variety of hotels and resorts carefully selected for their comfort and location, ensuring a restful and immersive stay.
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Meals
Savor local flavors with included daily breakfasts and select meals throughout your journey.
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Transportation
Travel comfortably with all in-tour transportation provided, including boat rides between the stunning Greek Islands.
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Sightseeing Tours
Explore Greece's rich history and breathtaking landscapes through guided tours in Athens, Olympia, Delphi, Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini.
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Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in Greek culture with visits to traditional villages, archaeological sites, and scenic beaches.
What's Not Included
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to ensure protection.
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Some Meals
While many meals are included, some will be at your own expense, giving you the flexibility to explore local cuisine.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities mentioned in the itinerary, such as certain guided tours or nightlife activities, may carry an additional cost.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional snacks, and drinks outside of included meals are not covered.
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Tips and Gratuities
Tips for guides and drivers are not included and are at your discretion.
Mode of Transport
Transportation between locations including Athens, Corinth, Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, and Ios.
Check out our Q&As
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What countries does the tour visit?
The tour visits Greece.
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What are the highlights of the tour?
The highlights of the tour include Athens' old town, Corinth Canal, Nafplio, Archaeological Site of Mycenae, Archaeological Site of Olympia, Delphi, and a day trip to Fira in Santorini.
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What is included in the tour?
The tour includes expert local guides, accommodations, meals (daily breakfasts and select meals), transportation (including boat rides between the Greek Islands), sightseeing tours, and cultural experiences.
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What is not included in the tour?
The tour does not include travel insurance, some meals, optional activities, personal expenses, and tips and gratuities.
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What type of accommodations can be expected?
Accommodations include a variety of hotels and resorts selected for comfort and location.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions