Highlights of Greece | 2026

Highlights of Greece | 2026

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Highlights of Greece | 2026

11 Days Starting and ending in Athens

Visiting: Athens, Thermopylae, Meteora, Delphi, Mykonos, Paros, Santorini

Tour operator:

Contiki

Tour code:

SGGISA26

Specialist Group:

18-30 Somethings

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

18-35

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Sailing

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Oh my Gods, it's Greece! From the ancient ruins of Athens to the glistening seas of the Aegean. Marvel at mythical architecture in the Greek capital, plus Meteora, Mycenae and Delphi. Then take to the water like the true island hopper you are, exploring villages, volcanoes and valiant nightlife as you sail from magical Mykonos to saucy Santorini. All aboard!

Highlights

  • See Athens' old town with its winding flower-filled streets and array of tavernas.

  • Sail from Athens to Mykonos, checking out the glittering sea view.

  • Set sail from marvellous Mykonos to perfect Paros.

  • Board the ferry in Paros and set sail for the sultry island of Santorini.

  • Enjoy a day trip to Fira and bask in the golden sun as you walk through Santorini's iconic white houses and blue domes.

  • Visit the Hot Gates of Thermopylae and see the Spartan memorial.

  • Marvel at the awe-inspiring rock formations in Meteora and visit the charming mountain villages of Kastraki and Kalambaka.

  • Talk to the Oracle and immerse yourself in Ancient Greek spiritualism in Delphi.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Start Athens

Location: Athens

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 Meteroa

Location: Athens, Thermopylae, Meteora

Accommodation Name: Edelweiss Hotel (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, it's off to the rocky cliffs of Meteora. Get ready to be blown away by history when we visit the Hot Gates of Thermophylae . You'll also see the Spartan memorial here to honour the people who sacrificed their lives during the epic battle between the Spartans & the Persians. Meet Meteora, one of Greece’s truly breathtaking sites, where natural and man-made beauty come together like flowers in a vase. Mystical monasteries perched on enormous sandstone rocks. Seriously. You’ll think you’ve walked into a scene from Lord of the Rings.

Day 3: Meteora To Delphi

Location: Meteora, Delphi

Accommodation Name: Amalia Hotel Delphi (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning in Meteora is reserved for exploring a couple of monasteries on the dramatic cliffs. Then, we'll make our way to another historical hotspot. Hop on! 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 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. Oh, and if wanna discover the ancient Greek practice of how honey is produced, join us for an intriguing beekeeping experience!  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 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 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 Name: Asterias (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: Paros

Accommodation Name: Asterias (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 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 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: End Santorini

Location: Santorini

Meals Included: Breakfast

And with that, the trip comes to an end. From Santorini, you’re free to make your way home… or keep going. Who’s for Cyprus? Or Turkey? The whole Aegean lies at your feet (literally) and you have a boatload of new buds to go exploring with!

What's Included

  • Meals

    10 Breakfasts (B) and 4 Dinners (D) are included.

  • Athens Private Transfer

    Private transfer from the port to the hotel in Athens is included.

  • Ferry Transfers

    Reserved seating on ferries from Athens to Mykonos, Mykonos to Paros, and Paros to Santorini is included.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours in Athens, including visits to the Parthenon and the Acropolis, are included.

  • Visits to Historical Sites

    Visits to historical sites such as the Hot Gates of Thermopylae, Meteora, and Delphi are included.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in various hotels such as Arion Hotel, Edelweiss Hotel, Amalia Hotel Delphi, Paradise Beach, Asterias, and Hotel Nikos (or similar) is included.

  • Orientation in Athens

    An orientation tour in Athens is included.

  • Day Trip to Fira

    A day trip to Fira in Santorini is included.

  • Beekeeping Experience

    A visit to a family-run beekeeping business in Delphi is included.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as the exploration of Mykonos by night and a visit to Oia and the black sand beach in Santorini are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included.

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights are not included.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel seamlessly with private transfers, reserved seating on ferries between islands, and comfortable coach rides between destinations, ensuring a hassle-free experience as you explore Greece.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Arion Hotel in Athens, Edelweiss Hotel in Meteora, Amalia Hotel in Delphi, Paradise Beach in Mykonos, Asterias in Paros, and Hotel Nikos in Santorini, or similar accommodations throughout your journey.

Dining Summary

  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Dinner (D)

Included Experience

  • Athens: See Athens’ old town with its winding flower-filled streets and array of tavernas to stop off for a beer and some olives.
  • Athens: Don't spend another second worrying about how you'll get around Athens. We've got that covered with a private transfer from the hotel to the port.
  • Athens: All aboard! Time to sail from Athens to Mykonos, checking out that glittering sea view as we go. Includes reserved seating.
  • Mykonos: We'll set sail from marvellous Mykonos to perfect Paros, with reserved seating included.
  • Paros: We'll board the ferry in Paros and set sail for the sultry island of Santorini. With reserved seating included.
  • Santorini: Enjoy a day trip to Fira and bask in the golden sun as you walk through Santorini's iconic white houses and blue domes. This is the perfect photo op so make sure your phones and cameras are at the ready!
  • Athens: Take an orientation in this ancient metropolis of treasures, myths and legends. See the city’s past and present.
  • Thermopylae: Get ready to be blown away by history when we visit the Hot Gates of Thermophylae . You'll also see the Spartan memorial here to honour the people who sacrificed their lives during the epic battle between the Spartans & the Persians.
  • Meteora: When you marvel at the awe-inspiring rock formations here, you'll understand why Meteora means "suspended from the heavens above". Today, you'll climb the charming mountain villages of Kastraki & Kalambaka and see how the monks live today in the captivating Byzantine Basilicas of Greece.
  • Delphi: Take some time to visit a long held family run Beekeeping business in Delphi and learn all about the benefits that bees bring to the environment. View the bees and discover how honey is produced in this tradition that dates all the way back from Ancient Greece.
  • Delphi: Here’s your chance to finally talk to the Oracle! And immerse yourself in Ancient Greek spiritualism.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 10 breakfasts and 4 dinners.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes private transfers in Athens and reserved seating on ferries between the islands.

  • What activities are planned in Athens?

    In Athens, you will see the old town, take an orientation tour, and visit the Parthenon and the Acropolis. You will also have a private transfer from the port to the hotel.

  • What can I expect to see in Meteora?

    In Meteora, you will visit the Hot Gates of Thermopylae, see the Spartan memorial, and explore the monasteries perched on enormous sandstone rocks.

  • What unique experiences are offered in Delphi?

    In Delphi, you will visit the Sanctuary of Apollo and have the opportunity to learn about beekeeping at a family-run business.

  • What activities are available in Mykonos?

    In Mykonos, you can join a guided walking tour of the town's cobbled streets, view coastal windmills, and enjoy the local cuisine. The day is also yours to relax and enjoy the beach.

  • What can I do in Paros?

    In Paros, you can visit Naoussa, a fishing village with colorful boats and white-washed houses. You can also join an optional trip to a traditional village to visit a local family-run bakery and shop for local handicrafts.

  • What highlights are included in Santorini?

    In Santorini, you can take a swim at Perissa Beach, try the local specialty of fried tomato balls, and optionally visit Oia and the black sand beach.

  • What happens on the last day of the tour?

    On the last day, the tour ends in Santorini, and you are free to make your way home or continue exploring other destinations like Cyprus or Turkey.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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

    Yes

  • 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.

  • 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.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Northern Choice plus Kaikoura

16-Jan-2023

The trip ran so smoothly and was well organised! The extra add ons were amazing and all the services were spot on. Food places were reasonable. I'm definitely booking my next contiki trip again soon!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Sophie  

Exceptional customer service

14-Jan-2023

Contiki were exceptional in providing customer service. They provided me with lots of information and were quick in responding to all my questions. I found that they were super helpful.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

First time traveling with Contiki. Highly recommend! You’ll have a blast

17-Jan-2023

First time traveling internationally since Covid and glad I spent the trip with Contiki. The travel, lodging, meals, activities everything was planned effortlessly. Going to Greece in may with contiki. Highly recommend

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Amazing trip. Made great friends and memories. Can’t wait for my next trip

15-Jan-2023

I had 24 people on my contiki and I think it was the perfect number, we all got to know each other well and got along great. Our tour guide was fun and knowledgeable, the hotels were nice and in great locations.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Tanner Stokes  

My amazing trip to Africa

13-Jan-2023

Sherif was an excellent tour guide. He was extremely knowledgeable about every single small detail at each site that we visited. In addition to his great service, he has a glowing spirit that made me feel like I had family with me the entire trip. Anything that I was concerned about, he always had an answer and was there to help. I truly enjoyed my experience and will purchase a tour with him in the future

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • Low Deposit

    Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 60 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 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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