Highlights of Greece with Island Hopping | 2024
Highlights of Greece with Island Hopping | 2024
Highlights of Greece with Island Hopping | 2024
14 Days Starting and ending in Athens
Visiting: Athens, Archaeological site of Mycenae, Nafplion, Olympia, Corinth Canal, Delphi, Mykonos, Paros, Fira, Chora
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SGGIA19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 29
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Do you go geek for all things Greek? Nuts for an island paradise (or 4)? This trip combines 4 days of mainland exploring with 8 days of island hopping. From ancient architecture to the awesome Aegean. Home of the Olympic games to brilliant drinking games as you experience the local island nightlife. Throw in some sunbathing, volcano spotting, canal admiration, feta, olives and you’re onto some pretty Godly indeed.
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: Archaeological site of Mycenae, Nafplion, Athens, Olympia, Corinth Canal
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: Delphi, Olympia
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
Through the limestone columns of the Sanctuary of Apollo, we continue tapping into what was once the center 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 marvelous Mykonos on the morrow.
Day 5 : Athens To Mykonos
Location: Mykonos, Athens
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: Paros, Mykonos
Accommodation: Asterias (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 travelers 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 an Organic Farm run where you'll sample their delicious produce and then head to one of the prettiest villages in the Cyclades - Naoussa.
Day 8 : Paros
Location: Paros
Accommodation: Asterias (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 Paros sailing adventure. Tonight, we'll tuck into an included dinner at a local restaurant, before heading out to sample the local (and legendary) nightlife.
Day 9 : Paros To Santorini
Location: Paros, Fira
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: Fira
Accommodation: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine, Greek Island travelers! 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 trip to incredible Oia followed by a winery visit.
Day 11 : Santorini To Ios
Location: Fira, 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 Guides
Enjoy the expertise of local guides at key historical sites for an in-depth exploration of Greece's rich history.
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Accommodations
Stay in a variety of hotels, all chosen for their comfort and location to ensure a restful and immersive experience.
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Meals
Several meals are included, offering a taste of the local cuisine and an authentic dining experience.
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Transportation
All transportation during the tour is provided, including boat rides for island hopping adventures.
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Sightseeing Tours
Participate in sightseeing tours of Athens, archaeological sites, and the beautiful Greek islands.
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Beach Visits
Enjoy leisure time on some of Greece's most famous beaches, soaking up the sun and the sea.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from the start and end points are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended for all participants.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered, providing you the opportunity to explore local cuisines on your own.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities mentioned in the itinerary, such as certain excursions or entertainment, are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and other personal needs are not included.
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Tips and Gratuities
Tips and gratuities for guides and drivers are not included and are at your discretion.
Check out our Q&As
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What are some highlights of the tour?
Highlights of the tour include seeing Athens’ old town, the Corinth Canal, climbing up the ancient Acronafplia in Nafplio, exploring the Archaeological Site of Mycenae and Olympia, visiting Delphi, and enjoying a day trip to Fira in Santorini.
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Are there any exclusions I should be aware of?
Exclusions include international flights to and from the start and end points, travel insurance, some meals to allow you to explore local cuisines on your own, any optional activities mentioned in the itinerary, personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and other personal needs, as well as tips and gratuities for guides and drivers.
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What countries will we visit on the Spotlight on Greece & Greek Island Hopping Plus tour?
The tour visits Greece.
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What type of accommodations can we expect?
You can expect to stay in a variety of hotels, all chosen for their comfort and location to ensure a restful and immersive experience.
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What kind of transportation will be used?
All transportation during the tour is provided, including boat rides for island hopping adventures.
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What meals are included?
Several meals are included in the tour, offering a taste of the local cuisine and an authentic dining experience.
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What's included in the tour package?
The tour package includes expert guides at key historical sites, accommodations in various hotels, several meals offering a taste of local cuisine, all transportation during the tour including boat rides for island hopping, sightseeing tours of Athens, archaeological sites, and the Greek islands, as well as beach visits.
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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