Athens, Delphi and 4 Night Greek Island Cruise

Itinerary

DAY 1 – FRIDAY: ARRIVAL IN ATHENS

Upon arrival in Athens, you will be met by our assistant and transferred to your hotel.

DAY 2 – SATURDAY: ATHENS PRIVATE GUIDED  SIGHTSEEING TOUR

The striking contrast between breathtaking monuments of a glorious past and modern elegant structures is what you will enjoy during your tour of Athens.

Visit the Acropolis,the crowning beauty and glory of Ancient Athens, with its many monuments atop its rocky base, including the awesome Parthenon, the Propylea, the temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion, with its Porch of Maidens.

Drive to the Roman Temple of Olympic Zeus, the Panathinaikon Stadium(site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896), the Tomb of the unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament House on Constitution  Square. See views of government buildings and elegant structures of the 19 th  century.

Drive along Panepistimiou Avenue and view the Catholic Cathedral, the Academy, University, National Library.

In contrast, conclude your tour with a visit to the Acropolis museum. One of the top ten museums in the world. A marvel of architecture with a full exhibition of the glory of Ancient Athens, its Acropolis. Don’t miss the opportunity to have the most amazing view of the Acropolis from the top floors of the museum, keeping in mind that the third floor is a copy of Parthenon itself.

DAY 3 – SUNDAY: DELPHI FULL DAY PRIVATE TOUR

Drive through LEVADIA and ARACHOVA (famous for its bright multi colored carpets) arrive in DELPHI.
At the foot of Mount Parnassos, within the angle formed by the twin rocks of the Phaedriades, lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the centre of the world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, set within a most spectacular landscape, was for many centuries the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world and seat of the Pythian Games, the second most important games in Greece after the Olympics, which were held every four years.
Between the sixth and fourth centuries BC, the Delphic oracle, which was regarded as the most trustworthy, was at its peak. It was delivered by the Pythia, the priestess, and interpreted by the priests of Apollo. Cities, rulers and ordinary individuals alike consulted the oracle, expressing their gratitude with great gifts and spreading its fame around the world. The oracle was thought to have existed since the dawn of time. Indeed, it was believed to have successfully predicted events related to the cataclysm of Deukalion, the Argonaut’s expedition and the Trojan War.
Visit of the archaeological site and the Museum where one can see among other archeological treasures, the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos, the tyrant of Gela, in 478 B.C. when he won the chariot-race at the Pythian Games. This incomparable statue is a representative example of the ”severe” Attic style, certainly the work of a major artist.

DAY 4 – MONDAY: ATHENS / CRUISE / MYKONOS

Your idyllic Aegean escape begins in the majestic city of Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the Vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Explore the city and soak up the atmosphere by the harbour’s edge as you wait to embark for your exciting adventure.

The magical sun-kissed island of Mykonos invites you to admire its stunning coastline, soft sandy beaches, and rugged rocky landscape. Affectionately known as the ‘Island of the Winds, Mykonos is home to the 16th-Century windmills that have become iconic landmarks on postcards. The energetic Greek island is well known for its beauty, diverse range of bars, cafes and restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere.

*Tendering weather permitting in Mykonos

DAY 5 – TUESDAY: MORNING IN KUSADASI (TURKEY)/ EVENING IN PATMOS ISLAND (GREECE)

The dynamic beach resort of Kusadasi welcomes you with its warm and friendly ambience. Book a once-in-a-lifetime excursion and be whisked away for a guided tour round ancient Ephesus, one of the highlights of this iconic Aegean experience. Before reboarding the ship, take time to enjoy the scenic seafront promenade and the town’s impressive Grand Bazaar.

The monumental grid of medieval walls provides a picturesque setting as we pull into the port of Skala on the idyllic Greek island of Patmos. Locally known as the “island of the Apocalypse”, Patmos boasts a spiritual vibe thanks to the legends of St. John. Take the opportunity to explore the lush, forest-like hills that encircle the capital, Chora, all with a local guide by your side.

*Tendering weather permitting in Patmos

DAY 6 – WEDNESDAY: FULL DAY IN RHODES

The stunning landscape of Greece’s largest Dodecanese island, Rhodes, seamlessly combines dramatic ancient and historic sites with charming modern hillside Villages. Here you can visit the ancient Acropolis at Lindos or explore the cobbled alleyways and narrow arteries in the Old Town where opulent architecture awaits.

DAY 7 – THURSDAY: MORNING IN CRETE / AFTERNOON IN SANTORINI

As we pull into Heraklion, you have the chance to snap the imposing 16th-Century walls of Koules Fortress. Here you can enjoy the calm of the stunning waterfront or opt to go on a whirlwind adventure around the Cretan countryside. To delve into Crete’s past, take a spellbinding tour of the Palace of Knossos, which invites you to listen to tales of intrigue and learn about Europe’s first civilization in the Knossos museum. Was the Minotaur half-man or myth? You’re about to find out!

The spectacular sweeping scenery of Santorini will simply take your breath away. The romantic island is dotted with traditional whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches that are clustered over the striking cliffs. It is instantly recognizable as one of the world’s most photographed picture-postcard landscapes. The charming villages provide a beguiling oasis of tranquility and beauty that will exceed all your expectations.

*Tendering weather permitting in Santorini

DAY 8 – FRIDAY: LAVRIO/ ATHENS

Early morning return to Piraeus port. After breakfast on board, disembarkation and transfer to your selected hotel. Balance of the day at leisure.

DAY 9 – SATURDAY: ATHENS / AIRPORT

According to your departure flight, you will be transferred to the airport.