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Hellenic Culture & 4 Night Aegean Cruise
Greece in 9 Days, 8 Nights in Destination
From
£ 2,869
£ 1,999
/person
-30%
Sophia
Travel crafter
Get to know the cradle of western civilization by visiting Greece’s impressive ancient ruins in Athens and Kalambaka before island hopping in a 4-night cruise to bask under the Mediterranean sun and crystal-clear waters.
Trip Highlights
- Aegean Sea
- Athens
- Delphi
- Meteora
Included
All flights
Accommodation
All transfers
Activities
Some meals
Availability
Departures available until November 2025
Available Group tours
Solo travelers available
Add up to 4 nights to your stay
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Categories available
charm included
superior from + £ 100
- WHAT'S THIS?
Itinerary
Soak up the historical legacy Greece. From the north, visiting the oracle of the god Apollo at Delphi to the Acropolis in Athens and amazing rock formations and ancient hilltop monasteries of Kalambaka. Then, relax on a cruise around the Aegean islands with stops in Mykonos, the Turkish coast of Kusadasi, the ruins of Ephesus and bid farewell with an immaculate day in Santorini.
1st Day: UK/Ireland - Athens
Ready to dive into the wonders of one of the greatest civilisations of all time and walk in the footsteps of the greats, from Socrates to Aristotle? Head to your departure airport, ready for a flight to Athens*, the Greek capital.
Arrive at Athens International Airport and transfer to your hotel for check in. The remainder of the day at leisure to enjoy your first taste of Athens and rest after your flight. Discover Plaka, the oldest district of Athens, located under the Acropolis, the only district where you may see the Greek capital as it was 100 years ago or enjoy a spot of shopping at Ermou, Kolonaki and Voukourestiou streets. Overnight stay in Athens.
*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Parnon Hotel or similar
228 Reviews
See our full selection
2nd Day: Athens
Breakfast at the hotel. Today enjoy an Athens Sightseeing Tour including the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum. Begin in the center of the city, the Constitution Square (Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier and the National library.
On-route to the Acropolis you will see the Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and a quick stop at Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. During the Acropolis visit witness the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally the famous Parthenon.
Your first taste of Athens would not be complete without a visit to the Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural building where you can admire the wonders and architectural masterpieces of the classical era. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure to soak up the lively atmosphere of the city come nightfall and dine on delicious Greek cuisine. Alternatively, why not opt for an excursion to the amazing Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion*. Overnight stay in Athens.
*Optional Excursion to Cape Sounion: Set off for Cape Sounion to see the amazing Temple of Poseidon, the ruins of which date back to the Golden Age of Athens. Overlooking the sea, the silhouette of this ancient temple is one of the most picturesque sights in Greece. Entrance fee to be paid at the destination (approx. 10 euros per person).
Please note: At the Athens Acropolis, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and includes a number of stairs. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility.
Note: This activity can accommodate a maximum of 40 people, and visitors will have access to audio guides during the tour.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Parnon Hotel or similar
228 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Athens Guided Sightseeing & Acropolis Tour
Moderate
See more
Afternoon excursion to Cape Sounion in English
See more
3rd Day: Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka
Breakfast at the hotel. Today head for Delphi. On-route discover the cities via Thebes, Levadia and the picturesque village of Arachova, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
Arrive in Delphi and visit the Archaeological Site of the 4th-century-B.C. This extensive mountainside archaeological complex contains the beautiful remains of the sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena Pronaia, as well as an ancient stadium and theater. Next, depart for Kalambaka, passing through picturesque villages and towns of Central Greece. Dinner and overnight stay in Kalambaka.
Please note: At Delphi, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and includes a number of stairs and steep paths. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. During the excursion, travelers are advised to bring a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.
Note: This activity can accommodate a maximum of 40 people, and visitors will have access to audio guides during the tour.
Estimated transfer distance from Athens to Kalambaka 375km.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Kosta Famissi Hotel or similar
347 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Visit to Delphi Archeological Site
Moderate
See more
4th Day: Kalambaka - Meteora - Athens
Breakfast at the hotel. Today you’ll visit the striking rock formation, Meteora, an incredibly unique scenery with ageless Monasteries protruding from the rocks. These priceless historical and religious treasures stand between sky and earth on the top of the cliffs. An incredible sight to behold.
In the afternoon return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae with a short stop to see Leonida's Monument. Arrive in Athens early in the evening and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Athens.
Please note: At Meteora, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and you will be required to climb a number of stairs in order to visit the monasteries. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. Modest dress is required to enter the monasteries of Meteora. This includes a long skirt (not trousers) and covered neckline/shoulders for women, and long trousers for men.
Note: This activity can accommodate a maximum of 40 people, and visitors will have access to audio guides during the tour.
Estimated transfer distance from Kalambaka to Athens 375km.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Parnon Hotel or similar
228 Reviews
See our full selection
Activities
Visit to the Meteora Monasteries
Moderate
See more
5th Day: Athens - Mykonos
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the port of Lavrio in Athens this morning, where you'll board the ship ready to embark on an unforgettable full-board 4-night cruise around the eternal Greek islands. Your home for the next four nights is fully-equipped to ensure you have a memorable experience. Make the most of the Greek sunshine at the onboard pool and savour authentic Greek cuisine with a full-board meal plan including complimentary drinks with each meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner). All you have to do is sit back and enjoy!
Set sail across the Aegean Sea, headed for your first stop of the journey: Mykonos! Famous for its vibrant nightlife and picture-perfect architecture, arrive in the evening and enjoy some time to explore at your leisure, soaking up the Mediterranean ambience or stopping for a sunset cocktail at a local taverna. Return to the ship and spend the night on board.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Celestyal Olympia Interio... or similar
See our full selection
6th Day: Mykonos - Kusadasi - Patmos
Full-board. This morning you'll anchor in Kusadasi, on Turkey's Aegean coast. This port city is the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the region. Enjoy this leisurely time to take in the beauty of this location or opt for an amazing half day visit of Ancient Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary*, one of the most celebrated pilgrimage sites in the world!
Back on board, leave Turkey behind as you navigate towards the island of Patmos. Part of Greece’s Dodecanese island group, Patmos is a volcanic island with an immaculate coastline and truly impressive cliffs known as an archaeological site of great religious importance. Spend some time exploring the island's charming towns and tranquil coastline at your leisure.
Back on board, why not enjoy a drink at the bar as you leave Patmos behind, ready to continue your adventure through the Aegean tomorrow morning! Night on board.
*Optional Visit of Ancient Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary: One of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the region, Ephesus' ruins are truly a sight to be seen, which include the iconic and instantly recognizable Library of Celsus. It is also said to be Mary’s final place of residence as well as once being home to the Apostle Paul who lived, preached and wrote extensively making this one of the most significant pilgrimage sites on Earth.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Celestyal Olympia Interio... or similar
See our full selection
Activities
House of Virgin Mary & Ancient Ephesus
See more
7th Day: Patmos - Rhodes
Full-board. Arrive in Rhodes, the largest island in the Greek Dodecanese known for its dazzling landscapes. Here, you’ll be able to admire the island’s eclectic scenery: from its impressive ancient and historic sites to its quaint and endearing villages. Why not use this leisurely time to explore the narrow cobbled streets of the old town and its magnificent architecture. Optionally, you can visit the ancient acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights*, a truly impressive natural citadel fortified between 800 BC and 200 BC by several ancient empires. Night on board.
*Optional Half-Day Tour of the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights: A tour that takes us at the very heart of the fascinating island of Rhodes, get ready to feast your eyes on iconic Greek relics. These include: the spectacular Doric Temple of Athena, the Church of the Virgin Mary adorned with heavenly frescoes and the Gate D’Amboise to walk along the Street of the Knights of St. John where they lived during the Crusades. Note: This tour is only available on Wednesdays.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Celestyal Olympia Interio... or similar
See our full selection
Activities
Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights
See more
8th Day: Rhodes - Crete - Santorini
Full-board. As the sun rises this morning, you'll arrive at the port of Heraklion on the historic island of Crete. Famed for its rich Minoan heritage, this large island is one of the most popular in all of Greece. Take this leisurely time to explore the rich history of this port city. Perhaps you can grab a bite to eat or go shopping in one of its many boutiques.
After exploring this legendary site, head back to the ship and set sail for Santorini, believed by some to be the lost city of Atlantis! Known to this day for its stunning landscapes, which you will get to experience with your own eyes, you can get to know the island better with an optional excursion to Oia, famous for its blue-domed roofs and beautiful cobblestone streets. Leave Santorini in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxing night on board.
*Optional Oia Tour in Santorini: Discover the cobblestoned streets of Oia, one of Santorini’s most beloved destinations, as you enjoy a tour of this charming town. Take in the fabulous views from its hilltop streets and admire the blue-domed roofs of its white buildings. Note: This tour is only available on Thursdays and Sundays.
Accommodation
ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Celestyal Olympia Interio... or similar
See our full selection
Activities
Oia Tour in Santorini
Moderate
See more
9th Day: Santorini - Athens - UK/Ireland
Breakfast on board. This unforgettable journey through Greece's most ancient sites and idyllic islands comes to an end. Disembark in Athens in the morning and transfer to the airport to fly back to UK/Ireland. Arrival in the city of origin and end of the trip.
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Categories Available:
charm
From £ 1,999
Selected
- Accommodation in Charm category hotels and in an Interior Stateroom on a Greek Island Cruise.
superior
From £ 2,099
- Accommodation in Superior category hotels and in an Interior Stateroom on a Greek Island Cruise.
Accommodation: 8 Nights
Day 1 to 3
Parnon Hotel
Location
Athens
Category
Nights
2
Rating TripAdvisor travelers
The hotels we select comply with our high standards and requirements per category. The allocation is dependent on availability and seasonality, so you can be assigned any of our selection, including the following: Achilleas Hotel, Attalos Hotel, Chic Hotel Athens, Dorian Inn
Included activities
Available Activities
The price includes
- Departures from main UK/Ireland airports.
- International flights: UK/Ireland - Athens - UK/Ireland.
- 4 nights hotel accommodation in Charm category hotels and 4 nights on board in an Interior Stateroom on a Greek Island Cruise.See hotels included
- 4 breakfasts, 1 dinner and full-board meal basis including select drinks with every meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner) during the Greek Island Cruise.*more information
- Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles.
- Visits as indicated in the itinerary with an English-speaking guide.See itinerary
- All air taxes, fuel surcharge, port taxes and cruise ship fuel charges.
- 4 nights on board on a Greek Island Cruise.
- Athens & Acropolis tour. Visit to Delphi Archeological Site & Meteora Monasteries.
- Entertainment on board the cruise ship.
- ATOL Protection.
Not included
Drinks, entrance fees, city taxes*, tips, High-speed ferries and any other services not mentioned in what's included.
*The Greek government has implemented the Climate Crisis Resilience Tax, calculated per room and per night. This varies according to the accommodation category and the time of year. It will be paid by guests upon arrival and directly at hotel check-in:
-
From April to October: €15 in 5-star hotels, €10 in 4-star hotels, and €5 in 3-star hotels.
-
From November to March: €4 in 5-star hotels, €3 in 4-star hotels, and €1.50 in 3-star hotels.
Important information regarding hotels:
• In addition to full board, the cruise also includes on-board entertainment that you can enjoy during the cruise.
• During the cruise, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a wide variety of optional activities that can be booked directly on board.
• Charm Category: Interior Stateroom IA on the Greek Island Cruise.
• Some included activities can accommodate a maximum of 40 people, and visitors will have access to audio guides during the tour.
• For wheelchair users this trip is upon request and it is recommended to travel on a private basis, please contact us for further information.
Entry requirements
Valid passport.
Visa
No visa is required.
Currency
Euro.
Language
Greek.
Electricity
230 V. 50 Hz. Adapter not required.
Health
There are no mandatory vaccinations for travellers from EU countries.
Time zone
UTC + 02:00.
Tourist Office website
www.visitgreece.gr
Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.
Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.
In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.
If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +44 20 8068 3176 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.
While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office offer up-to-date travel advice by visiting https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
Room allocation: We will do our best to accommodate your family in the same room. If availability doesn't permit this, we guarantee your family will be accommodated as close together as possible. Children will always be accomodated in a room with at least 1 adult.
Car seats: Not available in all destinations. Feel free to take your own if you need one.
Pay in installments
Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.
Rest is paid in instalments according to your departure date.
Exoticca Travel Stories
Creating unforgettable memories, one traveller at a time
Greece and the Peloponnese with Exoticca
I travelled to Greece and the Peloponnese with Exoticca a couple of weeks ago and the experience has been very positive. Great hotels in Athens and the rest. Perfect organization and our guide Helena was spectacular.
UK Foreign Travel Advice https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
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