Highlights of Greece | 2025
Highlights of Greece | 2025
$3425
Highlights of Greece | 2025
11 Days Starting in Athens and ending in Santorini
Visiting: Athens, Thermopylae, Meteora, Delphi, Mykonos, Paros, Santorini
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
Itinerary
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: Parnassos Hotel (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: 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: Paros
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 Name: Iliada - Odysseas Resort (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: Iliada - Odysseas Resort (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
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Guided Tours
Explore ancient wonders with local guides, including the Parthenon, Acropolis, archaeological sites of Corinth and Mycenae, Olympia, and the sacred lands of Delphi.
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Island Hopping Adventure
Enjoy the stunning islands of Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini with guided activities and free time to explore.
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Accommodation
Stay in comfortable hotels throughout your journey, including locations like Arion Hotel in Athens, Amalia Hotel Olympia, Paradise Beach in Mykonos, and more.
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Some Meals Included
Enjoy a selection of meals throughout your trip, including breakfasts and dinners at select locations.
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Transportation
Travel comfortably between the stunning locations of Greece, including ferry rides to the islands.
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 and is recommended for all travelers.
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Some Meals
Not all meals are covered.
Some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense, giving you the flexibility to explore local cuisine. -
Optional Activities
Any optional activities mentioned, such as a cruise in Santorini or a visit to an organic farm in Paros, are not included in the tour price.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and additional drinks or snacks are not included.
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
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What countries will I visit on the Spotlight on Greece & Athens to Santorini Plus tour?
You will visit Greece on the Spotlight on Greece & Athens to Santorini Plus tour.
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What are some highlights of the tour?
Some highlights of the tour include exploring the ancient wonders of Athens, journeying through Corinth and Mycenae, discovering the birthplace of the Olympic Games at Olympia, visiting the sacred lands of Delphi, island hopping to Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini, and experiencing the iconic blue-domed buildings of Mykonos.
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What type of activities are included?
Activities included in the tour are guided tours of ancient wonders, island hopping adventures, and experiences such as wine tasting and swimming.
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Is accommodation included in the tour?
Yes, accommodation is included in the tour. You will stay in comfortable hotels throughout your journey, including locations like Arion Hotel in Athens, Amalia Hotel Olympia, Paradise Beach in Mykonos, and more.
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Are meals included in the tour?
Some meals are included in the tour. You will enjoy a selection of meals throughout your trip, including breakfasts and dinners at select locations.
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What is the primary mode of transportation?
The primary mode of transportation on the tour includes ferry rides to the islands and comfortable travel between locations in Greece.
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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 (some lunches and dinners will be at your own expense), optional activities, and personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and additional drinks or snacks.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The starting location of the tour is Athens.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The ending location of the tour is Santorini.
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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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