Treasures of Greece & The Islands - Small Group
Tour Overview
Soak up the best of the Greek Isles on this 2-week guided tour that starts in Athens. See the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Arch of Hadrian before ascending to Athens’ most iconic landmark The Acropolis and its towering Parthenon, a temple built for the goddess Athena. Walk through the Lion Gate to the ruinous city of Mycenae, then meet the family of artisans behind a stunning pottery studio, who will show you their unique wares. Sail to Santorini for two sun-drenched days on the idyllic island, where you can unwind at clifftop restaurants or wander its cobblestone streets before settling in to watch one of the best sunsets on Earth. Get happily lost on the maze of walkways in white-washed Mykonos, and sun yourself on one of its dazzling beaches. ...more ...less
Choice Highlights
- Athens: Get up close and personal with ancient Greece as you explore Athens with your Local Expert. With your Local Expert, visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian. Then, ascend to the iconic Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers commanding views of the city. Discover the intricacies of the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of Wingless Victory, and admire the six exquisite Caryatids supporting the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
- Athens: Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" under the guidance of your Travel Director. Nestled beneath the Acropolis, explore Plaka’s timeless charm, discovering the historical treasures and hidden corners, before enjoying time at leisure along Adrianou, a bustling pedestrian hub, brimming with vibrant shops and traditional cafés.
Top Rated Highlights
- Athens: Ascend the Acropolis with a Local Expert to admire the Parthenon, built in 5th century B.C. Steps away you'll see the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of the Wingless Victory, and the six stone-carved caryatids that make up the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
- Athens: See the Arch of Hadrian, erected in honour of the Roman Emperor and used as a divider between the ancient city and the new Roman district, along with the remaining columns of the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
- Kalambaka: Your Travel Director will provide an orientation of this town situated at the base of the extraordinary Meteora rocks.
- Thermopylae: See the Leonidas Monument dedicated to the brave warrior and his 300 Spartans.
- Meteora: With a Local Expert, visit one of the remarkable centuries-old monasteries of Meteora, teetering on towers of rock and arguably the most spectacular place to visit in Greece.
- Delphi: With your Local Expert, walk to The Sacred Way once lined with offertory temples. See the reconstructed Athenian Treasury and pass the superb Polygonal Wall to reach the Temple of Apollo, where the people would seek divine wisdom from the mysterious Oracle.
- Archaeological Site of Olympia: The stadium of Olympia hosted the ancient Olympic Games and the Heraia, the women's games in honour of Hera. See the Temple of Zeus, athlete's gymnasium and the stone marker where the sprint began.
- Archaeological Site of Mycenae: Walk through the Lion Gate past the royal beehive-tombs where Schliemann uncovered golden treasure, while hearing tales of Agamemnon.
- Nafplio: Join your Travel Director in an orientation of this beautiful seaport town and see why it is named one of Greece's prettiest spots.
- Santorini: Marvel at the beauty of the Aegean Sea as you sail the waters to Santorini.
- Mykonos: Enjoy the ferry ride from Santorini to Mykonos with beautiful views of the surrounding islands.
- Athens: Soak in the last views of paradise as you ride the ferry back to Athens.
Make Travel Matter
Nafplio: Experience the timeless craft of hand weaving by visiting a traditional workshop. Immerse yourself in the ancient art and discover the intricate techniques passed down through generations. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Authentic Dining
Athens: Indulge in local specialties with your fellow travellers as you savour dinner in one of the city's historic neighbourhoods.
Olympia: Taste unique Greek flavours and savour regional specialities over dinner.
Insight Choice
Athens: Get up close and personal with ancient Greece as you explore Athens with your Local Expert. With your Local Expert, visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian. Then, ascend to the iconic Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers commanding views of the city. Discover the intricacies of the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of Wingless Victory, and admire the six exquisite Caryatids supporting the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
Athens: Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" under the guidance of your Travel Director. Nestled beneath the Acropolis, explore Plaka’s timeless charm, discovering the historical treasures and hidden corners, before enjoying time at leisure along Adrianou, a bustling pedestrian hub, brimming with vibrant shops and traditional cafés.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott
Meals Included: Dinner
An Insight host will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel, where there is time to settle in and relax. Join your Travel Director and get to know your fellow travellers over a delightful evening of dinner.
Day 2: Athens, City of Gods
Location: Athens, Thermopylae, Kalambaka
Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin your journey into ancient Greece today, where the history of this remarkable civilisation comes to life. Explore Athens with an Insight Choice experience. Choose to visit the city's renowned ancient sites with a Local Expert, or venture into the dynamic Plaka neighbourhood, guided by your Travel Director. Next, venture to Thermopylae, the mountain pass where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their legendary stand against the Persians in 480 B.C. Pay tribute at the memorial honouring their courage before continuing to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Day 3: The Pinnacles of Meteora Relaxed Start
Location: Meteora
Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka
Meals Included: Breakfast
With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning 'in the air.' The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a science fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a relaxed walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum.
Day 4: The Sacred Way and onto Olympia
Location: Delphi, Olympia
Accommodation Name: Amalia Olympia, Arty Grand Hotel, Olympia.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You'll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,' rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner is served in your hotel.
Day 5: Ancient Olympia
Location: Olympia
Accommodation Name: Amalia Olympia, Olympion Asty
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It's all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C., in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honour the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef for an entertaining cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek flavours, as you savour dishes prepared for your dinner.
Day 6: Mycenae and Nafplio
Location: Mycenae, Nafplio, Corinth Canal, Athens
Accommodation Name: Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones used to build the city walls. Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio, known for its beautiful architecture, colourful shops and cafes. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet Maria and her daughter to learn about the ancient techniques of hand weaving. Your journey continues, following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal, dividing the Peloponnesse and mainland Greece, and arriving in Athens. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style, complete with wine and good cheer.
Day 7: Across the Mediterranean to Santorini
Location: Piraeus, Santorini
Accommodation Name: NOŪS Santorini, Orama, Santorini, The Majestic, Santorini
Meals Included: Breakfast
An early departure takes you to the port of Piraeus where your high-speed ferry awaits to whisk you over to the truly beautiful island of Santorini. On arrival, you are transferred to your hotel.
Day 8: The Sunsets of Santorini Relaxed Start
Location: Santorini
Accommodation Name: NOŪS Santorini, Orama, Santorini, The Majestic, Santorini
Meals Included: Breakfast
With two more sun-drenched days on one of the most romantic islands on earth, you won't ever want to leave. Relax in clifftop restaurants, laze on the sun-soaked beaches or observe history unearthed at the site of Akrotiri. In the evening, you'll witness the first of the golden sunsets for which the island is famous.
Day 9: Santorini Your Way Relaxed Start
Location: Santorini
Accommodation Name: NOŪS Santorini, Orama, Santorini, The Majestic, Santorini
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another day to relax and unwind on Santorini’s black, red, and white beaches, or take a caique (traditional Greek fishing boat) to the volcanic islands for a swim in the hot springs. Alternatively, explore the prehistoric site of Akrotiri on an Optional Experience, where a Bronze Age settlement remains remarkably preserved in volcanic ash. The island's delicious cuisine, whitewashed houses that gleam in the bright Aegean sun, narrow cobblestone streets and world-renowned sunsets all combine to make Santorini a truly unique holiday experience.
Day 10: Set Sail for Mykonos
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Despotiko, Mykonos, Dorion, Mykonos, Porto Mykonos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Board the high-speed ferry bound for the island of Mykonos, playground of the rich and famous. You are met at the port and transferred to your hotel.
Day 11: Mykonos Mystique Relaxed Start
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Despotiko, Mykonos, Dorion, Mykonos, Porto Mykonos
Meals Included: Breakfast
This day is the first of two glorious days at leisure. Explore the town with its winding maze of walkways, white-washed houses, magnificent windmills and uninhibited nightlife. Perhaps watch the sunset at Shirley Valentine Beach or take a short boat ride to Delos?
Day 12: Mykonos at Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Despotiko, Mykonos, Dorion, Mykonos, Porto Mykonos
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another day to explore or relax as you wish. Perhaps swim the endless array of dazzling beaches that surround the island? Or maybe enjoy a cocktail on the waterfront at Little Venice?
Day 13: Return to Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, grab your final glimpse over the lustrous Aegean. You are transferred to the port for your return ferry to Athens.
Day 14: Depart Athens
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to Athens. Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
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Luggage Handling
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
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Complimentary Wi-Fi
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times.
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Dining
The tour includes 5 dinners and 13 breakfasts.
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Cooking Demonstration
Join a local chef in Olympia for a fun and immersive cooking demonstration, learning how to make tzatziki and other regional dishes.
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Luxury Coach
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities and excursions are not included and can be purchased separately.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Olympia: Join a local chef who will share their passion for local ingredients and high-quality products. Learn how to make tzatziki and other regional dishes during a fun and immersive cooking demonstration.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with high-speed ferries whisking you across the Aegean Sea to the beautiful islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom for your journeys on the mainland.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of comfort and luxury with stays at renowned hotels such as Divani Palace Acropolis, New Hotel, and Athens Marriott in Athens, and NOUS Santorini, Orama Hotel & Spa, and The Majestic Hotel in Santorini. Enjoy the elegance of Despotiko, Dorion, and Porto Mykonos in Mykonos, and the charm of Divani Meteora and Grand Meteora in Kalambaka. ...more ...less
Summary
- Travel by high-speed ferry from Athens to Mykonos and Santorini.
- Visit the Acropolis • Meteora monastery • The Sacred Way and temple of Apollo in Delphi.
- City tours of Athens, Meteora, Delphi and Mycenae, all with Local Experts.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of unique experiences such as visiting the ancient sites of Athens with a Local Expert, exploring the Plaka neighborhood, visiting the monasteries of Meteora, and experiencing a traditional hand weaving workshop in Nafplio. Additionally, there is a cooking demonstration in Olympia where you can learn to make regional dishes. ...more ...less
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What can I expect during the visit to Meteora?
During the visit to Meteora, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site with a Local Expert. You will visit one of the remarkable monasteries perched on the towering rock formations and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the nature trails or visit the Natural History Museum. ...more ...less
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How is the tour structured in terms of leisure time?
The tour provides a balance of guided experiences and leisure time. For example, in Santorini and Mykonos, you have days at leisure to relax on the beaches, explore the islands, or enjoy local cuisine. This allows you to tailor your experience to your interests.
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What dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several authentic dining experiences. In Athens, you will enjoy dinner in a historic neighborhood, and in Olympia, you will taste unique Greek flavors during dinner. Additionally, there is a cooking demonstration in Olympia where you can savor dishes prepared by a local chef. ...more ...less
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What is the significance of the visit to Delphi?
The visit to Delphi includes ascending the Sacred Way with a Local Expert, where you will see the Treasury of the Athenians and the Temple of Apollo. Delphi was historically significant as the site where the Oracle of Delphi provided prophecies, and it played a crucial role in ancient Greek history. ...more ...less
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Saturday
Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Treasures of Greece & The Islands - Small Group
14 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece
Visiting: Athens, Thermopylae, Kalambaka, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, Nafplio, Corinth Canal, Piraeus, Santorini, Mykonos ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
