Greece: Athens & the Aegean

Arrive in Athens and transfer to your hotel. Gather this evening for a welcome briefing followed by dinner.

Visit the Acropolis Museum, marveling at artifacts Athenians used in everyday life, as well as finds from the slopes of the Acropolis. Next, stroll the Plaka, filled with flower shops, taverns and charming boutiques. Enjoy lunch at leisure. In the evening, explore the Acropolis, one of the greatest icons of the ancient world, followed by dinner.

Depart for the ancient town of Oropos, where you meet a local family in their home for an exclusive hands-on culinary experience. After lunch, stroll the charming village streets, and peruse its boutiques and shops.

In the morning, fly to the island of Crete for three days of exploration and discovery. Check in to your seaside accommodations in Agios Nikolaos, a coastal town that blends bustling city life with local art and a leisurely attitude. This evening, embark on a private cruise to the island of Spinalonga, a protective outpost for the Cretan mainland built in 1579, where you wander the streets of this former fortress community. The island also acted as a leper colony from 1903 to 1957. The next morning, visit the Palace of Knossos, Crete's most famous historic attraction, then enjoy lunch at a winery. Afterward, explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, known for the best collection of Minoan art in the world. Discover eastern Crete the following day with a visit to the Byzantine church of Panagia Kera, a 13th-century structure with impressive fresco decorations. Next, explore the village of Kritsa, renowned for its traditional weaving, and visit an organic cosmetics producer and olive oil maker.

Voyage to Santorini by high-speed catamaran. Travel north to Fira to enjoy lunch. Check in to your hotel, then continue to Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement preserved in volcanic ash from the ancient eruption of Thera. The settlement has been suggested as a possible inspiration for Plato's story of Atlantis. Explore the beautiful village of Oia, and enjoy dinner in a local restaurant.

Start your day with the Fira Archaeological Museum, home to the island's finest collection of artifacts from the fourth and fifth centuries. Then, join your Resident Tour Director on an exploration of the life and sites of Santorini before enjoying time at leisure at your resort.

Fly to Athens and visit the Temple of Poseidon, travelling along the shores of Cape Sounion. Take in the gorgeous vistas over the Aegean Sea as you imagine life for the ancient Greeks who constructed the imposing temple. Travel to your waterfront resort, where you settle in and enjoy some time at leisure. This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner at an authentic working farm for a meal featuring seasonal, locally grown produce.

Transfer to Athens Airport and board your onward flight.