Spotlight on Greece

DAY 1 - Arrive Athens

Athens

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, where a traditional Athens affair is on the cards for those wanting to get straight down to the business of being cultural. On our optional dinner we'll head to the city's old town and dinner, traditional dancing as you feast your eyes (and stomach) with mouthwatering Greek tastes, under the watchful eye of the Acropolis to complete the scene. We can't think of a better way to get right into the Greek way of life.

DAY 2 - Athens to Olympia via Corinth and Mycenae

Athens

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 explore the first modern Olympic Stadium from the 1896 Games. That's some really old Olympic vibes right there.

Corinth

Rugged mountains, cypress trees and citrus groves will pepper our pretty tour from Athens to Corinth, where we will stop to get a look at a man-made canal that squeezes ships through its tight cliffs in what seems like an impossible feat.

Mycenae

What was once a military hotspot is now a jaw-dropping archaeological site amidst the mountain ranges of Greece. Our Trip Manager will uncover the 4,000 year history of Mycenae and Agamemnon’s Palace in a tale of heroics, myths and curses.

Olympia

And so the historical uncoverings continue as we land in Olympia, the place where the Olympic Games were birthed, and what is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

DAY 3 - Olympia to Delphi

Olympia

Fun fact: the first Olympic Games was held in 776BC, let's just let that number sink in for a moment...Wow. Today our Local Guide will show us all the important sites of those games, giving you the chance to sit in the 45,000 seat stadium where it actually first took place. If that's not a spine-tingling moment, we don't know what is. We'll wrap it up at the Temple of Hera (Queen of the Greek Gods), and place where the Olympic flame is lit every four years. We'll also visit the ruins of Zeus' temple before we head off on our journey, where you'll be sure to feel the vibes of one of the most well known Greek gods.

Delphi

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

Delphi

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.

Athens

Well there you have it, the true scope of Greece's magnificence filed neatly into four incredible days. Walk away with a wealth of new knowledge and a new posse of friends, eager to get involved in yet another Contiki adventure.

DAY 5 - Athens

Athens

With two full days in Athens you have heaps of free time to uncover all the unique sides of this ancient city. From the urban hustle and bustle, the magnificent Acropolis, traditional tavernas, street art and tangible political energy. Tick off all the antiquities, shop the boutiques and markets or eat your way through the best souvlaki, tzatziki and dolmades you can get your hands on.

DAY 6 - Athens to Mykonos

Athens

See, just like we told you. Our time in Athens was amazing and well worth delaying our island time for. But delay it further? We shall not...

Mykonos

Let's do this! 3 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. 

DAY 7 - Mykonos

Mykonos

Here we are on yet another day when it feels fabulous to be alive. You're still in Mykonos baby! And the day is yours to soak up the sunshine and play in the sea. 

DAY 8 - Mykonos

Mykonos

Windmills; cafes overflowing with olives, feta and tzatziki; storybook streets - and that's before you've even taken a dip in the ocean! Explore with the crew, take up a few optionals, or simply waste the day away as you please. 

DAY 9 - Mykonos to Santorini

Mykonos

This morning, let's spare a thought for all those travellers who only have the time and money to visit just one Greek Island. Those poor unfortunate souls...

Santorini

Saddle up! We're taking to the seas again, this time in search of the island of Santorini. It's finally your turn to be the one lulling about the white-washed blue dome churches looking like a sultry summer babe. Home to the famous Oia sunset, this is the stuff dreams are made of. Ah, life.

DAY 10 - Santorini

Santorini

Rise and shine, Greek Island travellers! The island of Santorini will not explore itself. Take a swim at Perissa Beach, eat the local specialty of fried tomato balls known as domatokeftedes, and roam the streets of Fira.

DAY 11 - Santorini

Santorini

Rise and shine, Greek Island travellers! The island of Santorini will not explore itself. Take a swim at Perissa Beach, eat the local specialty of fried tomato balls known as domatokeftedes, and roam the streets of Fira. Just remember to plan your day around the excursion to the iconic sunset of Oia - this is not an optional you're going to want to miss.

DAY 12 - Santorini to Ios

Santorini

Say your so longs to Santorini this morning. We have one last Greek Island to hop to, and we promise she's magnificent.

Ios

A bit more rugged and remote than Santorini and Mykonos, Ios will prove a nice change of scenery. But thankfully, there will be no change in the hours spent ocean side and good times had.

DAY 13 - Ios

Ios

Another day, another chance to soak up the Greek sun and frolic in the sand without a care in the world. Get some adrenaline in with some watersports, or if you haven't done so already, go explore the pretty town and down a hearty meal at a local cafe. You're going to need the fuel if you want to hang out in the party scene of Hora until the break of dawn.  

DAY 14 - Ios

Ios

Don’t underestimate the power of this village. When the sun sets, this place really comes to life. As such, we suggest a day out on the water getting salty on a boat trip, or a full day of pool hangs and beach time so you're all sun-kissed and feeling floaty by the time the night rolls in. 

DAY 15 - Ios to Athens

Ios

While choking back the tears and waving a sad goodbye to the dreamy islands of Greece, try to think positive thoughts: we have a boat ride to enjoy this morning, as well as one more night together in the city of Athens. 

Athens

One last dose of Athens and one last chance to hang out together, whilst soaking up the last of the Mediterranean sun. 

DAY 16 - Depart Athens

Athens

And just like that, it's time for the goodbyes. As sad as they are, at least you have the memories. And another 300 Contiki trips to jump aboard! Make the most of your last free breakfast before you kick on to your next port of call.