Greece Ultimate Experience Tour (Athens – Peloponnese – Cyclades – Crete)

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    10 days / 9 nights
    Period of Operation : April to October
    Athens
    Min Participants : 4
    Max People : 7
    Tour Description

    Embark on a 10-day odyssey through the soul of Greece — where ancient temples, mythic landscapes, and vibrant island life come together in one unforgettable journey.

    From the timeless grandeur of Athens to the sacred grounds of Olympia, from the sun-drenched Cycladic islands to the wild mountains of Crete, this immersive small-group adventure blends rich history, scenic hikes, and outdoor activities across four distinct regions: Athens, the Peloponnese, the Cyclades, and Crete.

    In the Peloponnese, explore the royal tombs of Mycenae, the healing sanctuary of Epidaurus, and the legendary birthplace of the Olympic Games. Wander through stone-built towns, travel along olive-lined valleys, and uncover layers of history with expert guides who bring the past vividly to life.

    Island-hopping to Mykonos and Santorini, cruise to sacred Delos, hike the rim of a volcanic caldera, and kayak along dramatic coastlines. On Crete, walk through ancient palaces, taste local wines at a traditional vineyard, and hike into hidden gorges before ending your journey with a swim in the turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon.

    Every moment is curated to balance cultural discovery, natural wonder, and active exploration, guided by passionate locals and enriched with authentic food, warm hospitality, and memories you’ll carry long after you’ve left the islands behind.

    Highlights:

    • Explore ancient Athens with a guided tour of the Acropolis and its surrounding historic center

    • Discover the archaeological treasures of the Peloponnese, including Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Olympia

    • Cruise to Delos, the sacred island and mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis

    • Hike the breathtaking Caldera Trail from Fira to Oia in Santorini, with sweeping Aegean views

    • Sea kayak along Santorini’s southern coast, with time to swim and snorkel in hidden coves

    • Tour the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the legendary Palace of Knossos on Crete

    • Hike the pine-lined Imbros Gorge — a quieter but equally stunning alternative to Samaria

    • Visit the Venetian fortress of Frangokastello and swim in the Libyan Sea

    • Take a private boat tour to the island of Gramvousa and the iconic Balos Lagoon, one of Crete’s most stunning beaches

    • Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine throughout, with meals in local tavernas and seaside spots

    Level of difficulty

    Easy. Suitable for everybody with basic physical condition and swimming knowledge. Water activities can be substituted. 

    Grade and Terrain

    Although the hiking paths are quite well-kept the terrain in Greece tends to be stony and rocky. You will mostly be walking on unsurfaced tracks, footpaths, mountain trails and on some tarmac roads.

    Entry Requirements

    A good level of fitness and experience is required. Cycling, walking/running and a daily stretching regimen are all great ways to prepare for this type of adventure. Participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim. 

    Itinerary

    Day 1Athens sightseeing tour – Acropolis - Nafplio

    This morning we meet in the hotel lobby for introductions, followed by a short walking tour in the city’s oldest neighborhood, Plaka with its narrow alleys, little squares with small churches, lively shops and cafes, and grand neoclassical-style houses. Our own professional guide waits for us at the entrance of Acropolis, eager to pass on the knowledge about this world famous and important site!
    We will have the chance of seeing and learning about the Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena and definitely feel the energy! Later we will also visit the New Acropolis museum, a brilliant building, in order to explore its artifacts and enjoy a delicious meal at its veranda.
    After our lunch we will be leaving the lively city of Athens, towards Nafplio. Short stop at the Corinth Canal, the six-kilometer waterway connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas. We continue our scenic drive to Nafplio, considered one of the prettiest towns in Greece. It was the first capital, after Greece’s independence and has been a major port since the Bronze Age. After settling in our hotel, we will visit the old town for an evening stroll and our dinner at a “magical” place! (B,L,D)
    Overnight in Nafplio

    Day 2Mycenae & Epidaurus and Journey to Olympia

    After our first shared breakfast, the adventure begins with a journey deep into the heart of ancient Greece. With a private professional guide leading the way, we explore two of the country’s most legendary archaeological sites — Mycenae and Epidaurus — both steeped in myth and timeless grandeur.
    In Mycenae, once a powerful stronghold of the Mycenaean civilization, the sheer scale of the Cyclopean walls defies belief — said to be built by giants, these ancient stones still spark awe. Passing through the monumental Lion Gate, we step into a world that dates back to 1350–1200 BC, a time when kings and heroes walked these grounds. Just beyond the fortified city lie the beehive-shaped royal tombs, including those attributed to Aegisthus and Clytaemnestra. The majestic Treasury of Atreus, with its vast domed chamber, stands as one of the finest examples of Mycenaean architecture.
    Next, we travel to the sanctuary of Epidaurus, a sacred healing center in the ancient world. Nestled among cypress trees and olive groves lies the remarkable 4th-century BC theater, a marvel of design famed for its flawless acoustics and elegant symmetry. Dedicated to Asklepios, the god of medicine and son of Apollo, this UNESCO World Heritage Site once welcomed pilgrims seeking divine healing through dream and ritual. Legend has it that Asklepios had such miraculous power he could raise the dead — much to the dismay of Hades himself.
    After soaking in the spirit of these storied places, we enjoy a traditional Greek lunch before continuing our scenic journey westward to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games and your home for the night. (B/L/D)

    Overnight in Olympia

    Day 3Olympia Archaeological Site – Onward to the Aegean (Mykonos)

    After a restful night and a hearty breakfast, the day begins in the lush valley of the Alfeios River, where ancient olive trees still whisper stories of glory. Our destination: Olympia — one of the most significant and awe-inspiring archaeological sites in Greece, nestled among wild olives and plane trees.
    With our private professional guide bringing history to life, we step into the birthplace of the Olympic Games, where athletes once gathered from across the ancient world to compete in honor of Zeus. As we walk beneath the towering temple columns and along the ancient training grounds, it’s easy to feel the lingering spirit of competition, devotion, and human triumph.
    The Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World — the colossal gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus — still radiates its sacred energy. At the archaeological museum, we come face-to-face with exquisite artifacts, including the famous sculpture of Hermes by Praxiteles, a masterpiece that captures the grace of the gods.
    After lunch in the serene Peloponnesian countryside, we begin our journey back to Athens to catch our domestic flight (or high-speed ferry) to the sun-drenched island of Mykonos. With its whitewashed charm, coastal elegance, and Cycladic rhythm, Mykonos welcomes us for the next chapter of our Greek odyssey. (B,L,D)

    Overnight in Mykonos

    Day 4Sailing to Delos & Rhenia: Myth and Sea

    Today is a celebration of sea, sun, and story — a full-day yachting adventure aboard our luxurious Aegean Outdoors MotorSailer. As we set sail across the sapphire waters of the Aegean, you’ll experience the perfect blend of discovery, relaxation, and culinary delight.
    Our first stop is Delos — a small island with an immense legacy. Once the spiritual heart of the Cyclades and a major Pan-Hellenic sanctuary, Delos was a sacred center of worship between 900 BC and AD 100. According to myth, this was the birthplace of Apollo, god of light, and Artemis, goddess of the hunt — born to Leto, after the jealous Hera banished her from all land. Only when Poseidon revealed this hidden island — Delos, “the revealed one” — was Leto able to give birth beneath the sacred palm tree.
    As we walk the sun-drenched ruins, your guide brings to life the ancient temples, mosaic-adorned homes, and statues that once stood under the watchful eyes of the gods. You’re not just visiting an island — you’re stepping into a living myth.
    Next, we sail to nearby Rhenia, a secluded paradise of calm turquoise coves and pristine beaches. Protected from the winds, its hidden bays are ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Here, you’ll indulge in a delicious lunch of fresh local delicacies, prepared on board with love and tradition — a true taste of Cycladic hospitality.

    We return to Mykonos in the late afternoon. After a bit of rest, the island’s cosmopolitan magic awaits. Whether it’s a light dinner under the stars or a lively stroll through the vibrant streets of Chora, tonight invites you to experience the sophisticated soul of Mykonos. (B,L,D)

    Overnight in Mykonos

    Day 5Ferry to Santorini & Caldera Hike to Oia

    This morning, we board the ferry to Santorini — a jewel born of fire, sea, and sky. The island’s dramatic beauty is the legacy of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in recorded history, and its energy still pulses beneath the surface. Everything here feels illuminated: the whitewashed houses gleaming against the lapis sea, the crimson cliffs plunging into the caldera, and sunsets that seem to set the world ablaze.
    After settling into our hotel, we lace up our hiking shoes for one of the most iconic outdoor activities in Greece — the Caldera Trail. This scenic path hugs the edge of the island’s volcanic rim, winding from Fira to the postcard-perfect village of Oia. Away from the bustling crowds, the trail invites you to connect deeply with the island’s raw natural beauty, as you walk past ancient lava flows, white chapels perched on cliffs, and panoramic vistas at every turn.
    The trail leads us into the heart of Oia, often called the most beautiful village in the Cyclades. With its cave houses, blue-domed churches, and sun-drenched terraces, Oia is the perfect place to witness the moment everyone comes for — the world-famous Santorini sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the caldera in hues of gold and rose, we soak in the wonder of it all before heading to dinner. (B,D)

    Overnight in Santorini

    Day 6Akrotiri Archaeological Site visit and Sea Kayaking - Ferry to Crete

    Santorini’s story isn’t just one of sunsets and scenery — it’s layered with the rise and fall of civilizations. While Dorians, Venetians, and Ottomans have all left their mark on the island, it was the Minoans — seafarers from nearby Crete — who first flourished here around 2000 BC. Their most remarkable legacy is the ancient city of Akrotiri, often referred to as the “Greek Pompeii.”
    Accompanied by a professional guide, you’ll wander the remarkably preserved streets, homes, and plazas of this Bronze Age settlement, frozen in time beneath layers of volcanic ash. Vivid frescoes, multi-story buildings, and advanced drainage systems offer a glimpse into a sophisticated world lost to the cataclysmic eruption that shaped the island as we know it.
    From ancient paths to ocean waves, the second half of the day brings a complete shift — and a thrilling one. It’s time to see Santorini from sea level on an unforgettable sea kayaking experience along the island’s dramatic southern coastline. This is one of the most immersive outdoor activities in Greece — paddling beneath towering cliffs, past hidden sea caves and colorful beaches carved by volcanic activity.
    We’ll pause for snorkeling and swimming in the island’s crystal-clear waters, soaking up views that few travelers ever get to see. After working up an appetite, we’ll enjoy a well-earned seaside lunch featuring fresh local flavors.
    In the early evening, we board the ferry to Crete — Greece’s largest island and the legendary birthplace of Zeus — where we arrive in the lively city of Heraklion. (B,L,D)

    Overnight in Heraklion, Crete

    Day 7Minoan Wonders, Cretan Wine & the Charms of Chania

    Step into the heart of ancient Crete with a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion — a world-class collection that brings the brilliance of the Minoan civilization vividly to life. From the famed Prince of the Lilies fresco to sacred double axes and intricate pottery, every artifact reveals the artistry, mythology, and daily life of a culture far ahead of its time.
    Just beyond the city lies Knossos, the largest and most legendary of the Minoan palaces. Walking its storied corridors and open courtyards, you can almost hear echoes of the past — the hum of the royal court, the rhythm of ancient rituals, and the whisper of mythic creatures like the Minotaur, said to haunt the labyrinth beneath. With more than three and a half millennia of history layered in its stones, Knossos offers one of the most immersive experiences in Greece.

    From ancient ruins to vineyard views, the journey continues to a nearby winery nestled among Crete’s rolling hills. Here, a tasting of exquisite local wines and regional delicacies offers a different kind of cultural insight — one shaped by soil, sun, and tradition.
    The day winds down with a scenic drive to Chania, a stunning harbor town where Venetian elegance meets Cretan soul. Its old town charms with narrow alleyways, seaside cafés, and the golden glow of sunset reflecting off the water. (B,L,D)

    Overnight in Chania

    Day 8Hiking the Imbros Gorge & Coastal Legends at Frangokastello

    No visit to Crete would be complete without venturing into one of its legendary gorges — and nestled on the southern slopes of the White Mountains, Imbros offers a hidden gem of natural drama and solitude. Less known than Samaria, but equally striking, Imbros Gorge rewards hikers with a quieter, more intimate encounter with Crete’s wild heart.
    The path winds through towering cliffs draped in pine trees, narrowing in places to mere meters wide. Along the way, caves dot the rocky walls, sunlight filters through overhead canopies, and at one breathtaking point, the trail passes beneath a massive natural stone archway — a silent monument to the power of water and time. It’s a hike that awakens the senses and offers one of the most immersive outdoor experiences in Greece.
    Emerging from the gorge, a short drive brings us to the southern coast and the dramatic sight of Frangokastello — a 14th-century Venetian fortress rising just steps from the sea. With its weathered towers and legends of ghostly warriors, the castle stands watch over a long stretch of golden sand. This is the perfect spot to rinse off the trail dust in the Libyan Sea and enjoy a relaxed seaside lunch with views stretching toward Africa. (B,L,D)

    Overnight in Chania

    Day 9Gramvousa & Balos Lagoon – Crete’s Ultimate Coastal Adventure

    An unforgettable day begins with a scenic transfer to the port of Kissamos, where the turquoise waters of western Crete beckon. Boarding our boat, we cruise along the rugged coastline, passing sea caves and dramatic cliffs carved by time and tide. Keep an eye out for unique geological formations — this part of the island offers a stunning glimpse into the raw power of nature.
    Our first stop is the island of Gramvousa, crowned by a Venetian castle perched high above the sea. A short hike rewards us with sweeping views of the Aegean and the wild Cretan coastline. Below, the crystal-clear waters invite a refreshing swim before we continue toward one of Greece’s most iconic natural wonders.
    Balos Lagoon awaits — a breathtaking fusion of white sand, shallow emerald pools, and a backdrop of untamed mountains. Often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this is the kind of place that makes time stand still. Whether you’re floating in the warm, tranquil waters or simply soaking up the serenity, Balos offers an immersive experience you’ll never forget.
    In the afternoon, we return to Kissamos and transfer back to Chania to collect our things before heading to the airport for a short flight back to Athens. (B,L)

    Overnight in Athens

    Day 10Departure Day

    Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the past days — from mythic ruins and mountain trails to sun-drenched islands and crystalline seas. (B)

    Our services officially conclude here, but your journey doesn’t have to end. Whether you’re heading home or eager to keep exploring, we’re happy to arrange seamless transfers to any destination in Greece or help you extend your adventure.

    Photos
    Pricing

    Price is based on a minimum attendance of 4 people (for less or more participants, feel free to contact us).

    Price Includes

    • All necessary transfers by private car (fuel – tolls- driver expenses included)
    • Accommodation in double/twin rooms on BB
    • All meals mentioned in the program (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
    • Professional guides and entrance fees in Athens, Mycenae-Epidaurus, Ancient Olympia, Delos, Akrotiri Santorini and Knossos
    • All activities mentioned in the program along with staff and equipment
    • Domestic flight Athens to Mykonos & from Chania to Athens (economy class with 1 luggage/person)
    • Ferry tickets Mykonos to Santorini and Santorini to Crete
    • English speaking Aegean Outdoors guide

    Price Excludes

    • Flights to/from Greece
    • Drinks during meals
    • Personal expenses
    • Personal insurance
    • Porterage and tips to guides
    • Overnight Stay Tax (payable locally at the hotels)
    Recommended Gear

    Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with warm sunny days and occasional cool breezes, especially on the islands or at higher elevations. The best approach to packing is to use the layering system—this allows you to easily adjust to changing temperatures. If it gets hot, you can remove layers; if it turns windy or cooler, you can quickly layer up for comfort.

    Travel light, travel smart. The less you carry, the easier your journey will be—especially when navigating ferry ports, cobblestone streets, or compact sailboats. Minimalist packing isn’t just convenient at the start; you’ll thank yourself at the end of the trip, too.

    Here’s a list of recommended items to bring on your Greece Ultimate Experience Tour:

    What to bring

    • Day pack to carry camera, water bottle and snacks etc.
    • Windbreaker
    • Casual clothing made of light-weight fabrics
    • Long-sleeve shirt
    • Hiking pants, loose and easy to move in and quick-drying hiking shorts
    • Swimsuit
    • Sun hat or baseball cap
    • Casual, comfortable shoes for evening
    • Sunscreen and lip protection
    • Sunglasses and retainer strap
    • Electrical adapter plug/converter

    *This packing list is meant to serve as a flexible guideline, not a strict checklist. Feel free to adapt it based on your personal preferences, travel style, and the specific activities you have planned. Add what you need, skip what you don’t—the goal is to pack smart and travel comfortably.

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