Best of GreeceEUGJ

Today we will explore the fabulous Greek islands on a full day cruise from Athens. We discover three of the most beautiful islands of Saronic Gulf. Poros Island- so-called Lemon Forest, an idyllic spot filled with citrus trees, windmills and waterfalls, Hydra Island- one of the most cosmopolitan Greek islands. In Hydra Island, you won’t see any cars! Everyone uses their foot, boats or donkeys to get around the island, Aegina Island- a picturesque island, boasting elegant neoclassical buildings, narrow alleys and a bustling seafront promenade. In the evening we then visit Pasalimani Port - A port with great ancient history as it was a Naval base where the fleet of triremes was built. Here we stroll around the waterfront area and admire the seas and scenery of the Athens Riviera.

Today we do a full day excursion to Delphi- one of the most famous historic sites in Greece, known throughout the ancient Greek world and beyond as the sanctuary of Apollo and the shrine of his oracle. Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here we walk the sacred way and visit Temple of Apollo - This was a Doric peristyle temple which date from the 8th century BC, from here we get a beautiful view of the Temple of Athena. Further we visit Delphi Museum- the Archaeological Museum of Delphi shelters the extensive artefacts unearthed during excavations at the Delphi oracle and its vicinity, Delphi Theatre- it was built further up the hill from the Temple of Apollo giving spectators a view of the entire sanctuary and the valley below. It was originally built in the 8th century BC. We then proceed to Corinth Canal through the mountains which connects Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea.

Today we proceed to Mykonos by ferry, welcome to Greece's most famous cosmopolitan island. In the evening we walk through the Mykonian history alley- the whitewashed streets. Here we learn how the winding streets were designed to confuse invading pirates. Further we walk down the coastal paved road and pass by Manto Square to see the monument to Manto Mavrogenous, a heroine of the Greek War of Independence. Later we visit Little Venice- one of the most romantic places in Mykonos. This neighbourhood is replete with elegant and gorgeous old houses that are situated precariously on the edge of the sea. Church of Panagia Paraportiani- the most photographed church in Mykonos, It is located at the entrance of Kastro neighbourhood, right by the sea. Its name (Paraportiani) actually means standing next to the entrance door, the famous windmills- an iconic feature of Mykonos which can be seen from almost every corner of Mykonos Town. They were once vital to the island's economy. Ships carrying grain would unload their cargo here for the windmills to turn the grain into flour. Further we visit Paradise Beach – One of the most iconic beaches, not only in Greece, but in the world! At Paradise Beach you will experience the best parties, restaurants, and the clubs worldwide.

Today we proceed to Santorini by ferry. Santorini is known as ‘black pearl of Aegean’ and it is one of the most spectacular Greek islands. Upon arrival, we walk through Fira- the capital of Santorini, a combination of natural beauty, social life, night life, shopping, and a place where one can feel the liveliness of the island. Further we have lunch at the famous restaurant 1500 BC - A unique mixture of local Greek cuisine with a gourmet twist which will surely please you. Enjoy the majestic view of Santorini’s caldera bay along with the most exquisite tastes. Later we have free time to relax and explore the surroundings. The most authentic experience you can have in Santorini is a traditional Greek night with live music. Tonight you have that chance to get entertained by live music and dance. Enjoy a buffet dinner and sink your teeth into Greek wine. Sing along and tap your feet while you watch classic dances performed to traditional music. Opa!

Today we explore Santorini village, we visit Red Beach - without a doubt one of the most stunning and interesting beaches on the island, Lost Atlantis Experience Museum – The first museum in the world dedicated to the myth of Atlantis. Here you can re-live the cataclysmic destruction of Atlantis with all your senses in an extraordinary 9D experience. Later we visit Prophet Ilias monastery- built by two monks in 1711 on the highest peak of Santorini at 565 meters above sea level. In that era, it was an important cultural and educational centre that undoubtedly offered a great social work. Further we visit Black Beach - Here we enjoy the chill-out vibes and relish some mouth-watering Greek cuisine. We then visit Megalochori village- one of the most picturesque villages on the island. Its existence is recorded back to the 17th century, Oia village – the most famous of all villages in Santorini. It is known throughout the world for its beauty, fantastic architecture and the famous Blue Dome. Upon arrival we walk through the village and admire its glamorous beauty. In the evening we visit Santo Wines and learn about wine production in the area. However, sitting at an ocean-facing table, sipping wine, and enjoying a Santorini sunset at Santo Winery is divine.

Today morning we travel from Santorini to Athens by flight. Upon arrival we explore Athens city, we see Hadrian’s Arch Monument – part of a wall separating the old and new cities of Athens, Royal Palace- the neoclassical building that now houses the Parliament of Greece, Olympic stadium - home of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and remains the only stadium in the world built entirely out of marble. Later we pass by the Temple of Zeus – a former colossal temple at the centre of Athens, dedicated to Zeus God, the chief of the Olympian Gods. We then visit Acropolis site- an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon (Temple of Athena)– The temple that dominates the hill of the Acropolis. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of Greek art, an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy and Western civilization. Further we visit Acropolis Museum- consistently rated as one of the best museums in the world. With a collection spanning over 1,500 years.