Highlights of Greece with 3-Day Aegean Cruise
Highlights of Greece with 3-Day Aegean Cruise
Highlights of Greece with 3-Day Aegean Cruise
8 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece
Visiting: Athens, Delphi, Meteora, Mykonos, Kusadasi, Santorini
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Greece and Turkey with the "Highlights of Greece with 3-Day Aegean Cruise" tour. Begin your adventure in Athens, exploring iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus. Travel to Delphi and Kalambaka, where you'll visit the mystical monasteries of Meteora. Set sail on a three-night Aegean cruise, stopping at the vibrant island of Mykonos, the ancient ruins of Ephesus in Turkey, and the serene island of Patmos. Discover the rich history of Crete and the breathtaking beauty of Santorini's volcanic landscapes. With expert guides, luxury accommodations, and a variety of included meals, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Zafolia, Dorian Inn, President
Athens was once the center of the world and for a short spell it will be the center of yours. Arrive at your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the Greek capital your way. Evidence of the city’s former status as the 'Cradle of Western Civilization' can be seen around every turn, so lace up your walking shoes and pound the pavements in search of the artistry, architecture and archaeological treasures that have made Athens a popular stop for history lovers. Later, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers.
Day 2: Athens Sightseeing – Delphi
Location: Delphi
Accommodation Name: Nafsika Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you’ll come face-to-face with the impressive ancient backdrop that followed you throughout yesterday’s solo sightseeing – the Acropolis. A Local Specialist joins you for a sightseeing tour through what remains of the ancient citadel, including the Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena. View the Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch, stopping at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to admire the curiously clad Evzone guards. Later, follow the road taken by the ancient Greeks who once sought the wisdom of the Oracle, arriving in Delphi for your overnight stay.
Day 3: Delphi Sightseeing – Kalambaka
Location: Delphi
Accommodation Name: Aeton Melathron
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Walk the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo – the same path that Alexander the Great once trod, demanding to hear that he would conquer the entire ancient world. Your Local Specialist will reveal the ancient site’s captivating history and some of the Oracle’s prophecies, many of which would eventually come true. You’ll also discover Delphi’s fame as the host of the Pythian Games, dedicated to Apollo and the arts. A scenic drive takes you to Thermopylae, most notably the site of the heroic defense by King Leonidas and his brave Spartans against the invading Persians. Later arrive in Kalambaka, where you dine tonight at your hotel.
Day 4: Kalambaka – Meteora – Athens
Location: Meteora
Accommodation Name: Zafolia, Dorian Inn, President
Meals Included: Breakfast
The mystical monasteries of Meteora cling almost implausibly to the rounded rock towers that overlook Kalambaka. Joining a Local Specialist this morning, you’ll visit this heavenly Eastern Orthodox complex, built by monks in the 14th century to stave off attacks from the invading Turks. Return to Athens later this afternoon where the rest of the day is free to do as you wish. An Optional Experience this evening could see you indulge in tasty traditional cuisine. Join your new friends for a taverna evening including dancing and drinks.
Day 5: Embark 3-Night Cruise – Mykonos
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: MV Celestyal Discovery
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Set your watch to the laid-back pace of the Greek Islands, boarding your three-night cruise through the Aegean where your only priorities will be good food, good friends and good times. With that in mind, your first stop ticks all the boxes as you enjoy your time on Mykonos rambling through the narrow streets of Chora, sharing the sun-dappled courtyard with lazy cats and welcoming locals. You could choose to join an optional countryside tour with a Local Specialist, visiting several of the island’s beaches, the 16th-century monastery at Ano Mera and Little Venice with its brightly painted wooden balconies overlooking the old harbor. Your cruise sails east to Turkey through the night.
Day 6: Kusadasi – Patmos
Location: Kusadasi
Accommodation Name: MV Celestyal Discovery
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A brief brush with the Turkish coast transports you back in time to what remains of the incredible ruins of Ephesus. Walk down the pillar-lined Curetes Street towards the ornate façade of the Library of Celsus and view what remains of the Temple of Artemis, one of the World’s Seven Ancient Wonders. Your next stop is Patmos, most famously the location where the disciple John wrote the Book of Revelation in the New Testament. See the Grotto of the Apocalypse first-hand when you join an Optional Experience with a Local Specialist, with time in medieval Hora to stretch your sea legs.
Day 7: Crete - Santorini
Location: Santorini
Accommodation Name: MV Celestyal Discovery
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
You may choose to visit the Palace of Knossos, revealing insights into Minoan civilization several thousand years before Christ. Alternatively drive deep into the beautiful countryside and experience the true flavor of Cretan lifestyle. The dramatic volcanic landscape of Santorini rising out of the deep blue Aegean is our final destination today. You’ll have time to join an Optional Experience to some of the island’s villages which cling to the volcanic cliffs, including Oia with its distinctive white buildings and blue-domed churches which vie for the best views over the caldera.
Day 8: Disembark – Depart Athens
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
And just like that we’re back in Athens after an exhilarating encounter with ancient Greek history and laid-back island life in the Aegean. You’ve seen the haunts of Socrates, Aristotle and Plato and admired many of the world’s greatest ancient treasures. Close the curtain on stories that span several millennia as you disembark your cruise ship.Your departure flight from Athens on the day of the cruise disembarkation should not be scheduled before 12pm.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The tour includes the services of an expert Travel Director and a professional Driver.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation is provided in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted.
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Many meals and daily breakfasts included
The tour includes many meals and daily breakfasts.
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City orientation tours
City orientation tours are included in the itinerary.
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Audio headsets
Audio headsets are provided throughout the holiday to enhance sightseeing experiences.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi
Travel is conducted in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi available in most countries.
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Three-night Aegean Cruise
The tour includes a three-night Aegean Cruise.
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Extensive variety of Choice Experiences
An extensive variety of Choice Experiences is available during the tour.
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Hotels of similar standard and location
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as additional tours or activities are not included in the base tour package.
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort throughout your journey. Enjoy a three-night Aegean cruise, providing a scenic and relaxing way to explore the Greek islands and Turkey.
Accommodation
Stay in cherry-picked hotels such as Zafolia, Dorian Inn, President, Nafsika Palace, and Aeton Melathron, all tried and trusted for comfort and convenience. Enjoy a three-night cruise aboard the MV Celestyal Discovery, offering a unique experience on the Aegean Sea.
Dining Summary
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 3 Lunch (L)
Essentials
- Visit the Acropolis and view the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch
- Spend the evening exploring this lively island
- Visit the open air archaeological wonder of ancient Ephesus
- Explore this idyllic island
- Spend time in the port town of Heraklion
- Enjoy the cliff top town of Fira
- Visit the home of the Oracle and the Temple of Apollo with a Local Guide
- Visit one of the iconic rock monasteries with a Local Guide
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
The tour includes stays at cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted. On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes many meals and daily breakfasts. Specifically, there are 7 breakfasts, 4 dinners, and 3 lunches included.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, as well as a three-night Aegean cruise.
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Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, the tour includes city orientation tours and visits to several historical sites with a Local Guide, such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Apollo, and the rock monasteries of Meteora.
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What are some of the highlights of the Aegean cruise portion of the tour?
During the Aegean cruise, you will visit Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Crete, and Santorini. Highlights include exploring the ruins of Ephesus, visiting the Grotto of the Apocalypse, and experiencing the dramatic volcanic landscape of Santorini.
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Is there an opportunity to explore the local culture and lifestyle during the tour?
Yes, there are opportunities to explore local culture, such as an optional countryside tour in Mykonos, experiencing the Cretan lifestyle, and enjoying a taverna evening with traditional cuisine and dancing in Athens.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty and joy of taking a guided vacation with Costsaver is that you get to meet, travel and make friends with people from all over the world.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Costsaver is part of The Travel Corporation, which has been in business for over 100 years.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Costsaver is proud to be a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation started in 2008. To date the charity has donated over US$2 million to assist underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism initiatives around the globe.
Reviews of this operator
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
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We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
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We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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We look after you every step of the way.
