Grecian Fables
Journey across the Aegean Sea during this 15-day guided tour of Greece and Turkey. In Athens, a Local Expert will share the history of the Temple of Olympian Zeus and several other sites, including the Acropolis and the Temple of Athena Nike. Cruise to the islands of Crete and Santorini, where you can see the iconic town of Thira and enjoy panoramic views of the crescent-shaped island. Set sail for Mykonos and walk the island’s maze of narrow walkways to a traditional taverna for an authentic Greek salad or fresh-caught fish. Travel to Kusadasi and see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis, among the ancient ruins of Ephesus during a tour with a Local Expert.
- 24 May 2026 – 07 Jun 2026
from $8,950 pp twin share * - 07 Jun 2026 – 21 Jun 2026
from $8,950 pp twin share * - 21 Jun 2026 – 05 Jul 2026
from $8,950 pp twin share * - 16 Aug 2026 – 30 Aug 2026
from $9,295 pp twin share * - 30 Aug 2026 – 13 Sep 2026
from $9,295 pp twin share * - 13 Sep 2026 – 27 Sep 2026
from $9,295 pp twin share * - 27 Sep 2026 – 11 Oct 2026
from $9,295 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Welcome to Athens:
An Insight host will meet you at the airport and take you to the hotel, where there is time to settle in and relax. Join your Travel Director and get to know your fellow travellers over a delightful evening of dinner. - Day 2 – Athens, City of Gods:
Begin your journey into ancient Greece today, where the history of this remarkable civilisation comes to life. Explore Athens with an Insight Choice experience. Choose to visit the city’s renowned ancient sites with a Local Expert, or venture into the dynamic Plaka neighbourhood, guided by your Travel Director. Next, venture to Thermopylae, the mountain pass where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their legendary stand against the Persians in 480 B.C. Pay tribute at the memorial honouring their courage before continuing to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. - Day 3 – The Pinnacles of Meteora Relaxed Start:
With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning ‘in the air.’ The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a science fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a relaxed walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum. - Day 4 – The Sacred Way and onto Olympia:
Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You’ll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,’ rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner is served in your hotel. - Day 5 – Ancient Olympia:
It’s all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C., in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honour the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef for an entertaining cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek flavours, as you savour dishes prepared for your dinner. - Day 6 – Mycenae and Nafplio:
Visit the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones used to build the city walls. Continue to the elegant town of Nafplio, known for its beautiful architecture, colourful shops and cafes. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet master weaver Maria Gonidou and her daughter Nefeli at their boutique studio in Nafplio. Learn about the traditional Greek weaving techniques that they are preserving for future generations and see a live demonstration on ancient looms. Later, your journey follows the shores of the Saronic Gulf, passing the Corinth Canal en route to Athens. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style. - Day 7 – Cruising to Kuşadası Relaxed Start:
The morning is at your leisure. In the late afternoon, board your cruise ship and set sail for Kuşadası. While cruising, enjoy an exquisite variety of Mediterranean dishes, as well as flavours, aromas and spices from around the world. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served on board daily. Your cruise includes a selection of hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages during meals. - Day 8 – Kuşadası Relaxed Start:
This afternoon explore the Turkish port of Kuşadası and explore the ancient ruins of Ephesus with a Local Expert. In the evening, sail on to Rhodes. - Day 9 – Rhodes Relaxed Start:
Enjoy a day at leisure in Rhodes to relax or explore at your own pace. Stroll the medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobbled lanes lead to artisan boutiques, shaded courtyards and lively cafes. You might choose to join an Optional Experience to the hill of Philerimos, where your Local Expert will guide you through the medieval monastery, the mosaic-lined Golgotha path and the 15th-century Church of St George Hostos. Alternatively, join another Optional Experience on a scenic drive to the ancient town of Lindos. Here, ascend to the Acropolis to see the Doric Temple of Athena Lindia and enjoy sweeping views over St. Paul’s Bay. - Day 10 – Crete Relaxed Start:
Start your morning on Crete, Greece’s largest island, and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean. Home to myths and legends, including Zeus’ birthplace and the Minotaur, embark on an epic tour to the capital city of Heraklion and absorb the rich history of Europe’s first advanced civilization with a visit to King Minos’ Palace in Knossos. In the evening, your cruise continues to Santorini. - Day 11 – Discovering Santorini Relaxed Start:
Arrive in Santorini and gaze at the sheer cliffs and dazzling panorama. Explore the capital of Thira, with its clifftop restaurants and cafes, breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere. Later, perhaps join an Optional Experience to the postcard-perfect village of Oia, famed for its whitewashed houses, blue domes and spellbinding sunset views. This evening is free for you to explore Santorini’s nightlife. - Day 12 – Mykonos Relaxed Start:
The full day is yours to relax and explore Mykonos, with its dazzling sugar cube houses and whitewashed windmills. This evening, there is time to enjoy the buzzing nightlife. - Day 13 – Mykonos to Milos Relaxed Start:
Today is yours to enjoy the gorgeous island of Milos, with its crystal waters and white cliffs. There will be time to explore the capital of Plaka or soak up the sun on the flat rocks of Sarakiniko Beach. - Day 14 – Athens at Leisure Relaxed Start:
Disembark in the morning and transfer to your hotel where you are at leisure. Relax, shop or bargain in the local market. Perhaps ask about an optional experience to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion? - Day 15 – Depart Athens:
Bid farewell to Athens. Your journey ends with a transfer to the airport.
Highlights
- Cruise the Aegean Sea and visit the islands of Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos.
- Tour ancient ruins like the Temple of Artemis with a Local Expert guide.
- Immerse yourself in Greek culture with authentic meals and traditional tavernas.
Journey across the Aegean Sea during this 15-day guided tour of Greece and Turkey. In Athens, a Local Expert will share the history of the Temple of Olympian Zeus and several other sites, including the Acropolis and the Temple of Athena Nike. Cruise to the islands of Crete and Santorini, where you can see the iconic town of Thira and enjoy panoramic views of the crescent-shaped island. Set sail for Mykonos and walk the island’s maze of narrow walkways to a traditional taverna for an authentic Greek salad or fresh-caught fish. Travel to Kusadasi and see one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis, among the ancient ruins of Ephesus during a tour with a Local Expert.
Inclusions
- Athens: Get up close and personal with ancient Greece as you explore Athens with your Local Expert.
- With your Local Expert, visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian.
- Then, ascend to the iconic Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers commanding views of the city.
- Discover the intricacies of the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of Wingless Victory, and admire the six exquisite Caryatids supporting the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
- Athens: Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the “Neighborhood of the Gods” under the guidance of your Travel Director.
- Nestled beneath the Acropolis, explore Plaka’s timeless charm, discovering the historical treasures and hidden corners, before enjoying time at leisure along Adrianou, a bustling pedestrian hub, brimming with vibrant shops and traditional cafes.
FAQs
- Arty Grand Hotel, Olympia., Amalia Olympia
- Divani Meteora, Kalambaka
- Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka
- Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott
- MV Celestyal Journey (or similar).
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 15 days and 14 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 24 May 2026 and 11 Oct 2026, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: Insight VacationsFine Print
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