Experience the Greek Islands of Santorini and Mykonos plus the remarkable mainland treasures of alluring Athens, the Acropolis, Olympia, the incredible Meteora Hills, splendid Delphi and so much more. Cruise through the sparkling Greek Islands to discover the dramatic whitewashed villages and blue domes of iconic Santorini and indulge in the unique natural beauty and glamour of cosmopolitan Mykonos. From the ancient birthplace of modern civilisation to the spirited Greek culture bursting with passionate music, vivid art and glorious cuisine. Athens is an alluring mix of ancient history and contemporary cool. Connect to the true soul of Greece as we also tour to the Corinth Canal, Thermopylae, Kalabaka, Trizonia, Glyfada, Mycenae and Nafplion. Eternally bathed in Mediterranean sunshine and the lustrous glow of its epic history, the iconic landscapes of Greece are graced with magnificent ancient ruins, idyllic country villages and dynamic cityscapes, where monasteries rise up to meet the heavens and blissful beaches trace the sapphire coast; all united by the sensuous experience of genuine Greek cuisine. Explore the unimaginable wealth of attractions at the centre of western culture. History is all around you as we discover the everchanging landscapes, cultures, stories, art, architecture and cuisines. Discover the real Greece with HolidayMax’s immersive luxury touring. Themes include: Greek Islands, Europe, Europe Touring, Mediterranean, Attica, Departs from Athens, Luxury Coach, Returns from Santorini. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights to Athens (premium airline)
Tour leader and host, with local guides
Island Hopping cruise to Santorini & Mykonos
Flight from Santorini to Athens
Travel by modern large coach
5 Nights Athens Hotel (superior 4 Star)
3 Nights Mykonos Hotel
2 Nights Santorini Hotel
1 Night Kalabaka Hotel
1 Night Delphi Hotel
1 Night Olympia Hotel
1 Night Nafplion Hotel
11 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
Return cruise to Trizonia Island
Meet and Greet Personalised Transfers

Highlights

Athens (Greece) Santorini (Greek Islands) Mykonos (Greek Islands) Olympia (Greece) Corinth Canal (Greece) Delphi (Greece) Meteora Hills (Greece) Nafplion (Greece) Thermopylae (Greece) Kalabaka (Greece) Trizonia (Greece) Glyfada (Greece) Mycenae (Greece)

Quick Jump

Live Prices

Departure Dates

Book Now

Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Experience Greek Islands of Santorini & Mykonos plus Athens,

Acropolis, Olympia, Meteora Hills and Delphi

• Athens flexi-tour for two days, explore this alluring city your way

• Cruise through the sparkling Greek Islands

• Two free days on Santorini (dramatic whitewashed villages and blue

domes)

• Two free days on Mykonos (beautiful and cosmopolitan Mykonos)

• Discover the birthplace of modern civilisation with expert local guides

• Visit the Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Thermopylae, Kalabaka, Trizonia,

Glyfada and Nafplion

• Pass through the Lion's Gate and marvel at the Bronze Age citadel

• Visit Thermopylae see the statue of Leonidas, King of Sparta

• Visit a Byzantine art workshop

• Experience the giant rock formations and cliff-top monasteries of

Meteora Hills

• Sunset drive in the world heritage protected Meteora Hills

• Island Hopping cruise to Santorini & Mykonos

• Tour of colourful seaside village of Delphi, with free time

• Visit the small Greek Island of Trizonia, with free time

• Local guided tour of mesmerising Olympia ancient site

• Local guided tour of legendary Mycenae and special local lunch

• Visit Nafplion with free time to explore

• Visit the astounding 6km long Corinth Canal

• Expert local guided tour of ancient Athens

• Athens welcome dinner

• Plus more immersive excursions and experiences…

DAY 1 Depart Australia for Greece

Today we depart for Athens, Greece. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in Athens (Greece)

You will be personally met at Athens Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central Athens hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city.

Meet and Greet Personalised Arrival Transfer, Overnight Athens Hotel

DAY 3 Tour Athens

Your first two full days in Athens are flexi-tours, so you can tour at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Relax into Athens time with a choice of included touring options to suit your mood, before we embark on our fully escorted Greek Treasures & Islands adventure.

Athens is an alluring mix of ancient history and contemporary cool. A blend of grandeur and grunge, where some of Europe’s coolest street art sits side by side the ancient 5th-century BC landmarks. Athens is a vibrant and fascinating city, the birthplace of democracy and home to mythology, drama and philosophy. At its centre, a mesmerizing ancient Acropolis rises up amidst the surrounding layers of modernity; serving as an ever-present reminder of the city’s momentous legacy.

Your flexi-tour includes 3 circular driving tours, stay on for the whole tour enjoying our guide’s entertaining commentary or get-off at any one of 47 incredible stops and re-join our next circular tour bus at your leisure. Discover the birthplace of democracy and explore must-see attractions like The Acropolis, Parthenon, ancient Olympic Stadium, Syntagma Square Parliament, Temple of Zeus, National Gardens, Monastiraki Square, Athens beaches and yacht harbour. Alternatively, find your own piece of captivating Athens.

The magnificent Acropolis, visible from almost every part of the city, is the hub around which Athens still revolves. All over the city, rooftops and balconies angle toward the landmark - pull up your own chair, settle in and allow time to appreciate the Acropolis' many moods. A visit to the Acropolis is also a must - climb to the top of Acropolis Hill to the magnificent Parthenon, explore the Temples of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion, then visit the outstanding Acropolis Museum with its display of jaw-dropping archaeological finds. Explore the historical quarter of Pláka, (‘neighbourhood of the Gods’) wandering through its captivating maze of old streets, nestled around foothills of the Acropolis.

Creative energy abounds in the city, through its renowned street art, art shows and music where creative surprises lie around nearly every corner.

All 3 circular hop-on hop-off tours of Athens, Piraeus and the Greek Riviera (Apr-Oct) are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach Tour, Overnight Athens Hotel

DAY 4 Discover Athens

Make the most of your second Athens flexi-tour today. There is so much to tempt you, from the rich cultural treasure chest to chic modern Athens like the Monastiraki area (packed with rooftop bars, ancient sights and huge markets), the bustling market of Varvakios Agora, the 40 acres at Tropical Gardens, the National Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Cycladic Art, Erechtheion, National Archaeological Museum, Temple of Hephaestus, Temple of Athena Nike, Plaka, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Benaki Museum, Ancient Agora of Athens, Museum of the Ancient Agora, Mount Lycabettus, Odeon of Herodes Atticus and Philopappos Monument.

Enjoy some of the very best Mediterranean cuisine and famous Greek dishes of moussaka, souvlaki, taramasalata, courgette balls or dolmades; taste the best fetta, olives and baklava, maybe indulge in octopus and other fresh seafood delicacies.

This is a great day to explore Piraeus, the glamorous Greek Riviera and Athens beaches. Journey along the Argosaronic Gulf coast road to the Greek Riviera, enjoy one of the spectacular beaches like Glyfada (where millionaires, and fashionistas come to soak up the sun), Agios Kosmas and Asteria - dotted with umbrella clad white sand beaches and glitzy marinas. Visit Lake Vouliagmeni, a warm saltwater lagoon whose waters are reputed to have therapeutic qualities. The bustling port city of Piraeus is dazzling in its scale with seemingly endless quays filled with ferries, ships and hydrofoils. Wander Mikrolimano harbour, lined with cosmopolitan cafes, restaurants and bars.

All 3 circular hop-on hop-off tours of Athens, Piraeus and the Greek Riviera (Apr-Oct) are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach Tour, Overnight Athens Hotel

DAY 5 Explore Athens & Welcome Dinner

Today meetup with your tour leader and get to know the rest of your fellow travellers on our fully escorted Greek Treasures adventure. Discuss the special activities that lie in store over the next week. In the evening we all enjoy a special Greek welcome dinner together with a choice of traditional local dishes and contemporary cuisine.

You’ll have plenty of time to relax today, maybe see some more of Athens, indulge in a little shopping, soak up some Mediterranean sun, enjoy a drink with your fellow travellers or simply take advantage of the leisure facilities of your hotel.

Dinner, Overnight Athens hotel

DAY 6 Athens to Thermopylae to Kalabaka (Meteora Hills)

Today we journey from Athens through the Greek countryside to Kalabaka with it’s remarkable Meteora cliff-top monasteries, visiting Thermopylae enroute.

Deriving its name from its hot sulphur springs, Thermopylae was once a narrow coastal passage and site of one of the greatest military feats of ancient times. Still legendary 2500 years on, this is the site where in 480BC, 300 Spartans sacrificed their lives to halt Xerxes’ vast Persian army. A large statue of Leonidas marks the battle site, while a museum recreates the battle in 3D.

Gateway to the famed Meteora monasteries, the township of Kalabaka is nestled beside a magnificent towering rock formation that seems to permeate the very streets themselves, affording the village a wild and inspiring ambiance. Burned to the ground during the German occupation of Greece in WWII, Kalabaka has been painstakingly rebuilt and retains a gorgeous old Byzantine church.

The extraordinary giant rock pinnacles of Meteora crowned by precariously perched Byzantine monasteries seemingly suspended in midair like something from a fairytale, are an awe inspiring sight to behold. These astonishing structures are set amidst a forest of mystical rock formations that rise up from the verdant valley beneath.

We visit a Byzantine art workshop under the hills of Meteora and see how Greek artists handcraft hagiographic art based on the traditional methods of old craftsmen of Meteora. Experience a sunset drive through the Meteora hills to witness the amazing panorama and incredible rock formations that have provided sacred cliff-top retreats for monks over the centuries. The view of this World Heritage Site is simply breathtaking, among the most beautiful areas of Greece.

We finish off the day with a traditional Greek dinner this evening.

Breakfast and Dinner, Overnight Kalabaka hotel

DAY 7 Kalabaka to Delphi

Enjoy free time in the town of Kalabaka this morning or join the optional tour of the monasteries of Meteora.

You can explore two spectacular cliff-top monasteries, discover the giant sandstone formations and more of the hills on the tour.

This afternoon we cross the mountains for central Greece to reach Delphi. Awarding views out over the Gulf of Corinth, the colourful village of Delphi is the stepping stone to what was for the ancient Greeks, the very centre of the world. A sacred place where Apollo would speak through the Oracle and offer cryptic predictions to the people. Framed by the soaring peaks of Mount Parnassós, Delphi unveils the remains of a once resplendent temple and a vast 5000 seat Amphitheatre dating back to the 4th Century BC.

Enjoy a tour of Delphi, with some time to explore for yourself (perhaps visit the ancient hillside sanctuary of Delphi) and a dinner this evening.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Kalabaka or enjoy the optional Monasteries of Meteora tour ($32). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast and Dinner, Overnight Delphi hotel

DAY 8 Delphi to Trizonia Island to Olympia

This morning enjoy some free time to explore the spectacular village of Delphi and pristine mountainside yourself or join an optional tour with a local guide.

We then journey along the Coast of Corinth to take a short boat ride to the colourful Greek island of Trizonia. Bathed in sunshine, with sparkling cerulean waters lapping at its peaceful shores, the tiny island of Trizonia is a hidden gem suspended in the Corinthian Gulf. Surrounded by lush uninhabited islets, the island’s charming natural harbour beckons; offering an escape from the hordes of backpackers and overcrowded beaches, whilst numerous tavernas and bars offer traditional Greek dishes, fresh seafood, and refreshing drinks in good company. Here you can soak up the traditional culture, tastes, sights and sounds yourself or join an optional lunch.

We then continue to ancient Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games in 776 BC. Nestled in the fertile plains of the Alfíos valley, Ancient Olympia village is located just outside the monumental archaeological site of Olympia; birthplace of the Olympic Games. Having hosted the most important Panhellenic games for over a millennia, today these evocative ruins unveil ancient athletic training areas, a once grandiose stadium and the remains of temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus dating back to the 7th Century BC.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Delphi or enjoy the optional ancient sites tour ($39); enjoy time to explore Trizonia your own way or join the optional Trizonia Lunch ($39) and this evening you will have some time to explore Olympia or join an optional Greek Dinner & Traditional Dancing tour ($63). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Olympia hotel

DAY 9 Olympia to Mycenae to Nafplion

This morning we explore the ancient Olympia site complex with an expert local guide, including the Temple of Zeus, the Palaestra and Phidias' workshop.

We then journey across the spectacular mountains of Peloponnese to arrive at Mycenae for our visit to the famous Lion’s Gate and tomb of King Agamemnon. Enjoy a walking tour with an expert guide to explore the ruins of this once powerful settlement, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece and the origin of many ancient Greek myths. Admire the breathtaking ruins of the “golden” city of Mycenae, once the most powerful kingdom in ancient Greece and home to the legendary kings Atreus and Agamemnon. Today the majestic Lions Gate still guards the entrance to the Mycenaean citadel, where six royal tombs and the remains of Heraion of Argos – a temple dedicated to the goddess Hera – stand steadfast.

After enjoying the included lunch at a local restaurant, we continue to the beautiful Nafplion (the first capital of modern Greece). A charming seaside village, Nafplio is one of the most picturesque towns in Greece. Beneath the towering Palamidi fortress, its romantic narrow streetscapes are graced with beautiful Venetian houses, neoclassical mansions, busy taverns and boutique hotels, all looking out to Bourtzi, the Venetian small fortress standing on the rocky islet of Agioi Theodoroi. A major port since the Bronze Age, it is dominated by Palamidi Castle. Enjoy some free time to explore the splendid narrow streets, admire the neo-classical architecture, take a stroll along the spectacular seafront promenade and enjoy the amazing views to the fortified Bourtzi islet.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Nafplion or enjoy the optional Guided tour of Epidaurus ($39). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast and Lunch, Overnight Nafplion hotel

DAY 10 Corinth Canal to Athens to Mykonos (Greek Islands)

This morning we witness the astounding 6km long Corinth Canal, with its narrow sheer cliff walls through which modern ships carefully pass from the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea. Completed in 1893, this navigational waterway is a grand engineering feat with a series of bridges crossing the ships’ route.

Stop off at the seaside township of Kamena Vourla set beside the crystalline azure waters of the Malian Gulf, against a backdrop of lush green hinterland and celebrated for its natural thermal springs believed to have therapeutic healing properties.

We continue to Athens for a special tour with an expert local guide to give a fresh perspective to the city’s ancient treasures. We then enjoy a delicious included lunch at a local restaurant in the trendy yet ancient Plaka neighbourhood.

Later we head to the historic and bustling port of Piraeus for a characterful local ferry cruise to start our Greek Island hopping to cosmopolitan Mykonos.

Breakfast and Lunch, cruise to Mykonos, Overnight Mykonos hotel

DAY 11: Explore Mykonos

The Greek islands ignite the imagination and satisfy the soul with picture-perfect hillside villages that hug glistening azure waters and are laced in history and mythical tales. Today will be a highlight of your incredible trip, as you explore the most glamourous of the Greek Islands adorned with incredible beauty. Mykonos boasts brilliant beaches, dazzling whitewashed villages and it’s instantly recognisable 16th century Venetian windmills. It’s chic bars and fashionable restaurants in the south attract an upscale, stylish, globe-trotting crowd. Discover the quieter charm of this iconic and historic Greek Island, with its myriad of breathtakingly photogenic towns and coastal landscapes where sparkling cerulean waters lap at the island’s secluded coves and striking white beaches.

Make the most of your first full day on Mykonos. Explore classic whitewashed houses built on a labyrinth of narrow streets (designed to thwart pirate attacks). Wander through Matoyianni Street - where it all happens, Alefkandra (little Venice) with it’s gorgeous web of little alleys, experience the colours of the Old Harbour, see the brilliant white Church of Panagia Paraportiani, check-out the more contemporary art at Rarity Gallery and Dio Horia. The world-famous Venetian windmills keep watch over the village from the hills above, built to mill wheat. Check-out the Aegean Maritime Museum and the Folklore Museum. Relax at one of the quiet beaches, like picture-perfect Agios Sostis. Treat yourself to souvlaki or gyro, maybe relax in one of the many traditional tavernas sipping ouzo (anise-flavoured spirt) or indulge in some of the most cosmopolitan and sophisticated restaurants and bars.

Today you’ll have the full day explore Mykonos your way or enjoy the optional Mykonos Island & Ano Mera Tour ($69). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Mykonos hotel

DAY 12 Explore Mykonos

There is so much to experience on your second day on this picture-perfect Greek Island; or maybe just kick-back into the renowned Mykonos vibe and enjoy the brilliant beaches.

Perhaps visit the nearby Greek island of Delos - the mythological birthplace of the sun god Apollo. This remarkable archaeological adventure will leave you in awe. Soak up the glory of this ancient Greek civilisation, discover the Avenue of Lions (incredible row of 7th-century marble-sculptures), the Doric Temple of the Delians, the Minoan Fountain, a series of market squares, the Theatre Quarter (with splendid mosaics) – then wander the trail to Mount Cynthus to marvel at the views of the beautiful Aegean Sea.

Today you’ll have the full day to explore Mykonos or enjoy the optional Delos Tour ($87) or take the South Coast Boat Trip ($118). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Mykonos hotel

DAY 13 Mykonos to Santorini (Greek Islands)

Enjoy the morning at leisure before we continue our island-hoping on a cruise through the sparkling Greek Islands to iconic Santorini.

Today will be another highlight of your incredible trip, it's hard not to be awed by the sheer cliffs that soar above a turquoise sea as you cruise into the spectacular caldera of Santoríni with its instantly recognisable blue domes.

Breakfast, cruise to Santorini, Overnight Santorini hotel

DAY 14 Explore Santorini

Famous the world over for its staggering beauty, witness the iconic whitewashed houses and alleyways of Santori. Clinging to the islands multicoloured cliffs, these striking white and blue labyrinths overlook the underwater volcanic crater that shaped Santori’s trademark landscape. Renowned for its dazzling ocean panoramas, fine wine served in tavernas hugging the cliffs and striking volcanic-sand beaches - Santorini's views will stop you in your tracks and you'll get to see how the A-listers travel.

Today you’ll have the full day to explore Santorini your way or enjoy the optional Santorini Island Day Tour ($71). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Santorini hotel

DAY 15 Explore Santorini

Santorini will also surprise you. Perhaps visit a cool microbrewery or a wine cavern adorned with artworks or experience a cooking demonstration that celebrates Santorini’s growing foodie culture. Maybe admire the panorama from one of the traditional tavernas enjoying local delicacies or just relax amongst the breathtaking beauty while lounging under a parasol next to the clear blue Aegean.

You could explore the island’s 4,000 years of visible history and incredible natural wonders. Maybe see red beach, a black beach, traditional local settlements, experience the 360-degree view of the island from Profitis Ilias mountain, visit the picturesque village of Oia, the Minoan Bronze-Age settlement archaeological site of Akrotiri or Perivolos Beach.

Today you’ll have time to explore Santorini or enjoy the optional Caldera Islands Tour ($58). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Santorini hotel

DAY 16 Santorini to Athens

Today we fly back from Santorini to Athens. You will be personally met by your HolidayMax representative at Athens Airport and transferred to your central Athens hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to make the most of your hotel’s facilities, perhaps take a stroll around the city on our final evening in alluring Athens.

Breakfast, Flight from Santorini to Athens, Meet and Greet Personalised Transfer, Overnight Athens Hotel

DAY 17 Say goodbye to Athens

You will be personally met at your hotel by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to Athens Airport for your flight home.

Meet and greet personalized departure airport transfer

DAY 18 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

Escorted Tour Details

Overview What to Expect Freedom and Flexibility Modern Coaches

Tour Leader Your Mobility & Fitness

+22 more images

Escorted Coach Touring

Cherish the unforgettable moments of your HolidayMax escorted tour featuring unparalleled sightseeing and enriching cultural experiences. We are passionate about showing you the heart of the destination, enabling you to be truly touched by new experiences.

Your knowledgeable Tour Leader and host will ensure you get the best personal experience on your journey. Tours feature all the must-see sights along with our little-known exclusive hidden gems and special touches in each destination, with plenty of free-time for you to take it all in for yourself. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your holiday in your free-time, including whole free-days that give you a choice of activities to suit your mood on the day.

Stay in quality handpicked hotels. Savour deliciously authentic local dining in outstanding restaurants with a mouth-watering array of culinary experiences. Travel in large modern coaches with expansive windows for an incredible elevated view, in your comfortable seat with generous legroom.

Experience HolidayMax’s renowned immersive touring or river cruising. Join us on an unforgettable journey of discovery. We’ve taken care of the details; you just need to relax and embrace your sense of adventure.

Videos & Images

Last Few Deals Remaining

Greek Island Hopping with Mainland Treasures Tour

18 Day Touring Package

Limited Availability at these prices. Deal ends soon. Questions? Call 1300 887 469 or Click to Ask Us

Sold-Out

* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp472