This vacation offers the best of Athens plus a cruise to Mykonos for a 3-night-stay, a high-speed express ferry cruise to Santorini for a 3-night-stay, and a flight back to Athens.
Itinerary:
Day #1 Arrive in Athens, Greece. Welcome to Athens! At 6 pm, meet your Globus Host and traveling companions for a welcome drink.
Day #2 Athens. Sightseeing with a Local Guide features a visit to the Parthenon atop the ACROPOLIS, an enduring symbol of ancient Greece and one of the world’s greatest cultural monuments. Also visit the Erechtheum with its Porch of Maidens, the beautifully preserved Theseum, Roman temple of Zeus, theater of Dionysus, and the Agora where Socrates taught. Vistas of the government buildings and elegant homes in the modern city provide a striking contrast to the remains of the glorious past. Tonight, why not try out local fare and entertainment reminiscent of Zorba the Greek. (B)
Day #3 Athens–Piraeus (Embarkation)–Mykonos. Head for the port of Piraeus or Rafina this morning. Around 7:30 am, sail into the deep blue waters of the Aegean Sea. Later, dock at the mountainous island of Mykonos, where mythology’s Heracles defeated and killed the giants. Here, characteristic windmills, swaying palm and eucalyptus trees, and dazzling white Cycladic architecture greet you. At a local restaurant this evening, sample local specialties, like louza loukaniko (sausage) and kopanisti (peppery goat cheese), then mingle with the locals at a quaint taverna or take a bus to the main square of Mando Mavrogenous. (B,D)
Day #4 Mykonos. The granite island of Mykonos is one of the most characteristic of the Cyclades and has retained its timeless beauty. Walk through the network of narrow streets and visit the CHURCH OF AGIA KIRIAKI, renowned for its beautiful icons. Be sure to watch for Petros the Pelican, the island’s celebrated mascot. Afternoon at leisure to relax or for individual activities. (B)
Day #5 At Leisure on Mykonos. A whole day to do just as you please. Relax in the sun on one of the beautiful golden sandy beaches or take a short boat ride to see the archaeological ruins on the nearby island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Inhabited since the 3rd millennium BC, Delos was known in ancient times as a sacred sanctuary and, later, as the birthplace of the gods Apollo and Artemis. (B)
Day #6 Mykonos–Santorini. Today, board a high-speed EXPRESS FERRY and sail to Santorini (Thera), the stunning “Black Pearl of the Aegean” and, according to some, site of the legendary lost continent of Atlantis. Tonight, enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant. (B,D)
Day #7 Santorini. Spend the morning getting acquainted with the history and creation of Santorini. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and enjoy the local atmosphere. Later, maybe relax in one of the many cafés. (B)
Day #8 At Leisure on the Island of Santorini. Colorful sun-soaked beaches, stunning views, and tastings at famous local wineries are yours for discovering in your free time today. Another possibility: an optional excursion to the cliff-top village of Oia for one of the world’s most breathtaking panoramas. Also consider a caique ride to the uninhabited volcanic islet of Nea Kamini for a dip in its hot springs. Located within Santorini’s flooded caldera, legend says this was a purgatory to where Santorini vampires were banished. (B)
Day #9 Santorini–Flight to Athens. Enjoy a morning at leisure before transferring to the airport for your flight to Athens. This evening is your chance to join an optional dinner in a romantic restaurant. (B)
Day #10 Athens. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Hotels:
ATHENS Radisson Blu Park (SF)
MYKONOS Manoulas Beach (F) at Agios Ioannis
SANTORINI El Greco (F) at Fira