People have been traveling to Greece since the time of Antiquity, and even today – thousands of years later – some of its ancient culture seems to have fondly rubbed off on us. We know, for example, how the gods punished Odysseus with a cruel fate at sea – and that Paris foolishly kidnapped Helen, which started the Trojan War. We know how an arrow hit Achilles in quite an unfortunate spot. We recall that Zeus dealt rebellious Atlas a very heavy punishment and that Theseus killed the Minotaur. And we know that Greece has been a travel destination since Jason sought the Golden Fleece and Zeus fathered Hercules.
Mythological references aside – Greece is the birthplace of democracy, of the Olympics, of comedy, of Homer, Aristotle, Plato, Socrates, Alexander the Great and Pythagoras. Greece has formed the backbone of so much of our Western culture. And in terms of patrimony – Greece is filthy rich. It is home to no fewer than 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And for those who aren't thinking of history, culture, philosophy, drama, mathematics, democracy and epic poetry while on vacation (fair enough), Greece is home to over 1000 beautiful islands in the azure waters of the Aegean Sea – and to beaches with white, black and red sand . It is also home to ouzo, excellent wines, tasty lamb, fresh fish, tzatziki, spanakopita, moussaka and very kind people.
Allow our Groups Department Team at Europe Express to collaborate with you to customize your group's ideal trip. We regularly handle groups of all sizes and work directly with deluxe hotels as well as budget-conscious properties. Let our team create a truly memorable vacation experience in Greece that meets your group's interests, expectations and budget.
Treasures of the Ancient World: Greek Islands and Turkey Cruise – 8 Days
This itinerary is absolutely ideal for travelers who are eager to experience the world's greatest attractions from the ancient world – from the comfort of a relaxing cruise ship. The histories of Greece and Turkey have been overlapping since the time of Antiquity. Both nations are connected to some of history's (and mythology's) best characters and moments. Combine the capital city of Athens with truly fascinating, ancient sightseeing in both Greece & Turkey. Then stir in gorgeous views and the blue waters of the Aegean – what vacation recipe could be better?
Highlights and Inclusions
Guided walking tour of Hora
Visit ancient Ephesus, home to Turkey's version of Pompeii and believed to be the last home of the Virgin Mary
Explore Patmos, home to the Monastery of St. John
Visit Crete, home of the ancient Minoan Civilization
Explore the dramatically beautiful, volcanic island of Santorini
Traditional Greek dinner with Bouzouki music and folk dancers in Athens
Accommodations: Athens 1 night, cruise ship to Greek and Turkish islands 4 nights, Athens 2 nights
Meals: Continental breakfast daily. Lunch and dinner as noted in itinerary
Ground transportation via air conditioned luxury coach
English speaking assistants and guides
Admission tickets as outlined in itinerary
Athens, Mykonos & Santorini – 13 Days
This itinerary will take you to Greece's most-loved destinations. (It's ideal for a group who has never been to Greece before and wants to visit the main sights). During this trip your group will have three days in Athens to visit the remarkable attractions of this most ancient city. You will daytrip to nearby islands, and spend several days on the favorite island destinations of lively Mykonos and serene Santorini. Archeological sightseeing includes visits to Athens' Acropolis, the Arch of Hadrian, the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Poseidon, the sacred island of Delos, the Minoan site of Akrotiri – and the ruins of Mycenae. There is also plenty of downtime to relax on the beautiful beaches, shop and explore on your own.
Highlights and Inclusions
Visit the temples of Zeus, Poseidon and Athena
Folkloric music night in an Athens taverna restaurant
Daytrip to the island of Delos, the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis
Fill out the details for your clients' vacation including dates, destinations and preferences. Once you've submitted your request, we'll create the itinerary and send it your way.
If you have less than 10 people traveling together, please submit an FIT quote. With more than 10 people traveling together, request a custom quote from our Groups Department.
