Say opa! to a Greek adventure which kicks off in Athens and explores two glittering island gems in the Aegean. Discover the treasures of an ancient world before spending a glorious week getting lost in the labyrinthine lanes of Santorini and Mykonos. You'll combine your love for history with laid-back island life, visiting secret coves, seaside cafés and rambling ruins built to honour gods and goddesses. These remain as a testament to the lynchpin role ancient Greece once played in shaping western civilisation as we know it today.
Travel Style - Costsaver
Essentials By Us. Tailored By You.
Optionalexperience IconEXPLORE YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES ON YOUR DAY BY DAY ITINERARY
Let it sink in - the fact that you're standing in what was once the centre of the western world, where the likes of Socrates, Aristotle and Plato offered their wisdom and insights which have stood the test of time. Your launch pad to a Greek island adventure begins in the capital, where you'll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel. There's plenty of time to relax on the islands, so lace up your walking shoes and discover the city your way. Later, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a glimpse into what lies ahead.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Zafolia
Day 2
Athens sightseeing and free time
The Acropolis looms large over Athens and today you'll get up close and personal with this ancient citadel. Your Local Specialist reveals its extraordinary history that spans thousands of years as you view the archaeological remains of temples, theatres and the mighty Parthenon, considered the most important building to survive from Classical Greece. You'll view the Panathinaiko Olympic Stadium, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, stopping in Syntagma Square to admire the curiously clad Evzone guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The rest of the day is yours to explore Athens on your terms, but with ancient history on your mind you may wish to embark on an Optional Experience to see the 5th-century BC Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. This evening, if the sizzle of street food hasn't already captured your attention, you may wish to join your fellow travellers for an optional traditional dinner at a favourite city taverna.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Cape Sounion
Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, thereby giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
Adult Price: €45.00*
Traditional Greek Taverna Meal With Entertainment
This is an evening excursion to a taverna in the centre of Athens. Enjoy excellent traditional Greek food in a lively atmosphere while being entertained by dances and music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are also included. Although the venue does have an official ending time, guests are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in with the local residents! (Casual dress)
Adult Price: €55.00*
Dinner "Meze" Style In Psiri With Acropolis Illuminations
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at a wonderful restaurant located in the lively area of Psiri. Dining is “meze style”, giving you the opportunity to taste many Greek cuisine dishes, which are served in the centre of the table. Also enjoy the local free-flowing wine! Afterwards, see the Acropolis beautifully illuminated as you return to your hotel. (Casual dress)
Adult Price: €50.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
Day 3
Athens – Santorini (3 Nights)
Don't resist the urge to slow it all down as you leave the busy cityscape behind and catch a high-speed ferry to Santorini. The spectacular volcanic eruption in 1646 BC had quite the magic touch on its dramatic landscape. After checking in and an orientation tour, you'll have some time on your own, followed by dinner at your hotel.
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Senses Of Santorini And Oia Sunset
We drive to Baxedes to visit our acclaimed local winery. We enjoy a variety of local “meze” (Greek hors d’oeurves) which will enchant your taste buds; sample the locally produced wines, walk in the vineyards, see the “kalathies” vines and the unique way that locals have grown grapes for centuries. Take a short drive to the spectacular village of Oia. Walk through the marble streets with time at leisure in the village for magnificent photos. Stroll to our chosen spot to marvel at the sunset, perhaps enjoy local delicacies at a local restaurants of your choice. Oia will delight your senses! Wine tasting and light snack included. Dinner not included.
Adult Price: €49.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
Day 4
Santorini free time
Don't waste a second of your time lazing on the sun-soaked beaches of Santorini when you can ascend to its highest point for stunning views instead. This Optional Experience will reveal the iconic landscapes of the Cyclades you've only seen in photographs - the gleaming whitewashed buildings, cerulean blue domes and tumbling cerise bougainvillea. An alternative Optional Experience could see you board a caïque fishing boat to the volcano instead, soaking in its warm thermal waters and healing mud against the backdrop of Santorini's enchanting cliff-top villages. This evening, there's no better place to bid farewell to another beautiful island day than in Oia. After an optional afternoon wine tasting paired with local meze, you'll stroll through its marble streets to our favourite sunset spot to capture the Instagram shot of the trip.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Santorini Island Tour With Visit To Akrotiri
Drive to Profitis Ilias, the highest point, for stunning views of the island, before we make our way to the village of Pyrgos, to see the iconic blue domed churches and classic Cycladic architecture. We visit the prehistoric Akrotiri – a Bronze Age settlement destroyed by a huge eruption in the 17th century BC, buried under the volcanic ash, preserving the whole city. It is often referred often as “Prehistoric Pompei” Afterwards we head for the black sand beach of Perivolos, passing picturesque villages. Enjoy time at leisure on the black beach for a swim, have lunch or do both. Lunch not included.
Adult Price: €62.00*
Sunset On Board
This afternoon we board our large wooden “caique” and set off to the Volcano. Choose to climb up to the top of the volcano and experience a dormant volcano, or perhaps stay on board, relax and enjoy the amazing view. Afterwards, swim in the hot springs and enjoy the natural spa like feeling of the thermal waters and its warm mud full of healing properties. A casual dinner with wine on board, with music, marvel at the sunset and the breathtaking village of Oia high above on the Cliffside. Price does not include entrance to Volcano.
Adult Price: €85.00*
Traditional Greek Wedding Show
This evening you are invited to take part as a guest in a traditional Greek wedding. A life changing ceremony, a group celebration. Be part of the story. Meet the family. Eat, drink, dance, and break plates. The custom is traditional. The experience is not! This Greek Wedding Show is not only a Greek Night, but an unforgettable interactive musical experience!
Adult Price: €55.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
Day 5
Santorini free time
Indulge in another full day to explore Santorini your way. You could choose one of several Optional Experiences to fill the day or stroll through Fira's narrow streets shopping for last-minute souvenirs, clothing and jewellery. Incredible views of the Caldera are never far as you explore the island's ancient paths, villages and beaches on your own. Why not make the most of your final evening in Santorini, sampling the local culinary delights with uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea? There's always time for one last ouzo.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 6
Santorini – Mykonos (3 Nights)
Bound for the island playground of Mykonos. All that stands between you and the sun-kissed shores of the Cyclades is a short high-speed ferry ride. After transferring to your hotel and a short orientation tour, Mykonos is yours for the taking so don't hold back and seek out your favourite island spots for the rest of your stay. Whitewashed houses line the narrow streets and life is rather idyllic behind the colourful wooden shutters that shield the locals from the warm Mediterranean sun. Dinner tonight is included and you'll need no excuse to stay out late, indulging in the island's renowned nightlife.
Snap your fingers and you'll be on the other side of the island. Well, almost. You could choose to spend your day exploring tiny Mykonos your way or join your fellow travellers for an optional Island Tour driving through arid landscapes to some of its most celebrated beaches. Before you dip your toes into the water, you'll visit Ano Mera village whose 16th-century monastery is dedicated to the protectress of Mykonos. Then continue to the beautiful Blue Flag beach of Kalafatis to enjoy a cruise on a traditional caïque fishing boat, where the cocktails are cold, and the party never ends.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 8
Mykonos free time
Grab your front-row seat to the goings-on in Mykonos's old port as you sit perched on one of the brightly painted wooden balconies characteristic of Little Venice. There's time today to wander through the shopping streets of Chora village and see the 16th-century windmills of Kato Mili that look out over the bay. For history lovers, there's no better way to spend your day than joining an optional visit to nearby Delos, the legendary birthplace of Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. On this captivating exploration of what was once the most important site in ancient Greece, you'll see many artefacts that have been collected in the ruins of this sacred site. After a day of sightseeing, you'll want to make the most of your final evening in this island playground. Seek out a taverna with beautiful views of the sunset and toast to another day in paradise with new friends.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Ancient Delos
We take a boat ride to Delos, once a Sacred Island, the legendary birthplace of God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. Today Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites of the eastern Mediterranean. We see amongst others, the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the sanctuary of Artemis, the old city and the theatre and then walk down the celebrated Lion Street. In the museum of Delos one can admire Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Sculptures, a collection of vessels from all periods as well as small items of everyday use. Transfers to/from port and entrance included.
Adult Price: €70.00*
Mykonos Island Tour
Today we explore the vibrant Island of Mykonos, driving through amazing Cycladic landscapes, admiring some of its splendid beaches and scenic locations. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the every-day Mykonian life and connect with the legends and stories linked to this island. Our exploration begins with Ano Mera traditional village and its famous Monastery dedicated to the protector of the island, as we continue with the blue flag awarded Kalafatis beach and perhaps enjoy a swim in the beautiful Aegean sea .
Adult Price: €64.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
Day 9
Mykonos – Athens (1 Night)
Leaving island life behind, it's time to return to Athens for a final exhilarating encounter with the vibrant Greek capital. Transfer to your Athens hotel, then spend the evening in the narrow lanes of Plaka following your nose past its 19th-century façades to find the best souvlaki in town. A lively evening lies ahead if you've yet to have your fill of good times with good friends. Keep your toes tapping to the street music that fills the air and find a taverna with your name on it.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Zafolia
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 10
Depart Athens
Your journey through Athens and the Greek islands reveals why ancient Greece was the chosen land for gods and goddesses, philosophers, poets and famous personalities. As you prepare for your return journey and long after you arrive home, you'll remember the generous spirit, postcard-perfect scenery and legacy of the ancients that are among the many gifts that Greece has given you. Say farewell to your new friends at the end of your holiday. Find out more about your free airport transfer at costsavertour.com/freetransfers.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optionalexperience Icon HERE'S A SAMPLE OF YOUR CHOICE OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Available on day 2
Cape Sounion
Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, thereby giving his name to the Aegean Sea.
Adult Price: €45.00*
Available on day 2
Traditional Greek Taverna Meal With Entertainment
This is an evening excursion to a taverna in the centre of Athens. Enjoy excellent traditional Greek food in a lively atmosphere while being entertained by dances and music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are also included. Although the venue does have an official ending time, guests are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in with the local residents! (Casual dress)
Adult Price: €55.00*
Available on day 2
Dinner "Meze" Style In Psiri With Acropolis Illuminations
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at a wonderful restaurant located in the lively area of Psiri. Dining is “meze style”, giving you the opportunity to taste many Greek cuisine dishes, which are served in the centre of the table. Also enjoy the local free-flowing wine! Afterwards, see the Acropolis beautifully illuminated as you return to your hotel. (Casual dress)
Adult Price: €50.00*
Available on day 3
Senses Of Santorini And Oia Sunset
We drive to Baxedes to visit our acclaimed local winery. We enjoy a variety of local “meze” (Greek hors d’oeurves) which will enchant your taste buds; sample the locally produced wines, walk in the vineyards, see the “kalathies” vines and the unique way that locals have grown grapes for centuries. Take a short drive to the spectacular village of Oia. Walk through the marble streets with time at leisure in the village for magnificent photos. Stroll to our chosen spot to marvel at the sunset, perhaps enjoy local delicacies at a local restaurants of your choice. Oia will delight your senses! Wine tasting and light snack included. Dinner not included.
Adult Price: €49.00*
Available on day 4
Santorini Island Tour With Visit To Akrotiri
Drive to Profitis Ilias, the highest point, for stunning views of the island, before we make our way to the village of Pyrgos, to see the iconic blue domed churches and classic Cycladic architecture. We visit the prehistoric Akrotiri – a Bronze Age settlement destroyed by a huge eruption in the 17th century BC, buried under the volcanic ash, preserving the whole city. It is often referred often as “Prehistoric Pompei” Afterwards we head for the black sand beach of Perivolos, passing picturesque villages. Enjoy time at leisure on the black beach for a swim, have lunch or do both. Lunch not included.
Adult Price: €62.00*
Available on day 4
Sunset On Board
This afternoon we board our large wooden “caique” and set off to the Volcano. Choose to climb up to the top of the volcano and experience a dormant volcano, or perhaps stay on board, relax and enjoy the amazing view. Afterwards, swim in the hot springs and enjoy the natural spa like feeling of the thermal waters and its warm mud full of healing properties. A casual dinner with wine on board, with music, marvel at the sunset and the breathtaking village of Oia high above on the Cliffside. Price does not include entrance to Volcano.
Adult Price: €85.00*
Available on day 4
Traditional Greek Wedding Show
This evening you are invited to take part as a guest in a traditional Greek wedding. A life changing ceremony, a group celebration. Be part of the story. Meet the family. Eat, drink, dance, and break plates. The custom is traditional. The experience is not! This Greek Wedding Show is not only a Greek Night, but an unforgettable interactive musical experience!
Adult Price: €55.00*
Available on day 8
Ancient Delos
We take a boat ride to Delos, once a Sacred Island, the legendary birthplace of God Apollo and his twin sister Artemis. Today Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites of the eastern Mediterranean. We see amongst others, the remains of the Temple of Apollo, the sanctuary of Artemis, the old city and the theatre and then walk down the celebrated Lion Street. In the museum of Delos one can admire Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman Sculptures, a collection of vessels from all periods as well as small items of everyday use. Transfers to/from port and entrance included.
Adult Price: €70.00*
Available on day 8
Mykonos Island Tour
Today we explore the vibrant Island of Mykonos, driving through amazing Cycladic landscapes, admiring some of its splendid beaches and scenic locations. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the every-day Mykonian life and connect with the legends and stories linked to this island. Our exploration begins with Ano Mera traditional village and its famous Monastery dedicated to the protector of the island, as we continue with the blue flag awarded Kalafatis beach and perhaps enjoy a swim in the beautiful Aegean sea .
Adult Price: €64.00*
*We're always sourcing more great experiences for you to choose from. When you join us on your tour, your Travel Director will share the most up to date choices for your trip and travel season. For this reason, the optional experiences and pricing offered here are a guide only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist includes a visit to the magnificent Acropolis and views of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch
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Mykonos
Orientation of the port and Mykonos town includes a walk along the narrow cobbled streets and your Travel Director will provide information on beaches and sightseeing opportunities
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Santorini
Enjoy an orientation of the town of Fira with the views over the caldera and your Travel Director will provide information on beaches and sightseeing opportunities
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT ON EVERY TRIP
Unique or exclusive to Costsaver, here’s a sample of what’s included in your trip.
Audio Headsets provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
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Luxury air-conditioned coach
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High-speed ferries from Piraeus to Santorini, Santorini to Mykonos and Mykonos to Piraeus, subject to availability and weather conditions
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
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Variety of Optional Experiences
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City orientation tours
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
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All hotel service charges and tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes
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Airport transfers are provided on the first and last travel day. Conditions apply.
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LIVE, UNEDITED & INDEPENDENT TRAVELLERS REVIEWS
Greek Island Explorer Trip Reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
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5
The hotels were great, and the itinerary was busy yet so relaxed. I learned so much from the local specialists as well.
We had the best travel director EVER! Nadine is fantastic. She knows and is beloved by other tour directors, bus drivers, local specialists and knows all the best places. She is someone that knows how to provide amazing experiences and to have fun. I didn't know what to expect, with Nadine I never worried about a thing, all questions were answered, always all the little details considered.
Itinerary: Occasionally the itinerary may be altered due to sailing conditions on the Aegean Sea, religious holidays or any other unforeseen circumstances.
Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
Your selected dates have an enhanced itinerary.
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You’ll be travelling in Autumn, Winter or Spring, and this itinerary has been enhanced for you to enjoy the unique experiences these seasons offer.
