Greek Islands
10 Day Tour
Greek Islands
September 16 – 27, 2023
Leave your cares behind on the sun-drenched islands of Greece where spectacular sunsets bathe iconic white-washed towns in golden light and the gentle waves of the Azure Sea roll onto sandy beaches. You will travel inward to villages deep in the hills: where time is slowed and you will see people still working at ancient crafts, where you will eat at local tavernas exclaiming over the delicious combinations of food and flavours unique to each island, where you will walk footpaths through surprising landscapes and swim in the warm waters of quiet bays, where visits to magnificent ancient sites with mythic stories will draw you back in time. This is a tour that captures splendid Athens and the heart of the Greek Isles. A dreamy journey beginning in Athens and continuing to the islands of Tinos, Naxos and Santorini – spread like Greek jewels across the sea. Nearing each shore, you will feel the excitement of what you are soon to explore accompanied by our local Greek guide. Like getting to know a new friend, each island offers its special character; its magical blend of culture, history, landscapes, and foods that ends in the warmth and pleasure of what will be an endearing relationship. The Greek goddesses beckon you and so do we! Join us.
This trip is appropriate for travellers who are in good health and are comfortable with full-day excursions. Participants with basic good balance, mobility, and moderate fitness level should not require physical preparation to enjoy the various activities of this tour. Walking on uneven terrain, sometimes uphill, walking and standing for long periods of time during guided tours, easy physical activities, stairways sometimes without handles, absence of elevators, and getting on and off various modes of transportation unassisted can be expected.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
- Private group transfers based on designed group air arrival/departure times
- Private transportation on air-conditioned bus as per itinerary
- 11 nights’ accommodation – 2 nights Athens, 3 nights Tinos, 3 nights Naxos, 3 nights Santorini
- Daily breakfast, 2 lunches, 8 Dinners
- Domestic flights Santorini to Athens
- Ferry tickets economy class to Tinos, Naxos, and Santorini
- Sightseeing & entrance fees as per itinerary
- Highlights include Acropolis & Museum, village tours, Marble Museum, cooking class, Sunset Cruise and more!
- Services of an English-speaking local guide
- Services of a Broad Escapes Tour Manager
- Includes all applicable taxes and service charges
- 24-hour Ellison Travel & Tours emergency contact number while on tour
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
- Insurance has not been included as part of your tour package. Broad Escapes strongly recommends the purchase of Manulife Insurance coverage for Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, COVID-19 Travel Plan, Comprehensive Assistance, Health Coverage, Individual Accident Coverage and Baggage and Personal Effects Insurance. Contact us for rates and complete details.
- International airfare – Inquire with us about group space
- Passport, visas, government processing fees, vaccinations, COVID tests, if required at time of travel
- Luggage handling
- Beverages
- Meals not mentioned
- Items of personal nature
- Gratuities
- Additional taxes, fuel surcharges or service charges levied by the governments or our suppliers
OPTIONS
- International Flights – A designated flight from Toronto will be assigned. We would be pleased to book your flights from Toronto or any other departure gateway.
- Arrival and departure transfers – for those not arriving & departing on group flights
Please Note: Proof of medical insurance coverage is mandatory to participate in this tour. Broad Escapes strongly recommends the purchase of Manulife Insurance coverage for Cancellation and Interruption Insurance, and Comprehensive Assistance, Health Coverage, Individual Accident Coverage and Baggage and Personal Effects Insurance. Contact your agent for rates and complete details.
Day 1 | Saturday, September 16 (D)
ARRIVAL IN ATHENS
Independent arrival at Athens International Airport. Upon arrival meet our private group transfer and check in to our centrally located hotel. In the afternoon meet our Greek local guide who will welcome and introduce us to wondrous Athens with an orientation walk in its historic centre, where the past stands out and the present is very much alive. This evening, gather with fellow travellers for a welcome dinner in this iconic ancient city.
Overnight Philipos Hotel (or similar) – 2 nights
Note: This is a land only tour, however, Broad Escapes will have a designated flight from Toronto. The group transfer will be based on the recommended group flight arrival time. Private transfers (additional cost) can be arranged for those arriving at a different time/date. Flights from all gateways can be arranged through Broad Escapes.
Day 2 | Sunday, September 17 (B/D)
ATHENS DISCOVERY DAY
Rise this morning for a half day walking tour of the two most important sites of Athens, the magnificent Acropolis, and the stunning Acropolis Museum. If there are 2 things you should visit in Athens, it’s the Acropolis and its museum. We’ll take time to look closely at the Acropolis, the heart of the city of Athens, along with its main buildings: the Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Propylaea, and, of course, the Parthenon. As we explore the sites, we’ll discuss their history, from construction to ruin, gaining insight into ancient Greek history and the role of religion in Athenian culture. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to wander around this incredible city at your leisure before we reunite for dinner this evening.
Day 3 | Monday, September 18 (B/D)
TRAVEL TO TINOS
Rise and shine! It’s time to explore the Greek Islands! We begin with our first ferry crossing to the enchanting island of Tinos – a wonderland of natural beauty, dotted with traditional villages. Scattered across the countryside you’ll see ornate dovecotes, a legacy of the Venetians. The island has strong artistic traditions, especially for marble sculpting. Tinos is part of the Cyclades Islands in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Its picturesque bays, terraced hills and lovely beaches captivate, and the food is said to be some of the best in Greece! Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel and settle into the slow-paced rhythm of the island: our home for the next three nights.
Overnight Onar Hotel (or similar) – 3 nights
Day 4 | Tuesday, September 19 (B/D)
TINOS VILLAGES EXPLORATION
Lace up your shoes for a morning walking tour of Tinos town with our guide. We’ll start with the glorious marble Church of Panagia Evangelistria, learning why it is a most important pilgrimage site for the Greek Orthodox religion. In the afternoon, we journey through the delightful Tinos landscape to discover the renowned “Marble Villages”. Saunter along whitewashed narrow alleys bursting with bright, colourful flowers and admire the marble ornamented buildings, fountains, and sculptures – all part of what appears as an outdoor architectural museum or the prettiest movie set. Enjoy a swim in warm, clear waters at one of the many beaches or a light hike during one of our stops. Be awed by spectacular views before a relaxing sunset dinner.
Day 5 | Wednesday, September 20 (B/L)
TINOS CULINARY DELIGHTS
Start this day of exploration with a light hike in the countryside through a fertile valley to a local village. Here we’ll be welcomed into a home for an authentic farm to table culinary experience. Learn to cook some of the famous recipes of Tinos, using local cheese, the famous Tinos artichokes, and vegetables from the garden. Savour the culinary delicacies before visiting more remote villages including Volax, known for its unique granite boulder formations, and the home of the last remaining traditional bamboo basket weavers. Wander the shops and visit local artisans before returning to our hotel for an evening at leisure.
Day 6 | Thursday, September 21 (B/D)
TRAVEL TO NAXOS
Onward we hop by ferry to our next island – Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades Islands. We arrive in a place that was once the cultural centre of Classical Greece and Byzantium with Venetian influences also leaving their mark. Enjoy an afternoon guided walking tour beginning with Naxos’ most famous landmark the “Portara” – Temple of Apollo with an introduction about the history of the island. From the gorgeous waterfront of the port through the winding, cobbled streets of the old town, we’ll eye the sumptuous Venetian mansions as we wind our way towards the spectacular hilltop location of the Castle. Be mesmerized by the impressive monuments, the narrow alleyways, medieval architecture, and the magnificent views of this ancient town. Re-live the town’s history as our expert guide tells the stories of Naxos’ early Cycladic past, Medieval and modern times. Later, settle into our hotel and gather this evening for dinner.
Overnight Naxos Hotel (or similar) – 3 nights
Day 7 | Friday, September 22 (B/D)
NAXOS FREE DAY
Today is a day at leisure to explore on your own or together with fellow travellers. Relax, unwind, go for a swim, or explore the sites. Our local guide will be available to recommend sites, beaches, hikes, restaurants, shopping, and other activities. Enjoy the day at your own pace and reunite in the evening to chat about the day’s fun explorations over dinner.
Day 8 | Saturday, September 23 (B/L)
EXPLORATION OF NAXOS NORTHERN VILLAGES
Today we will visit the less known, remote, and more authentic Naxian Villages. On our way we’ll stop at an Olive Press Museum to learn the traditions of olive oil production followed by a tasting. Continue towards the north to the quaint mountainous village of Koronos. Known for it magnificent views, whitewashed courtyards, and traditional island architecture, Koronos is a beautiful village to explore, and a great place to stop for a refreshment. Are you ready to hit the beach? Through the mountains and diverse landscapes we’ll go to the picturesque Bay of Lionas for a swim in the crystal-clear waters. Far away from crowds, this secluded fishing village is the ideal setting to swim, relax and gaze into the immense blue water horizon. Enjoy lunch in a beachside taverna before returning for an evening at leisure.
Day 9 | Sunday, September 24 (B/D)
TRAVEL TO SANTORINI
Today we will travel by ferry to Santorini, the most visited of the Greek Islands. The enthralling sunsets, the minimal Cycladic architecture, the delicious restaurants, the dramatic rocky landscape, and the volcano are just some of the reasons you’ll love this unique island! After check-in, get to know the island with an orientation tour to some of the island highlights including Oia, the Red Beach, Megalochori village, Profitis Ilias & the Lighthouse. The day ends with dinner in the vibrant, main town of gorgeous Fira on the caldera’s edge.
Overnight Loizos Hotel (or similar) – 3 nights
Day 10 | Monday, September 25 (B)
SANTORINI EXPLORATION
Enjoy a guided walking tour on Santorini’s most impressive path, on the rim of the famous volcanic caldera. Follow the footsteps of ancient merchants, farmers, and sailors, and experience a once in a lifetime adventure. This path will take us along the edge of the volcano that inspired the myth of Atlantis. Meander through traditional whitewashed settlements, at the only inhabited caldera in the world. Marvel at the azure sea and the breath-taking landscape, while learning about the rich myths and history of Santorini. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore on your own the majestic views, alleys, shops and beaches of Santorini.
Day 11 | Tuesday, September 26 B/D
SANTORINI SUNSET CRUISE
Today we have a morning at leisure in Santorini but “don’t miss the boat” for our afternoon cruise! Pack your bathing suit and camera for an extraordinary sailing adventure. Stop in Thirassia island for a refreshing swim and snorkelling before continuing towards the volcano and the hot springs. Sail close to the impressive Black Rock of the Indian, the White Beach and Red Beach. Be mesmerized by the stunning coastline, the unique caldera, and the spectacular colours of the sunset before ending the day reminiscing with fellow BE travellers over an on-board, sumptuous farewell dinner.
Day 10 | Wednesday, September 27 (B)
DEPARTURE
Sadly, our Greek Adventure is coming to an end. Transfer this morning to the Santorini airport for a morning flight back to Athens Airport where we say farewell!
B – Breakfast / L – Lunch / D – Dinner
denotes meals included in tour cost
Note: Travel times are based on averages and include the scheduled stops planned in the day’s itinerary. **While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary described above, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the tour. Due to traffic or other circumstances beyond our control, it may be necessary or desirable to make alterations. Broad Escapes reserves the right to change the itinerary when deemed necessary.**
$7,495 CAD
twin occupancy
Based on a minimum
maximum 16 passengers
Single Supplement $1645 CAD
Deposit $700 & insurance due: at time of booking
Balance due: July 16, 2023
Liz Chase
Everyone has turning points in their lives. One of mine was my very first overseas trip at the age of twelve to Algeria – I was over-awed and fascinated! Since then I’ve pursued my love for travel around the globe; attending school in Denmark and the U.S., working in France, guiding powder ski tours in Japan, and planning and creating holiday travel adventures in 38 countries so far. Travel can be transformative and provide experiences and connections to people that surprise and delight. This is the magic of travel.
With a diverse professional background in corporate marketing, non-profit community building and client services, creating and implementing simple and grand plans comes naturally.
The outdoors is my second home with a particular passion for going up and down mountains on skis, mountain bike or on foot!
Life is an amazing journey, best shared – and in wondrous places! I’m excited to share with you, on your next Broad Escapes experience!