Steeped in history, Greece offers a diverse mixture of ancient history, spectacular scenery, famous beaches, bustling cities, beautiful islands and idyllic towns. From archaeological wonders on the mainland to island hopping in the Aegean Sea, our Greek Odyssey will take you on an amazing adventure to discover the best Greece has to offer, past and present.
 |
Duration: |
19 days (16 nights hotels, 2 nights camping) |
Location: |
Greece mainland, Rhodes, Crete and Cyclades Islands |
Ages: |
14-18 years (coed) |
Groups: |
Average of 10-24 participants and 2-3 leaders |
Dates: |
July 6-24
July 29-Aug 16 |
Begins: |
Athens, Greece |
Ends: |
Athens, Greece |
Price: |
US $4,195 |
|
|
Trip Activities
Archaeological wonders, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, cultural and historic sites, castles, monasteries, island hopping, beaches, walks and hikes, city exploration, towns and villages.
Trip Highlights
Discover major archaeological and historical sites on the Greek mainland (Delphi, Epidaurus, Olympia, Meteora) and in the revitalized city of Athens (Acropolis, Parthenon, Plaka district), before heading off to enjoy spectacular beaches and explore quaint towns on five of the islands (Rhodes, Crete, Santorini, Naxos, Mykonos) in the beautiful Aegean Sea.
Trip Overview
The mythic birthplace of Zeus and Apollo and one of the most important centers of the ancient world, the Greek islands have maintained their allure over thousands of years. Today, with some of the best beaches in all of Greece they cater to worshippers of another kind. Yet these islands have more to offer than just sun, surf and sand. Charming towns of pristine whitewashed houses contrast beautifully with colorful harbors and sparkling seas, seemingly all put together solely for the perfect postcard. From fertile hills to dramatic coastlines, the rugged scenery is always captivating. Throw in some castles, ruins and monasteries from several of history's most fascinating and influential civilizations and you have a tour that is positively magical.
Our tour begins in the revitalized city of Athens, home of the 2004 Summer Olympic Games. Here we will take in such universally known sites as the Acropolis and the Parthenon as well as spend time exploring enchanting districts, like the Plaka, which breath life into this ancient metropolis. Leaving the big city behind, we venture by bus to experience several of Greece’s many famous historical and archaeological sites, like Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites and each offering a breathtaking view back into the ancient history of this great nation.
After our archaeological tour on the mainland, we head back to Athens and set off to visit five incredible islands in the Aegean Sea, each having its own unique appeal. On the islands we intend to take in some additional important cultural and historic sites as well as enjoying some fun and sun on the beautiful beaches, allowing us to maintain a fairly leisurely pace while still getting the full flavor of the island experience. We will travel by plane and local ferries to our chosen destinations which will include:
|
Rhodes - Often called The Pearl of the Mediterranean, Rhodes is an island in the eastern Dodecanese nearer to Turkey than Greece. History remembers the island for its giant 110 foot statue, the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World that was constructed from 292 to 280 BC and collapsed in spectacular fashion after an earthquake in 224 BC. Today Rhodes is a prime tour destination known for its sun, natural beauty and historical and archaeological treasures (its medieval city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site). |
|
Crete – Crete, the largest and southern-most of the Greek Islands, was the center of the Minoan Civilization, the oldest civilization in Europe dating back over 4,000 years. According to ancient Greek mythology Zeus, father of the Olympian Gods, was born on Crete and raised in the island's caves. Crete today is a land of contrasts with a fine Mediterranean climate and thriving tourist trade along with fascinating archaeological sites, majestic mountains, varied and spectacular scenery, quiet sandy beaches, tiny coves and traditional mountain villages. |
|
Santorini - Thanks to a volcanic eruption over 3000 years ago, the spectacular cliff faces of Santorini make it the most recognizable of all the Cyclades. Many theorize that this apocalyptic event is the source of the legend of Atlantis. Today this dramatic island abounds with natural beauty and is without doubt one of the must see places in Greece. |
|
Naxos - The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos boasts some of the finest beaches, the region's highest mountain and a medieval castle overlooking its historic main town. On this lush, green island whether you are there to take in some history or just relax on its beautiful sandy beaches, wherever you wander on Naxos you'll be made to feel very, very welcome. |
|
Mykonos - Likely the most well known and popular of the Cyclades, Mykonos is home to one of the most beautiful towns in the island chain. One of the top tourist destinations in Europe, it is not unusual when walking through the white-washed streets of its cosmopolitan town center to see a world famous model or movie star. |
The tour concludes with a final night in Athens and farewell dinner with your new friends before you return home the next morning. Our Greek Odyssey is an amazing adventure that will give you a taste of all things Greek.
Adventure Area Map:
|
