Hellenic Culture & 4 Night Aegean Cruise - Superior
Hellenic Culture & 4 Night Aegean Cruise - Superior
Hellenic Culture & 4 Night Aegean Cruise - Superior
9 Days Starting and ending in UK/Ireland
Visiting: United Kingdom, Athens, Archaeological Site of Sounion, Delphi, Kalabaka, Laurium, Mykonos, Kuşadası, Patmos, Rhodes, Heraklion, Santorini
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 30
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a cultural odyssey through Greece and Turkey, exploring ancient ruins, idyllic islands, and vibrant cities, all while enjoying superior accommodation and a memorable Aegean cruise.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Uk/Ireland - Athens
Location: United Kingdom
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Parnon Hotel
Ready to dive into the wonders of one of the greatest civilisations of all time and walk in the footsteps of the greats, from Socrates to Aristotle? Head to your departure airport, ready for a flight to Athens*, the Greek capital.
Touch down in Athens and transfer to the hotel, in the heart of the city where you can soak up the hustle and bustle of the mega-metropolis. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring the vibrant Athenian neighbourhoods and sampling delicious Greek cuisine. Overnight stay in Athens.
* If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
Day 2 : Athens
Location: Athens, Archaeological Site of Sounion
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Parnon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. Discover Athens today with a guided sightseeing tour. Begin with a panoramic tour of the city to see the Parliament Building, the University, National Library and Academy of Arts. Be awe-struck by the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium, carved from marble and famous as the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896.
Next, pay a visit to the spectacular Athens Acropolis to explore one of the most famous archaeological sites on earth! Walk in the footsteps of the greats and finish the tour with an eye-opening visit to the New Acropolis Museum, home to the most impressive treasures unearthed from the Acropolis and ancient Athens. The remainder of the day is free at your leisure to soak up the lively atmosphere of the city come nightfall and dine on delicious Greek cuisine. Alternatively, why not opt for an excursion to the amazing Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion* Overnight stay in Athens.
Please note: At the Athens Acropolis, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and includes a number of stairs. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility.
* Optional Excursion to Cape Sounion: Set off for Cape Sounion to see the amazing Temple of Poseidon, the ruins of which date back to the Golden Age of Athens. Overlooking the sea, the silhouette of this ancient temple is one of the most picturesque sights in Greece. Entrance fee to be paid at the destination (approx. 10 euros per person).
Day 3 : Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka
Location: Athens, Delphi, Kalabaka
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kosta Famissi Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast at the hotel. Leave the capital behind as you travel to Delphi, thought to be the center of the ancient Greek world. In Ancient Greece, Delphi was the home of the Pythia, a priestess who had the ability to consult the Oracle in order to tell the future.
Visit the archaeological site, home to the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Stoa and the Treasury of the Athenians, and take in the captivating mountain views. Next, depart to Kalambaka (approx. 3.5 hr journey), home to amazing rock formations and ancient hilltop monasteries. Check-in and get settled at the hotel before enjoying an evening at your leisure. Dinner and overnight stay in Kalambaka.
Please note: At Delphi, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and includes a number of stairs and steep paths. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility.
Day 4 : Kalambaka - Meteora Monasteries - Athens
Location: Kalabaka, Athens
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Parnon Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel. Spend the day discovering the fascinating heritage of Meteora on an excursion to the floating Monasteries of Meteora.* Perched atop gravity-defying rocky peaks, the monasteries of Meteora are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 6 remaining monasteries are still active today. Established between the 12th and 16th centuries, the monks chose this isolated and hard to reach location to build their monasteries in order to escape the political and religious upheaval of the Middle Ages.
Visit up to two of these ancient sites and enjoy the amazing views across the Plain of Thessaly. Afterwards, depart to Athens and transfer to the hotel (approx. 4.5h journey). The evening is free at your leisure to explore the atmosphere of Syntagma Square or enjoy the city's lively nightlife. Overnight stay in Athens.
* Entrance fee must be paid at the destination (approx. 3 euros per person at each monastery).
Please note: At Meteora, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and you will be required to climb a number of stairs in order to visit the monasteries. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. Modest dress is required to enter the monasteries of Meteora. This includes a long skirt (not trousers) and covered neckline/shoulders for women, and long trousers for men.
Day 5 : Athens - Mykonos
Location: Athens, Laurium, Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Celestyal Olympia Interior Stateroom IA
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to the port of Lavrio this morning, where you'll board the ship ready to embark on an unforgettable full-board 4-night cruise around the eternal Greek islands. Your home for the next four nights is fully-equipped to ensure you have a memorable experience. Make the most of the Greek sunshine at the onboard pool and savour authentic Greek cuisine with a full-board meal plan including complimentary drinks with each meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner). All you have to do is sit back and enjoy!
Set sail across the Aegean Sea, headed for your first stop of the journey: Mykonos! Famous for its vibrant nightlife and picture-perfect architecture, arrive in the evening and enjoy some time to explore at your leisure, soaking up the Mediterranean ambience or stopping for a sunset cocktail at a local taverna. Return to the ship and spend the night on board.
Day 6 : Mykonos - Kusadasi - Patmos
Location: Kuşadası, Patmos
Accommodation Name: Celestyal Olympia Interior Stateroom IA
Full-board. This morning you'll anchor in Kusadasi, on Turkey's Aegean coast. This port city is the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the region. Enjoy this leisurely time to take in the beauty of this location or opt for an amazing half day visit of Ancient Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary*, one of the most celebrated pilgrimage sites in the world!
Back on board, leave Turkey behind as you navigate towards the island of Patmos. Part of Greece’s Dodecanese island group, Patmos is a volcanic island with an immaculate coastline and truly impressive cliffs known as an archaeological site of great religious importance. Spend some time exploring the island's charming towns and tranquil coastline at your leisure.
Back on board, why not enjoy a drink at the bar as you leave Patmos behind, ready to continue your adventure through the Aegean tomorrow morning! Night on board.
* Optional Visit of Ancient Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary: One of the largest Roman archaeological sites in the region, Ephesus' ruins are truly a sight to be seen, which include the iconic and instantly recognizable Library of Celsus. It is also said to be Mary’s final place of residence as well as once being home to the Apostle Paul who lived, preached and wrote extensively making this one of the most significant pilgrimage sites on Earth.
Day 7 : Patmos - Rhodes
Location: Rhodes
Accommodation Name: Celestyal Olympia Interior Stateroom IA
Full-board. Arrive in Rhodes, the largest island in the Greek Dodecanese known for its dazzling landscapes. Here, you’ll be able to admire the island’s eclectic scenery: from its impressive ancient and historic sites to its quaint and endearing villages. Why not use this leisurely time to explore the narrow cobbled streets of the old town and its magnificent architecture. Optionally, you can visit the ancient acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights*, a truly impressive natural citadel fortified between 800 BC and 200 BC by several ancient empires. Night on board.
* Optional Half-Day Tour of the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights: A tour that takes us at the very heart of the fascinating island of Rhodes, get ready to feast your eyes on iconic Greek relics. These include: the spectacular Doric Temple of Athena, the Church of the Virgin Mary adorned with heavenly frescoes and the Gate D’Amboise to walk along the Street of the Knights of St. John where they lived during the Crusades.
Day 8 : Rhodes - Crete - Santorini
Location: Heraklion, Santorini
Accommodation Name: Celestyal Olympia Interior Stateroom IA
Full-board. As the sun rises this morning, you'll arrive at the port of Heraklion on the historic island of Crete. Famed for its rich Minoan heritage, this large island is one of the most popular in all of Greece. Take this leisurely time to explore the rich history of this port city. Perhaps you can grab a bite to eat or go shopping in one of its many boutiques.
After exploring this legendary site, head back to the ship and set sail for Santorini, believed by some to be the lost city of Atlantis! Known to this day for its stunning landscapes, which you will get to experience with your own eyes, you can get to know the island better with an optional excursion to Oia, famous for its blue-domed roofs and beautiful cobblestone streets. Leave Santorini in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxing night on board.
* Optional Oia Tour in Santorini: Discover the cobblestoned streets of Oia, one of Santorini’s most beloved destinations, as you enjoy a tour of this charming town. Take in the fabulous views from its hilltop streets and admire the blue-domed roofs of its white buildings.
Day 9 : Santorini - Athens - Uk/Ireland
Location: United Kingdom
Full-board. This unforgettable journey through Greece's most ancient sites and idyllic islands comes to an end. Disembark in the morning and transfer to the airport to fly back to UK/Ireland. Arrival in the city of origin and end of the trip.
What's Included
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Flights
Round-trip flights from the UK/Ireland to Athens are included, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
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Accommodations
Accommodations include stays in the heart of Athens at Hypnos Inn Athens, the serene Grand Meteora in Kalambaka, and aboard the Celestyal Olympia in an Interior Stateroom IA.
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Meals
Enjoy a variety of meal plans throughout the tour, including breakfasts at hotels, and full-board meal plans with complimentary drinks during the 4-night Aegean cruise.
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Transportation
Seamless transfers throughout the tour, including airport transfers, comfortable coach rides to Delphi and Kalambaka, and a 4-night Aegean cruise aboard the Celestyal Olympia.
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Sightseeing Tours
Guided sightseeing tours in Athens, including visits to the Acropolis, the New Acropolis Museum, and other historical sites, with entrance fees included.
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Aegean Cruise
A memorable 4-night Aegean cruise, offering full-board accommodation and the opportunity to explore Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, and Santorini.
What's Not Included
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Entrance Fees to Certain Sites
Entrance fees for optional excursions and certain sites visited independently, such as the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion and the monasteries at Meteora, are not included and must be paid at the destination.
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Optional Excursions
Optional excursions, such as the visit to Ancient Ephesus and the House of Virgin Mary, the Acropolis of Lindos and the Citadel of the Knights, and the Oia Tour in Santorini, are not included and require an additional fee.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as additional meals, beverages, and shopping are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
Mode of Transport
Journey through the historic lands of Greece and Turkey with seamless transfers and a 4-night Aegean cruise. Enjoy the ease of airport transfers, comfortable coach rides to Delphi and Kalambaka, and sail the Aegean Sea aboard the Celestyal Olympia.
Accommodation
Experience the charm of Greece and Turkey with stays in the heart of Athens at Hypnos Inn Athens, the serene Grand Meteora in Kalambaka, and aboard the Celestyal Olympia in an Interior Stateroom IA, offering a blend of comfort and cultural immersion.
Meals Included
4 breakfasts, 1 dinner and full-board meal basis including select drinks with every meal (breakfast/lunch/dinner) during the Greek Island Cruise.*
Check out our Q&As
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What countries does the Hellenic Culture & 4 Night Aegean Cruise - Superior tour visit?
The Hellenic Culture & 4 Night Aegean Cruise - Superior tour visits Greece and Turkey.
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What are the highlights of the tour?
The highlights of the tour include the Acropolis of Athens, Athens, Delphi, Heraklion, Meteora, Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini, Kusadasi, Kalambaka, and the Aegean Sea.
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What type of transportation is used on the tour?
The tour includes airport transfers, comfortable coach rides to Delphi and Kalambaka, and a 4-night Aegean cruise aboard the Celestyal Olympia.
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What type of accommodation is provided?
Accommodation includes stays in the heart of Athens at Hypnos Inn Athens, the serene Grand Meteora in Kalambaka, and aboard the Celestyal Olympia in an Interior Stateroom IA.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The tour starts from the UK/Ireland.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The tour ends in the UK/Ireland.
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What is the pick-up location for the tour?
The pick-up location for the tour is Athens.
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What is the drop-off location for the tour?
The drop-off location for the tour is Athens.
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Where can I check the latest Travel Restrictions?
It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. It is also the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding government embassies and/or consulates as appropriate.
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What recommendations should I follow before traveling?
Passport validity: It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding embassies and/or consulates as appropriate. Requirements change so please check the up-to-date requirements in advance of your departure date. In many cases, countries now require that passports are valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from their borders.
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How can I upgrade my flight?
If you would like to make an upgrade to your flight or ask for a quotation, please contact us with all the information. Our customer success agents will answer your request as soon as possible.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes of flights and related services are not permitted after the booking is confirmed. If you wish to make any significant amendment affecting the flights, you will need to cancel it as per the terms & conditions applicable to your booking and make a new booking. If you require more information about your cancellations policy please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section). If you would like to proceed with the cancellation or require assistance please contact us.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
The COVID-19 pandemic not only created an unparalleled impact on health and economy globally, but it has also changed fundamental behaviors with regards to traveling. In response to such changes, Exoticca provides extra peace of mind for all reservations made from 18th January, 2022 onwards by including Covid 19 Protection. Testing positive for COVID-19: If you or anyone else traveling with you on your booking cannot travel due to testing positive for COVID-19 you will be given the option to reschedule your trip or receive 100% of the trip value in Exoticca travel credit. **Proof of infection must be provided in the form of an official COVID-19 positive test result. For more information on the details of the Covid 19 Protection Policy, please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section).
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Travelling to the USA or Canada?
Traveling to the United States: Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ESTA is an online application system, developed by the United States government to pre-screen travelers before authorizing them to board a plane or ship bound for the United States. Starting on the 12th of January 2009, any person entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program must have an approved ESTA travel authorization. This includes travelers who travel to the United States to catch a connecting flight. An ESTA does not guarantee entry to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials determine the admissibility of travelers upon arrival. For more information click here. If a traveler is found to have visited a country designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (09.11.2022, Countries: Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Syria), the traveler is no longer eligible to participate in the Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a visa to enter the United States. Traveling to Canada: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to Canada by air. This includes travelers who travel to Canada to catch a connecting flight. An eTA is linked electronically to the traveler's passport and is valid for a maximum of five years or until the passport expires, depending on which of these two scenarios occurs first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA. An eTA does not guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents to determine whether you are admissible to enter Canada. For more information click here. Traveling to a Schengen member country (Europe): Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) The ETIAS travel authorization will be needed to enter a Schengen member country by air, land, or sea. From November 2023, visitors that do not need a visa to enter Europe will be able to register with ETIAS. ETIAS will become a mandatory entry requirement. The ETIAS for Europe will grant travelers authorization to visit the ETIAS countries that are all members that compose the Schengen zone. The ETIAS visa waiver has been designed for short-term stays of up to 90 days. For more information click here.
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COVID-19 vaccination recommendations and other vaccines?
It is the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. Check with the migration and health authorities for the country of origin, destination, and stopover to learn more about vaccination requirements.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Once your purchase is complete, you will receive confirmation by email and all your travel documents will be uploaded on to your booking and the Exoticca customer account (which you'll be provided details of). These will include: transport details, hotels, itinerary, important notes, and insurance policy (if applicable).
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exoticca charges.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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