Overview of Greece
Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, is a sun-drenched tapestry of ancient ruins, azure seas, and cliffside villages. Home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, it’s where democracy was born in Athens’ Agora, where volcanic drama sculpted Santorini’s caldera, and where 6,000 islands dot the Aegean and Ionian Seas. From the kouros statues of antiquity to the bouzouki rhythms of modern tavernas, Greece is a sensory feast of history, flavor, and myth.
Day 1: Arrival in Athens – The Birthplace of Democracy
Morning/Afternoon:
Seamless Arrival: Meet your Solmara Safaris agent at Athens Airport. Transfer to your handpicked hotel (e.g., Hotel Grande Bretagne, King George, or Electra Metropolis). Check-in from 1500hrs.
Athens Unveiled: Stroll the Plaka District’s cobblestone lanes or visit the Panathenaic Stadium (entirely built of marble, capacity 50,000 in 144 AD).
Evening:
Acropolis by Night: Optional dinner at a rooftop restaurant with Parthenon views (extra cost).
Day 2: Athens – Gods, Games & Golden Ages
Morning:
Guided City Tour:
Temple of Olympian Zeus (largest in ancient Greece, 104 colossal columns).
Hadrian’s Arch (Roman-era gateway dividing “old” and “new” Athens).
Acropolis & Museum: Stand before the Parthenon (built 447 BC) and marvel at the Caryatids in the museum.
Afternoon:
Free Exploration: Opt for a street food tour (extra cost: €50) to savor souvlaki and loukoumades (honey-drizzled doughnuts).
Evening:
Overnight in Athens.
Day 3: Santorini – Caldera Dreams & Volcanic Wines
Morning:
Fast Ferry to Santorini: 5-hour scenic voyage to the crescent-shaped island. Transfer to your cliffside haven (e.g., Katikies Hotel, Canaves Oia).
Afternoon:
5-Hour Semi-Private Catamaran Cruise:
Swim in volcanic hot springs (37°C, rich in sulfur).
BBQ feast: Grilled octopus, Santorini fava, Assyrtiko wine.
Sunset over the caldera, dubbed “the world’s most romantic.”
Evening:
Wine Tour: Sample Vinsanto (sun-dried Assyrtiko grapes) at Domaine Sigalas or Venetsanos Winery (tastings from €30).
Day 4: Santorini – Freedom & Fire-Formed Beauty
Day at Leisure:
Optional Activities (extra costs apply):
Hike Fira to Oia (3hrs, cliffside trail with caldera vistas).
Akrotiri Excavations (Minoan Bronze Age city preserved in volcanic ash).
Private Photoshoot in Oia’s blue-domed alleyways (€200+).
Evening:
Sunset in Oia: Claim a spot early—this iconic view draws thousands daily.
Day 5: Farewell, Greece
Morning:
Ferry to Athens: Return via high-speed vessel.
Airport Transfer: Depart with a farewell gift: kourabiedes (almond shortbread).
Includes / Excludes
Includes
- 2 nights in Athens: Handpicked hotels (3★/4★/5★) like Electra Palace or Divani Palace Acropolis.
- 2 nights in Santorini: Cliffside gems (e.g., Chromata Hotel or Astra Suites) with caldera or Aegean views.
- Daily breakfast (except arrival day).
- Athens: Private airport/hotel/port transfers.
- Santorini: Shared transfers (upgrade to private available).
- High-speed ferry tickets (Athens ↔ Santorini, 5hrs).
- Half-day Athens tour: Acropolis, Temple of Zeus, Panathenaic Stadium.
- Santorini sunset cruise: Volcano hot springs swim, BBQ dinner, Oia vistas.
- All entrance fees (Acropolis, museums) + taxes.
Excludes
- Greece visa fees (if applicable).
- Daily city tax (~€1.50–€5/night, paid directly to hotels).
- Meals other than specified
- Tips for guides/drivers (discretionary).
- Optional activities (wine tours, helicopter rides, etc.).
- Travel insurance, flights, or personal shopping.
- Credit card surcharges (3–5% at some hotels).
- Need something added? We’ll customize!
