1. Land Itinerary:

Athens – Delphi – Meteora – Lefkada (Lefkada’s Beaches & Islands) – Kefalonia (Fiskardo, Argostoli, Kefalonia’s Beaches, Islands & Caves) – Zakynthos (Navagio Beach, Blue Caves) – Olympia – Athens

 

* Day 01 (Mon 16 Jun): ATHENS (Arrival) [-/-/D]

Arrival at Athens’ El. Venizelos International Airport. Transfer by private coach to your hotel for check-in. Remainder of the day will be at leisure; Your tour leader will take you to Monastiraki Square where you can visit the Flea Market, an area full of quaint little shops selling their wares all year round, where bargaining is always expected. Lunch on your own. You will then follow your tour leader to the Syntagma Square - the main social and political hub for Athenians - to visit the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, and to witness the meticulously choreographed Changing of the Guard ceremony that takes place every hour. Dinner at your hotel.

Overnight in Athens [Fresh Hotel]

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* Day 02 (Tue 17 Jun): ATHENS [B/L/-]

Breakfast at your hotel. A half-day walking tour with your local guide will be dedicated to explore the historic center of Athens, the capital and huge cosmopolitan city of Greece, one of the oldest cities in Europe, with a better documented history than most other ancient Greek city-states. You will visit the Acropolis - nicknamed the “Sacred Rock” of the Athenians, an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city, known worldwide for its architectural masterpieces built in the 5th century BC. Go through the Propylaea, a monumental gateway, and visit the Parthenon, the temple that represents architectural perfection, a monument of startling simplicity and beauty; Then visit the Temple of Athena Nike, a small and elegant Ionic temple that was designed and decorated with great care, regarded as the pearl of the Acropolis; And visit the Erechtheion, another Ionic temple famous for its beautiful Caryatid Porch with six sculpted female figures serving as columns. Move to the Plaka neighborhood, where your local guide will lead you through its picturesque streets, must-see historic landmarks and lively shops. Lunch in a traditional Athenian taverna. Remainder of the day at leisure for shopping or further exploration of Athens’ city center which is at the doorstep of your hotel. Dinner on your own.

Overnight in Athens.

 

* Day 03 (Wed 18 Jun): ATHENS – DELPHI – METEORA [B/L/D]

Breakfast at your hotel. Hotel check-out. Transfer by coach to Meteora, making a sightseeing stop at Delphi. At Delphi, a guided tour will allow you to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a worth seeing destination for those fascinated by Ancient Greece’s history and mythology. Take your time to explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, the Theatre, and the Stadium, where the Pythian Games were held; Don’t forget to admire the bronze Charioteer and the Sphinx of Naxos among other artifacts displayed in the Delphi Archaeological Museum; You will also enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and the sea, since Delphi is not only a place of culture, but also of natural beauty. Lunch at a local restaurant. Continue your route to Meteora, and check-in your hotel upon arrival. Remainder of the day at leisure. Dinner at your hotel.

Overnight in Meteora [Divani Meteora Hotel]

 

* Day 04 (Thu 19 Jun): METEORA – LEFKADA [B/L/-]

Breakfast at your hotel. Hotel check-out. Your half-day tour with the narrative of your local guide will lead you through Meteora, this beautiful land that offers a unique perspective of nature’s grandeur, and will furthermore take you back to the Dark Ages with the visit of the serene and mystical 14th-century Meteora Monasteries which are a testament to human ingenuity, faith, and architectural brilliance; You will explore three among the six remaining Eastern Orthodox monasteries, each of them perched on a huge cliff and offering a unique glimpse into monastic life and millennial Greek Orthodox traditions: the Great Meteoron Monastery, oldest and largest of the six that sits at an impressive 2,000 feet above sea level, with beautifully preserved frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Christ; the Varlaam Monastery, renowned for its elegant church adorned with 16th-century frescoes, and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape; and the Roussanou Monastery, now a nunnery, known for its stunning location and breathtaking views, as well as its internal beauty that is a unique blend of history, art and spirituality. Lunch at a local restaurant. Continue your route to Lefkada, and check-in your hotel upon arrival. Remainder of the day at leisure. Dinner on your own.

Overnight in Lefkada [Ionian Star Hotel]

 

* Day 05 (Fri 20 Jun): LEFKADA [B/L/-]

Breakfast at your hotel. You will spend a full day exploring Lefkada, one of the seven major islands in the Ionian Sea, well known for its stunning beaches, charming villages, and vibrant culture. You will board a small cruise ship and sail off the west coast of Greece, making stops for small excursions, leisure time and water sports activities. This cruise will be a perfect mix of swimming and sunbathing, sightseeing and exploration, and on-board relaxing time. Your first stop will be at Papanikolis Cave, the largest sea cave in the world thanks to its outstanding size; Inside the cave you can admire a crystal clear water that allows you to see the sea's bottom, beautiful ceiling stalactites, and a carefully preserved small beach. Your next stop will be at Formikoula, a rocky island located in the middle of the Eastern Ionian Sea; Enjoy the remarkable biodiversity of this small and uninhabited islet, teeming with a stunning variety of creatures that thrive in its unique environment. Next you will visit Kastos Village, a tranquil oasis in the Ionian Sea’s paradise; On this small island that is home to a warm community of less than 100 people, you will fully appreciate the outdoor activities and the laid-back lifestyle of the island during the summer months, and you will feel like you are enjoying a holiday on your private island and beach. Lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch there will be another stop at one of the best hidden gems of Ionian Sea, Lake Kato beach, where you will definitely enjoy a leisure time; This unspoiled beach may not be as popular as other famous beach in the Ionian Sea, but you will agree that this is one of the best places for beach fans! Your last stop will be at Asprogiali Kalamos Beach, another “little Greek secret”, where the water is pristine and beautiful emerald green, and swimming in these waters is just incredible! On your way back to Lefkada, you will pass by many small and private Greek islands: the heavily wooded Skorpios, primarily known as the private island of the late Greek shipping billionaire Aristotle Onassis, and other smaller islands (Madouri, Skorpidi and Sparti). Back to your hotel. Your evening will be free, with dinner on your own.

Overnight in Lefkada.

 

* Day 06 (Sat 21 Jun): LEFKADA – KEFALONIA [B/L/D]

Breakfast at your hotel. Hotel check-out. Transfer to Vassiliki Port. Board the one-and-half-hour ferry to Fiskardo on the Ionian island of Kefalonia. Upon arrival, a guided tour will allow you to explore this historic harbour village of Fiskardo, the most cosmopolitan and popular place in Kefalonia, home to some of the priciest real estate in all of Greece (thanks to the patronage of the wealthy vacationers who drop by on their megayachts); Lose yourself in this village’s picturesque streets that still maintain their Ionian-Venetian architectural character and charm since it has escaped the 1953 earthquake; Stroll along the harbor lined with yachts and other luxurious vessels on one side, and with fine restaurants and cafés on the other; Walk the Tselentata Trail and visit the beautiful 18th-century church of Aghios Gerasimos. Lunch at a local restaurant. Time at leisure to further explore the coastal village and do some shopping. On your way to the hotel, you will make a photo stop at the stunning Myrtos Beach surrounded by tall marble cliffs and looking out onto the azure waters of the Myrtos Gulf. Continue your route to Agia Efimia, a charming fishing village on the eastern coast of Kefalonia, and check in at your hotel upon arrival. Remainder of the day at leisure. Your leisure evening can be spent in either Agia Effimia or in the nearby port town of Sami. Dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Kefalonia [Kefalonia Bay Palace]

 

* Day 07 (Sun 22 Jun): KEFALONIA [B/L/-]

Breakfast at your hotel. Set out for an exciting full-day tour of Kefalonia, the grand island! Much-photographed, much-talked about, much-loved by Greeks and foreigners alike, Kefalonia is best known for its emerald-green mountains, sparkling azure waters, dazzling beaches, and its nickname “Gem of the Ionian Sea” is no less than well deserved. Begin your journey with a visit to the enchanting Melissani Cave, where you will embark on a boat ride across the underground lake, gazing upward at its open ceiling that lights up the beautiful turquoise water, and marveling at the sunlight that illuminate the cave's magnificent stalactites. Next, you will step into a realm of breathtaking natural beauty as you enter the mesmerising depths of Drogarati Cave that unveil a sanctuary adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted with remarkable precision over countless millennia. Continue your journey to the 16th-century Agios Gerasimos Monastery (rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake) where you will pay a visit to this most sacred place of worship in Kefalonia, learn about St. Gerasimos’ life and good deeds, and see his incorrupt remains kept on display above his tomb. Visit to a renowned Kefalonian winery where you will explore its vineyards, learn about the island's winemaking traditions and enjoy tasting local wines. Lunch at a local cuisine taverna. After lunch, transfer to Argostoli, the vibrant capital city of Kefalonia where you will be doing a walking tour; Walk along the coastal road towards the town center, visiting the local fish and fruit market, then reach the palm-lined cobbled coastal road; Very often you will get the chance to see the loggerhead turtles coming to eat fish from the boats; Look out for the statue of Nikos Kavvadias, a famous 20th-century Greek poet, known as “The Poet of the Sea”; Once in the city center, you will make photo stops at the Kabana (Bell) Square with its historic Clock Tower, the Court Building and the Kefalos Municipal theatre, then visit Agios Spyridon Church. Remainder of the full-day outing will be your time at leisure for shopping on the fantastic Lithostroto street. Transfer back to your hotel. Dinner on your own.

Overnight in Kefalonia.

 

* Day 08 (Mon 23 Jun): KEFALONIA [B/L/-]

Breakfast at your hotel. Set out for another exciting day on boat tour. As your boats depart, be ready to take in the panoramic views of Kefalonia's lush landscapes and rugged cliffs, cruise along the captivating coastline, and pass by many iconic landmarks. This tour will offer you several opportunities to make stops in secluded coves and pristine beaches accessible only by boat, and for diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Ionian Sea at handpicked locations, ideal for swimming, snorkeling and other water sports… or simply for soaking up the sun on the boat's deck. You will make leisure stops at White Rocks Beach, a white hidden gem in the area of Lassi village, Vardiani Island, a secluded paradise with beautiful and enchanting nature awaiting your discovery, and the famous Xi Beach where the sand is orange-red, and the water is also calm and warm, great for swimming. BBQ lunch onboard, featuring a selection of traditional Greek dishes and fresh local ingredients. You will arrive back at the port with unforgettable memories of a day well spent exploring Kefalonia’s natural wonders. Dinner at your hotel.

Overnight in Kefalonia.

 

* Day 09 (Tue 24 Jun): KEFALONIA – ZAKYNTHOS [B/-/D]

Breakfast at your hotel. Hotel check-out. Transfer to Poros Port. Board the one-and-half-hour ferry to Kyllini, the largest ferry port in the Ionian Sea on the mainland. After 45 mins connection in Kyllini Port, you will board the one-hour ferry to Port of Zakynthos. Today’s visitors come to Zakynthos Island (also called Zante) mostly for its iconic beaches – Lagana, Tsilivi, Argassi, Kalamaki, Alykes – and sea turtles, but they also come for its interesting history and colorful culture to be explored, and its unique party atmosphere! Upon arrival, transfer to Zakynthos City where your hotel is located for check-in. Remainder of the day is for you to spend in downtown Zakynthos: enjoy your leisure time in the most significant cultural centre, Solomos Square, then in Saint Markos Square, to drink a cup of coffee or a glass of wine or to do some shopping. Lunch on your own. Dinner at a local restaurant before heading back to your hotel.

Overnight in Zakynthos [Palatino Hotel]

 

* Day 10 (Wed 25 Jun): ZAKYNTHOS [B/L/-]

Breakfast at your hotel. A half-day guided tour will help you to immerse yourselves into the history and culture of Zakynthos, this southernmost Ionian island nicknamed “the Flower of the East” (Fiore di Levante) by the Venetians. You will visit Agios Markos (St Mark) Square, a nice and large square by the harbour surrounded by lovely buildings, plenty of restaurants and cafés, that was once the cultural center of the Zakynthos during the Venetian occupation (15th-18th centuries); Important historical events occurred in these places that shaped the political developments on the island. Next you will visit the 18th-century church of Agios (Saint) Dionysios, patron saint of the island, a magnificent three-aisled basilica overlooking the harbor with marble Corinthian columns, large chandeliers and stained glass windows; Admire the church’s Bell Tower that bear an amazing resemblance to San Marco’s Campanile in Venice. You will also visit the nearby Dionysios Solomos Square located on the seafront in the Port area of the Town, with the dominating statue of Dionysios Solomos, the great National poet accredited with writing the lyrics for Greek National Anthem…. Your next sightseeing area will be Strani Hill and Bohali neighborhood, a picturesque village with strong Venetian heritage located on the hill just behind Zakynthos City. Lunch at a traditional taverna. After lunch you will visit a local winery and enjoy wine tasting. Before going back to the hotel, you may return to St Mark Square to enjoy your free and leisure dinner at one of those restaurants or cafés offering a perfect people-watching-spot.

Overnight in Zakynthos.

 

* Day 11 (Thu 26 Jun): ZAKYNTHOS [B/L/D]

Breakfast at your hotel. Proceed with a half-day speed boat tour to Navagio Beach or (Shipwreck Beach) and the Blue Caves, an opportunity to see Zakynthos’ beautiful West Coast, to swim in pristine emerald blue waters and dive from the boat! Lunch snacks will be served onboard. You will first sail to the Navagio Beach and spend a leisure time for swimming and sunbathing at this most famous beach in Zakynthos wedged inside a small cove and surrounded by towering white cliffs, with an iconic shipwreck that still rests buried in its limestone gravel. Then you will discover the captivating Blue Caves, where you can see your body appear blue underwater; Take photos of the stunning rock formation of Mikro Nisi Island, with views of Makris Gyalos Beach and Agios Nikolaos fishing port. Back to town, the remainder of the day with be at leisure before dinner at a local restaurant.

Overnight in Zakynthos.

 

* Day 12 (Fri 27 Jun): ZAKYNTHOS – OLYMPIA [B/L/D]

Breakfast at your hotel. Hotel check-out. Transfer to Zakynthos Port. Board the one-and-half-hour ferry to Kyllini. Upon arrival in Kyllini Port on the Peloponnese peninsula, proceed with your route to Olympia. En route you will make a stop to visit a local winery, explore its vineyards, enjoy wine tasting and local-cuisine lunch. Upon arrival in Olympia, check in at your hotel, then take some rest. In the late afternoon, a guided tour will take you through the archaeological site of Ancient Olympia, and will give you a vivid picture of the splendor and glory of a civilisation that continues to give so much to our modern world – not just in sport games but also in ideals, ethics and sportsmanship; Retracing the history of the Olympic Games back to 776 BC, you arrive at the starting line, where it all began in this gentle, wooded valley in the Peloponnese’s Alpheios River; Visit the Altis (or Sanctuary of Zeus), a walled area that encloses the ruins of many ancient stone structures, most of them built in the 5th century BC: the Temple of Zeus, the Philippeion, a memorial completed by Alexander the Great, the Stadium, and the Bouleuterion – council house – which was the equivalent of today’s IOC office, the Echo Colonnade…; You will see the place where the Hippodrome for chariot races used to be to the south of the Stadium; You will also visit the Palaestra (or Gymnasium), a practice and training field for competing male Hellenic athletes, and the Temple of Hera, the oldest temple at Olympia and one of the most venerable in all Greece; At last you will visit the Archaeological Museum where you will come face to face with Praxiteles’ Hermes, one of the greatest marble sculptures of all time showcasing the divine messenger and son of Zeus, Hermes, holding the infant Dionysus, the god of wine. Back to your hotel where you will have dinner.

Overnight in Olympia [Hotel Amalia Olympia]

 

* Day 13 (Sat 28 Jun): OLYMPIA – ATHENS [B/-/D]

Breakfast at your hotel. Hotel check-out. Transfer by coach to Athens, making stops at rest areas. Check in at your hotel upon arrival in Athens. The afternoon will be your leisure time to further explore Athens’ city center. Your tour leader may take you to visit the Ancient Agora and admire the exquisite Doric Temple of Hephaestus, or to visit various boutique museums such as the Byzantine and Christian Museum, the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture, the Benaki Museum Of Islamic Art… Back to the hotel for our Farewell Dinner.

Overnight in Athens [Fresh Hotel]

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* Day 14 (Sun 29 Jun): ATHENS [B/-/-]

Breakfast at your hotel. Today will be your last day on the tour and you are supposed to be free all day: think for a big session of shopping therapy, or for great gastronomic experiences? Anyway as evening falls don’t forget to enjoy a cocktail with the unparalleled view of the illuminated Acropolis from a rooftop bar, followed by a gourmet dinner in the vibrant Psiri district.

Overnight in Athens.

 

* Day 15 (Mon 30 Jun): ATHENS (Departure) [B/-/-]

Breakfast at your hotel, then hotel check-out. Transfer by private coach to Athens’ El. Venizelos International Airport for your flights back to the US.

 

3. Land Tour Package Cost:

$4,950

(International airlines tickets will be booked and paid separately; Voyages Saigon are holding United Airlines & Delta Airlines group reservations with limited spaces and limited booking time; Please contact us ASAP for more details)

Single supplement: $XXXX

(Voyages Saigon, Inc.’s Terms & Conditions)

 

Including:

* Upscale 4-star hotels (double occupancy)

* 13 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 8 dinners (with wine and coffee/tea)

* All transportations by private motor coach, including airport/hotel tranfers

* Full day and half day cruise ship & speed boat excursions

* All city taxes

* All guided sightseeing tours, excursions and visits (entrance fees included) as per tour itinerary and program

* Medical Insurance

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** Travel insurance, such as trip cancellation and interruption, lost baggage, health insurance for medical emergencies is strongly recommended in order to protect your travel plans. Please ask Voyages Saigon, Inc. for additional information.