
Grand Tour of Greece: Athens, Corfu & Santorini
16 days | 19 days with Olympia & the Athens Riviera extension |
Hop through Greece’s greatest hits in a single, sweeping trip.
If you’ve long dreamed of going to Greece but never quite knew where to start, consider this all-encompassing tour your perfect starting point. You’ll take in the excitement of Thessaloniki and Athens, major cities where ancient history and modern living meet. You’ll travel centuries back in time as you explore treasured historic sites such as Delphi (home to the Temple of Apollo) and Meteora (known for its clifftop monasteries). You’ll savor signature Greek flavors, from briny olives to tart kumquats to crisp, mineral-rich wines. And you’ll lap up the brilliant sunshine, warm hospitality, and iconic architecture of three major island groups. If you still can’t get your fill of Greece, continue to the Peloponnese peninsula. In this less-trodden corner of the country, an alpine ski town, a mythological burial ground, and a Bronze Age citadel are just a few of the wonders that await.
Your tour package includes
- 14 nights in handpicked hotels
- 14 breakfasts, and 5 dinners served with beer or wine
- 1 tasting of kumquat liqueur, your introduction to Corfu’s favorite fruit
- 2 food tastings, including a sampling of briny Greek olives
- 9 sightseeing tours, diving deep into the nation’s icons
- 1 expert Tour Director, your key to the country’s culture
- 8 local guides who’ll breathe life into Greece’s myths and monuments
- Pre-booked transportation, including 1 private deluxe motor coach, 1 on-tour flight, and 4 ferry transfers
- Entrances to museums, landmarks, and more—so you can skip the lines
Included highlights
- Resting outside of Thessaloniki’s Rotunda of Galerius, the preeminent example of Byzantine architecture
- Letting a sense of awe wash over you as you glimpse the monasteries of the Meteora
- Straining your ear in the Temple of Apollo, seeking ancient whispers from the Oracle of Delphi
- Contrasting the ruins atop the Acropolis of Athens with the modern city below
- Plunging into the welcoming waters of Santorini’s caldera on our bestselling excursion
- Delving into the culture and myths of the Minoans at the palace of Knossos
Itinerary

Overnight Flight1 night
Day 1: Travel day
Board your overnight flight to Thessaloniki today.
Thessaloniki2 nights
Day 2: Arrival in Thessaloniki
Included meal: Welcome dinner
Welcome to Greece! Get to know your Tour Director and fellow travelers at tonight’s welcome dinner, served with beer or wine.
Day 3: Sightseeing tour of Thessaloniki
Included meals: Breakfast, Tasting
Set out on a guided tour of Thessaloniki, Greece’s vibrant second city and a cultural capital shaped by centuries of history. Once the second-largest city of the Byzantine Empire, Thessaloniki blends ancient ruins, Ottoman influences, and modern-day energy. With your expert guide leading the way, discover why this coastal hub is known for both its layered past and contemporary spirit.
- Pass by the Hagios Demetrios, the city’s most important church, dedicated to its patron saint. Built over the very site where Saint Demetrios was martyred in the fourth century A.D., the basilica holds centuries of spiritual and historical significance, as well as intricate mosaics worth a closer look.
- Marvel at the Hagia Sophia, a domed church modeled after its more famous namesake in Istanbul. One of Thessaloniki’s oldest surviving churches, it has served as both a Christian cathedral and an Ottoman mosque, bearing the marks of both religions in its art and architecture.
- See the ancient Roman walls that once fortified Thessaloniki. Constructed during the early third century, these towering remnants give a sense of the city’s strategic importance to resilience through multiple empires.
- Enter the Rotunda of Galerius (also known as the Rotunda of St. George), a massive circular structure commissioned by the Roman emperor Galerius in the fourth century A.D. Originally intended as his mausoleum—or perhaps a temple—this architectural wonder echoes the design of the Pantheon in Rome.
- Examine the striking murals and gold-flecked mosaics inside the UNESCO-listed Rotunda, which reflect its transformation over centuries from pagan monument to Christian church to mosque—and now, a monument to Thessaloniki’s diverse heritage.
- Walk along a breezy seaside promenade for sweeping views of the Thermaic Gulf, culminating in a visit to the iconic White Tower of Thessaloniki. Once part of the city’s fortifications and later used as a prison, it now stands as a symbol of the city’s resilience and charm.
- Stop for a tasting of local olives, a simple but essential part of Greek cuisine and culture.
- Wrap up with free time in the lively Ladadika district, known for its colorful buildings, cobbled lanes, and laid-back atmosphere. Explore art galleries, browse boutiques, or grab a bite in a traditional taverna—perfect for soaking in the city’s modern-day buzz with historic flair.
Spend the rest of your afternoon in Thessaloniki exploring on your own, or join us for an optional excursion to the Epanomi wine region to learn about the grape harvest and sample local varietals.
Meteora Region1 night
Day 4: Transfer to Meteora Region & sightseeing tour
Included meal: Breakfast
Today, travel to the Pindus mountain range—the spine of Greece—and arrive in the remote village of Kalabaka. Then, take a guided walking tour of the Meteora monasteries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Perched in isolation atop towering sandstone cliffs, the six surviving monasteries date back to the 14th century, when they were established by Orthodox Christian hermit monks.
- Enter two of the six surviving monasteries—such as the serene Monastery of Roussanou with its lush flower gardens, the Monastery of Agios Stefanos and its panoramic valley views, or the Monastery of Varlaam with its centuries-old frescoes and ornate chapel.
- Hike among the rock spires of Meteora, breathing in crisp mountain air as you ascend paths once trodden by hermit monks. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the vast Thessalian Plain, framed by dramatic peaks and the sky.
- Hear about the local nuns who carry on the monastic traditions of the Eastern Orthodox Church. From their spiritual routines, the history of the monastic community, and the unique role women play in preserving this sacred way of life, you'll gain valuable insight to their way of life.
- Learn about Eastern Orthodoxy’s rich traditions and how centuries of faith continue to echo through these mountaintop monasteries. From daily prayers to handcrafted icons, each detail tells a story of quiet devotion and enduring cultural heritage.
Corfu2 nights
Day 5: Transfer to Corfu
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Cross the Pindus Mountains and make your way to the seaside town of Igoumenitsa. Board a ferry bound for the Ionian island of Corfu. In stark contrast to the arid, rocky Cycladic islands in the Aegean Sea, the Ionians are known for their lush, green landscape.
After settling into your hotel, enjoy an included dinner this evening, served with beer or wine.
Day 6: Sightseeing tour of Corfu
Included meals: Breakfast, Liqueur tasting, Tasting
After spending the night in your hotel, begin your time in Corfu—a popular holiday spot renowned for its scenery and cuisine—with a guided sightseeing tour of its eponymous capital.
- See the city’s Italian influence, courtesy of the old Venetian Empire, on display at Spianada Square, arguably the most impressive plaza in all of Greece.
- Enter the Holy Church of Saint Spyridon. Built in the 1580s and adorned with dozens of icons and gold-and-silver censers, this Greek Orthodox church houses the sacred relics of the island’s patron saint. (Fun fact: It also lays claim to the tallest bell tower in the Ionian islands!)
- Take a short drive to visit the gardens of Achilleion Palace and admire its exterior pillared colonnades. It was once the palatial summer residence of German Kaiser Wilhelm II and site of his diplomatic activity.
- Stop for a tasting of marmalade, liqueur, and other kumquat products. Originally from China, this bright orange fruit is synonymous with the island of Corfu, and goods made from it have Protected Designation of Origin status in Greece.
Enjoy a free evening in Corfu (or, if you want something a little more lively, add an optional excursion to revel in a traditional Greek dinner).
Delphi Region1 night
Day 7: Transfer to Delphi Region
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Board a ferry back to the mainland from Corfu. Then, travel to the Delphi region, home of the legendary mystical Oracle.
Sit down for an included dinner this evening, served with beer or wine.
Athens2 nights
Day 8: Sightseeing tour of Delphi & transfer to Athens
Included meal: Breakfast
Journey to the slopes of Mount Parnassus and visit the Archaeological Site of Delphi. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi was believed by the ancients to be the Navel of the Earth and a spiritual focal point for all Greeks.
- Embark on a guided tour of the Temple of Apollo, where, according to legend, the god Apollo once spoke in prophecy to mortals through the voice of the oracle and high priestess, Pythia.
- Take time to explore the ancient treasures at the Delphi Museum, including the life-size bronze statue named the Charioteer of Delphi.
- Visit Arachova and soak in the breathtaking mountain landscape as you stroll through the town’s cobblestone streets.
- Enjoy free time for lunch or to explore the village and admire its many Byzantine-era churches.
Then, continue to Athens and enjoy a free evening in the city—ask your Tour Director for a recommendation.
Day 9: Sightseeing tour of Athens
Included meal: Breakfast
Nothing can prepare you for the sheer sense of awe you’ll feel when you come face-to-face with Athens—where ancient architecture and artifacts coexist with modern life. Meet up with your dedicated local guide, who will introduce you to the highlights of this bustling capital.
- Pass by the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely out of marble—the only such stadium in the world.
- Continue to Syntagma Square, home to the Neoclassical Greek Parliament building, and admire the plaza’s imposing marble steps and fountain, lush shade trees, and the elite ceremonial guards known as the Evzones.
- Reflect on the Arch of Hadrian, built to honor the Roman emperor, and imagine how its Pentelic marble stones were carted more than 11 miles from Mount Pentelikon in 131 A.D.
- View the remains of the sixth-century Temple of Zeus and gaze up at its 16 ornate Corinthian columns.
- Walk through Plaka’s narrow streets and charming shops. Situated at the foot of the Acropolis, this district is one of the oldest parts of Athens and is known as the neighborhood of the gods due to the dozens of monuments strewn throughout.
- Set off on a walking tour around the ancient Acropolis—site of the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. You may have seen these enduring icons of antiquity in books and film, but now you’re stepping through the work of craftsmen who quarried and honed these marble blocks thousands of years ago.
Enjoy a free afternoon in Athens—we recommend returning to the Plaka district—or join the optional excursion to Cape Sounion. On a clear day, you might spot five of Greece’s Ionian islands dotting the sparkling Aegean Sea.
Santorini2 nights
Day 10: Ferry to Santorini
Included meal: Breakfast
You’ve seen the photos—now get ready to star in them yourself. Take a ferry to Santorini and enjoy a free afternoon on the island. You can admire the steep cliffs that plunge into the Aegean and the island’s iconic caldera, dotted with whitewashed buildings.
You can eat your way through traditional dishes—like moussaka, a hearty eggplant dish, or tomato fritters—then use your free time to explore unique pebbly beaches and crystal-clear waters.
Please note: For an additional cost, you can book a visit to the village of Oia through your Tour Director.
Day 11: Sightseeing tour of Santorini
Included meal: Breakfast
Your guided tour of Santorini will take you from dramatic black-sand beaches to jagged cliff-lined shores and back—a stark contrast to the island’s beloved whitewashed buildings and sprays of bright fuchsia bougainvillea vines.
- Visit the archaeological excavations at Akrotiri, a settlement buried in volcanic ash, where richly pigmented Bronze Age frescoes and other Minoan artifacts survived a devastating eruption in the 16th Century B.C.
- See Mount Profitis Ilias, the highest point in all of Santorini and home to the Prophet Elias Monastery which sits perched atop its summit.
- Stop in small, picturesque Pyrgos, where you’ll weave through the steep streets of this slightly off-the-beaten-path village.
Spend a free afternoon poking around authentic shops and sampling the local wine, or join the optional excursion and hop on a catamaran for a steal-your-breath-away cruise starring the village of Oia.
Crete3 nights
Day 12: Ferry to Crete
Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Take a ferry to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, this afternoon. The birthplace of the ancient Minoan civilization, Crete served as the backdrop for the mythical tales of King Minos, the labyrinth, and the Minotaur. Remnants of the Minoan culture can be found across the island, punctuating a diverse landscape that ranges from lush valleys and dramatic gorges to looming mountains and serene beaches.
Expect to be embraced by the locals’ friendliness—perhaps alongside a shot of raki, a strong digestif made of distilled grape skins that’s offered as a sign of hospitality.
Sit down for an included dinner this evening, served with beer or wine.
Day 13: Sightseeing tour of Heraklion
Included meal: Breakfast
Join a local guide this morning and get to know Heraklion—an ancient port that was once the hub of the Minoans, Europe’s first civilization. Roll into town and enjoy an included lunch before setting off on a guided tour.
Begin by visiting the ruins of the Bronze Age Palace of Knossos. Part administrative center, part place of worship, it held a special place at the heart of Minoan culture (and was where, according to myth, King Minos imprisoned the Minotaur in the heart of a labyrinth).
Return to Heraklion and explore at your leisure. For a helping of history spiced with an ocean breeze, head to the Venetian Port and spy the Koules—a 16th-century fort guarding the approach to Heraklion’s harbor. Or, take an optional excursion with us to indulge in some of Crete’s regional fare, including tasty treats from a women’s cooperative and locally grown wine.
Day 14: Free day in Crete
Included meal: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day on the island to unwind and scope out a beach or two or continue getting to know this part of Greece through its cuisine. If you choose the latter, you’ll join us on a visit to the historic port city of Rethymno before heading to a small family-owned farm. There, you’ll tour its olive groves and gardens before sitting down for a traditional Cretan lunch served with local wines.
Athens1 night
Day 15: Flight to Athens
Included meals: Breakfast, Farewell dinner
Fly back to Athens today. Then, celebrate your trip with your fellow group members at a farewell dinner this evening, served with beer or wine.
Flight Home
Day 16: Departure
Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)
Transfer to airport for your flight home—or extend your stay and step back in time in Olympia, where the ancient Olympic Games were born and temples still echo with the spirit of competition and myth. Then, slow down on the Athens Riviera, where golden beaches, seaside tavernas, and sunset views over the Saronic Gulf offer a breezy, luxurious contrast to the city’s historic heart.
Olympia & the Athens Riviera extension
Located in the southwestern region of Greece’s mainland, the Peloponnese peninsula is chock-full of treasured archaeological sites and landmarks made famous by Greek mythology. You’ll also find a few surprises there, such as an alpine ski town that’s accessible by train and home to a moving museum that sheds light on life under Nazi occupation. The region is also less trodden compared to perennially popular places, like Athens and the Greek Islands. Both are among the reasons you’ll likely fall in love with this corner of the country, where you’ll explore the birthplace of the Olympic Games, a mythological burial site, an early capital of independent Greece, and more.
Day 16: Train ride to Kalavryta & transfer to Olympia
Included meal: Breakfast
Transfer to the town of Diakopto. There, board the famous Odontotos rack railway for a journey that’s widely considered to be the most scenic in Greece.
- Travel aboard the railway through the Vouraikos gorge and ascend to the alpine town of Kalavryta, where you’ll find stone houses, intimate squares, crisscrossing alleys, and lively tavernas.
- Pay a solemn visit to the Municipal Museum of the Kalavritan Holocaust, built to commemorate a 1943 massacre and the destruction of the town by occupying Nazi troops.
Enjoy free time in this Greek ski town before continuing to your hotel in Olympia, where you can relax and rest up before another day of sightseeing.
Day 17: Sightseeing tour of Olympia
Included meal: Breakfast
This morning, meet your local guide and tour the legendary Archaeological Site of Olympia, where the Olympic Games were born.
- View the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, once home to a statue that was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
- See the ancient Gymnasium and the site where the first Olympic Games took place.
- Step inside the Archaeological Museum of Olympia and enjoy free time to explore its world-renowned sculpture, bronze, and terracotta exhibits.
Spend a free afternoon in Olympia—ask your Tour Director for a recommendation—or sidle up to a cafe for some people-watching. If you join us on an optional excursion to a nearby estate, you’ll get to take part in two beloved Greek pastimes: cooking and dancing. Opa!
Day 18: Athens Riviera via Mycenae & Nafplio
Included meal: Breakfast
Get to know more landmarks and history as you discover different parts of the Peloponnese peninsula. Your guided tour continues in the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Mycenae. No visit to the eastern Peloponnese would be complete without a visit to the cradle of Mycenaean civilization, which peaked between 1400-1200 B.C. As you walk through the hillside citadel, you’ll come across the remains of homes, storefronts, ancient tombs, and the mysterious beehive-shaped Treasury of Atreus (aka the Tomb of Agamemnon).
Afterward, transfer to Nafplio and join your Tour Director on a walk through its charming Old Town. Take in Syntagma Square (alive with locals enjoying coffee or a nightcap), quaint restaurants, and historical buildings around every turn. For a keepsake to take home, look for shops selling worry beads. Used for relaxation or stress relief across Greece, the city has a storied tradition of producing them.
Continue to your hotel on the Athens Riviera, then raise a glass and toast to your trip with a farewell drink this evening.
Day 19: Departure
Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures)
Transfer to the Athens airport for your flight home.
Reviews
Showing 1-6 of 63 traveler reviews
5 out of 5 stars
3rd-time traveler Patti, traveled in Oct 2025
Our tour guide Irenie was amazing. Greece was beautiful! Loved the little towns we stopped and visited on our way to final stops. The traditional Greek dinner in Corfu was so much fun. The ferry rides to the Islands were very nice. We had an amazing good bye dinner in Old...
5 out of 5 stars
4th-time traveler Karen, traveled in Oct 2025
We had a fabulous time on this tour. We saw so much of Greece - its beauty, cities, islands and history. Our tour director, Eirini, was amazing, making sure we got the best possible experiences. She was also so helpful with suggestions and maps so we could make the most of our...
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Carolyn, traveled in Oct 2025
This is a very active tour (moving from place to place) but is constructed so that you see places “not to be missed”. Every stop is worthwhile & the guides were excellent. We can’t say enough good about Eirini, our overall guide/tour director—1st rate and always looking out...
5 out of 5 stars
2nd-time traveler Steven, traveled in Aug 2025
Jason was a great tour director, very knowledgeable and very helpful. I loved learning about the history and culture of Greece. The food was fantastic!! Definitely recommend this trip. Beautiful scenery!
EF Go Ahead Tours
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We are so glad to hear that your trip to Greece was such a rewarding adventure. It sounds...
5 out of 5 stars
2nd-time traveler Patricia, traveled in Oct 2025
Overall this was a great tour! What made the tour so great was our tour director!!! He went above and beyond to make sure that everyone had a great time!! I had some health problems and could not complete the excursion unfortunately. My tour director scheduled a doctor hotel...
5 out of 5 stars
1st-time traveler Dennis, traveled in Oct 2025
3 people found this review helpful
Excellent tour with very knowledgeable guides and a first rate tour director, Eirini.
Showing 1–6 of 63 reviews
Hotels
We handpick every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm. Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date, but these are frequently used hotels for this tour and we're confident you'll be satisfied.

Thessaloniki - City Hotel Thessaloniki
This stylish hotel is located in the city center of Thessaloniki. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find Tsimiski Street, Aristotelous Square, and the White Tower of Thessaloniki.
Meteora Region - Amalia Hotel Kalambaka
This classical hotel is located in Kalambaka. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, balconies, and a restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find Trikala, Megalou Meteorou, and Lake Plastira.

Corfu - Ariti Grand Hotel
This elegant hotel is located on the island of Corfu. Guests enjoy a peaceful garden terrace, a seasonal outdoor pool with loungers, and a relaxed lounge bar serving regional drinks. Nearby, you'll find the Mon Repos Palace...

Delphi Region - Amalia Hotel Delphi
This modern hotel is located at the foot of Mount Parnassus in Delphi. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, beautiful views, and manicured gardens. Nearby, you’ll find the Temple of Apollo, the Old Temple of Athena, and the Stadium...
Athens - Crowne Plaza Athens - City Centre
This lavish hotel is located in Athens' business and commercial district. Guests enjoy the fitness center, the outdoor swimming pool, and the sauna. Nearby, you’ll find the War Museum Athens, the National Garden Botanic Museum,...
Santorini - Mar 'n' Mar Crown Hotel and Suites
This sophisticated hotel is located in Kamari, a seaside village on Santorini. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, views of the Aegean Sea, and a spa lounge. Nearby, you’ll find Kamari Beach, a shopping center, and Ancient Thera.

Crete - Galaxy Hotel Iraklio
This luxe hotel is located in Heraklion on the island of Crete. Guests enjoy restaurants, the outdoor pool, and a spa. Nearby, you’ll find Lions Square, Ammoudara Beach, and various shops and restaurants.

Olympia - Amalia Hotel Olympia
This modern hotel is located in the Agios Georgios neighborhood. Guests enjoy a restaurant, bar, and pool. Nearby, you’ll find the Archimedes Museum, the Museum of the History of the Ancient Olympic Games, and the...

Athens Riviera - NLH Mati Seafront
This beachfront hotel is located in the Mati neighborhood on the Athens Riviera. Guests enjoy the spa, outdoor pool with views of the Aegean Sea, and beach access. Nearby you’ll find several dining options and walking trails...
Flights
Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines.
Add our airfare and you’ll get:
- Round-trip flight for your tour
- Airport transfers at your destination
- A great price locked in today
- 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
- Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
- Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
FAQ
- In order to enter Greece, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
- We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
- Beginning in 2026, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
- Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2026, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center.
- If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
- You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GRE.
- Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Thessaloniki and depart from Athens.
- Transfers to and from the airport at the beginning and end of the tour are included for travelers who purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who booked their own flights are responsible for securing their own airport transfers.
- When you arrive in Thessaloniki, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.
Physical Activity Level
This is a very high physical activity-level tour. You can expect vigorous activity throughout the course of the tour.
Tour Pacing
This is a brisk-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:
- Three 1-night stays
- Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
- Most transportation by motor coach, some by ferry and flight
- Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy
Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements
- Travelers should be prepared to walk 3-5 miles per day—this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
- Stone and marble walkways may be slippery even when dry.
- Access to the Acropolis requires travelers to navigate a steep hill including uneven stairs with no railing.
- Travelers should feel comfortable climbing stairs to enter the Meteora monasteries, with one having 80 steps.
- Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
- Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on tour.
Climate Considerations
- In the summer months (June-September), travelers can expect heatwaves with temperatures consistently above 90F.
- In July and August, Greece experiences Meltemi, or strong winds, which can make for rough ferry rides.
Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions
- Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
- This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
- Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
- If you have mobility concerns or tour pacing questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team.
- This tour includes various modes of transportation, including planes, ferries and private motor coach. Some modes of transportation will have raised platforms or steps and often not provide access to ramps or lifts.
- The price of your tour includes: a round-trip ferry ride from Igoumenitsa to Corfu; ferry rides between Athens and Santorini and Santorini and Heraklion; and a flight from Heraklion to Athens. (The price of the tour extension also includes a train ride from Diakopto to Kalavryta.)
- All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
- The ferries you will be traveling in during your tour are large boats with airline-style seating. Boarding the ferry involves quickly walking up and down steep ramps, navigating crowds with other travelers and vehicles, while managing all of your luggage.
- European train stations typically operate similarly to airports: Security measures, such as baggage and body scanners, are common. Additionally, platforms are often spread across large distances and require travelers to carry their luggage up and down escalators or stairs. Porterage services aren’t offered and storage space is extremely limited. Please keep in mind that trains may only stop at each station for a few minutes; quick boarding and deboarding may be imperative.
- Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches, ferries, flights, and other modes of transportation.
- Contact your airline(s) for the luggage restrictions for your itinerary. Please note that on-tour flights may have tighter size and weight limits than your round-trip airfare to and from tour.
- Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any bags or exceed their size and weight restrictions. Be advised: You’re responsible for any luggage fees incurred on all flights.
- Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
- Travelers must be able to manage their luggage throughout tour; porters aren’t guaranteed at hotels or airports.
- Travelers need to be prepared to manage their own luggage during ferry transfers; this includes carrying your luggage up/down the boarding ramp, and managing crowded spaces with other people and motor vehicles.
- We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
- A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
- You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
- It’s preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs or shoulders. Entrance may be denied on this basis.
- We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single-use plastic waste.
- We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using a hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
- Travelers who experience motion sickness should take the proper precautions for the ferry crosssings.
- We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
- In case of emergencies, we also recommend packing your medical insurance card in your carry-on.
- Go Ahead handpicks every hotel you’ll stay at, striking a balance between comfort, location, and local charm.
- Specific properties will vary based on your departure date, but are typically three-to-four-star hotels; always include private bathrooms; and usually have in-room safes for valuables. Additionally, your hotels will have Wi-Fi, but access may be limited to common areas. There may also not be elevators.
- Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that your accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with your hotels once they’ve been confirmed, about 30 days prior to departure.
- Some hotels on this tour are situated on narrow streets; as such, our buses can’t drop you off right out front. In these instances, you’ll have to walk your luggage to the property, no more than a few blocks.
- Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
- Greece operates on the European standard 220-240 volts and use Types C, E, or F plugs with two small, round pins.
- Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
- Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
- We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
- Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
- Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
- At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov.
- If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
- If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
- Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
- Please note that codeine (commonly found in headache medications) is banned in Greece, and you may face prosecution if you bring it into the country.
- Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour.
- The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
- Travelers prone to seasickness should note that this tour includes boat rides.
- There are inherent risks associated with snorkeling and other water sports, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Discuss your planned activities with your doctor or healthcare provider for the best advice on participation.
- You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code GRE.
- This tour includes 5 dinners: They may be set menus, buffets, or family-style meals, depending on the location. Dinners also include one glass of beer, wine, or a soft drink, as well as water.
- Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
- Greece’s warm climate ensures a constant supply of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables. Salads served with aromatic olive oil, feta cheese, and oregano are plentiful. Simple grilled fish and meat are integral to Greek cuisine, as are squid and octopus. Don’t miss the spinach and cheese pies, called spanakopita.
- At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
- We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $4USD per person per day for your driver.
- If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
- Tips can only be paid in cash.
- If you are traveling to multiple countries with different currencies and the same Tour Director, ask them what currency they prefer for their tip.
- The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
- You will use the euro on tour.
- Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
- We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
- You can use most cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
- International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you don’t already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
- Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your Tour Director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
- To help you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend downloading the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. It’s free and provides information about important deadlines and entry requirements, as well as your detailed itinerary, packing tips, and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the app’s chat feature.
- Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
- There is no Wi-Fi on any of the motor coaches.
- Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
- Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
- The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
- One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
- Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
- This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
- As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
- Greece is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 7 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
- When it’s noon in New York, it’s 7pm in Greece.
- When you travel with Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
- Travel, when done responsibly, can have an enormous socioeconomic impact on communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at small businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
- Prepare for your trip: Be aware of monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market; learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette; and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
- When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
- Go Ahead Tours encourages travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single-use plastics. You can cut back on generating plastic waste by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
Select tour date
| Date | Extension | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | ||
1 left at this price | $4,439$3,939$500 off $3,939, $500 off $4,439 | |
1 spot left | $4,439 | |
6 left at this price | Available | $4,439$4,039$400 off $4,039, $400 off $4,439 |
4 left at this price | Available | $4,559$4,259$300 off $4,259, $300 off $4,559 |
3 left at this price | Available | $4,559$4,209$350 off $4,209, $350 off $4,559 |
3 left at this price | Available | $4,809$4,459$350 off $4,459, $350 off $4,809 |
5 left at this price | Available | $4,809$4,559$250 off $4,559, $250 off $4,809 |
| Available | $4,839$4,639$200 off $4,639, $200 off $4,839 | |
| Available | $4,619$4,419$200 off $4,419, $200 off $4,619 | |
4 left at this price | Available | $4,589$4,289$300 off $4,289, $300 off $4,589 |
| Available | $4,589$4,389$200 off $4,389, $200 off $4,589 | |
2 left at this price | $4,589$4,289$300 off $4,289, $300 off $4,589 | |
| Available | $4,589$4,389$200 off $4,389, $200 off $4,589 | |
| Available | $4,489 | |
| Available | $4,489$4,339$150 off $4,339, $150 off $4,489 | |
| Available | $4,489$4,289$200 off $4,289, $200 off $4,489 | |
| Available | $4,459$4,259$200 off $4,259, $200 off $4,459 | |
| 2027 | ||
| Available | $4,429 | |
| Available | $4,429 | |
| Available | $4,429 | |
$4,479 | ||
| Available | $4,479 | |
| Available | $4,479 | |
| Available | $4,479 | |
| Available | $4,759 | |
3 spots left | Available | $4,609 |
$4,609 | ||
| Available | $4,609 | |
| Available | $4,609 | |
| Available | $4,859 | |
$4,859 | ||
| Available | $4,859 | |
| Available | $4,859 | |
| Available | $4,859 | |
| Available | $4,889 | |
| Available | $4,889 | |
| Available | $4,889 | |
| Available | $4,669 | |
| Available | $4,669 | |
| Available | $4,629 | |
| Available | $4,629 | |
$4,629 | ||
| Available | $4,629 | |
| Available | $4,629 | |
| Available | $4,519 | |
$4,519 | ||
| Available | $4,519 | |
| Available | $4,519 | |
$4,519 | ||
| Available | $4,519 | |
| Available | $4,489 | |
| 2028 | ||
| Available | $4,429 | |
| Available | $4,479 | |
| Available | $4,479 | |
| Available | $4,479 | |
| Available | $4,609 | |
| Available | $4,609 | |
| Available | $4,609 | |
| Available | $4,859 | |
| Available | $4,859 | |
| Available | $4,859 | |
| Available | $4,889 | |
| Available | $4,669 | |
| Available | $4,629 | |
| Available | $4,629 | |
| Available | $4,629 | |
| Available | $4,519 | |
| Available | $4,519 | |
| Available | $4,519 | |
| Available | $4,489 | |
$99 down. Flexible payments. 30 days to cancel.†
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