Your Itinerary
Start on an extraordinary European journey, immersing yourself in rich cultures, historic landmarks, and breathtaking beauty. From Athens to the Greek Islands, topped off with a Croatian cruise, it's the perfect fusion of cultural immersion, natural splendor, and unmatched luxury, creating unforgettable memories at every step.
"Quit your job, buy a ticket, get a tan, fall in love, never return." - Anonymous
DAY 1: WELCOME TO ATHENS (3 NIGHTS)
Welcome to Athens! Your driver is ready to transfer you to your hotel. With a central location providing easy access to renowned attractions like Anafiotika, Syntagma Square, and various museums, your stay promises convenience.
Athens City
Tonight, indulge in a leisurely stroll through this captivating ancient city. Immerse yourself in the allure of charming squares embellished with stunning architecture, and interact with the locals for an authentic and engaging experience.
DAY 2: BEST OF ATHENS
As the cradle of modern Western civilization, vast Athens boasts an abundance of neoclassical buildings to keep you captivated during your stay. Begin by exploring the city at your own pace with a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, providing convenient transportation to key attractions like the Panathenaic Stadium and the Parthenon, a significant part of the Acropolis.
Acropolis in Athens
Delve into the Acropolis Museum in Athens at your leisure with this admission ticket, offering skip-the-line access. Roam through extensive galleries to immerse yourself in Greek history and heritage, encountering Greek sculptures and archaeological treasures up close. Enjoy the flexibility to move through the museum at your own pace, lingering as long as you desire.
DAY 3: DAY AT LEISURE
Explore the Greek capital’s culinary landscape on a half-day tour around the center of the city. Start your day with a traditional Greek coffee and then head out into the city, visiting tavernas, food stalls, open-air markets and more.
Greek cuisine
Following your tour, take the opportunity to discover more of Athens at your leisure. On Saturdays, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Monastiraki Flea Market, where a variety of stalls await your exploration. Meanwhile, Sundays offer a chance to delve into cultural treasures with free admission to many museums in Athens.
Athens streets
DAY 4: START OF GREEK ISLAND HOPPER – NAXOS (2 NIGHTS)
Once you've wrapped up your stay in Athens and bid farewell to your accommodation, head to the airport for the next exciting leg of your journey - beginning with the enchanting island of Naxos!
Town of Naxos
After you have settled into your accommodation, you'll have the rest of the day on your own. Naxos is known for its delicious Greek cuisine, and there are several renowned restaurants where you can savor local flavors. You needn’t travel far to find isolated beaches, atmospheric mountain villages, ancient sites and marble quarries.
DAY 5: NAXOS HIGHLIGHTS
Explore Naxos on a guided bus tour, visiting Gyroula valley, Apollonas marble quarries, and charming villages like Chalki, Apiranthos, and Damalas.
Chalki, Naxos
Highlights include the marble temple of Goddess Demeter, an olive press museum, a pottery workshop, and the picturesque Apiranthos village. Enjoy free time in Chalki, indulge in local cuisine in Apiranthos, and unwind at Apollonas fishing village. Don't miss the famous "Kouros" marble statue. The tour concludes with a scenic drive along the west coast, offering stunning ocean views before returning to your pickup point.
DAY 6: PAROS (2 NIGHTS)
Say goodbye to the amazing island of Naxos as you hop on a ferry journey to Paros, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Renowned for its golden sand and crystal-clear waters, Paros is a haven for water sports enthusiasts.
Paros streets
After getting comfortable in your accommodation, savor the delights of traditional Greek cuisine at local tavernas. Indulge in specialties such as moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood. Don't miss the chance to taste the renowned local wine, especially the famous white wine crafted on the island.
DAY 7: FULL DAY CRUISE OF ANTIPAROS AND DESPOTIKO
Embark on the ultimate Cyclades adventure, exploring hidden gems from Paros to Antiparos—all accessible only by boat. Immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters with multiple swimming stops, discovering unique caves and cliff diving along the way.
Cruise the Antiparos and Despotiko
Indulge in a traditional Parian lunch on board, complemented by wine, soft drinks, and a variety of fruits and snacks. Enhance your swimming experience by requesting snorkeling equipment from the friendly crew. This all-inclusive experience covers lunch, boat tickets, fees, taxes, and even hotel pick-up and drop-off. Don't miss out on this unforgettable day filled with stunning landscapes and warm hospitality!
DAY 8: SANTORINI (3 NIGHTS)
Santorini, the famous emerald of the Aegean Sea! Picture-perfect white-washed buildings perched on cliffs, overlooking the deep blue sea.
Santorini
Hop on a ferry departing from Paros and make your way to Santorini before settling into your accommodation. Beyond its inviting beaches, Santorini boasts a myriad of attractions; from ancient castles and charming hillside towns to archaeological ruins and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Discover hidden gems like pop-up galleries, enchanting little islands, and atmospheric fishing ports, ensuring there's something captivating for every traveler.
DAY 9: COASTLINE OF SANTORINI
Travel to the marina, where you'll step onto a catamaran and sail across the Aegean Sea. Your first destination is the renowned Red Beach with its distinctive red cliffs and sands, followed by a scenic pass by White Beach. Arrive at the captivating bay of Mesa Pigadia, offering opportunities for snorkeling and swimming. Cruise by Indian Rock and the Venetian Lighthouse, delving into insights about the volcanic Caldera.
Sail the Santorini
Take a refreshing dip in the natural hot springs, all whilst enjoying panoramic views of Oia and Therasia Island. Daytime travelers can relish a generous snack spread, while those on the sunset tour will witness the sun's descent over the horizon. Refreshments are included throughout the journey.
DAY 10: SANTORINI LIFE
Make the most out of your Santorini experience. Explore the charming streets of Fira and discover various spots with stunning views of the Caldera. Enjoy the iconic white-washed buildings against the backdrop of the deep blue sea. Refer to your Lonely Planet guide for ideas.
Alley of Santorini
In the evening, we recommend indulging in a dining experience at a seafront taverna. Delight in a romantic dinner featuring traditional Greek cuisine, all whilst immersing yourself in the enchanting glow of town lights and the sea. Additionally, Fira boasts a dynamic nightlife scene, featuring bars and clubs with live music and DJs. Take in the vibrant atmosphere and make the most of this memorable night out in the town.
Feel free to explore the neighboring islands of Mykonos and Ios during your journey. Contact your Australian Escapes travel consultant for a personalized travel experience.
DAY 11: BEGIN YOUR CROATIAN CRUISE (7 NIGHTS)
Say a fond "adio" (goodbye) to the Greek Islands as you head off for your next adventure. Board a flight to Split, where a private transfer awaits to escort you to the cruise port.
Croatian Cruise
Board the cruise and get acquainted with the friendly crew during a welcome cocktail before enjoying a delightful dinner on board. As night falls, experience the enchantment of Trogir with a scenic cruise along the city's shimmering waterways.
Luxury cabins
DAY 12: MAKARSKA
Embark on a city tour of Split, the "capital of Dalmatia," strolling along the famous Riva promenade and exploring the Diocletian Palace. You can even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea.
Riva Promenade
Continue this part of your adventure with a captivating city tour of Makarska, discovering its charming waterfront and the beautiful St. Marko's Church. Brace yourself for a journey through history and coastal beauty. The Adriatic invites you to enjoy an unforgettable odyssey.
DAY 13: MAKARSKA – MLJET-POMENA
Today you will explore Mljet National Park on the island of Mljet in Croatia. Highlights include two interconnected saltwater lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero. Take a boat trip to the Islet of St. Mary, home to the 12th-century Benedictine Monastery with a Romanesque church. Enjoy nature trails, swim in pristine lakes, and discover diverse flora and fauna. The park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities.
DAY 14: MLJET-POMENA - DUBROVNIK
Join us as we explore Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," on a city tour through its car-free old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander the cobblestone streets, visit iconic landmarks like the Cathedral of the Assumption and Rector's Palace, and stroll along Stradun, the main promenade.
City walls in Dubrovnik
Walk the impressive city walls for panoramic views, discover historical monuments, and experience the charm of Game of Thrones filming locations. Indulge in local cuisine, explore the Franciscan Monastery, and capture the magic of Dubrovnik's sunset. This city seamlessly blends medieval grandeur with a lively, modern atmosphere.
DAY 15: DUBROVNIK - KORCULA
We'll set off for Korcula, located on the eponymous "green island”. Join a city tour as you explore the charming streets of Korcula's old town, you'll discover a rich history intertwined with Venetian architecture and medieval charm. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Marco Polo House, a fascinating homage to the renowned explorer believed to have been born on the island. Explore the narrow alleys, historic squares, and iconic landmarks that paint a vivid picture of Korcula's cultural heritage. Immerse yourself in the Adriatic ambiance, where the azure sea meets the vibrant greenery, creating a delightful setting for an unforgettable exploration.
DAY 16: KORCULA - JELSA
Kickstart your day with a refreshing opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. Later, embark on an exciting excursion to Hvar, often hailed as the "St. Tropez of Croatia." The city tour of Hvar unveils a charming blend of historical richness and coastal elegance. Explore the winding streets of the old town, adorned with medieval architecture and vibrant squares.
Hvar, Croatia
Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Hvar Cathedral and the Arsenal. As you wander through the picturesque streets, the allure of Hvar's Mediterranean charm becomes evident. From its cultural heritage to the stunning waterfront, Hvar promises an enchanting experience reminiscent of the renowned St. Tropez, making it a must-visit destination on your coastal adventure.
DAY 17: JELSA - TROGIR
Sail back to Trogir, soaking in the scenic views that grace the horizon. In the afternoon, indulge in a leisurely city walk through the enchanting old town of Trogir.
Town of Trogir
Traverse its picturesque streets, where history meets charm, and discover the captivating stories woven into its medieval architecture. Let the allure of Trogir unfold before you, promising an afternoon of delightful exploration and cultural immersion.
DAY 18: END OF CRUISE – FLIGHT TO ATHENS (1 NIGHT)
Bid farewell and disembark from the cruise. Choose between extending your stay with a delightful two nights in Split where city center accommodation awaits along with a plethora of exciting activities, or head directly to the airport for your flight to Athens. The choice is yours as you conclude your coastal journey.
Upon reaching Athens, you will stay near the airport for your flight the following day.
DAY 19: RETURN TO AUSTRALIA
Say your goodbyes with a heartfelt "adio" in Greek. Now, make your way directly to the airport, ready to embark on your flight back home. The memories linger, and as you soar through the skies, cherish the adventures you've woven into the tapestry of your travel story. Safe travels!