Hidden Greece - 12 Days
12 Days
Thessaloniki
Heraklion
*****
Tauck
Experience the best kept secrets of Greece as you explore ancient Greek cities, mountain villages, and beachside resorts, immersing in the cultural riches and hidden treasures of Greece amidst stunning scenery. Go off the beaten path to places off the tourist radar, enjoying a truly authentic and personal look at daily life in Greece, past, present and picture-perfect.
Explore the ancient archeological sites of Thessaloniki, the royal tombs of Vergina, and Meteora's heavenly clifftop monasteries in Northern Greece. Discover the mountain majesty of Delphi, sanctuary to the gods, and overnight at a secluded alpine resort in Arachova, highlights of your discoveries in central Greece. Mediterranean charms, outdoor activities and beachfront bliss welcome you to Costa Navarino, emerging as a world-class golf destination yet to be discovered by crowds of travelers. Nearby, Olympia reigns as a sacred site in the western Peloponnese, and seaside Pylos echoes with battle sites where Greek victories turned the tides of history. Olive oil farms dot the landscapes en route to Messene and Athens, virtual open-air museums that celebrate archaeological wonders and awe-inspiring views – of Greece's ancient past. Ferry to car-free Hydra for care-free sightseeing and fly to Crete for a two-night stay that ingulges with a chic vibe.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Thessaloniki
A transfer is included from Thessaloniki Airport to the Electra Palace Hotel, ideally located steps from restaurants and tavernas where you can experience the lively Greek culture of the city. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 2: Charms of Thessaloniki
Nestled along the Thermaic Gulf, Thessaloniki, renowned as the cultural capital of Greece, is a seaside showcase of life, past and present, blending ancient Roman and Greek sites with modern-day buildings lining its beaches. Founded in 316 BCE and named for a sister of Alexander the Great, Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, reflects a rich history shaped by a tapestry of cultural influences. Today, the city is celebrated for its gastronomy and vibrant cultural life, and boasts a laid-back charm where local life unfolds at a gentler pace. A privately guided visit here invites leisurely exploration of its impressive archaeological sites – such as the Roman forum, the mosaics of Hagia Sophia, and the Arch of Galerius – balanced with time to experience the essence of halara, the local spirit of relaxed living. See the Rotunda and more on a locally guided walking tour and enjoy a lunch of typical Greek cuisine before spending the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Day 3: The archaeological site of Vergina
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vergina this morning to visit the Museum of the Royal Tombs. The town of Vergina became internationally famous in 1977 when a Greek archaeologist unearthed what he claimed was the burial site of the kings of Macedonia, including the tomb of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. View the excavated tombs with a local expert, seeing the artifacts, including weapons, jewelry, pottery, and more, that were sealed inside two of the tombs. Alexander IV, Alexander the Great's son, was also entombed here. After lunch, return to your hotel in Thessaloniki where the rest of the day is free.
Day 4: Discover Meteora
This morning, embark on a scenic journey into the heart of Central Greece, where dramatic mountains give way to lush valleys and stunning villages. Your destination is awe-inspiring Meteora—Greek for "suspended in the air"—a place where nature and spirituality converge in a truly extraordinary way. Crowned a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Meteora is home to six active Byzantine monasteries perched high atop towering rock formations. Step inside one of these living monuments and gain rare insight into the lives of the monks and nuns who have called this sacred site home for centuries. Marvel at priceless relics and Byzantine frescoes amidst the serene beauty of a world removed from time. Travel onward to the mountain town of Arachova and enjoy dinner amidst the peaceful charms of your alpine resort.
Day 5: Delphi & Costa Navarino
Wake up to the fresh mountain air and amazing views of the stunning landscapes that make your overnight stay here one to remember. After breakfast, continue south to your resort in Costa Navarino, stopping en route for a visit to Delphi. An ancient Greek sanctuary dedicated to the god Apollo, Delphi was considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks and served as a major religious site for seeking guidance and advice. Have lunch and travel on to Costa Navarino, located in Messinia in the southwest Peloponnese. Set amidst one of the most unspoiled and breathtaking landscapes in the Mediterranean, it is home to a cultural heritage dating back 4,500 years; the town was traditionally known for its rustic landscape, Kalamata olives, ancient temples and a historic naval battle; today it is emerging as a world-class golf and beach destination. Your accommodations overlook the Ionian Sea and are rooted in Greek history in a corner of the Peloponnese that is yet to be discovered by crowds of tourists.
Day 6: Archaeologically rich Olympia or charming Pylos
You have a choice of excursions today, including a visit to Olympia in the western Peloponnese in the "valley of the gods." Olympia was the most celebrated sacred site of Ancient Greece and is today a revered UNESCO World Heritage site. The original site of the first Olympic games in the 8th century BC, the games took place here every four years since 776 BC. The extensive ruins you'll see during your visit include ancient athletic training areas, a stadium and temples dedicated to the gods Hera and Zeus, and the Archaeological Museum of Olympia showcasing finds from the site, from a statue of Hermes to the sculptures that were used to decorate the Temple of Zeus, considered among the greatest ancient Greek art. Or, opt for an excursion to the coastal village of Pylos, where history echoes across the waves. Here, Athens triumphed over Sparta in a decisive 425 BC battle during the Peloponnesian War, and centuries later, the Naval Battle of Navarino sparked Greece's independence from Ottoman rule. Explore Pylos' charming harbour, Roman aqueduct, 13th-century castle, and Ottoman-era hilltop fortress—all set against a stunning seaside backdrop. Enjoy dinner at leisure back at your resort.
Day 7: Olive Oil, Ancient Messene & Athens
Your Greek adventure continues today with a visit to Ancient Messene, one of Greece's best-preserved archaeological sites. Founded in 370 BC during the Bronze Age, the city was originally known as Ithome before being destroyed by the Spartans. Following the Spartans defeat at the hands of the Thebans, a new city was built over the ruins of Ithome and thus, Messene was born. Explore its restored theater, grand agora, Sanctuary of Asclepius, excavated stadium, and gymnasium. Afterwards, immerse in the daily operations of an olive oil producer, complete with a tasting and traditional lunch. End your day in ancient Athens, where your charming hotel offers easy access to iconic sights like the Acropolis and Plaka, as well as local tavernas and shops.
Day 8: The Acropolis
Ascend the Acropolis before the heat and the crowds on a morning walking tour with a private local guide and step into the heart of ancient Greece. Towering above modern-day Athens, the Acropolis has been continuously inhabited since the Bronze Age and reached its pinnacle in the 5th century BC as a symbol of power, worship, and intellectual achievement. Begin at the 2nd-century Odeon of Herodes Atticus, still used for performances today. Then stand before the iconic Parthenon, a white marble masterpiece dedicated to Athena, goddess of wisdom and the city's namesake. Continue to the Erechtheion, where myth and architecture merge—the sacred site of Athena and Poseidon's legendary contest, featuring the graceful Porch of the Caryatids. After time to absorb sweeping views of Athens from this ancient citadel, descend for a guided visit to the Acropolis Museum. Built over an active excavation site, the museum houses treasures spanning from the Greek Bronze Age to Roman and Byzantine periods. Peer through glass floors into ongoing digs, revealing layers of the city's past. The rest of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. Just a short walk from your hotel you'll find the Plaka. Nestled beneath the Acropolis and its historic temples, this charming area exudes a village-like atmosphere, with its narrow cobblestone lanes, quaint shops, inviting sidewalk cafés, and cosy family-run tavernas that stay open into the night.
Day 9: Hydra Island
Take a ferry to the picturesque port of Hydra, renowned for its exquisite architecture and spectacular neoclassical stone mansions overlooking the port, for a guided tour followed by free time. There are no cars on this island; explore the sights as you wish on foot, by boat or from the saddle, taking life at a slow pace like the locals do. Return to Athens after lunch and enjoy the evening as you wish.
Day 10: Fly to Crete
Fly to Heraklion Airport today for a two-night stay on the island of Crete where a locally guided sightseeing excursion upon your arrival introduces you to its landmark sights. Explore Knossos, the central site of the Minoan civilization. Its evocative setting incorporates an immense palace, courtyards, private apartments, baths, lively frescoes and more, including multistory structures, sophisticated plumbing systems, and vibrant frescoes. The remnants of Knossos Palace inspire with myths of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur as it is believed to be the location of the labyrinth in Greek mythology. Return to your resort for time at leisure and enjoy dinner here tonight. Bordering a beautiful beach with a chic French Riviera vibe, the Domes of Elounda overlooks Mirabello Bay, with its sparkling, crystal-clear waters, World-Heritage site Spinalonga Island fortress, golden beaches, and olive tree-dotted Cretan terrain.
Day 11: A scenic cruise
In keeping with the maritime traditions of Crete, embark on a locally guided boat ride around the island that includes a visit to the historic island fortress of Spinalonga, and views remote beaches and hidden coves accessible only by boat. Our onboard experts will share insights, historical facts, and point out key landmarks during your cruise. Spend the afternoon enjoying the amenities of your seaside resort and join us tonight for a farewell dinner at the hotel.
Day 12: Journey Home
Fly home anytime. A transfer is included to Heraklion Airport from the Domes of Elounda for your journey home. Allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in at the airport. You can, of course, extend your stay.
Includes
- 11 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can we book flights through you ?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms
Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.
Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.
For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.
How much walking with be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities
Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms.
While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience.
The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.
The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.