Historical heritage and myths of Greece

The tour to Greece would be incomplete without attending of Athens - the capital of Greece and birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visit ancient monuments, which evidence about influence on the development of the Western civilization. Some of the most prominent attractions there are the Acropolis, Plateia Syntagmatos (Constitution Square) and temples, which unambiguously bring the atmosphere of history and mightiness. There is mush to see, therefore we recommend you to come before the planned tour.

On the third day take a train to Kalambaka – excellent base for exploration of the spectacular "hanging" monasteries of Meteora, perched atop pinnacles of rock. Meteora is one of the biggest and the most important Orthodox complexes in Greece that consist of six monasteries. They have long history and rich heritage. Visit to the monasteries or enjoy hiking. Then depart from Meteora early and travel through spectacular mountain scenery, the region of Thessalia and around the foot of the mythical Mount Parnassos to arrive at the historical town of Delphi. This afternoon, there may also be the chance to make an optional excursion to the beach at Galaxidi or hike in the Parnassos. Then head to Nafplio that is sometimes referred to the most beautiful city in Greece with narrow old city streets. Climb up to the Acronafplia and Palamidi Fortresses. The views from the top of Acronafplia are phenomenal, looking back over the bay to Argos and out into the Saronic Gulf. Visit to historic sites or head to Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites.

Take an overnight ferry to Crete – the biggest Greek island with rich and interesting heritage. It is planned to visit three of its cities that embody the antique and the modern, as well as the influences of Turkish, Venetian, British and Roman and evidence about interesting history of the island. Come to Chania and take some free time in harbourside cafe or stroll on the city streets. The next morning, hike to the spectacular Samaria Gorgre that is the deepest and the narrowest gorge in the continent, enjoy the time for picnic lunch and get to Agia Roumeli by the evening. It is the village at the exit of Samaria Gorge that was built on the ancient site of Tarra, which flourished at Classical Greek and Roman epoch. The settlement nowadays has moved more towards the Libyan Sea. Then take a ferry to the seaside village of Loutro, located at the site once the ancient city of Phoenix was. It is difficult to access by inland roads and has a winter port that can be safe even in very bad weather. Loutro is less visited by tourists therefore there is calmer than in the northern part. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere and find out some secrets of home cooked Cretan cuisine while visiting a family. Take an option to rent a kayak and explore secluded beaches and coves, enjoy a swim and tasty seafood meals at secluded restaurants or hike the Aradine Gorge. The capital of Crete, Iraklion, is also one of the oldest ports in the world. Enjoy an included visit to Knossos, an archaeological site of an ancient city and of a residence of the King Minos. According to the myths, the King Minos ordered to design his palace so cleverly that no one could find the way back out without a guide. In other version of this same story, it was not the palace itself which was designed in this way but the labyrinth within the palace that was built to house of the monstrous king's son, the Minotaur - half-man and half-bull.

Head to Santorini in the final part of the tour and spend two nights there. Santorini is a volcanic island and one of the most popular destination points in this region. It will surprise you by picturesque scenery, traditional villages, including the Oia village that is the most famous one with white houses, blue roofs of churches, and the beaches of white, black and red sand. Visit the Byzantine churches, ruins and archaeological sites, and learn the history of island, as well as take an optional Santorini sunset tour or a half-day volcano boat tour.