Greece History Trip

Overnight flight to Athens

Evening

5:00PM (approximately)

Welcome to Greece. After we land we will transfer to our hotel to check in unload and head out for dinner. Get ready to uncover the secrets of the past, soak up the Mediterranean sun, and embark on a journey of discovery that will create  unforgettable experiences.

6:30PM Dinner

For dinner we will indulge in the flavours of Greece as we gather for a traditional Greek dinner in the Plaka neighbourhood. Following dinner we will go for a brief walk to explore  the charming streets, street performances and vibe of the area.

9:00Pm

Return back to hotel for a nights rest.

Morning

9:00AM We will start the day by a visit to Mycenae, where history comes alive. We will delve into the ancient world of Mycenaean civilization, exploring the monumental Lion Gate, the awe-inspiring Treasury of Atreus, and the archaeological wonders that reveal the stories of a bygone era. A journey through Mycenae is a step back in time, offering students insights into Greece’s rich historical heritage.

11:00AM We will hop into our bus and make our way to Nafplio. We will have a chance to explore this coastal town, and its historic treasures. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, where Venetian and Ottoman influences blend seamlessly. We will visit the iconic Palamidi Fortress, perched on a hill, and the captivating Bourtzi Castle on the sea, both steeped in centuries of history.

9:00PM Board a high speed overnight ferry to Crete

6:00AM Arrive at the Heraklion Port in Crete. We will grab breakfast as a group and relax while we see this port town come to life. 

Crete is a landscape of towering mountains, deep gorges, straddling the Cretan and Libyan seas where Europe, Asia and Africa meet. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean. It’s a significant part of the economy and cultural heritage of Greece; while it retains its own local traits such as its own music and dialect.

8:00AM Our first stop will be in Ancient Knossos. Knossos was the capital city of the Minoan Civilization with the Minoan Palace, the home of King Monos. Legends say the Royal Manos slew the minotaur, half man, half bull, in the labyrinth. We will start our day discovering the regal Palace Complex, where Minoan royalty once held court. We will see the exquisite frescoes, such as the renowned ‘Prince of the Lilies’ and ‘Dolphin Fresco.’ Then, ascend the Grand Staircase for incredible views of this ancient city.

1:00PM We will have some free time for a picnic lunch at local park

2:30PM We will board our bus to head to Chania to check in to our accommodation. We will have the opportunity to explore this new side of Crete by visiting the Chania port and the town. 

4:30PM  Start a  guided tour in Chania. We will explore the Old Town’s winding streets, visit the Venetian Lighthouse, the Maritime Museum of Crete and take in the scenic beauty of the Old Venetian Harbor.

7:00PM Evening Enjoy dinner as a group and head back to the hotel for a good night’s rest.

9:00PM Return back to hotel

9:00AM Breakfast

10:00AM Continued guided tour of Chania. We will continue our educational adventure with a visit to the Maritime Museum of Crete, an incredible attraction nestled within the historic Firka Fortress. As we explore the museum’s maritime treasures, we will learn about the rich maritime history of Chania. Afterward, we will stroll along the scenic Old Venetian Harbor, where you can savor breathtaking views of the waterfront. Finally we will conclude our tour with a visit to the iconic Morosini Fountain, an enchanting landmark that adds a touch of charm to your Chania experience.”

1:00PM Group lunch and shopping time at The Municipal Market in the heart of Chania’s Old Town.  Known for its lively atmosphere, it offers a wide array of fresh produce, local products, and culinary delights.

4:00PM We will meet up with a local street artist who will take us on a guided street art tour in Chania.

6:00PM Group Dinner and free time at the Venizelo square

8:00PM Overnight ferry to Athens

6:00AM Arrive in Athens. We will drop off luggage at the hotel to get ready for the day. 

8:00AM We start out by climbing the Acropolis to view the majestic Parthenon, considered by many to be the world’s greatest architectural feat. We will visit the Temple of Athena Nike, which once housed a gold statue of the goddess (her wings were clipped to keep her from ever deserting the city). Athens is named after Athena, the goddess of war and wisdom. We will see the Presidential Guard, pass the stadium where the first modern Olympics were held in 1896, and visit lively Omonia and Syntagma squares. 

1:00PM Afternoon Venture to the most southern point of Central Greece as we visit the Temple of Poseidon, the Sea Gods’ temple atop the hills of Cape Sounion. Tour through the tall pillars and marble slabs left behind from this temple built around 450 BC. 

3:30PM Return back to Athens

5:00PM Return back to hotel to freshen up before group dinner.

7:00PM Group dinner and Greek Folk Dance show.

10:00PM Return back to hotel

8:00AM Board the ferry to Santorini

4:10PM Land in Thira, Santorini. Following our arrival, we will transfer to our accommodations. Before dinner we will take a brief tour of our surroundings and catch the legendary Santorini sunset.

6:30PM Group Dinner and exploration in Oia

9:00PM Return back to hotel and rest.

8:00AM Breakfast

9:00 We will begin a walking tour of Santorini.

Morning Our guide will show us through the town as we enjoy our stay in Santorini. We will begin in the picturesque village of Oia, where narrow cobblestone streets wind their way through the iconic white-washed buildings, adorned with blue-domed churches and charming boutiques.

12:00PM Lunch

1:30PM We will take a Cable Car down to a boat boarding point to participate in a Volcano Tour. During the 30 minute ride we will see the dark blue Aegean Sea, mountains at our back with the white colour buildings of Fira high up on the hill. Once we get to the island we walk on rocky terrain to reach the center of the dormant volcano. 

4:30PM Return back to the pier and then have free time to explore Santorini in small groups. 

6:30PM Group dinner

8:30PM Return back to hotel

8:00AM Breakfast

9:00AM Visit the Venetsanos winery which is located right above the port of Athinios, overlooking the magnificent caldera of Santorini. The winery was designed by the innovator George Venetsanos in 1947. Firstly operated in 1949 and was the first industrial winery on the island. It has a very rich history, unique architecture and amazing views. We will learn about their wine making process and what makes this vineyard so unique.

12:00 Lunch

1:30PM Visit  the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, often referred to as the “Minoan Pompeii” for its preserved ruins. We will explore the well-preserved remnants of this ancient Minoan settlement that dates back to the Bronze Age.

3:30PM Board Ferry back to Athens.

11:30PM Arrive back in Athens

Early morning departure back to Toronto.