Greece: Island Discovery

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. After meeting your local leader and fellow travelers at a welcome meeting, the evening is yours to personalize. Perhaps head out for some gyros with your new adventure companions or stroll the world-famous neighborhood of Plaka.

Today visit one of the most recognizable sights in Athens: the Acropolis. Our guide leads the way through these magnificent ruins as we learn more about ancient Greek civilization and culture. The remainder of the day will be unscripted, so you can make your own discoveries. In the evening, head to a local taverna and try some of the typical Greek delicacies — a local meze accompanied by ouzo and wine.

Cruising the glistening blue waters of Greece, we ferry toward Syros — a hidden island gem where Greek tradition and Western influence exist harmoniously.

We wander this morning through the fortress-like town of Ana Syros — with its cathedral dedicated to Saint George and amazing views of the Aegean Sea. Meander up the stairs to the top of the hill — passing through narrow streets with traditional whitewashed houses — before reaching breathtaking views of the island.

Cruising the glistening blue waters of Greece, we'll ferry toward Naxos; the largest and most fertile of the Cyclades islands, Byzantine churches and medieval towers dot the landscape here. Look for jewelry with the famous Naxos Eye — a stone that was created by the combination of sea and sun, and is now a symbol of the island. Embark on a walk with your local leader and visit the Temple of Apollo, known as Portara or Palatia.

Today we journey inland and discover the beautiful mountain villages of Naxos. Stop in Chalkio for a walk through the village taking in the Byzantine architecture. Visit the local distillery, which produces Kitron, a liqueur made from local citrus trees. Then it's on to the village of Apiranthos to meet some locals and enjoy time unscripted.

Our last stop on our Greek adventure is the southern island of Santorini. Renowned for its spectacular natural beauty, Santorini has become synonymous with the iconic image of the Greek islands: blue-domed buildings clinging to the cliff face with sparkling water in the background. Here, there are so many options to help craft the story of your adventure. Discover the hilltop ruins of Ancient Thira and its fascinating Prehistoric Museum, or check out the range of restaurants and shops in the island's capital, Thira. Maybe one of Santorini's volcanic beaches is calling you, or an island winery beckons. Either way, be sure to try some of the region's delicious food, grown from the nutrient-filled volcanic soil that makes the ingredients burst with flavor.

In 1500 B.C., a volcanic eruption sank the center of Santorini, forming one of the most significant geological formations on the planet — the awe-inspiring caldera. Today, it's your choice! Take an excursion along the crater rim, starting in Thira town and walking through quaint villages on the way to Oia. Or, if you prefer a different perspective, spend the day on a boat sailing the caldera. On the last evening of our adventure, rub shoulders with friendly locals in neighborhood pubs and cafés, as the blazing Santorini sun dips into the sea.

Our Grecian adventure ends today.