10 Day Best of Greece Tour, Olympia, Meteora, Delphi & Santorini

Exploring the 10 Day Best of Greece Tour: Olympia, Meteora, Delphi & Santorini

This 10-day adventure offers a well-rounded look at Greece’s most famous landmarks, historic sites, and scenic spots. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and inclusions suggest it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a seamless, personalized experience of Greece’s highlights.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the customized private format means you’ll get intimate attention from guides, avoiding the quick-paced group rush. Second, the inclusion of accommodation, transportation, and key entry tickets offers remarkable convenience and value. Lastly, the balance of mainland highlights with luxurious island time in Santorini ensures you experience both history and relaxation.

A potential consideration is the cost — roughly $4,766 per person — which might seem steep for some. But when you factor in the private transport, guided tours, and carefully curated experiences, it’s often a worthwhile investment for a hassle-free, premium trip.

This tour is best suited for travelers craving an immersive, flexible, and luxurious way to explore Greece without the stress of planning every detail themselves. It’s ideal for history lovers, couples, or small groups who value comfort and authentic insights.

Key Points

• Private, Fully Guided Experience: Personalized attention with expert guides enhances your understanding and enjoyment.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Hotels, transit, select meals, and tickets are covered, making logistics smooth.
• Diverse Itinerary: Offers a mix of ancient ruins, scenic landscapes, and idyllic island scenery.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Honey, olive oil, and wine tastings along with visits to traditional villages.
• Comfortable Transportation: Private car, luxury ferries, and scenic railway rides ensure a seamless journey.
• Balanced Timing: Carefully planned stops allow for exploration without feeling rushed.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1 & 2: The Greek Mainland Begins with Ancient Corinth and Nafplio

Starting from Athens, your adventure kicks off with a drive along Greece’s mainland coast, stopping at Corinth to see the famous Canal and the ruins where Saint Paul once walked. The Ancient Corinth site offers an intriguing glimpse into Roman and Greek history, with the Roman Forum and the Bema of Apostle Paul giving a sense of spiritual history.

Next, a highlight is a scenic train ride on the Odontotos Cog Railway through Vouraikos Canyon. Reviewers love this ride, describing it as one of the “most beautiful train trips in the Balkans,” with travelers remarking on waterfalls, tunnels, and forests that make it a “spectacular” experience. Visiting the Cave of Lakes offers a natural marvel, with lakes of different colors created by mineral oxides.

The evening in Nafplio is a charming way to start relaxing, with options to climb Palamidi Castle or take a boat to the fortress Bourtzi. Reviewers praise Nafplio for its quaint streets and stunning seaside setting.

Day 3: Olympia, Mycenae, and Naupactus

A morning visit to Ancient Olympia is a chance to stand where the original Olympic Games began. The site’s temples and stadium are still evocative, with some reviewers noting the marble starting blocks remain in place, adding authenticity to the moment. The Temple of Zeus here was once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

The Market of Olympia is a lively spot for tasting Greek olives, wine, and olive oil, with reviews highlighting the delightful free tastings and high-quality local products. The visit to Klio’s Honey Farm offers a sweet break, with handmade honey-based desserts and a chance to enjoy the farm’s produce.

End the day with a stop in Naupactus, a lovely seaside town with a Venetian castle and port, perfect for a relaxed lunch or stroll.

Day 4 & 5: Mystical Meteora and the Monasteries

After a scenic drive through Arachova, you’ll arrive in Kalambaka, where the Meteora Monasteries loom dramatically atop rock formations. Watching the sunset with these monasteries in the background is a favorite moment, and the views are truly unforgettable.

The following day includes visits to The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro and the Monastery of St. Stephan—both UNESCO sites. Travelers love the “suspended in air” feel of Meteora, with reviewers saying it’s “absolutely magical.” The monasteries’ architecture and history are fascinating, and many appreciate the chance to learn about Byzantine religious life.

A drive past the Leonidas Monument on the way back to Athens adds a touch of Spartan history, rounding out the day with a mix of natural beauty and historical significance.

Day 6 & 7: Athens Highlights and Santorini Arrival

Back in Athens, the iconic Acropolis and Parthenon are naturally the main attraction. The guided tour enriches the experience, with insights into the ancient temples and sculptures. The Acropolis Museum complements this, offering a curated collection of artifacts that bring the ruins to life.

A panoramic city tour covers Athens’ major landmarks—highlighting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Old Parliament, and the National Garden—giving a well-rounded picture of the historic and political heart of Greece.

Next, a scenic ferry ride from Piraeus Port whisks you away to Santorini. Reviewers note the smooth transfer process and the excitement of arriving in this volcanic island paradise, renowned for its cliffside houses and sunset views.

Day 8 & 9: Santorini’s Iconic Sights and Optional Cruises

One of the tour’s highlights is the optional Palea Kameni cruise, which many travelers find worth the extra cost. Visiting the hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach offers a glimpse of Santorini’s volcanic landscape. Many rave about the onboard BBQ and the sunset at Oia, describing it as “absolutely breathtaking,” with vivid descriptions of the violet sky and caldera reflections.

The day in Oia covers charming villages, traditional architecture, and stunning vistas. Visitors love walking through Megalochori and Emporio, appreciating the quiet beauty and authentic village life.

Day 10: Farewell to Santorini

The trip concludes with a transfer from your hotel to the airport, leaving you with memories of extraordinary sights, delicious tastes, and the warm hospitality that Greece offers.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price tag of $4,766.73 per person might seem high, the inclusions justify the cost. You get nine nights in quality accommodations, private transportation with experienced drivers, and entries to key sites, all arranged in advance. The personalized guides ensure more meaningful visits and insights that you wouldn’t get exploring alone or on a big group tour.

Many reviews highlight the expert guides and drivers, with guests mentioning how knowledgeable and accommodating they were. For example, Spyros received praise for his safety, friendliness, and interesting stories, making the journey more engaging and relaxed.

The careful pacing of the itinerary allows for exploration without feeling rushed. It balances sightseeing, travel, and downtime, which is especially important when visiting busy sites like the Acropolis or Meteora.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour suits those who want a luxurious, hassle-free way to see Greece’s highlights, especially if they value personalized attention. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, small groups or couples, and travelers who prefer to avoid the stress of planning logistics themselves. If you’re looking for authentic experiences like local tastings or scenic train rides, this tour delivers those in spades.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day Greece tour combines the country’s most iconic sights with comfortable, guided travel in a way that’s both practical and indulgent. It’s clear from reviews that guests appreciated the expert guidance, breathtaking views, and cultural flavor woven throughout the trip.

While the cost might be a consideration, the seamless logistics, expert guides, and curated experiences make it a sound investment for a memorable Greek adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, island lover, or simply craving a well-organized journey, this tour offers an excellent way to experience Greece’s timeless charm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the walking involved at sites like the Acropolis and Meteora monasteries. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are meals included?
The tour includes breakfast and some meals at the honey farm with honey desserts. Additional meals, especially in Santorini, are optional and not included.

How is transport arranged?
Private car and driver accompany you throughout the mainland, with ferry tickets from Piraeus to Santorini included. The journey between sites is smooth and comfortable.

Is this a group or private experience?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more personal and flexible experience.

Can the tour end in Athens instead of Santorini?
Yes, the itinerary can be customized to finish back in Athens if preferred.

What is the accommodation like?
Guests stay in carefully selected hotels, with the tour covering 9 nights. Details on hotel names are provided closer to your trip.

Are there any optional activities?
Yes, optional tours like the Santorini cruise can be booked at an extra cost, offering additional memorable experiences.

Is departure guaranteed?
Yes, once booked, your tour is confirmed, and you’ll receive a detailed itinerary.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a hat, camera, and light clothing for the warmer days are advised.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 6 days are non-refundable.

This detailed, authentic review of the 10 Day Best of Greece Tour highlights its strengths—expert guides, seamless logistics, and a balanced mix of history, scenery, and luxury. It’s a fantastic option for travelers ready to explore Greece with ease and depth, making memories that last long after the trip ends.