10 Days of Immersive Greek Culture, Nature and Culinary Delights (Athens, Tinos and Syros)

Your journey begins in Athens, a city that needs no introduction. As one of the world’s oldest cities, Athens gave birth to democracy, philosophy and a lot of other aspects of the Western civilization. The city streets show their historical presence through ancient ruins and crowded markets which presents how modern society interacts with its life through cultural traditions.. Athens is a city that attracts you with its charm and energy. From the moment you arrive, you’re welcomed by a mix of ancient buildings and modern spirit, a place where every corner holds a story waiting to be told. As you arrive in Athens, you’ll have the opportunity to take a walk around the city center, observing the sights, sounds and flavors of the Greek capital. Discover the huge mix of traditional tavernas, modern shops and vibrant street art that make Athens unique.  

Today, you’ll dive into Athens’ rich history, starting with a visit to the Acropolis, the jewel of the city. This iconic hill has witnessed the rise and fall of empires. Its temples and ruins are proof of the greatness of ancient Greece. Standing before the Parthenon, the most famous of the Acropolis monuments, you’ll stare with awe at its perfect dimensions and mindblowing architecture. As you walk around the sacred hill, your expert guide will transport you back to the Golden Age of Athens, explaining the cultural and architectural importance of the Parthenon and its surroundings.

Afterward, you’ll visit the Acropolis Museum, a modern gem, where you can find priceless artifacts from the ancient world. As you move through the museum’s galleries, you’ll see ancient sculptures, pottery and architectural remains that describe the story of Athens’ evolution over the period of time.

Then, it’s time to treat your taste buds to a real Greek experience. Enjoy a 3-hour food tour through the heart of Athens, where you’ll meet local food artisans and taste a range of delicious Greek specialties. From sweet baklava to souvlaki, this culinary journey takes you through Athens’ diverse food scene, visiting charming markets, old-school shops and family-run businesses. Along the way, your guide will share stories of the food culture, teaching you about the importance of local ingredients, traditions and Greek hospitality. By the end of this tour, you’ll not only have a full belly but a deeper appreciation for Greek cuisine.  
*Inclusions: Private guide, hotel pick-up, 2-hour Acropolis visit, 2-hour Acropolis Museum tour, 3-hour food tour with tastings.*

After engaging yourself with the ancient wonders of Athens, it’s time to head to the idyllic island of Tinos. Known for its marble traditions, Tinos is often referred to as the "handmade island," thanks to its long-standing heritage in marble carving. The island serves as the birthplace of several famous Greek sculptors while its marble craftsmanship continues to appear throughout its churches and villages and sculptures. The island provides a calm place which exists independently from tourist areas to showcase its natural attractions and historic settlements and artistic heritage. Your day will be dedicated to exploring Tinos' secret attractions which include its beautiful beaches and its historic villages that maintain their traditional atmosphere. The streets of Tinos Town (Chora) feature narrow cobblestone paths that lead to houses painted white with colorful door frames while artisans display their handmade products.

No trip to Tinos would be complete without experiencing its culinary heritage. Today, you’ll embark on a unique cooking experience with a local chef in her home, learning the secrets of Tinian cuisine. This hands-on class takes place in a traditional kitchen, where you’ll prepare classic Greek dishes using fresh, locally selected ingredients. Your guide will explain the history and significance of the dishes you’re making, allowing you to connect more deeply with the history of the island. After preparing the meal, you’ll enjoy it in a peaceful courtyard, where stunning views of the Aegean Sea can be found. This private and personalized cooking experience is not only about food but also about understanding the culture of Tinos through its flavors.  
*Inclusions: Private cooking class, pick-up from meeting point, all ingredients and equipment.*

Take a step back in time as you explore the historic heart of Tinos, Chora. The town’s narrow streets and neoclassical architecture are filled with stories of the past generations. Your guide will take you on a walk through the island’s most charming corners, where you’ll discover old mansions, beautiful churches and hidden courtyards. As you walk aroundl, you’ll learn about the cultural and religious significance of Tinos, particularly its association with the Virgin Mary and the famous Panagia Evangelistria Church, a place of pilgrimage for many Greeks. Tinos, as mentioned previously, is also known for its marble workshops. You’ll have the chance to visit a local artisan’s shop to see how the island’s famous marble is transformed into beautiful works of art.

Today, you’ll hike through Tinos’ landscape at Exombourgo, the island’s ancient Venetian fortress. This hike is a trip through history, offering breathtaking views of the island’s northern coast and the Aegean Sea. You’ll pass through medieval villages like Koumaros, Skalados, and Loutra, where time seems to stand still. The hike leads you through olive groves, saffron fields and historic places, including the former School and Monastery of Ursulines in Loutra. Reaching the summit of Exombourgo, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views and a deeper understanding of the island’s strategic significance throughout history.  
*Inclusions: Private hike, pick-up from meeting point, bottled water.*

Your journey continues as you travel to Syros, a true cultural gem of the Cyclades. Syros presents visitors with its neoclassical buildings, active artistic community and traditional cultural traditions. The capital city, named Ermoupolis, serves as a cultural center that combines historic buildings with public space. The island of Syros maintains a strong musical and theatrical heritage while hosting numerous cultural events during different times of the year. The artistic atmosphere of Syros combines with its historical significance and peaceful surroundings to create an ideal vacation experience that combines rest with cultural exploration.

Syros is home to some of the most scenic landscapes in the Cyclades and today’s hike will allow you to explore its natural beauty. Starting in the calm village of Kampos, you’ll begin on a journey toward the hidden beach of Gria Spilia. Along the way, you’ll pass a historic marble quarry and learn about its fascinating history. Once you reach the beach, take a break and enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear waters. Afterward, continue your hike toward Grammata Beach, where you’ll find ancient inscriptions carved into the rocks by sailors, marking their gratitude to the gods for safe passage. This hike offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, history and serenity.  
*Inclusions: Private hike, hotel pick-up, lunch box, guide with first aid knowledge.*

Your trip begins today to discover the secret beaches and coves of Syros island by boat. Your skilled captain will guide you to Varvarousa Beach which offers a serene atmosphere for relaxation and sunbathing. The tour will proceed to Grammata Beach which lies in the north as a hidden beach under tamarisk tree coverage before visiting Gria Spilia (Old Lady Cave) which stands as a beautiful island landmark. The day will be spent relaxing at the beach while you swim and enjoy the sun. Lastly, you will have a homemade Greek dinner on the boat.
*Inclusions: Private boat tour, hotel pick-up, meal on board, snorkeling equipment.*

Today, it’s the day you will have to say “See you again soon” to beautiful Greece. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the island airport for your domestic flight back to Athens. At the Airport of Athens, you will need to check in to your international flight and depart Greece. 

On this final day, reflect on the incredible destinations you visited… Athens, Tinos and Syros. You’ve explored ancient ruins, tasted the finest Greek cuisine and discovered the hidden treasures of the Cyclades. As you leave Greece, you’ll carry with you the memories of these unforgettable islands, their rich history, stunning landscapes and warm hospitality.  
*Inclusions: Airport transfer.*