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Nestled along the Mediterranean, hugged by the Aegean and Ionian Seas, Greece is a destination teeming with ancient history, a strong cultural heritage, incredible food, and idyllic natural beauty. It’s been the setting of heroic epics, and now, it’s the setting of Collette’s epic new small group tour: Gems of Greece.
From Athens to the islands of Naxos and Crete, Gems of Greece immerses travellers in culture, tradition, history, and island beauty while fostering connections with the people and communities there. And, as a guided small group Explorations tour, it does all this with a group of no more than 24 travellers, an expert Tour Manager, and an itinerary crafted by those who know this destination.
Meet The New Guided Tour to Greece, Designed for Small Groups
Athens
To visit Athens is to visit a city that has seen over 3,000 years of history—not as a mere bystander but as a main influence. Once the center of the mighty ancient Greek empire, it’s where artistic movements began, intellectuals lived, and (according to many) democracy was born. Now, as the capital of modern-day Greece, it’s where ancient history lives on amidst contemporary culture.
So where better to begin—and end—this Greek adventure?
During the first few days in Athens, travellers will dive into that rich heritage with a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Home to artifacts from the Acropolis archeological site, this world-famous museum is a window to the past. It also has literal windows—big, floor-to-ceiling windows that look out at the Acropolis. But travellers won’t just look at the Acropolis; they’ll be stepping foot in it, too. It’s a chance to walk through ancient history itself, marvelling at the Parthenon and other monuments many have only ever seen in history books.
There’s also a unique opportunity to connect with the current-day community there. With a special Impact Moment, guests will visit a café and artists’ workshop on a mission to support those experiencing homelessness, poverty, and social exclusion.
Naxos
After taking in city scenes, it’s time for some island living on Naxos. As the largest of the Cyclades islands, it’s one of the few Greek islands full of year-round residents. For visitors, this means lively traditions, a rich culture, and local communities to embrace. Some of those communities include the island’s picturesque mountain villages, which travellers will get to know.
Before that, however, this tour includes a dreamy excursion: a full-day cruise across the Aegean’s turquoise waters to experience the beauty of Naxos and nearby islands. Travellers sail to Kato Koufonisi to step onto a pristine, virtually uninhabited oasis, savouring a barbeque lunch, sipping local wines, and dipping into the Aegean’s azure depths with a stunning backdrop. The adventure continues in Ano Koufonisi, where a charming village and cashmere sands await. Then, it’s back toward Naxos with a stop at a beautiful sea cave boasting clear waters, perfect for exploring.
Heraklion (Crete)
In Athens, travellers glimpse the ancient Greek empire…but on the island of Crete, they get a peek at an even older civilization.
A two-night stay in Crete’s capital city, Heraklion, includes a tour of the remarkable ruins of Knossos Palace, once the center of Minoan civilization. There, visitors discover a site steeped in history and a bit of legend. This is where King Minos is said to have kept the Minotaur in his labyrinth.
In addition to its rich history, the Heraklion itinerary immerses travellers in Crete’s culinary traditions with a local cooking lesson at a co-op café. There’s no souvenir quite like an authentic recipe to recreate back at home for loved ones.
Chania (Crete)
Lying along Crete’s northwest coast, the city of Chania continues the journey into the island’s jewels. Even the drive to get there is an experience, with stops at a famous pottery village and a laid-back city with a charming Old Town.
During their time in Chania, travellers get to witness even more pieces of the past with the city’s old Venetian harbour, a visit to the world’s oldest olive tree, and a choice to see an archeological museum or site.
Other highlights encourage travellers to dive further into the island’s culture. A visit to a family-run olive mill and winery comes with a wine and olive oil tasting, a chance to sample Cretan traditions. Travellers will also get to try their hand at traditional Cretan folk dances during a dinner and performance that includes a dance lesson.
Book Your Small Group Tour to Greece with Collette
From culture and ancient history to stunning sights, charming communities, and delectable cuisine, there are plenty of gems to discover between Athens, Naxos, and Crete.
Learn more about this Greece small group tour, its inclusions, and an optional pre- and post-night extension. Or, if you’re ready to book your journey to Greece, contact us or call your travel advisor and ask for Collette.
