Grecian Treasures Cruise Tour with Delphi & Meteora

Athens
11 Days
Partially guided
Small Group Cruise tourMax People : 148
Accommodation included
Meals included

Gallery

Tour Details

Tour code: WS01

Uncover the timeless beauty and cultural riches of Greece and Turkey on this unforgettable 11-day journey that blends ancient history with island serenity. On this specific tour in partnership with Windstar Cruises, begin your adventure on land as you explore two of Greece’s most storied UNESCO sites: the mystical clifftop monasteries of Meteora and the sacred ruins of Delphi, where the whispers of the Oracle still echo among the columns of the Temple of Apollo.

Then step aboard your luxurious Windstar yacht for a voyage through the heart of the Aegean. From Athens to Ephesus, each stop invites you to slow down and soak in the Mediterranean charm. In Turkey, a magical evening awaits during the exclusive Destination Discovery Event—an open-air dinner and concert amid the ancient ruins of Ephesus, lit by moonlight and steeped in history.

Bask in the sun-drenched beauty of Mykonos, Santorini, and Patmos. Sip crisp Assyrtiko wine as you gaze over the caldera from a peaceful patio in Santorini, or stroll along whitewashed alleys lined with bougainvillea and seaside tavernas. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore charming old towns, and savor fresh seafood by the sea.

Discover the medieval charm of Monemvasia, a hidden gem carved into a massive sea rock and brimming with Byzantine history. Stroll its cobblestone lanes, admire ancient stone archways, and take in sweeping views of the Peloponnesian coast—a true step back in time.

In Nafplio, admire the Venetian elegance of Palamidi Castle, perched high above red-tiled rooftops and the blue Argolic Gulf. And finally, return to Athens to ascend the storied steps of the Acropolis, where the Parthenon stands as a proud testament to the glory of Ancient Greece.

This cruise tour offers the perfect balance of immersive land exploration and relaxed island cruising—ideal for travelers seeking both discovery and indulgence.

Departure & Return Location

Athens (Google Maps)

Inclusions

Price Includes

Archaeological expert and English-speaking guide Partially guided in Athens & Meteora - Guided during shorex
Entrance fees to Delphi, Castalian Spring, the Grand Temple of Apollo, Delphi Museum, Meteora, the Acropolis, and the Parthenon
Transfers Transfers from the airport, to and from all sites and to the ship
MealsLunch at Delphi and Meteora, breakfast at hotels - During the cruise price includes all meals and entertainment on board the ship
Hotel / cabin accomodation 3 hotel stays – 2 nights at NJV Plaza Hotel 5* or similar rate 5* hotel in Athens, 1 night at Divani Meteora 5* or similar rate hotel in Meteora - 7 nights on board a Windstar cruises yacht - WindStar for 2026 - WindSurf for 2027
During the cruise included: Ocean transportation, stateroom accommodations,and all meals and entertainment on board the ship. Also Wi-Fi, unlimited select beer, wine & cocktails, and gratuities, including the 18% beverage service charge during the cruise
Gratuities during the cruise
One group shorex per port

Price Excludes

Purchases through the gift shop onboard
Any personal Expenses
Alternative shorex than those included
Spa services
Not included, are items of a personal nature, such as laundry, optional programs or activities.
Gratuities for the land portion (optional)
Local Hotel tax 10 euro per room per night payable to the hotel (30 euro total)
You’ll also be charged separately for additional excursions other than those included, and additional conveniences or conveyances not specified in the itinerary

Itinerary

AthensDay 1

Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, enjoy a private transfer to your 5-star Athens hotel, renowned for its warm Greek hospitality

The afternoon and evening are at your leisure and you are perfectly positioned in the heart of Athens.

(Includes transfer to and overnight at hotel)

DelphiDay 2

After your morning breakfast, depart for the Archaeological site of Delphi, considered by the ancients to be the physical and spiritual center of the earth.

This shrine of Apollo, set nearly 2,000 feet up on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, exerts even today, a potent grip on visitors. Here was the most respected oracle of antiquity. See the Castalian Spring, in which worshippers first purified themselves; the Sacred Way, once lined with statues and treasures; the Grand Temple of Apollo, beneath which the Pythia sat; the theater with its excellent acoustics; and the well preserved stadium with the marble starting blocks in position. Then visit the Delphi Museum to see the Omphalos, which marked the center of the world, and the magnificent bronze Charioteer, one of the finest pieces surviving from the 5th century B.C.

A traditional lunch of tzatziki, olives, dolmades, Greek salad, and other Greek treats will be served at the village of Delphi.

After lunch board your coach for the drive to the picturesque town of Kalambaka that sits at the foot of Meteroa, to the Divani Meteora Hotel.

After check-in, the evening will be at your leisure.

(Includes breakfast, lunch and overnight at Hotel.)

MeteoraDay 3

Following breakfast you will head to Meteora, one of the largest and most important groups of monasteries in Greece.

The rock monasteries have been characterized by UNESCO as a unique phenomenon of cultural heritage and they form one of the most important stations of the cultural map of Greece. What created this rare geological phenomenon is one of the mysteries of nature. The area was originally settled by monks who lived in caves in the rocks during the 11th century. But as the times became more unsettled they climbed higher and higher up the rock face until they were living on the inaccessible peaks. There were no steps then, and the main access was by means of a net or retractable wooden ladders up to 131 feet (40m) long. This was how the monasteries were reached until the 1920s but now there are roads, pathways and steps to the top. You will see examples of these nets, used today for bringing up provisions. Of the original 24 monasteries only 6 are now inhabited, and you will visit 2 of them.

Departing from Meteora the tour will proceed to Kalambaka where lunch will be served.

Return to Athens late in the afternoon to overnight at your hotel, passing the heroic monument of Leonidas at Thermopylae.

The evening is at your leisure. (Includes breakfast, lunch and overnight at hotel.)

AthensDay 4

After your morning breakfast you will depart for the Acropolis tour.

The Acropolis hill, so called the “Sacred Rock” of Athens, is the most important site of the city. Climb the smooth marble steps as visitors have for centuries. History opens before you as you reach the Propylaea, one of the masterpieces of classical architecture, serving as the entrance to the complex of buildings. You’ll see the Temple of Athena Nike (Wingless Victory) and the Erectheum, with its classical Porch of Maidens, the Caryatids.

Stand in awe of the Parthenon, designed as a shrine to Athena and at one time housing a massive gold and ivory statue of the warrior goddess. In the museum see all the surviving treasures of the Acropolis together in one place. The collections on display are finds of the Acropolis, Post Parthenon, Roman Period and the excavation site when the new museum was built. The highlight of the Museum is the display of the Parthenon Frieze located on the top floor.

Departing from the Acropolis, transfer to the port of Piraeus for embarkation on your waiting yacht. (Includes breakfast and transfer to your waiting yacht.)

MykonosDay 5

Wake this morning to the postcard-like scene of Mykonos, the classic Greek isle dotted with hundreds of whitewashed churches and thatch-roofed windmills, in a harbor bobbing with fishing boats and luxurious private yachts. An optional tour including a scenic ferry ride takes you back to the 6th century B.C. to the tiny island of Delos, a UNESCO site and the mythical birthplace of Apollo.

A tour of Mykonos that includes a cheese factory, winery, and an orientation tour of Mykonos town is an excellent way to experience the island’s rich culture, history, and delicious local products. Start your tour with a visit to a local cheese factory. This tour will give you the opportunity to learn about the production of organic dairy products and taste some of the best Mykonian cheese. Here, you’ll learn about traditional cheese-making methods and get to taste some of the delicious cheeses made on the island. You can also take a tour of the farm, which includes a visit to the organic gardens and a chance to meet the farm animals. Next, head to a local winery. Here, you’ll learn about the island’s wine-making traditions and sample some of the local wines. You can take a tour of the vineyard and wine cellar and learn about the different grape varieties grown on the island. After leaving the countryside of Mykonos, you will make your way to Mykonos Town, which is what the first travellers fell in love with, as they started arriving on the island over 100 years ago. Known for its picturesque, white-washed buildings and charming narrow streets, your Tour Guide will give you a detailed orientation of it, so as you can start exploring on your own pace and make your way to the Town’s famous landmarks, such as the Windmills, Little Venice, and the Panagia Paraportiani Church. As you will be enjoying the “labyrinth” of streets that form Mykonos Town, you will also have the opportunity to browse local shops and cafes and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this charming location.

Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way!

Please note: During the summer there is not much shade so it is advisable to wear a hat or visor, sunglasses, and bring sunscreen. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

KusadasiDay 6

Few places offer such a rich combination of history and scenic beauty. In Ephesus, one of the greatest outdoor museums in the world, you’ll explore legendary sites steeped in history.

Also visit the houses of Bulbul Mountain, where the roof of one forms the terrace of the next.

This evening we present our Destination Discovery Event — dinner in the moonlight and a concert near the Celsus Library or on Harbour Street in ancient Ephesus.

Take a step back in time on this excursion to the Virgin Mary’s House and ancient Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 30-minute drive will bring you to the House of the Virgin Mary, where she is said to have lived the last years of her life. This hallowed site, which has been officially declared a Roman Catholic shrine, has hosted three Papal visits since 1967. Then you will take a 10-minute drive to Ephesus, where you will see with the Odeon Theatre, the Celsus Library and Hadrian Temple. This impressive Corinthian-style temple was dedicated in A.D. 118 and reconstructed in the 4th century. You will see the Great Theatre, dating back to the Hellenistic period. It was at this monumental site that St. Paul preached. As its acoustics remain excellent, this theatre is still in use today. The Marble Road which runs between the Theater and the Celsus Library is part of a sacred walkway. On your return, you will sip apple tea as a myriad of colors unfold before your eyes during a carpet-making demonstration. Or, you may return directly to the yacht, or remain in Kusadasi to shop or explore the town independently.

Please note: Although there are no uphill surfaces, this excursion does involve extensive walking. Comfortable walking shoes with non-slip soles are therefore recommended.

In the afternoon, Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience after hours during this Evening in Ephesus event exclusive to our guests. Enjoy a 5-course, white-glove-service dinner under the stars accompanied by a trio from the Aegean Chamber Orchestra. Surround yourself in the magic of these ancient ruins, and delight in every detail. This event takes place near the Ephesus Library.

PatmosDay 7

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known worldwide as the sacred island where St. John wrote the Book of Revelation, Patmos is the ideal place for nature lovers with its coastline of sheer cliffs and its volcanic soil. Highlights of Patmos include the Cave of the Apocalypse and the Holy Monastery of the Apocalypse.

An island of rare beauty captivating the visitor at first glance, Patmos has a picturesque harbor dominated by the imposing Monastery of St. John standing on the hill above. Leaving Skala harbor, you will take a 10-minute drive to the impressive village of Chora. The Monastery of St. John is situated among gleaming white houses forming a startling contrast to its dark mass. Built in 1088, it has thick, high walls crowned all around with battlements and a total of eight chapels. The courtyard is laid with pebbles and decorated with arches through which one can see the intricately designed frescoes adorning the chapel entrance. The museum houses a magnificent collection of jeweled chalices, crowns and crosses, icons and religious paintings, including an original El Greco.

Your tour will continue with a visit to the Grotto of St. John, a 17th century monastery built around the cave where St. John lived for two years while he wrote of the Apocalypse. Inside you can see the stone which he is said to have used as a pillow.

After this memorable tour, you will embark the coach for the short ride back to the port.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection. Ladies should have their heads, shoulders and knees covered.

SantoriniDay 8

As our yacht approaches the spectacular cliffs rising from the deep azure sea, you’ll understand the magic of this area, where some say the ruins of Atlantis remain hidden.

Visit the village of Oia and see the iconic Santorini blue domes or take a guided tour of Bronze Age excavations at the UNESCO site of Akrotiri.

Toast the day with a crisp, cold glass of local Assyrtiko wine and appreciate the magic accessible to small ships like ours.

You will be transferred from the ship by local tender boat to Athinios port, where you will join the waiting motor coach. From here you will proceed toward the southern part of the island where you will make a quick photo stop at the ruins of an old windmill that has a panoramic view. You’ll re-board the coach and continue on your short narrated journey to the Akrotiri Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the covered excavations of this advanced Bronze Age civilization. You will be taken back in time as these amazing ruins leave you to imagine what life was like before the village was destroyed around 1650 B.C., by the eruption of the volcano. It remains a question why there were no people left in the village at the time of the eruption, as it was abandoned for reasons unknown. It is often said in a whimsical way that perhaps Akrotiri is really the lost city of Atlantis. Next head to Oia with its picturesque, blue-domed churches, old 2-story mansions, and narrow cobblestone streets. It is the perfect place to fully appreciate the beauty of this remarkable island. As you traverse its narrow-cobbled streets you will come across many tiny shops which offer an unusual collection of handmade works of ceramic art, paintings and semi-precious jewelry. Coffee shops perched on the edge of the cliffs offer spectacular views of Fira and the volcano.

Once there, your guide directs you to the cliff road from where you may proceed to the cable car at your leisure or drive back to Athinios port to take the local boat back to ship.

Please note: This tour involves winding roads and high altitude.

MonemvasiaDay 9

This Gibraltar-like town tied to the mainland by a single thread of causeway holds treasures that are old even by Mediterranean standards, with town walls and several churches dating to the 12th century.

Climb to the upper town for an up-close look at the castle and Agia Sophia, a Byzantine church.

Wander the lanes of the lower town lined with Venetian mansions, many of which have been lovingly restored. Savor the sun on a smooth pebble beach.

Monemvasia is unique among ruined medieval cities in that it is entirely built on a rock that appears to be barren when seen from the mainland. Your tour will commence with a walk through the narrow streets within the castle walls, so tiny that in many places only two people can walk side by side. You will see the ruins of houses and Byzantine churches — most in ruins with the fortunate exception of the Church of Christ Elkomenos. This cathedral dates back to the 13th century, but features alterations made during the Venetian occupation of Monemvasia. Four surviving ancient Byzantine icons are on display.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Bring a hat. Guests must be physically fit. Minivans will operate as shuttles from the tender to the gate of the Old Town as larger coaches are not permitted on the road to the Old Town.

NafplioDay 10

This charming seaside town on the Peloponnese is one of the most romantic cities in Greece.

Enjoy the medieval old town with narrow cobblestone alleys, and neoclassical mansions with bougainvillea trees adorning the balconies. Take an optional tour to the UNESCO site of Epidaurus or the UNESCO site of Mycenea, ancient ruins including the famous Lion’s Gate.

Stroll the Syntagma Square and take in the beauty of the Palamidi Castle with its 999 steps carved from the rocks. The view is breathtaking.

Enjoy a brief drive to the Castle of Palamidi standing proudly over Nafplio. The castle is one of the most important and best-preserved castles in Greece, an exquisite example of Venetian architecture of the 18th century. The hill at which the castle is located was named after Palamidis, the hero of Homer’s Epics. It is said that, in 1686, the Venetian Commander-in-Chief Morosini envisioned the construction of the castle, whose architectural design was undertaken by Governor Grimani. In 1715, just one year after its completion, it was occupied by the Turks and one century later it finally came to the possession of the Greeks. You will have photo opportunities of the magnificent views of the town below as well as the Argolis Bay. Following fortress visit you will return to Nafplio. It is one of Greece’s most romantic and prettiest towns. The narrow streets of the old town are filled with elegant Venetian houses and gracious neoclassical mansions. During your walking tour, marvel at the beautiful neoclassical buildings lining the port, and then on to the Kapodistriou Square and park, dedicated to the memory of the first governor of Greece. In the park with his beloved Palamidi Fortress in the background, is the statue of Kolokotronis, known as the Grand Old Man of the Morea, being the leader of the Greeks during the War of Independence. It was he who besieged the Turkish occupied Palamidi Citadel for 15 months before it was finally surrendered back. Across the way you can see the current Town Hall building, originally the very first High School of Greece. Continuing on through the backstreets not normally meant for tourists, you come upon the old Catholic Church and the 1702 Church of Agios Spyidon, just below. The ‘worry beads’ you see everywhere in Greece have a museum of their own in Nafplio and you will visit the “Museum of Komboloi” to learn of their origin. Next you will proceed through the popular Syntagma Square (Constitution Square) with its beautiful buildings, primarily in neoclassical style, that create a beautiful frame around the square, and the polished marble floor reflects both sunlight and streetlights.

Before returning back to the yacht, in true Greek style, you will have the opportunity to sample the favorite spirit of the Greeks, Ouzo. Time permitting you may choose to remain in town for more time at leisure or return to the tender pick up point and make your way back to the yacht.

Please note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring your hat and sunscreen.

AthensDay 11

Disembarkation from our cruise ship and transfer to Athens airport to catch your flight home.

Those who choose to add an extension to Athens, you will be transferred to your Athens accommodation.

Map

FAQ

What is the amendment policy?

Changing your itinerary after reservations have been made can result in a loss of advantages gained by early planning. To cover administrative costs, a minimum charge of $50 per person will be assessed if you request a change in your travel arrangements less than 121 days prior to commencement of travel. This doesn’t apply to departure date changes made by us. Change fees are not assessed for stateroom upgrades or for the addition of services unless air reservations are altered and/or travel documents must be reissued.

What should I bring?

Essentials

Passport & travel documents (plus copies)
Credit cards and a bit of euros for small purchases or tips ashore
Medications and basic first aid items
Adapters (Europe uses type C or F plugs, 220V)

Clothing

Daytime (casual):

Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
Shorts, sundresses, t-shirts, polos
Swimsuits and cover-ups
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for shore excursions
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

Evenings (smart casual):

Sundresses, skirts, or nice pants and blouses for women
Slacks and collared shirts for men
Light sweater or shawl (it can get breezy on deck)

Windstar has no formal nights, but guests dress elegantly casual.

Extras

Light jacket or wrap for cooler evenings or A/C indoors
Water shoes (for rocky beaches or swimming stops)
Small daypack or crossbody bag for excursions
Refillable water bottle
Travel-size laundry detergent (there are no self-service laundries)

Optional but Helpful

- Portable charger
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Binoculars for scenic sailing days
- Snorkel gear (optional—available on board but you might prefer your own)

What is the cancellation policy?

For multiday cruises and cruisetours, if a cancellation occurs, the following charges will apply:

240 days to 120 days from embarkation: €150 Admistration fee (per booking)

119 to 90 days from embarkation 20% of the fare

89 to 60 days from embarkation 35% of the fare

59 to 30 days from embarkation 60% of the fare

29 to 00 days from embarkation 100% of the fare

Anything else I need to know?

While on Tour
Guests are cautioned not to leave anything behind while sightseeing, especially such items as cameras and raingear and are reminded that Windstar Cruises is not liable for any lost items or damage to any baggage or other property which occurs ashore, for any reason whatsoever. Passengers who leave during a tour for which transportation is included must thereafter provide for their own transportation and services at their own expense.

Tour Headsets
On several tours, headset monitors will be issued at the beginning to enhance your tour experience. Each headset must be returned to the guide or escort at the end of the tour. There will be a $50 charge for any headset that is lost or damaged.

DRUG & ALCOHOL RESTRICTIONS; BAGGAGE:

The following are strictly prohibited on the ship and during all aspects of the tour and shore excursions: radioactive materials, recreational and medicinal marijuana and other controlled substances or any under any foreign jurisdiction the Ship enters (except lawfully obtained and transported prescription drugs other than marijuana), firearms, ammunition, weapons, fireworks, aerial drones, illicit or hazardous materials, hand irons, water heaters and candles. Passengers are allowed to bring aboard three (3) bottles of wine or champagne (750ml) per cabin for their enjoyment on board. Passengers may consume these permitted outside beverages in public areas on the Ship, but a small corkage fee (approximately US$15 + 15% gratuity) will be applied to the passenger’s onboard account. All additional outside alcohol (meaning wine, beer and/or hard alcohol) including alcohol purchased at ports of call along the Cruise route, will be kept by the Ship’s purser and delivered to the passenger’s cabin the last evening of the Cruise.

We will carry as baggage only your personal effects consisting of wearing apparel, toilet articles and similar items for your wearing, comfort or convenience during the Cruise and not belonging to or intended for use by any other person or for sale. For loading and unloading the Ship and other means of transportation, all baggage must be tendered for carriage in securely constructed and locked suitcases or trunks. All baggage must be able to be safely stowed in your cabin on the Ship.

The only animals permitted to accompany you are recognized service dogs for passengers with disabilities; you are responsible for complying with governmental health, documentation and other requirements as to recognized service dogs.

We do not accept to carry as baggage or assume any liability for any loss of or damage to or delay of trade goods, household goods or furniture, perishable items, medicine, liquor, cash, credit or debit cards, jewelry, gems, gold, silver, precious metals, art, collectibles or similar valuables, securities, financial instruments, records or other valuable or business documents, computers, cellular telephones, cameras, hearing aids, electric wheelchairs, scooters, or other video or electronic equipment, binoculars, film, videotape, computer disks, audio disks, tapes, DVDs or CDs, or other articles specified in 46 U.S. Code Section 30503.

These items should not be left unattended about the ship or your cabin, nor should they be left unattended on other vessels, railcars, taxis or other vehicles or in hotels, nor placed in luggage other than a bag that you carry with you. In addition, we do not assume any liability for any loss of or damage to carry-on baggage on the ship or on the other means of transportation or in hotels. The Ship and certain hotels may be equipped with cabin or room safes or safe-deposit boxes in the ship’s or hotel’s Front Office; using these facilities will not, however, increase our liability as provided in the Passage Contract.

Itinerary changes

These include non-Windstar Cruises and non-Let’s Book Travel Services such as airlines and other off-ship transportation carriers, shore excursions (other than the limited number of shore excursions operated by Windstar), and accommodations. Non-Windstar Cruises and non-Let’s Book Travel Services are solely at your risk and subject to the terms or arrangements made by you. Windstar Cruises assumes no responsibility with respect to these non-Windstar Cruises and non-Let’s Book Travel Services including delay, injury, death or damage to property. Situations may arise that, in the opinion of Windstar Cruises and Let’s Book Travel, make it necessary for Windstar Cruises and Let’s Book Travel to cancel, advance, or postpone a scheduled departure, change itineraries or make substitutions involving ports of call, other travel components, vessels, or other modes of transportation. These situations may include, by way of example, concerns regarding weather conditions, issues involving safety matters, alternative business arrangements or charters resulting in the decision to withdraw a Cruise from public sale, or requirements of governmental authorities. If this should occur, Windstar Cruises and Let’s Book Travel does not assume responsibility or liability for any losses, inconvenience, or expenses incurred by guests as a result.

SHIPBOARD ACCOUNT AND CURRENCY EXCHANGE:

Our cashless society is designed to make your life on board as simple as possible. When you board the Yacht, your account has already been activated and you may make purchases by simply showing your guest identification card and signing a receipt. On embarkation day, you will need to register your credit card (Visa®, Discover®, MasterCard®, or American Express®) in order to use your onboard account for shipboard purchases. We do not accept debit cards or prepaid cards. Your card will be pre-authorized at the start of the cruise for $1, with the remaining authorization for the actual owed amount. At the end of your Cruise, you will receive a final statement, and your card will be charged only for the actual amount of your purchases.