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Meet and Greet – Welcome to Athens: Upon your arrival at Athens International Airport, our representative will be waiting to greet you and provide a comfortable private transfer to your hotel in Athens city center.
Rest of the Day – Explore Athens at Your Own Pace: After check-in, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may relax after your journey or set out to discover the vibrant Athens city center, a walkable area filled with history and charm.
Wander through the traditional neighborhood of Plaka, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, where narrow alleys, colorful houses, and lively squares create an authentic Greek atmosphere. Stop for a Greek coffee at a cozy café, treat yourself to some local ice cream, and soak in the city’s warm hospitality.
For a truly unforgettable evening, enjoy the Athens sunset. You can admire the golden glow from Plaka’s picturesque streets, or, if you prefer something more active, hike up one of the city’s famous hills—Lycabettus Hill, Areopagus, or Philopappos Hill—for sweeping panoramic views over Athens and the Acropolis.
ATHENS, CORFU
Ionian Grace
Duration
7 Days
When to Go
April to October
Customization
Fully
Physical rating
Easy
Type
Private
(Including transfers and guided tours)
(Including transfers and guided tours)
Embark on a memorable journey to Athens and Corfu island in Greece! Begin your adventure in Athens, where you’ll explore ancient wonders like the Acropolis, Parthenon, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Stroll through the charming Plaka district and enjoy vibrant Greek cuisine. Next, head to Corfu, a stunning Greek island in the Ionian Sea. Explore the UNESCO -listed Old Town with its Venetian architecture, charming streets, and historic forts. Enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches, from serene coves to lively shores. Discover the lush greenery of Corfu’s countryside, ideal for hiking and nature walks. Visit iconic sites like the Achilleion Palace and the Mon Repos estate, and sail the turquoise waters of the Ionian Sea for a cruise to the serene islands of Paxi and Antipaxi.
Perfect for couples, this package is also an excellent choice for a Greece honeymoon tour or a luxury getaway, with opportunities to upgrade your stay for an even more exclusive experience. With its welcoming atmosphere, delicious local cuisine, and timeless beauty, Corfu promises an unforgettable getaway for all travelers!
Highlights
- Explore the ancient and modern heart of the Athens metropolis.
- Visit the iconic Acropolis, home to the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.
- Explore Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with Venetian, French, and British architectural influences.
- Visit Achilleion Palace, a 19th-century palace built by Empress Elisabeth of Austria, offering stunning gardens, views, and statues of Greek mythology.
- Stroll and swim at Paleokastritsa, known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic cliffs, and the Paleokastritsa Monastery.
- Relax at Kanoni, a scenic viewpoint with panoramic views of the famous Mouse Island, especially beautiful at sunset.
- Journey the Corfu’s green countryside with the lush olive groves, cypress trees, and quaint villages.
- Indulge yourself with waterfront romantic dinners and vibrant nightlife scene.
- Go at leisure for shopping of luxury, popular international brands or local artisan products.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1
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Arrival to Athens
Day 2
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Athens sightseeing
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Breakfast at the hotel: Start your day with a delightful breakfast before setting out to explore the wonders of Athens.
Acropolis and museum walking tour: Begin your day with a guided morning walking tour of the Acropolis and the world-famous Acropolis Museum, accompanied by a licensed guide. Your journey starts at the south slope of the Acropolis, where you will explore the Sanctuary and Theater of Dionysus, the birthplace of ancient theater. As you ascend the sacred hill, each step reveals a new wonder, from the monumental Propylaea, the grand entrance to the Acropolis, to the elegant Temple of Athena Nike, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and victory. The highlight of the visit is the Parthenon, the iconic symbol of classical Greece and one of the most significant monuments in world history. Continue on to the Erechtheion, a temple steeped in mythology, dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. Enjoy the panoramic views over the city and take lots of stunning photos to remember your visit to this iconic monument.
Continue to the Acropolis Museum, where the story-telling brings the ancient ruins to life, offering a deeper understanding of ancient Greek culture and civilization.
Rest of the day: After the tour, enjoy at leisure—browse the shops, continue exploring the vibrant neighborhoods or take a lunch at the various restaurants all over the city. Plenty of choices there for you, either you choose Greek cuisine, international or ethnic from various countries including yours. We can give you some good tips and advice, whatever your choice!
Evening: In the evening, join the vibrant nightlife at the various hotspots in the city center or head to the Athens Riviera coastline for a leisurely walk and a romantic dinner by the sea.
Overnight accommodation is in Athens on a bed and breakfast basis.
Optional :
* For those seeking an extended experience of the city, you may opt for a five-hour guided Athens city tour by bus. This panoramic journey includes the most celebrated landmarks of the capital, from bustling Syntagma Square and the imposing Hellenic Parliament to the historic Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games.
* Another option is the Benaki museum of Greek Culture, housed in one of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in Athens, near the National Garden and the Hellenic Parliament. The museum houses a unique exhibition on Greek culture arranged from prehistorical times to the 20th century and many artifacts will make you relate to the history and culture of your own country. If you choose to visit only one museum during your stay in Greece, then Benaki museum is a very good choice for you.
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Day 3
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Corfu at Leisure
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Breakfast at Your Hotel: Enjoy a hearty hotel breakfast in Athens before beginning your scenic journey to the Ionian Islands.
Arrival to Corfu: Take a domestic flight from Athens to Corfu, with a private transfer to Athens International Airport. Upon arrival, a private transfer in Corfu will take you to your selected hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for relaxation or exploring at leisure.
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Explore Corfu Town at Your Own Pace: Spend the day wandering through Corfu Town (Kerkyra), a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Venetian architecture, cobblestone streets, and charming squares. Begin at the famous Liston Promenade, where you can sip a coffee at one of the elegant cafés while admiring the stunning 19th-century buildings.
Continue to Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece, and climb up to the Old Fortress, which offers panoramic views of Corfu Town and the sparkling Ionian Sea. For a deeper cultural experience, visit the Archaeological Museum of Corfu, home to fascinating artifacts from the island’s ancient history.
For lunch, treat yourself to authentic Corfiot cuisine, sampling specialties like fresh seafood or the island’s renowned sofrito.
In the evening, head to Kanoni, one of Corfu’s most iconic viewpoints, to admire the sunset over Mouse Island (Pontikonisi). Conclude your perfect day with a romantic seaside dinner in Corfu, enjoying local dishes against a stunning coastal backdrop.
Overnight in Corfu
Stay in a handpicked Corfu hotel or villa on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
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Day 4
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Day trip of Corfu Island
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Breakfast at the Hotel: Begin your morning with a delicious hotel breakfast in Corfu, preparing for a full day of exploration.
Full-Day Tour of Corfu’s Top Island Gems: Embark on a scenic journey through Corfu’s lush countryside, where rolling green hills, endless olive groves, and tall cypress trees create a picture-perfect landscape.
Your first stop is the famous Achilleion Palace, just outside Corfu Town. Built in the 19th century by Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi), this neoclassical palace is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens with sweeping views over the island and the Ionian Sea. Inside, explore the grand halls and admire impressive works of art, including the iconic statue of Achilles, the palace’s namesake.
Continue to Paleokastritsa, one of Corfu’s most stunning coastal villages, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, hidden bays, and dramatic cliffs. Perched high above the sea lies the historic Paleokastritsa Monastery, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and lush green surroundings.
Along the way, stop in charming traditional Corfu villages to experience authentic island life and local hospitality.
Conclude your day with a relaxing walk along the coastline or enjoy a romantic seaside dinner in Corfu, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties.
Overnight in Corfu: In Corfu, on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
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Day 5
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Day Cruise to Paxi and Antipaxi
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Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your day with a hearty hotel breakfast in Corfu, preparing for an unforgettable island cruise.
Full-Day Cruise to Paxos, Antipaxos, and the Blue Caves: Embark on a full-day cruise from Corfu to Paxos and Antipaxos, exploring the pristine beauty of the Ionian Islands. This scenic water journey follows a stunning route of emerald hills, turquoise waters, and hidden bays—perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Your first stop is Paxos Island, a tranquil paradise known for its beautiful beaches, lush green hills, and crystal-clear waters. Discover secluded bays and explore the island’s peaceful landscapes.
The cruise also includes a visit to the famous Blue Caves, where sunlight reflects off the waters, creating mesmerizing shades of blue—a must-see natural wonder of the Ionian Islands.
Finally, enjoy a stop at Antipaxos Island, perfect for swimming in its turquoise waters and relaxing on its soft sandy beaches, before cruising back to Corfu in the late afternoon.
Overnight in Corfu: Return to your selected Corfu hotel or villa, staying on a bed-and-breakfast basis.
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Day 6
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Departure
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Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your day with an early morning breakfast before a private transfer takes you to Corfu Airport for your flight to Athens.
Departure from Greece: Take an early morning flight from Corfu to Athens and connect to your international departure, bidding farewell to Greece after an unforgettable 8-day journey. Wave goodbye with lovely memories to cherish for a lifetime!
Customizable Private Tours: All our Greece private tours are fully customizable. If you wish to extend your stay or focus on special interests such as Greek food and wine tasting, family-friendly activities, culinary lessons, or in-depth history tours, we can create a tailor-made itinerary just for you. Together, we will design your perfect Greek holiday, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable journey through Greece’s most beautiful and historic destinations.
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What is included
- Private transfers from/to Athens International Airport – Athens City Hotel for the inbound/outbound flight. The transfer for the outbound flight will be provided on the departure date, also in case of an extension.
- Private transfers to/from hotel on arrival and departure at Corfu .
- 6 nights’ accommodation at your selected category.
- An Acropolis and Acropolis museum walking tour.
- One day tour by air conditioned bus to island highlights with professional English speaking guide.
- Day cruise to Paxos island, including stop to Blue caves and Antipaxos island.
- Meals: 6 Breakfasts.
What is excluded
- International and domestic flight(s). It is recommended that the domestic flights from/to Athens to Corfu airport are booked together with the international flights with coordinated timings on departure. We could include to the package these domestic flights as an additional arrangement and cost.
- Airport taxes for international and domestic flights.
- Visa procedure and fees.
- Travel insurance.
- Admission tickets to Acropolis and Acropolis museum. As some clients prefer to follow the walking tour but skip the entry to the sites, we do not include them in the package. In case that you wish to entry, we can purchase the tickets for you. The amounts per person are: €30 for the Acropolis site and €20 for the Acropolis museum.
- Any pre and post stays.
- Optional excursions & tours upon request.
- Optional gratuities for drivers and guides.
- Personal expenditures of any kind incl. drinks and meals unless explicitly stated in the package.
- Airport and hotel porterage.
- Hotel “Climate change resilience” tax, paid by the client on the spot at the hotels. The amounts are:
- o 5 star hotel: 15 euros per room/per night.
- o 4 star hotel: 10 euros per room/per night.
- o 3 star hotel: 5 euros per room/per night.
Map
FAQs
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When is the best time to travel for this tour?
The main touristic period of Greece is April– October. April-June and September is the most comfortable time to travel, as the weather is mild and the places are not yet crowded. The peak season is July – August, where most touristic spots are more crowded and pricey. Consider travelling in the winter months, if you prefer less crowds and you are budget minded.
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What is the weather year around?
Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination with diverse weather depending on the season. In summer (June to August) it is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). In spring (March to May) and in autumn (September to October) it is mild and pleasant, with temperatures that gradually rise and fall respectively, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) and a few rainy days. Great for both beach holidays and cultural exploration, with fewer crowds than in summer. In winter (November to February) it is cool and rainy on the mainland, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The islands can be quiet, and many tourist spots may close, but it’s a peaceful time for exploring cities like Athens.
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How fit do I need to be to do this tour and what precautions I should take?
There is no special difficulty in this tour, however, summer heat in Greece might be challenging if you’re not properly prepared. Here’s some essential travel advice to stay safe and comfortable:
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- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as they can dehydrate you.
- Wear a Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the harsh sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. A hat will shield your face and neck from sunburn. Also, wear UV-protection sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful rays, especially when spending time at the beach or sightseeing outdoors.
- Use Sunscreen: The Greek sun is strong, so apply sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30 or higher) and reapply every few hours, particularly if you’re swimming. Focus on areas like your face, neck, and shoulders.
- Seek Shade: If you’re sightseeing or walking around, take breaks in the shade during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM). Many cafes and restaurants offer shaded terraces, which can be a great place to rest.
- Dress Lightly: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. This will help keep your body cool and reduce the risk of heatstroke or heat exhaustion.
- Avoid the Midday Heat: If possible, plan your outdoor activities like sightseeing and hiking in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. The middle of the day can be uncomfortably hot, especially in the cities and islands.
- Be Careful with Water: Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Greece, but if you’re staying on an island or in more remote areas, bottled water is recommended. Also, ensure that you drink plenty of water before and after swimming to stay hydrated.
By following these tips, you can enjoy Greece’s summer beauty while staying safe and healthy. Don’t forget to listen to your body—if you feel faint or dizzy, find shade and drink water immediately.
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Are there any festivals worth visiting at the tour's locations?
Both Athens and Corfu, like any place in Greece offer festivals that showcase their history, culture, and traditions, making them fantastic destinations for cultural enthusiasts year-round.
All over Greece, there are 3 major festive seasons related to religion and going beyond that to the culture and tradition. This is Christmas and New Year in December, Easter in April (usually, it is not a fixed date but is always on Sunday and in Spring) and the celebration for Virgin Mary on 15 August. There are also 2 national days with school and military parades in all cities (25 March and 28 October). Halloween celebration is in February. Everywhere in Greece these festivals and celebrations are iconic and joyous!
In addition to these festivals, one of the most celebrated events is the Athens & Epidaurus Festival (June to August), a grand cultural event that features performances of ancient Greek theater, classical music, and modern dance at iconic venues like the Herodeion ancient theater on the side of the Acropolis hill and the Epidaurus Theater, in about 2 hrs driving distance from Athens. To attend a performance of this festival is a truly amazing experience to cherish for a lifetime!
In Corfu, which is known for its Venetian influence, the Corfu Halloween Carnival (February) is one of Greece’s largest and most colorful carnivals. The event includes parades, street performances, and a grand masquerade ball. Also Holy Week and Easter Sunday in Corfu is another significant event, with celebrations reaching their peak on Good Friday, featuring solemn religious processions and fireworks. The Corfu Festival (July to August) highlights classical music and opera performances, drawing music lovers from around the world.
Keep in touch with YONA TRAVEL for updated information about festivals and events during your vacation. Also, check our Blog with posts about the festivals and celebrations around Greece.
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Is there any special dress code?
Generally in Greece there is not a special dress code and you can just follow your own style. Only religious places request modest dressing with covered shoulders and knees, but most of them provide with their own skirts and pashminas to help you cover, if necessary.
For the summer season, a travel advice is that you dress lightly with loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, a hat and comfortable shoes to help you keep comfortable in the long days of sightseeing and your body cool and protected from heat exhaustion. Sunglassees and sun protection cream are highly recommended too.
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How much should I tip for a service?
There is not a standard rule and it is not compulsory. People tend to tip around 10-15% of the service price. Maybe, the exact amount depends on the place, occasion, order size and how much you needed or enjoyed the service.
