Day 1 - Piraeus

Piraeus, Greece: It's no wonder that all roads lead to the fascinating metropolis of Athens. Elevate your gaze 200 feet above the city to the Parthenon, its honey-coloured marble columns surmounting a massive limestone base, manifesting architectural perfection unsurpassed in 2,500 years. In the midst of a 21st-century boomtown, this ancient shrine holds its ground. To fully experience Athens—known in Greek as Athína—is to grasp the essence of Greece: ancient monuments enduring in a sea of cement, stunning beauty amidst urban sprawl, and tradition juxtaposed with modernity. Locals employ humour and adaptability to navigate the chaos; adopting the same will reward you immensely. While Athens spans a vast area, the major landmarks from the ancient Greek, Roman, and Byzantine eras are conveniently close to the city's modern centre. Walking from the Acropolis to numerous other key sites, you can pause to browse shops and savour moments in cafés and tavernas. From many parts of the city, the Acropolis towers on the horizon, a testament to 'the glory that was Greece', but only by ascending its rocky heights can you truly appreciate the ancient settlement. The Acropolis, alongside the craggy hills of Filopappou and the ancient Agora (marketplace), and Kerameikos, the primary cemetery, forms the core of ancient and Roman Athens. Walk undisturbed by cars along the stone-paved, tree-lined walkways connecting archaeological sites. In the National Archaeological Museum, countless artefacts showcase millennia of Greek civilisation, while smaller museums like the Goulandris Museum of Cycladic Art and the Byzantine and Christian Museum illuminate the history of particular epochs or regions. Athens, seemingly one enormous city, is actually an amalgamation of eclectic neighbourhoods. Eastern influences from four centuries under Ottoman rule linger in Monastiraki, the bazaar beneath the Acropolis. Traverse Plaka on the Acropolis's northern slope, ideally beneath the moonlight, through tranquil streets flanked by renovated mansions, and immerse in 19th-century elegance. In Anafiotika, a section of Plaka, narrow lanes meander past tiny churches and vibrant, wood-story houses, embodying a Cycladic island village charm. This maze of winding streets reflects remnants of Athens' old city: crumbling staircases edged with lively tavernas, damp wine-cellared basements, and occasionally, a secluded garden enclosed by high walls and adorned with magnolia trees and resplendent trumpet-shaped hibiscus blooms. Previously dilapidated districts, such as Thission, Gazi, and Psirri, known for nightlife with bars and mezedopoleia (reminiscent of tapas bars), are undergoing gentrification yet retain much of their original allure, as does the colourful produce and meat market on Athinas. The area surrounding Syntagma Square, a tourist hub, and Omonia Square, the city's commercial heart located approximately 1 km (½ mi) northwest, exudes a distinctly European atmosphere, envisaged by Bavarian court architects of King Otho in the 19th century. Fashionable shops and bistros of the posh Kolonaki district nestle at the base of Athens's highest hill, Mt. Lycabettus (909 feet). Each of Athens's suburban outposts boasts a unique character: affluent, tree-lined Kifissia in the north, once a summer retreat for elite Athenians, and in the south and southeast, Glyfada, Voula, and Vouliagmeni, famed for sandy beaches, seaside bars, and vibrant summer nightlife. Adjacent to the city's southern edge is Piraeus, a bustling port steeped in waterside fish tavernas and stunning Saronic Gulf vistas.

Day 3 - Dikili

Dikili, Turkey: Nestled on Turkey's northwestern coast, Dikili is a tranquil port with stunning natural beauty and historic sites. Explore the vibrant streets lined with colourful houses, and enjoy the local cuisine. Visit the nearby thermal springs and the ancient ruins of Pergamon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering insights into Roman and Hellenistic history.

Day 4 - Myrina, Lemnos

Myrina, Lemnos, Greece: Myrina, the picturesque capital of Lemnos Island, welcomes you with its traditional charm and rich history. Walk the cobbled streets of the old town, lined with neoclassical mansions and quaint shops. Visit the imposing castle that overlooks the town, offering panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, and relax on the beautiful beaches nearby.

Day 5 - Skíathos

Skíathos, Greece: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Skíathos is a gem of the Sporades islands. Explore the lush landscapes and pine-covered hillsides, or relax on the renowned Koukounaries Beach. Wander through the charming town with its traditional white-washed houses, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the lively evening atmosphere.

Day 6 - Skopelos

Skopelos, Greece: Famous for its role in the film 'Mamma Mia!', Skopelos enchantingly blends cinematic appeal with authentic Greek culture. Traverse its verdant pine forests, stunning beaches, and discover the island’s chapels and monasteries. The town, with its narrow winding streets and traditional houses, offers a serene backdrop for a delightful exploration.

Day 7 - Poros Island

Poros Island, Greece: Poros Island, with its lush pine forests and quaint harbour, presents an idyllic escape. Explore the charming town with its pastel-coloured buildings and panoramic views from the Clock Tower. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Love Bay, discover hidden coves, and enjoy the tranquillity that characterises this beautiful Greek island.

Day 8 - Piraeus

Piraeus, Greece: Returning to the vibrant port of Piraeus, the gateway to Athens, take the opportunity to revisit Athens’ fascinating blend of ancient heritage and cosmopolitan life. Experience the diversity of neighbourhoods, each with its own charm, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history and modern Greek culture.