Athens: Summer Escape

Itinerary

• Day 1: Overnight flight

  Board your overnight flight to Athens, the cradle of Western Civilization and one of the oldest cities in the world. NBD.

• Day 2: Arrive in Athens

  Welcome to Athens! 2,500 years ago, it was kind of a happening place, and still is today—with fewer people in togas walking around.

  Today's highlights:

  • Meet an EF representative and fellow travelers as they arrive at the airport.
  • Transfer to your hotel to check in and check out your room.
  • Get acquainted with Athens on a brief walk around the city with your Tour Director.
  • Enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with your group.
• Day 3: Tour Athens + Greek cooking class

  Today, you’ll get to know the real Athens with a real local guide. Then, top it off with an authentic cooking class and dinner with local chefs.

  Today's highlights:

  • Step back in time at the historic Acropolis of Athens with your local guide.
  • See the Propylaea, the Theatre of Dionysus, and a bunch of other structures you’ll need your guide’s help to pronounce.
  • Take in incredible panoramic views of Athens from the citadel’s hilltop vantage point.
  • Prep three classic dishes, then devour your creations at an included cooking class and dinner.
• Day 4: Free day in Athens + Athenian Riviera

  Now that you’ve had a taste of the tzatziki that Athens has to offer, head out and explore it on your own. And if the mood strikes, take to the coast with your group for some fun in the sun—transportation included.

  Free time suggestions

  Ancient Agora of Athens: Visit the ruins that were once the central gathering place for ancient Greeks and do your best Socrates impression.

  National Archaeology Museum: It’s considered one of the greatest museums in the world, housing everything from Greek sculptures to Egyptian Antiquities.

• Day 5: Free day in Athens or optional Epidaurus day cruise

  You have a choice to make, folks—and heads up, it ain’t gonna be easy. Continue getting your fill of Athens (it’s pretty big if you hadn’t noticed) or hop on a boat for a day trip to Epidaurus.

  Free time suggestions

  Kolonaki: Combine two favorite traveler pastimes—shopping and people watching—in this chic, trendy neighborhood in central Athens.

  Mount Lycabettus: Hike (or don’t—there’s a cable car) to the highest point in Athens for spectacular views of the city in every direction.

  Greek Island day cruise (extra cost)

  Venture from the mainland of Greece via boat and enjoy a day on the water with stops to explore the Saronic islands.

• Day 6: Free day in Athens + Farewell Dinner

  At this point you’re practically an Athens local. Venture out into the city and cross off any remaining bucket list items before one last included dinner with your crew.

  Free time suggestions

  Plaka: If you take your neighborhoods like you take your ancient ruins (historic), Plaka is for you. Feel the energy as you stroll the narrow streets in search of the perfect taverna.

  Panathenaic Stadium: Combine your love of architecture and sports at the site of the first modern Olympic games. And yes, this is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble.

• Day 7: Fly home

  Antio, filoi!
  Translation: Goodbye, friends. Your next destination awaits—home. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?