Greece

Majestic Greece Epic Adventure

The beautiful Greek islands offer a coastline of diverse landscapes that includes magnificent un-spoiled beaches, coves, ancient forts and palaces, canyons and sea-cliffs. and picturesque whitewashed villages.

11 days
Thursday Aug 15 – Sunday Aug 25, 2024

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ITINERARY

A country that counts more than 4,000 years of history, Greece & its islands are famous for ancient civilization and amazing landscapes. Athens, the capital is full of ancient monuments, royal palaces, tombs and temple ruins (many of which are UNESCO world heritage sites) making it a paradise for lovers of ancient history with no shortage of Jewish interest.

ANCIENT AND EXOTIC

The historic capital of Athens with its massive Acropolis is one of Europe’s great cities, and the gorgeous port of Thessaloniki, once virtually run by Jews, holds some of the greatest, and unfortunately saddest, Jewish stories of all time. For a combination of beach getaway, incredible scenery, culture, history, and Jewish heritage, this itinerary is truly phenomenal. Add to this the signature gourmet kosher cuisine and pampering service of GKS and you are in for a summer vacation you will never forget.

DATES & PRICES

Our arrival in Athens propels us into a world of seamless integration between ancient and modern.

After settling in to our beautiful hotel, our journey begins by traveling back to ancient times with a tour of the majestic Parthenon perched upon the Acropolis – the greatest sanctuary of ancient Greece that dominates the center of the modern city.

As evening descends, Ermou Street beckons with its allure, offering a perfect shopping experience.

To culminate the day, we enjoy a sumptuous meal at a lovely local kosher restaurant, following which we return to our hotel for a well-earned rest in anticipation of another day of great adventure that lies ahead of us.
An early start today will enable us to make our way to beautiful Crete with enough time to enjoy a full and intriguing day of touring to reveal the secrets of antiquity hidden in this captivating island, while still leaving enough time to calmy usher in Shabbos.

On arrival, our first stop in Crete will be the legendary Knossos Palace, an archaeological marvel steeped in myth and history. We explore its labyrinthine ruins and uncover the secrets of ancient Minoan civilization, where mythological tales intertwine with archaeological wonders.
We depart Knossos to sail the pristine waters of the Aegean Sea on a serene cruise to Dia Island soaking in the panoramic views of the coastline. Dia Island, with its pristine beaches and tranquil atmosphere, offers a perfect retreat from the bustling mainland, and a chance to swim and snorkel in the pristine waters.

Return to Crete to ready ourselves for a tranquil Shabbos amidst the island's serene beauty.

A gourmet Friday night sueda awaits as well as an array of culinary delights throughout a thoroughly relaxing and rejuvenating Shabbos in our private luxury villa surrounded by magnificent views of sea and landscape.
Situated between Chania and Heraklion, Rethymno is a small enchanting and picturesque town in the north of the island. The centre dates from the period of the Renaissance and is complete with Venetian buildings. It sits along a beautiful waterfront with a long, sandy beach, its Venetian fortress (Fortezza) and Lighthouse add to the ambiance of a truly medieval European village, and its neighboring villages are dotted with private villas and beaches.

Today, we enjoy a peaceful and serene Shabbos in this unique region, with all the luxuries of our luxury private villa to add to the experience.
Set amid a beautiful landscape and lying in a valley surrounded by trees, you will find Lake Kournas glistening with its a light and dark clear blue water in which fish and turtles are visible.

The outer reaches of the lake can be explored by canoe or paddleboat (which can be rented at the lake), both highly popular and fun activities. One can also take a walk around the lake's 2-mile (3.5-kilometer) perimeter.
Following a wonderful morning at the lake, in the afternoon we head to Chania, a small port town with historic charm nestled in picturesque landscapes that provides a true taste of Crete's coastal beauty.

We then return to Rethymno, for a visit to the Fortezza, an ancient citadel resonating with tales of the past.

As the day transitions into evening, we return to our villa for a delightful dinner, savoring the day's explorations amidst the timeless allure of Chania’s historical landmarks.
Today is at your leisure to just relax and enjoy the facilities of your private villa in its beautiful settings or to take advantage of one of the amazing activities that we can arrange for you (optional extra), such as:

A spectacular and relaxing day sailing on a private luxury speedboat or yacht on the azure waters surrounding Crete. This picturesque sailing excursion promises breathtaking views and a magical day of relaxation.

Alternatively, dive into the crystalline depths of the Balos Area, where pristine beaches and vibrant marine life await eager snorkelers and swimmers.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush and a connection with nature, lace up your hiking boots and venture into the rugged terrain of the Samaria Gorge or explore one of the island's shorter canyons, immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Crete's landscapes.

Another option is a leisurely excursion to the enchanting shores of Elafonisi, known for its pink sand beaches and turquoise waters, offering a postcard-perfect setting for sunbathing, beachcombing, and relaxation.

Whichever adventure you choose, your free leisure day promises unforgettable moments of exploration, discovery, and rejuvenation amidst the island's natural wonders.
Today’s excursion takes us across the sea by ferry to the picturesque island of Santorini - renowned Aegean gem.

Santorini's allure lies in its dramatic volcanic landscapes, where rugged cliffs adorned with whitewashed buildings create a stunning contrast against the deep blue waters below.

The island's charm extends beyond its breathtaking vistas to its quaint villages, where narrow cobblestone streets wind their way through clusters of vibrant bougainvillea and charming cafes.

In Santorini we will also visit iconic sights such as the charming village of Oia, renowned for its mesmerizing views and sunsets.

After a day of exploration and of soaking in some of the most incredible views that the Greek isles have to offer, we bid farewell to Santorini and fly to Thessaloniki for the next exciting leg of our Greece experience.
This morning, after a hearty breakfast, we begin our exploration of Thessaloniki at the Jewish Museum to discover the amazing story of the city's rich Jewish history. Jews once formed the largest population group of this city, to the extent that the port, one of Europe’s busiest, was closed on Shabbat!
Following a short lunch break, we spend the afternoon exploring the sights and sounds of the city’s history, beginning at the iconic White Tower, a symbol of Thessaloniki's maritime heritage, and adjacent Rotunda and Arch of Galerius that stand as a testament to ancient grandeur.

As the sun sets, we return to the hotel for a spectacular dinner.

If interested, an evening visit can be arranged to the city’s Ladadika district to enjoy the atmosphere of this lively quarter with its historic ambiance.
A scenic flight takes us to the famous Greek isle of Rhodes, captivating with its rich history and timeless beauty.

Our first stop is a tour of the Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, steeped in centuries of history, where we wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with medieval buildings, bustling markets, and charming cafes.

Then, stepping back in time, we explore the Palace of the Knights, a majestic fortress that once served as the headquarters of the Knights Hospitaller during the Crusades.
Finally, we ascend to the ancient Acropolis of Rhodes, where remnants of ancient temples and fortifications offer a glimpse into the island's storied past. Take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from this vantage point to savor the beauty and tranquility of this historic site.

We return to our hotel for a sumptuous dinner after a full day of incredible exploration.
Embark on a scenic boat trip from Rhodes to the charming village of Lindos, renowned for its picturesque, white-washed buildings and stunning coastal vistas.

We sail along the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, soaking in the panoramic views of the coastline while enjoying its gentle sea breeze.

Upon arrival in Lindos, we explore the village's narrow streets and visit the ancient Acropolis perched atop a rocky hill. If you want, we can also take time to relax on its pristine beaches.

In the afternoon, we return to our hotel to prepare for a unique Shabbos in picturesque surroundings.

Tonight’s seuda promises to be real delight in every sense.
Our second Shabbos will be experienced in the historic Old City of Rhodes.

Subject to confirmation, we hope to have a very special experience this morning and to daven in the Old City synagogue, following which our chefs look forward to treating you with a wonderful kiddush and gourmet shabbat seuda.

The remainder of the day is at your leisure to relax and enjoy the facilities and amenities of your luxurious hotel. You can also enjoy leisurely strolls through the city, exploring the ancient Jewish quarters and admiring the medieval architecture.
We bid farewell to Greece and its isles with cherished memories from Athens' ancient marvels to the medieval charm of Rhodes, Santorini's breathtaking views and Thessaloniki's vibrant culture; while Crete, which was our main base on this tour, will leave us always remembering its stunning landscapes and the most amazing summer vacation, an experience enriched by the personalized service and freshly prepared kosher cuisine of GKS.

Farewell, and wishing you a safe flight home, till we meet again!

Itinerary

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Thursday Aug 15 – Sunday Aug 25, 2024 (11 days)

$10,500 (per person sharing); Single supplement: $3,000

EARLY-BIRD PRICE - $9,700 per person sharing, valid till March 21.
Luxury 5 Star Hotels in the cities and spacious room in our luxury private villa on Crete

Freshly prepared gourmet kosher meals daily under the strict hashgacha of IKM (International Kosher Mehadrin) and/or Chabad of Greece

Snacks and plenty bottled water on excursions; drinks during meals

Quality kosher wines served at dinner

Experienced English-speaking guides throughout the trip

Air-conditioned vehicle for all transfer and touring transportation

Airport transfers

Excursions and activities per itinerary

All entrance fees

Government tax & Service charge

What’s not Included?

Tips – 6%

International and local airfares (local flights Athens-Heraklion; Santorini-Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki-Rhodes will be booked by us and charged to your bill- we expect these to cost about $500 per person if booked well in advance)

Visas and airport taxes

Travel insurance

Hotel upgrades

Personal expenses

Greece

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Print FAQS

*These FAQ's are specific to this tour.

May is a glorious month in Greece, with clear, sunny days and mild to warm temperatures, depending on the region. The average temperature ranges from 18°C (64°F) to 24°C (75°F). The northern regions and islands tend to be slightly cooler, while the southern parts, including Athens and Crete, are warmer.

August is one of the hottest months in Greece. The average temperatures during August range from 25°C (77°F) to 34°C (93°F). The coastal regions, such as Athens and the Greek Islands, tend to be slightly cooler due to the sea breeze, whereas the inland areas can sometimes feel hotter.

Prior to traveling anywhere, we recommend seeking a qualified medical practitioner’s advice about vaccinations and up to date precautionary medicine based upon your itinerary and personal situation.

All travelers should take out comprehensive travel insurance prior to travel that will cover any overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation.

If you require a particular medication, ensure that you take an adequate supply as it may not be available locally.

Greece's currency is the euro (€). All major credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, though some establishments do not accept American Express and Diners.

As a currency used throughout many European countries, you have the choice of converting money before arriving in Croatia or converting your local money in Croatia. Where possible try and exchange your money in a bank or retrieve money from an ATM and try to avoid exchanging money at hotels or in a Bureau de Change as the rates are typically quite poor.

You can find ATMs in every major town and city in Greece, and practically every inhabited Greek island has at least one machine.

Credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are widely recognized and are accepted in most tourist areas; however, it’s always a good idea to have a small amount of cash if you’re travelling off the beaten track.

*For your convenience, click here for updated currency conversion rates.

In Greece, power plugs and sockets (outlets) of type C and type F are used. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.

Visitors from countries whose electric energy system is based on a lower voltage (110V) should check whether their devices can function on the European 220V system. Newer devices can most probably function regardless of the type of electric energy system, but there is no harm in checking, especially in the case of more sensitive or expensive personal devices.

If you forget to bring an adapter, you can buy a new one in most shops carrying electronic or IT equipment.

Since Greece is visited by many tourists from around the world every year, it is highly likely that staff in your hotel or other accommodation establishment will be able to assist you, at least temporarily.