Greece

Why Choose an Escorted Holiday to Greece?

Greece carries more history per square kilometre than almost anywhere else on earth. The problem for independent travellers is that it is easy to see a ruined temple and feel nothing - because without the context of who built it, why, and what was happening in the world at the time, ancient stones remain just that. A guided tour changes this entirely. Good commentary at the Acropolis, Delphi or Olympia transforms a sightseeing visit into something that stays with you.

Beyond the classical sites, Greece is an island nation with an extraordinary variety of landscapes: the black volcanic beaches of Santorini, the long sandy coastlines of Crete, the forested hills of the Pelion peninsula, the medieval walled city of Rhodes. Our escorted itineraries connect the mainland and the islands in a coherent journey, handling the ferry transfers, hotel logistics and island-hopping complexity so that you experience the best of Greece without the stress of arranging it yourself.

Indian-Friendly Features on Our Greece Tours

• Indian dinners included on most multi-day tours, typically three or more evenings
• Vegetarian options widely available across Greece, including excellent mezze dishes
• No beef or pork compulsory in any included group meals
• Midlands, Leicester and London pick-up points for all UK departures
• Hindi-speaking representatives on selected departures - confirm at time of booking

Best Time to Visit Greece

April and May are close to ideal for mainland Greece and the classical sites: warm, uncrowded and with wildflowers across the hillsides. Sea temperatures are cool for swimming.

June to August is the height of summer. The islands are at their most beautiful but also at their busiest and most expensive. Book well ahead for Santorini and Mykonos in July and August.

September and October offer the best of both worlds for many travellers: sea still warm enough to swim, crowds receding and prices falling. An excellent time for combining Athens with an island.

November to March is quiet and cool. Athens and the archaeological sites are accessible and crowd-free, though many island businesses close for the winter.

Popular Destinations Within Greece

Athens - the Acropolis and Parthenon remain one of the great sights of the ancient world. The Acropolis Museum, the Plaka neighbourhood and the National Archaeological Museum round out a proper stay.

Santorini - the iconic caldera views, the blue-domed churches of Oia, the volcanic beaches and sunsets that justify every photograph. Best seen with context about the Minoan eruption that shaped it.

Crete - the largest Greek island, with the Minoan Palace of Knossos, the Samaria Gorge, excellent food and a variety of landscapes that reward more than a beach holiday.

Delphi - the sanctuary of Apollo, the Oracle, and some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in mainland Greece. A half-day from Athens that is worth every minute.

Meteora - monasteries perched on top of extraordinary rock pinnacles in central Greece. One of the most visually striking places in Europe, and underrated by first-time visitors to the country.

Rhodes - the medieval walled old town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Street of the Knights, the Palace of the Grand Master, and a harbour history that goes back to antiquity.

Olympia - birthplace of the Olympic Games, with the ancient stadium and temple ruins still largely in place. More affecting than photographs suggest.

Practical Information

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Language: Greek; English widely spoken in tourist areas and on the islands
• Time zone: Eastern European Time (GMT+2 in winter, GMT+3 in summer)
• Electricity: Type F plugs (230V). A European adapter is needed for UK devices.
• Tipping: Included in your Star Tours holiday price
• India bookings: Call our India line free on 1800 123 181 181 (10am-7pm)
• ABTA & ATOL: All our Greece holidays are fully protected