London to Athens with Greek Island Hopping Plus | Start London | Summer | Season 2024
London to Athens with Greek Island Hopping Plus | Start London | Summer | Season 2024
London to Athens with Greek Island Hopping Plus | Start London | Summer | Season 2024
27 Days Starting in London and ending in Athens
Visiting: Calais, Dover, Paris, London, Lyon, Barcelona, Arles, French Riviera, Monaco City, Venice, Eze, Pisa, Florence, Rome, Baschi, Bari, Jadransko more, Pompeii, Patras, Corinth Canal, Athens, Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, Ios
Tour operator:
Tour code:
LGIHA19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 53
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey from London to Athens, exploring the cultural and scenic wonders of Europe and the Greek Islands. This tour takes you through iconic cities like Paris, Lyon, Barcelona, and Rome, with stops at historical sites such as the White Cliffs of Dover, the Valley of the Somme, and the ancient ruins of Pompeii. Experience the glamour of the French Riviera, the romance of Venice, and the artistic heritage of Florence. Sail across the Adriatic to Greece, where you'll marvel at the Corinth Canal and the ancient splendor of Athens. Conclude your adventure with island hopping in Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, and Ios, enjoying sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: London To Paris
Location: Calais, Dover, Paris, London
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to the first day of the best trip of your life - we're calling it early! After a few pleasantries in London we'll get the show on the road with Paris in our sights.
A few hours in and your jaws are on the floor already. These chalk cliffs that edge the English coastline are known as the White Cliffs of Dover, the first of many natural beauties we'll see on our trip.
After we ferry across the English Channel for France we'll arrive in Calais, where we will take in the history of World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme.
We'll kick off our trip as we arrive in the glittering city of love, Paris. To start things off, we'll bond with our Contiki fam with a delicious included dinner, followed by a guided tour of the Montparnasse Tower and then a guided tour of the city itself.
Day 2: Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Paris Nord 18ème (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's the day to stroll the beautiful streets of Paris, with plenty of time to lust over designer haute couture or French vintage stores, admire the Notre Dame Cathedral, order coffee and crêpes, or get artsy at the Louvre. Tonight, foodies will have the chance to eat a Parisian feast in Montmartre, surrounded by cobbled lanes, village-esque cafes, street artists and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Otherwise, this is your night to sign up for an iconic Parisian cabaret show. Either option will give you the perfect way to make it one to remember!
Day 3: Paris To Lyon
Location: Lyon, Paris
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Lyon Ouest Tassin (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we’ll have breakfast and then be on our merry way to the next stop: time for lovely lovely Lyon.
Blue skies and sultry red roofs – oh yeah, we’re in Lyon! Tonight you’re free to wander this historical and architectural haven with your Contiki crew.
Day 4: Lyon
Location: Lyon
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: B&B Hotel Lyon Ouest Tassin (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you’ll have a full day to explore France’s second-largest city. Don’t miss the Notre Dame Basilica & St Jean Baptiste Cathedral, the ancient outdoor theaters inspired by the Romans and of course, the museums! If you need a rest, you can’t beat a stroll (or a nap) in the Parc de la Tête d’Or. Need something to eat? Well, we can confirm you’re in the right place…
Day 5: Lyon To Barcelona
Location: Lyon, Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Campanile Barcelona Cornellà-Sud (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We'll head to Barcelona bright and early this morning... but not until after breakfast. Welcome to España! Known for its chilled-out vibes, welcoming atmosphere and culture of acceptance and tolerance, there’s nowhere quite like Barcelona. Tonight we'll grab dinner at one of the city’s many exceptional eateries. And on the way, we'll stop by to marvel at the stunning Sagrada Familia, Gaudi's architectural masterpiece.
Day 6: Barcelona
Location: Barcelona
Accommodation Name: Campanile Barcelona Cornellà-Sud (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cobbled lanes of the Gothic Quarter, Montjuic hilltop vistas, & wild Spanish architecture will season our day to perfection. There's plenty of free time to roam free or take a dip in the Mediterranean sea, just don't tire yourself out - chances are you'll want to partake in the evening of Flamenco fun.
Day 7: Barcelona To French Riviera Via Arles
Location: Arles, Barcelona, French Riviera
Accommodation Name: Appart City Nice Acropolis (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As smitten as we are by Barcelona, we have more of Europe to conquer. Much, much more...
After a dreamy drive across the border into France through landscapes of lavender, sunflowers and wild herbs, we'll arrive at our lunch break town of Arles. Here we will get a peek at an ancient Roman Arena and at a typical provincial French town.
You're not a real celebrity until you've frolicked on the French Riviera, and who are we to keep you off the A-List? Sapphire waters & endless glamour as we roll through this glitzy coastline.
Day 8: French Riviera And Monaco
Location: Monaco City, French Riviera, French Riviera
Accommodation Name: Appart City Nice Acropolis (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Missing an opportunity to see this part of the world up close and personal would be criminal. Speaking of things you shouldn't miss, this region is famous for lavender honey, aioli & rosé wine; all 3 in one meal should be your mission.
Please tell us you didn't throw away all of your pennies today? Because you're going to want a few spare coins tonight so you can play fancy. We're visiting Monaco tonight, and you'll have the chance to visit the Monte Carlo Casino & the Royal Palace, followed by a delicious optional dinner!
After a night on the blackjack table it's back to the coast and to bed, the next part of the adventure starts tomorrow.
Day 9: French Riviera To Venice
Location: Venice, Eze, French Riviera
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Riviera dei Dogi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we say our farewells to the French Riviera and take our first jaunt into Italy, taking in the sights of Liguria, Lombardia, & the Veneto regions along the way. Pizza, pasta, & charming locals are just around the corner.
But before we cross the border into Italy, we’ll make a fragrant pitstop here in Eze to visit a traditional French perfumery – where you’ll even have the chance to craft a signature scent of your own.
The floating city of gondolas, canals and pretty bridges - what a splendid way to commence our Italian love affair. Rest up tonight, you'll want to be alert for tomorrow's magical agenda.
Day 10: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Riviera dei Dogi (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake-up sleeping beauties! Venice is yours for the entirety of this glorious Italian day. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and hitting the canals en route to the historical heart of the city. A trip to the colorful Venetian island of Burano and a gondola ride are up for grabs… or you can just get lost on your own and see where the magical maze takes you.
Day 11: Venice To Florence Via Pisa
Location: Venice, Pisa, Florence
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Venice we love you, but we need to see a bit more of this boot to satisfy our hungry wanderlust ways.
As if we were going to leg it from Venice to Florence without a sneaky side trip to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Depriving you of the chance to perfect the holding-up-the-tower shot would be down right criminal.
For those of you not familiar with the whole Florence deal, we have two words for you: it's heaven. Potter along the River Arno, be totally Tuscan with a drop of Chianti wine, and take in the beauty of the city and its protruding Duomo.
Day 12: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ready for a full day of all things Florence? Today is the perfect balance of guided local wisdom and free time to roam. We'll uncover the beautiful art of traditional leatherwork, explore streets bursting with heritage, and see all the top sights on a walking tour. This afternoon you'll have free time to take to the local markets and taste the local gelato before a special optional evening out tonight, a visit to a 14th century Certosan monastry, followed by dinner and wine at a magical Tuscan restaurant nestled in the countryside nearby.
Day 13: Florence To Rome
Location: Rome, Baschi, Florence
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Pineta Palace Hotel Roma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Farewell Florence - today we have the epicenter of Italy on our horizons. Pizza, piazzas...we're coming in hot. But not before one rather extraordinary stop-off.
En-route to Rome, we’ll visit Casale Polegri – an organic Umbrian farm where we’ll feast on local pasta, olives, wine and more fresh local produce.
And here… we… are… Back city side in the Italian capital of Rome. After a brief orientation tour from your Trip Manager, you’re free to check out the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon & Piazza Navona with your Contiki crew.
Day 14: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Pineta Palace Hotel Roma (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
When in Rome... This is the day to learn a thing or two about the Colosseum & do a bit of your own exploring. Espressos and people watching should be high priority… Stuck for something to do this evening? There’s plenty of pasta, gelato and caprese salad stops to keep you occupied – and don’t get us started on the wine.
Day 15: Rome To Overnight Adriatic Ferry
Location: Rome, Bari, Jadransko more, Pompeii
Accommodation Name: Overnight Ferry
Meals Included: Breakfast
As completely satisfied as we already are with our Italian odyssey, we have one more stop before we're a walking talking guidebook on this beautiful boot. Goodbye Rome, hello Pompeii.
Once a totally vibing hang-out of the Romans, Pompeii is now an archaeological site showing remains of what was destroyed in the year...wait for it...79AD. When you choose the optional guided tour saying "stepping back in time" is about to take on a whole new meaning!
We'll hop aboard our Overnight Adriatic Ferry and set sail.
Although we don't arrive in Athens tonight, it's in our sight! Drift off to sleep to the sway of our boat knowing tomorrow you'll wake in a brand new country.
Day 16: Overnight Adriatic Ferry To Athens
Location: Patras, Jadransko more, Corinth Canal, Athens
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Athens Center Square Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Ahoy there, we'll be sailing the Adriatic this morning headed for land...
We'll roll off the boat in Patras and then it's straight back on the road.
The awe of Greece's mainland will begin shortly after our arrival as we catch a glimpse of Corinth Canal. This man-made passageway squeezes boats through its path, sandwiched by two steep cliffs and sitting over gloriously blue ocean.
A collage of ancient wonders and modern magnificence, the allure of Athens is hard to dismiss. Choose to sample more traditional Greek food with an optional dinner with your new friends in this ancient city.
Day 17: Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: A conveniently located hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today marks the transition from city trip to island hopping adventure – but not until we’ve had our ancient history fix in Athens. Starting off with a guided tour, we’ll check out the Parthenon, the Acropolis and the OG Olympic stadium (oh yeah). After checking into our hotel in the evening, we’ll greet some new crew members and the Trip Manager will run through all the awesomeness you can expect on the next leg of the journey. After that, you’re free to explore Athens with your crew, sampling the food and nightlife to your heart’s content.
Day 18: Athens To Mykonos
Location: Mykonos, Athens
Accommodation Name: Paradise Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
With no time to waste, we'll start our island hopping adventures today with our first destination: Mykonos.
Let's do this! Two nights on the island of Mykonos, how did we get so lucky? Even the boat ride across the Aegean will have you awe struck and in love. Tonight, you'll have the option to join an exploration of Mykonos by night on a locally guided walking tour of the town's cobbled streets.
Day 19: Mykonos
Location: Mykonos
Accommodation Name: Paradise Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Get ready for a day full of viewing coastal windmills, stuffing your face with olives, feta, and tzatziki. We'll stroll down storybook streets dotted with those gorgeous blue domes and we'll pick up some evil eye ornaments along the way to keep the bad vibes away. And this is all before you've even taken a dip in the ocean! Doesn't get much better than this... The day is yours to soak up the sunshine and play in the sea.
Day 20: Mykonos To Paros
Location: Mykonos, Paros
Accommodation Name: Asterias (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning we're on to our next Greek island, Paros. Let's spare a thought for all those travelers who only get to visit just one Greek Island, and then remember how lucky we are.
Beaches, naturally sculpted swimming coves, a Byzantine church and traditional villages: we must be in Paros. You're free to get into the sun and sea vibes. Those who feel like exploring can sign up for an optional trip to an Organic Farm run where you'll sample their delicious produce and then head to one of the prettiest villages in the Cyclades - Naoussa.
Day 21: Paros
Location: Paros
Accommodation Name: Asterias (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Another day, another Greek Island delight. Hold tight - today we're off for a Paros sailing adventure. Tonight, we'll tuck into an included dinner at a local restaurant, before heading out to sample the local (and legendary) nightlife.
Day 22: Paros To Santorini
Location: Paros, Santorini
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Paros, it's been magical – but today we're taking to the seas again, this time in search of Greece's most insta-famous island: Santorini. Santorini, we have arrived! Tonight you'll have the chance to explore this magical Island and roam the cobbled streets.
Day 23: Santorini
Location: Santorini
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nikos (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise and shine, Greek Island travellers! The island of Santorini won't explore itself. Today is your day to take a swim at Perissa Beach, eat the local specialty of fried tomato balls known as domatokeftedes, or roam and explore. You can even opt to take a visit to incredible Oia followed by a visit to the black sand beach of Santorini.
Day 24: Santorini To Ios
Location: Santorini, Ios
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Far Out Beach Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
A bit more rugged and remote than Santorini and Mykonos, Ios will prove a nice change of scenery for our final Island night. And thankfully, there will be no change in the good vibes or the time spent ocean side. We'll join together for an included dinner tonight, with another free evening on the cards afterwards.
Day 25: Ios
Location: Ios
Accommodation: Resort
Accommodation Name: Far Out Beach Resort (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our final Island day, and your last chance to soak up the Greek sun and frolic in the sand without a care in the world. Now is your chance to get some adrenaline in with a speedboat safari, or take a leisurely stroll around the pretty village of Ios Chora and enjoy some stuffed zucchini flowers or baked feta drizzled with olive oil at a local cafe. It's a free evening tonight, so you're going to need the fuel if you want to hit the party scene of Hora until the break of dawn.
Day 26: Ios To Athens
Location: Ios, Athens
Accommodation Name: Dorian Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
While choking back the tears and waving a sad goodbye to the dreamy islands of Greece, try to think positive thoughts: we have a boat ride to enjoy this morning, as well as one more night together in the city of Athens.
Ready for one more dose of Athens and one last chance to hang out together? We'll soak up the last rays of the Mediterranean sun this afternoon before an optional farewell dinner together.
Day 27: End Athens
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
And just like that, it's time for the goodbyes. As sad as they are, at least you have the memories. And another 300 Contiki trips to jump aboard! Make the most of your last free breakfast before you kick on to your next port of call and for those of you that have the time, there's an optional city tour and Acropolis visit.
What's Included
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Guided Tour of Montparnasse Tower and Paris
Enjoy a guided tour of the Montparnasse Tower and the city of Paris.
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Private Boat Ride and Gondola Ride in Venice
Experience a private boat ride and a gondola ride in Venice.
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Guided Tour of Athens
Explore the Parthenon, the Acropolis, and the OG Olympic stadium in Athens with a guided tour.
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Island Hopping Adventures
Embark on island hopping adventures in Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, and Ios.
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Included Meals
Enjoy various included meals throughout the tour.
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Accommodation
Stay in conveniently located hotels and accommodations throughout the tour.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a Parisian cabaret show, Flamenco fun in Barcelona, and a visit to a 14th-century Certosan monastery in Florence are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel by ferry across the English Channel, private boat rides in Venice, and an overnight Adriatic ferry. Enjoy comfortable coach travel between cities and island hopping adventures in Greece.
Accommodation
Stay in conveniently located hotels and accommodations throughout the tour, including B&B hotels in Paris and Lyon, Campanile in Barcelona, Appart City in Nice, Hotel Riviera dei Dogi in Venice, and various other comfortable and well-situated hotels in destinations like Florence, Rome, Athens, and the Greek Islands.
Check out our Q&As
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Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
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What historical sites will we visit in Athens?
In Athens, you will visit the Parthenon, the Acropolis, and the OG Olympic stadium.
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What is the transportation mode between the different locations?
The tour includes various modes of transportation such as ferries, private boats, and an overnight Adriatic ferry.
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Are meals included in the tour?
Yes, various meals are included throughout the tour. Specific meals are provided on different days, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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What kind of activities can I expect on the Greek islands?
Activities on the Greek islands include exploring coastal windmills, tasting local foods like olives, feta, and tzatziki, swimming, sailing adventures, and visiting traditional villages and organic farms.
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What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include the White Cliffs of Dover, World War I battlefields in the Valley of the Somme, guided tours of Montparnasse Tower and Paris, exploring Lyon, visiting the Monte Carlo Casino and the Royal Palace in Monaco, private boat and gondola rides in Venice, exploring the Parthenon and the Acropolis in Athens, and island hopping adventures in Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, and Ios.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay in conveniently located hotels and accommodations throughout the tour, including places like Ibis Paris Porte D'Orleans Hotel, B&B Hotel Lyon Ouest Tassin, Hotel Catalonia Park Putxet Barcelona, Hotel Busby, LH Hotel Sirio Venice, and more.
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What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities include a Parisian cabaret show, Flamenco fun in Barcelona, a visit to a 14th-century Certosan monastery in Florence, and a guided tour of Pompeii.
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Are personal expenses covered in the tour package?
No, personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
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We look after you every step of the way.