The Harbor of Nafplio

The Harbor of Nafplio

September 12 & 13, Days 1 & 2 – Arrival
Depart USA | Nafplio, Greece

Depart the USA and arrive in Athens, then transfer to Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece. We’ll check in to our seaside hotel, just steps from the historic main square, and stroll along the waterfront of the Argolic Gulf. That evening, we’ll gather for a welcome reception and enjoy an authentic dinner at a local taverna. (D)

Overnight: Nafplio

The theater of Epidavros

The theater of Epidavros

September 14, Day 3  Nafplio | Epidavros

Our morning begins with a welcome meeting and cultural orientation to life in Greece. We explore charming Nafplio, including the square where Greece declared its independence from the Ottoman Empire. Then we ascend to the Palamidi Fortress, with sweeping views high above the town.

We then visit the ancient healing center of Epidavros and test the acoustics of its remarkably preserved theater, a marvel of ancient engineering. Return to Nafplio with free time to swim or meander its cobbled streets. That evening, we’ll enjoy a festive dinner by the harbor, accompanied by local musicians introducing us to Greek folk traditions. (B, L, D)

Overnight: Nafplio

communion at corinth

communion at corinth

September 15, Day 4 – Corinth | Mycenae | Peloponnesian Vineyard

Today, we explore Ancient Corinth, where the Apostle Paul ministered for a year and a half. We will celebrate Holy Communion in the Roman agora, echoing the early Christian gatherings in this sacred place.

We then head to the Nemea wine region and enjoy a vineyard tour followed by a feast under the arbor, sampling regional cuisine and wines. Our final stop is Mycenae, home of King Agamemnon. We’ll tour the Bronze Age citadel and its iconic beehive tombs. Return to Nafplio for a relaxed evening. (B, L)

Overnight: Nafplio

The Elegant Port of Spetses

September 16, Day 5 – Nafplio | Spetses | Hydra

Today, we embark on a quintessential Greek experience—sailing the Saronic Gulf. Our first stop is Spetses, known for its naval heroes of the Greek War of Independence. After lunch at one of Greece’s most iconic restaurants, we ride horse-drawn carriages along the shoreline to the Old Harbor.

We then cruise to a hidden cove for swimming before arriving at the unforgettable island of Hydra. After settling into our hotel, we gather for a sunset dinner of fresh seafood and Aegean hospitality. (B, L, D)

Overnight: Hydra

the harbor of hydra

the harbor of hydra

September 17, Day 6 – Hydra

In the morning, we are introduced to Hydra’s rich maritime heritage on a walking tour through its stone-paved streets. We visit the island’s cathedral, the Orthodox Museum, the Historical Archives with 18th- and 19th-century naval artifacts, and the preserved home of painter Panagiotis Tetsis. That evening, we gather for drinks as the sun sets over the endless blue of the Aegean. (B, D)

Overnight: Hydra

horse ride across hydra

horse ride across hydra

September 18, Day 7 – Hydra (Day at Leisure)

Today is at leisure to enjoy the peaceful rhythms of Hydra. For an unforgettable experience, sign up for a horseback ride on ancient paths through the hills. The rest of the day is yours—shop in local boutiques, admire the island’s art displays, or relax on one of its pristine beaches. (B)

Overnight: Hydra

VIEW OF PARTHENON FROM OUR HOTEL

September 19, Day 8 – Athens

Athens After lunch in a quaint harbor café, we journey to Athens, the vibrant capital of Greece, and check into our hotel. In the evening, we gather for drinks before heading into the lively Plaka district for dinner in a traditional taverna. (B, D)

Overnight: Athens

the caryatids in the acropolis museum

the caryatids in the acropolis museum

LITTLE VENICE in mykonos

LITTLE VENICE in mykonos

September 20, Day 9 – Athens

Athens Our exploration of ancient Athens begins at the Acropolis Museum, where we examine the world-famous Parthenon Marbles. We then ascend the Acropolis, passing the Odeon of Herod Atticus, Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike before reaching the Parthenon itself.

From there, we continue to the Areopagus, where Paul preached to the Athenians. After lunch in Monastiraki Square, enjoy free time to shop or explore more of the Plaka. (B, L, D)

Overnight: Athens

September 21, Day 10 – Mykonos

Mykonos We fly to the island of Mykonos and check into our resort, nestled above the Aegean with panoramic views. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure by the pool or swimming in the sea. That evening, we gather for vespers as the sun sets. (B)

Overnight: Mykonos

aboard our ship

aboard our ship

September 22, Day 11 – Mykonos | Delos | Rhenia

This morning, we board a traditional Mykonian fishing boat for an unforgettable journey to Delos, the sacred island of Apollo. After touring the ruins, we set sail for the uninhabited island of Rhenia, where we’re welcomed by a third-generation fisherman. Anchoring in a secluded cove, we enjoy a barbeque of freshly caught seafood prepared onboard. (B, L, D)

Overnight: Mykonos

the windmills of mykonos

the windmills of mykonos

September 23, Day 12 – Mykonos

After a relaxed morning and lunch, we head into Mykonos Town to explore its iconic windmills, the harbor, Little Venice, and the Church of Paraportiani. Our evening culminates with dinner at a waterside taverna, enjoying Mykonian cuisine as we watch the sunset over the Aegean. (B, D)

Overnight: Mykonos

September 24, Day 13 – Athens / USA

Depart Mykonos for a connecting flight in Athens and return to the USA. (B)

We leave with hearts full of gratitude, renewed in spirit, and carrying memories of a land where sea, story, and sacred tradition intertwine.