Beyond The Ancient: Athens and Paros

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Three nights on the island of Paros with sea views
Five nights in Athens, centrally located
Catamaran on the sea with snorkeling and lunch
Visit ancient Corinth for a guided tour
Farm lunch at a winery in the Nemea wine region, wine tasting included
Curated walking tours that show a side of Athens not often explored
Visit several villages on Paros including Lefkes and Naoussa
Guided tour of The Acropolis and Mar’s Hill
Travel to the Peloponnese Peninsula to visit the coastal town of Nafplio
Visit The Metropolis Cathedral of Athens
Food tour of Athens (but not a typical food tour) trying local pastries, baked goods, yogurt and more.
Visit Byzantine and Christian Museum
Rooftop bar for cocktail hour at sunset
Special experiences planned for you

TOUR PRICE $4395.00 per person

(sharing double room)

Greece is neither Eastern, Western nor Balkan. It is a point where East and West meet in a unique way, a small spot on the map that has left an indelible mark on almost the entire world. This 9-day Athenian and Cycladic adventure isn't just a trip; it's an invitation to connect with the soul of a land steeped in ancient history. We'll wander through the iconic ruins of Athens, of course, but we'll also delve deeper, uncovering hidden corners and experiencing a side of the city rarely seen by the typical traveler—a more authentic Athens. You'll taste the warmth of Greek hospitality and sense the weight of history beneath your feet. After days immersed in the vibrant energy of the capital, we'll journey to the serene island of Paros, a true palate cleanser for the senses. Here, amidst the whitewashed villages and azure waters, we'll find respite and a chance to simply be, allowing the tranquility of the Aegean to wash over us. Join me as we trace a path through time, savoring the flavors, the stories, and the timeless magic that is Greece.

3 SPOTS LEFT

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

TRIP OVERVIEW

TRIP PRICE: $4395.00

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Beautiful, centrally located accommodations double occupancy; $1395.00 single supplement fee (2 available)
Most meals (8 Breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 Dinners)
Food and wine tastings throughout the tour
Sudden Journeys Tour Director
A small, friendly group of 10 people
All ground transportation
All sightseeing, events, and visits as noted in the itinerary
All entrance fees, service charges, and standard taxes
Coach Driver, local guides and restaurant gratuities
Special dinner and welcome drinks
Custom-designed gifts for your travels
Fine print: You are responsible for the cost of your drinks and free-time sightseeing. See our Tour Conditions for important details regarding everything listed above.

Arrival Airport: Athens, Greece

Departure Airport: Athens, Greece

Note: The itinerary is descriptive, not definitive, and is subject to change. There also may be modifications due to weather, restoration works taking place are historic sites, and availability of local activities and guides.

“The tour was extremely well organized and every detail was considered. I felt so comfortable and well cared for as we all enjoyed this beautiful part of the world.”

— Katie L.

ACCOMMODATIONS

ATHENS | 4 NIGHTS

Welcome to your first few nights in Athens where you’ll stay in a modern boutique hotel in the heart of Athens. With stylish rooms and Acropolis views, this retreat offers the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. Start your day with a delicious breakfast buffet, then explore Monastiraki Square, just a 4-minute walk away. The elegant blend of wood, soft muted colors and natural materials meet modern artful elements that offer you all the delightful elements. Each room holds a separate view of the surrounding city, ideally situated to showcase the beauty of Athens. Your room feature a king size bed, in addition to a smart TV, Complimentary WiFi, espresso and tea.

PAROS | 3 NIGHTS

The individual identity of this boutique hotel enriches guests with harmony in mind, body and spirit through its authentic luxury and attentive hospitality, creating an adult-exclusive paradise in the heart of the Cyclades. Soak up a late summer unwinding in the fresh-water swimming pool and feasting on the poolside deli selection of locally sourced ingredients while enjoying enchanting views of the Aegean. The perfect balance of style and comfort welcome guests into a choice of uniquely creative rooms and suites, each with eclectic touches of natural textures and bohemian textiles with the option of mellow private outdoor spaces to unwind and breathe in the scent of the sea. Breathe in the fresh island air and soak up the Mediterranean sun on your spacious private terrace reclining in your hammock or stylish loungers. Indoors are cozy, brightened by Cycladic whitewashed walls and clean lines, elevated by our distinctive Bohemian-chic touches.

ATHENS | 1 NIGHT

Return to Athens for our final night. Stay at another local hotel, newly renovated and is a fusion of athenian legacy and modern charm, meticulously crafted to offer a cozy nest in the bustling heart of the city. A stone’s throw away from the iconic Syntagma square and boasting rooftop views of the Acropolis. Located on Ermou Street, a historic commercial road; it is inspired by the heartbeat of Athens and designed from the ground up to meet the needs of the modern traveller, whether they are visiting for business, leisure, or both. The hotel has been completely renovated as of May 2025. You’ll get to enjoy this new take on a beautiful hotel.

TOUR LEADER: KYLE CAMPBELL

FOUNDER OF SUDDEN JOURNEYS

Kyle, a seasoned travel guide with over two decades of industry experience, has dedicated her life to creating enriching and inspiring travel experiences for diverse groups. With a repertoire of leading thousands of travelers (yes thousands!), she possesses an intimate understanding of the transformative power of travel. Her journeys span across the picturesque locales of Europe and the US, underlining her vast travel experience and knowledge. Yet, with every tour, Kyle's heart for her guests remains the same: to ensure every individual returns home with a revitalized spirit, a broadened worldview, and cherished memories of newfound friendships.

A note on Greece. I’ve spent a good part of my career as a tour director leading tours throughout Greece. It’s a country that endlessly fascinated me. I am beyond thrilled to offer this trip, born from my long history with this country.

SEPT 22ND | DAY ONE (Arrival Day) Arrive to Athens! Meet the group at your hotel by mid afternoon. Once everyone has arrived, we will enjoy a leisure walking tour through some of Kyle’s favorite streets taking in your first glimpses of the city. You’ll explore an a small neighborhood of Anafotika once home to fishermen who no longer lived on islands yet longed for their home on the islands. Enjoy welcome drinks at a rooftop bar before making your way to special dinner gathering,

Check into hotel
Leisure walking tour
Rooftop drinks and welcome dinner

Light walking: 1-2 miles throughout the afternoon. Sleep in ATHENS.

SEPT 23 | DAY TWO | ATHENS: FOOD, FAITH, ART AND CULTURE
T0day, you’ll discover through a multidimensional lens. We will explore the city through its food, faith, art and current cultural climate. You’ll see a side of the city most walk past or don’t take the time to understand yet I believe it’s an important part of understanding the Greek mosaic. We will visit cafe that serves only Lukumadas, freshly fried dough in an open kitchen, served warm with honey and cinnamon. Next, visit a the last traditional dairy bar in Athens known for its yogurt served with honey and walnuts. We will also visit a kiosk to sample kouloúria (sesame bread rings) and many more spots.

Later in the day, we will continue our exploration of Athens with a unique walking tour talking us through often overlooked neighborhoods. You’ll learn about the refugee crisis and political climate of the city.

More events later in the day will be revealed.

Morning food tour of sampling greek pastries, yogurt, and more.
Afternoon walking tour of various neighborhoods of the city.
Surprises planned
Dinner together

Light walking: 4-6 miles throughout the day, light hills and stairs. no bus.. Sleep in athens.

SEPT 24 | DAY THREE | CORINTH, NEMEA & NAFPLIO
Today, we will travel to the ancient city of Corinth. Spend the morning exploring this storied space before traveling deeper into the Peloponnese. Enjoy lunch along with a wine tasting at a local farm in the Nemea wine region. Continue driving south towards the coast where you’ll enjoy the rest of the day on your own enjoying the charming seaside town of Nafplio. Return to Athens in the evening.

Morning guided tour of Ancient Corinth
Lunch at a farmhouse on a winery in the Nemea Wine Region
Afternoon free exploring the port village of Nafplio
Dinner on your own

Moderate walking: 4-6 miles throughout the day, moderate hills and stairs. Bus 4 hrs. Sleep in ATHENS.

SEPT 25 | DAY FOUR | ATHENS: ACROPOLIS Morning: Guided tour of the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the iconic Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Ascend Mars Hill (Areopagus) for panoramic city views. Afternoon: Free time for shopping in Monastiraki or Plaka, exploring museums (Acropolis Museum recommended), or relaxing in a café. Evening: Group dinner at a restaurant in Plaka.

Morning guided tour of The Acropolis
Lunch on your own in Monastiraki or Plaka
Free Time: Afternoon
Dinner together in the evening

Moderate walking: 4-6 miles throughout the day, HILLS and UNEVEN stairs. Bus 30 MINS. Sleep in ATHENS.

SEPT 26TH | DAY FIVE | PAROS Morning depart Athens on a ferry for the gorgeous island of Paros. Take a leisure walking tour of Parikia with a visit to Ekatontapiliani Church (Church of 100 Doors), and relax by the harbor. Checkin to the hotel in the early afternoon. Dinner at a seaside taverna.

Morning ferry from Athens to Paros
Early afternoon arrive in Parikia, the main port of Paros. Transfer to your hotel.
Afternoon: Explore Parikia town
Evening: Dinner at a seaside taverna in Naoussa

Moderate walking: 2-4 miles throughout the day. 4 hour ferry.. Sleep in paros..

SEPT 27TH | DAY SIX | EXPLORE THE ISLAND Explore Lefkes, a traditional village nestled in the hills of Paros. Walk along the Byzantine Trail, a scenic path connecting Lefkes to Prodromos village. Lunch in Prodromos. Return to Naoussa where you’ll have the afternoon you’ll have free to explore the charming fishing village with a picturesque harbor and Venetian fortress. Dinner on your own this evening.

Morning visit Lefkes
Afternoon walk and visit the 13th-century Venetian Castle in Parikia
Free time in Naoussa
Evening: Dinner on your own

Moderate walking: 4-6 miles throughout the day. BUS 2 HOURS. Sleep in PAROS.

SEPT 28TH | DAY SEVEN | A DAY ON THE WATER Embark on a boat cruise around Paros and nearby islands. Enjoy swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Lunch will be served onboard. Return to the port. You’ll have the day free to relax on the beach, enjoy the hotel property or explore more of the island. Option to rent a car to ATVs. Come together in the evening for a special dinner.

Morning boat cruise
Lunch onboard
Afternoon free to explore the island or enjoy one of the many beaches
Dinner together

Moderate walking: 2-4 miles throughout the day. BUS 30 HOURS. 4-5 hours onboard.Sleep in PAROS.

SEPT 29TH | DAY EIGHT | RETURN TO ATHENS Enjoy a final breakfast on Paros. Depart late morning by ferry from Paros to Piraeus. Transfer to your hotel in Athens. Afternoon: Free time for last-minute shopping or relaxation. Final drinks at a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the Acropolis and later a farewell feast to end our time together.