PART I – Days 1-5 : Athens, Kalambaka and Meteora

• Athens
  Guided visit of the Acropolis:The Acropolis of Athens and its monuments stand as universal symbols of classical spirit and civilization. They form the greatest architectural and artistic complex passed down from Greek Antiquity to the present world. In the second half of the fifth century BC, following their victory against the Persians and the establishment of democracy, Athens rose to prominence among the city-states of the ancient world. During this age, as thought and art flourished, a remarkable group of artists realized the ambitious plans of the Athenian statesman Pericles. Under the inspired guidance of the sculptor Pheidias, they transformed the rocky hill into a unique monument of thought and art. The most significant monuments were constructed during this time, including the Parthenon, built by Ictinus; the Erechtheon; the Propylaea, the monumental entrance to the Acropolis, designed by Mnesicles; and the small Temple of Athena Nike.
  Discover the charming neighborhood of Plaka in Athens. Nestled at the foot of the Acropolis, Plaka offers a delightful mix of history and modernity, with its narrow streets, neoclassical architecture, lively tavernas, and unique shops, providing a captivating glimpse into Athenian life.
• Meteora
  Embark on the enchanting Meteora Sunset Walk through the historic old town of Kalampaka, offering a glimpse into the Byzantine Church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary. Venture onwards to the ancient hermitages of Bandovas, culminating in a picturesque pause just as the sun begins its descent behind the majestic rocks of Meteora, presenting breathtaking photo opportunities. Concluding on a high note, the tour ends with a final stop at Psaropetra rock, the unparalleled panoramic vantage point, providing a sublime setting to revel in the beauty of the sunset.
  Experience truffle hunting with specially trained dogs beneath the rocks of Meteora, exploring the beautiful and lesser-known forests of the region.
  Enjoy a unique experience of tasting mushroom products and cooking a truffle pasta dish in the forest.
  Visit the Mushroom Museum, which showcases expertly handcrafted mushroom sculptures that mirror their authentic color, shape, and size. The museum houses an extensive collection of mushrooms, including exquisite truffles, displayed at various stages of development. Each sculpture is meticulously crafted to replicate the natural features of these fascinating fungi, providing visitors with an immersive and detailed exploration.
  Hike the historic paths of Meteora and admire its natural beauty. These paths, constructed from cobblestones with retaining walls in many areas, have a rich tradition, serving as the primary routes for centuries between settlements, monasteries, and rural areas. Marvel at the rock relief, where some paths traverse rock formations, and discover the carved steps and passages, along with wooden constructions like ladders and scaffolding. Along the way, pass under the ruins of the Pantokratoros Monastery on the north side of Doupiani Rock, leading through lush green forests to the abandoned and restored Ypapanti Monastery and the statue of revolutionary fighter Papathymios Vlahavas. The route ascends to the impressive monasteries of “Megalo Meteoro” and “Barlaam” before descending back to Kastraki, near the cave of Agios Georgios Mandilas.

1 overnight flight from Montreal to Athens
2 nights in a hostel in Athens
Day 4: Private bus from Athens to Kalambaka (4 hours)
2 nights in a hostel in Kalambaka

PART II – Days 6-8 :  Santorini

• Embark on a guided excursion in Santorini, starting from Oia, the first settlement in Greece designated as a protected area due to its picturesque style and stunning views. Stroll through its charming alleys, marvel at the scenery, immerse yourself in the allure of Ιmerovigli, nestled along the caldera. Explore the Chapel of Theoskepasti hiking trail, which traverses the ruins of Skaros Venetian castle and ascends to the summit of the iconic Skaros rock. Journeying between Imerovigli and Fira, discover firostefani, boasting the finest perspectives of the island’s volcano and hosting cafes and restaurants in prime locations. Conclude the tour in the island’s capital, Fira, perched on the caldera 260 meters above the sea, offering a magnificent vista of the deep blue Aegean waters and the islet of Nea Kameni, appearing as if suspended in the sky.

Day 6: Ferry from Athens to Santorini (6 hours)
2 nights in a hostel in a hotel in Fira – Santorini
Day 8 : Ferry in the afternoon from Santorini to Athens (8 hours)
Day 8: 1 night in a hostel in Athens

PART III – Days 9-12 : Aegina & Moni Saronic Islands and Athens

Aegina Island

• Guided tour of the temple of Apollo in Kolona. It gets its name from a single upright Doric column (kolona in modern Greek), the only remaining structure of the 6th-century BC temple. Kolona was the religious center of the ancient city, and archaeological research has revealed the existence of more than ten historical buildings dating from the Neolithic period (5th millennium BC) to the Mycenaean period (1600-1200 BC). The Kolona Archaeological Museum, founded in 1828, is the first museum of the free Greek state. It includes three rooms showcasing historical artifacts from the Neolithic to the Roman period.
  An authentic immersion in the world of Greek olives awaits you with this olive and olive oil tasting experience. It offers a glimpse into a family tradition that has been passed down through generations. The experience is hosted at a traditional oil mill, operated by a passionate Greek family dedicated to maintaining the quality and cultivation of the olive tree. This experience introduces you to a world where olive oil is not merely a product, but a cornerstone of Greek gastronomy and history.
  Discover Aegina’s countryside and coastline, characterized by high, bare hills topped with white chapels, as well as a gentle, typically Mediterranean island landscape with fig, olive, and almond trees. However, the region’s emblematic tree is the pistachio. Originating from the edges of Persia, this tree took root in Aegina in the 20th century. Its production, the most significant of its kind in Greece, has been recognized with a PDO “pistachio of Aegina” since 1994.

 Moni Nature Reserve in Moni Island

Visit the charming village of Perdika before heading by boat to the island of Moni. This fishing village has retained the architectural characteristics of the Aegean style, with its square houses and narrow streets. By boat, reach the Moni Nature Reserve in a 15-minute journey. Enjoy a hike and as optional a swim on this uninhabited island, which belongs to the Church of Chrysoleontissa of Aegina, giving it the name “Moni” (meaning “church” in Greek). The uniqueness of this island lies in its status as a nature reserve. You will have the opportunity to encounter various wild animals, such as deer, wild goats including the Cretan goats (Kri-Kri), as well as peacocks and squirrels.

Day 11 – Athens

• Attend the Changing of the Presidential Guard ceremony at Syntagma Square, the central and most significant square in Athens from a historical and social perspective. Located at the heart of Greece’s commercial and political activity, the ceremony is conducted in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
• Monastiraki Market: This vibrant flea market is a must-visit destination, offering a wide array of souvenirs, curiosities, artisan crafts, and Greek pastries. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover unique treasures on the last night of your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Day 9: Ferry from Athens to Aegina (1 hour and 15 minutes)
2 nights in a hotel in Aegina island
Day 11: Ferry from Aegina to Athens (1 hour and 15 minutes)
1 night in a hostel in Athens
Day 12: return flight for Montreal and arrival in Montreal

• Preps

  Travel documents

  A valid passport that expires at least 3 months after the date of your return flight back home.
  Starting in 2027, Canadian citizens must have an ETIAS authorization before traveling to Greece.
  The ETIAS is not a visa for Europe but a visa waiver program designed to bolster the EU’s external borders and enhance security within the Schengen Area.
  Once issued, the ETIAS permit is valid for 3 years and allows for multiple trips to Greece and other Schengen countries, with each visit not exceeding 90 days.
  To ensure timely approval of your ETIAS permit for the trip, it is recommended to apply at least 4 days before departure.
  The online ETIAS application system is not yet operational, but it will enable applicants to apply directly through the platform.
  Fees: Applicants under 18 or over 70 years old are exempt from fees. Otherwise, a payment card will be needed to pay the €7 fee or its equivalent in Canadian dollars.
  To stay updated on the launch of the online application process, please regularly visit the website:

  https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias

  Luggage

  The least amount of luggage possible. We recommend bags that are practical and easy to carry. One large bag and a small day back-pack is ideal.

  Health

  We recommend you consult your local medical travel clinic (or doctor) a few months before leaving in order to ensure you have the necessary vaccines. Your medical insurance card might not cover costs incurred due to injuries or health costs when you are abroad. If you need to travel with medication of some kind, please bring a doctor’s prescription.

  Safety

  We recommend you bring a concealed belt that can hold your important documents, credit cards and currencies. It is illegal to take any objects found in archeological sites or any natural resources from any of the national parks, ecological reserves, protectorates or any other sites visited.

  Payment Terms

  June 17, 2026: 630$ (500$ deposit +137$ of insurance fee)
  September 14, 2026: 1700$
  November 13, 2026: 1700$
  December 15, 2026: to be determined by the number of travelers

  PAYMENT  METHOD

  1. INTERAC  EMAIL TRANSFERS  –
  Proceed with the the interact email transfer after signing up online. Please include the students’s name in the wire message.
  The email to send the transfer: finance@alyraexpeditions.com
  Question: which destination?
  Answer: greece

  Cancellation / Modifications By The Traveler

  In case of cancellation, the Traveller, even in cases of events outside of their control. The minimum cancellation fees are as follows:

  • a) 121 days or more prior to departure: 1st deposit 
  • b) 91 to 120 days prior to departure: 50% of trip package
  • c) 46 to 90 days prior to departure:75% of trip package
  • d) 45 days or fewer prior to departure: 100% of package

• These prices include

  • The international flights from Montreal;
  • Alyra’s CO (Creative Organizer) accompanying the group 24/7;
  • Local transportation;
  • Lodging: multiple occupancy for students;
  • Lodging: single occupancy for supervisors;
  • Food: 3 meals a day (local authentic food will be served);
  • Potable water during the trip;
  • Non-alcoholic drinks and potable water during meals;
  • Activities/visits mentioned with local guides (when mentioned);
  • Tips to local guides, drivers, restaurants, etc.;
  • Entrance tickets for museums, parks, sites, etc mentioned in the itinerary ;
  • 0.01% for the OPC’s FICAV (Consumer Protection Office) tax;
  • Insurance Package with Manulife: Youth Exclusive plan – Medical, Interruption and Cancelation coverage.

• These prices do not include

  • Visa expenses (for non-canadian passports);
  • Souvenirs/gifts you decide to buy;
  • Laundry and any other personal expenses..