Departure from the USA with an overnight flight to Thessaloniki. Airfare is not included in the price. Celestial Voyagers is here to help choose the routing and the schedule. You may choose to leave earlier. Let us know if you need additional nights at the hotel.
ARRIVAL IN THESSALONIKI
Meet Alex, our Greek English-speaking guide who will be with us throughout the tour. Individual transfer on arrival to reach the hotel is not included. Check in at the hotel for 3 nights. Meet to go to dinner at the excellent seafood restaurant facing the sea: MAVRI THALASSA. Beverages are included.
Overnight in THESSALONIKI
Start your day with a delicious buffet breakfast at the hotel.
10:00 – 14:00 | Culinary Tour with Smaragda Makri Meet your culinary guide, Smaragda Makri , in the hotel lobby. A passionate chef trained at the prestigious École Ritz Escoffier, Smaragda is also a wine expert and certified honey sensory analyst. Her deep love for Greek flavors will guide us through an unforgettable culinary journey.
We begin with a visit to the master of Bougatsa , Thessaloniki’s signature dessert, where you’ll watch a live demonstration of the traditional technique for stretching delicate filo dough.
Then we head to the city center for a guided walk through Thessaloniki’s vibrant food markets — Modiano and two additional historic markets. Along the way, we’ll enjoy a series of tastings that celebrate the flavors of northern Greece.
Tastings along the way include:
● Bougatsa masterclass
● “Sweets of the Spoon” – Traditional fruit preserves
● Local cheeses & meze with a shot of tsipouro
● Honey tasting – 3 varieties at a local café
● Wine tasting (3 Greek wines) with small bites
Lunch at a traditional ouzeri Savor a generous spread including:
● Aged fish roe dip, fresh salad, grilled squid & seasonal fish
● Accompanied by a fine glass of Vidiano or Assyrtiko wine After lunch, enjoy a leisurely walk back to the hotel , led by local guide Alex Randan, followed by free time to relax in the afternoon.
18:00 | Evening Cooking Class & Dinner In the early evening, we’ll walk to a local culinary studio for a private hands-on cooking class. Learn how to prepare traditional Greek dishes under the guidance of local chefs—then sit down to enjoy the meal you helped create. Return to the hotel on foot.
OVERNIGHT IN THESSALONIKI
After breakfast, embark on a panoramic journey through Thessaloniki , Greece’s vibrant second city—rich in culture, history, and charm. This guided tour offers a perfect introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Start your day at the White Tower , Thessaloniki’s iconic landmark, with a brief photo stop and views of the seafront. Then, drive along the Waterfront Promenade , lined with cafés and sculptures. Visit Aristotelous Square , the lively city center surrounded by beautiful neoclassical buildings. See the Arch of Galerius and Rotunda , impressive Roman monuments from the 4th century. Head up to Ano Poli (Upper Town) to explore the old city walls and enjoy views over the Thermaic Gulf. Finally, visit Agios Dimitrios Church , the city’s main Byzantine church, famous for its mosaics. Throughout the tour, your expert guide will share fascinating stories that connect Thessaloniki’s multi-layered past with its modern-day vibrancy .
Free time for a quick lunch (handled by the group) during the visits Afternoon Tour: Jewish Heritage & Holocaust History of Thessaloniki In the afternoon, we delve deeper into Thessaloniki’s profound Jewish heritage , uncovering a vital chapter of the city’s multicultural identity and honoring the memory of a once-thriving community.
This moving tour includes visits to key Jewish landmarks and memorials:
● Yad Lezikaron Synagogue – Located in the heart of the former Jewish quarter, this synagogue serves as a memorial and a place of reflection, honoring the victims of the Holocaust.
● Bank Allatini – A symbol of the once-powerful Jewish financial presence in Thessaloniki, located in the Frangon area , which was the commercial hub of the Jewish community.
● Old Train Station – A powerful site of remembrance where thousands of Thessaloniki’s Jews were deported to Auschwitz & Birkenau during WWII.
● Jewish Cemetery Memorial – Recently inaugurated, this monument honors the memory of one of the largest Jewish cemeteries in Europe, once home to over 350,000 tombs , tragically destroyed during the war.
Throughout the tour, you’ll gain insight into the deep historical roots and the devastating impact of the Holocaust on Thessaloniki’s Jewish population. At the end of the tour, you’ll be transferred back to your hotel.
Free time this evening to enjoy dinner at a local tavern of your choice.
OVERNIGHT IN THESSALONIKI
Breakfast at your hotel and check-out.
After breakfast, depart for the remarkable archaeological site and museum of Vergina , guided by your English-speaking expert. Discover the fascinating exhibits and ancient ruins of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Vergina is one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, famously known as the ancient city of Aigai, the first capital of the Kingdom of Macedon . This UNESCO World Heritage site holds extraordinary historical significance as the royal burial ground of the Macedonian kings, including the tomb believed to be that of King Philip II , father of Alexander the Great . At the Museum of Vergina, you will marvel at the richly decorated tombs, intricate artifacts, and royal treasures that provide a unique window into ancient Macedonian life and culture. The site’s stunning architecture and well-preserved relics offer a captivating glimpse into the grandeur and power of one of history’s greatest empires.
Enjoy a delicious lunch at a nearby local restaurant.
Then, continue your journey to Kalambaka .
Arriving in Kalambaka in the afternoon, visit one of the world-famous Meteora monasteries , perched “suspended in the air” atop towering rock formations in the Thessaly plain. Explore this breathtaking site with your licensed English guide.
Check in at the GRAND METEORA 5★ HOTEL (grandmeteora.gr) or a similar hotel for your overnight stay. Buffet dinner , including drinks, will be served at the hotel.
OVERNIGHT IN KALAMBAKA
Start your day with breakfast at the hotel , followed by check-out.
In the morning, we visit one more of Meteora’s incredible monasteries , perched high atop dramatic rock pillars. These centuries-old monasteries are a testament to the spiritual and architectural heritage of the region, offering breathtaking views and insight into the lives of the monks who once lived here.
Next, immerse yourself in a truly unique experience — a truffle hunting adventure in the nearby forests around Kalambaka. Accompanied by an expert and an award-winning trained dog, you will walk through beautiful, lesser-known woods in search of the region’s prized truffles. Learn about the fascinating world of truffles and wild mushrooms during this hands-on activity.
As part of the experience, enjoy a cooking demonstration right in the forest , where you’ll help prepare a delicious pasta dish infused with freshly found truffles. Taste the unique flavors of this culinary treasure and discover how truffles elevate local cuisine.
After this memorable experience, depart for Delphi , a scenic 3.5-hour drive through beautiful Greek landscapes.
Upon arrival in Delphi, your expert English-speaking guide will take you on a tour of the ancient archaeological site and museum , exploring the legendary sanctuary once considered the center of the world in ancient Greece. Discover the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the famous Oracle, as well as treasures housed in the museum.
By late afternoon (around 17:30), check in at the PARNASSOS HOTEL 3★ (or a similar property) ( www.parnassosdelphi.com ) Take some time to relax and refresh.
In the evening, enjoy a transfer to the picturesque mountain village of Arachova , known for its charming streets and traditional atmosphere.
At 20:00 , dine at a local tavern where you’ll savor authentic Greek dishes accompanied by drinks.
After dinner, return to your hotel in Delphi for a peaceful overnight stay. OVERNIGHT IN DELPHI
Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before checking out. Get ready for a scenic and comfortable drive to Athens, which will take approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the changing landscapes as you journey from Delphi to the vibrant capital of Greece.
Arrive at the centrally located FRESH HOTEL 4* (or similar)
12:00 – 1:00 PM – Embark on a private panoramic city tour of Athens by comfortable coach, accompanied by your professional English-speaking guide. Discover Athens’ rich history and lively atmosphere as you pass by major landmarks such as Syntagma Square, the Parliament building, and the National Garden. Don’t forget your camera during the brief stop at the famous Panathenaic Stadium , the site of the first modern Olympic Games!
Following the tour, enjoy some free time to grab a quick lunch on your own.
After lunch we visit the world-renowned New Acropolis Museum , located just a short walk from the Acropolis itself. Explore its impressive collection of artifacts, statues, and relics that vividly illustrate the history of ancient Athens. The museum’s modern architecture and stunning views of the Acropolis add to the experience.
Next, walk up to the iconic Acropolis archaeological site . Wander through the ancient ruins, including the majestic Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Your guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the significance of these monuments in Greek history and culture.
After descending from the Acropolis, enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque Plaka district , known for its narrow streets, colorful houses, and charming shops. You’ll have some free time here to browse souvenirs, relax with a coffee, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere.
20:00 PM – Meet your group and set off on a pleasant walk toward the bustling neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Psiri , famous for their nightlife and dining scene.
Sit down for a delightful dinner at a traditional local tavern in Athens city center.
After dinner, take a relaxed 15-minute walk back to your hotel, reflecting on a day full of history, culture, and new discoveries.
OVERNIGHT IN ATHENS
Wake up to a delicious buffet breakfast at your hotel!
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Athens Food Walking Tour Today, we’ll explore the city through its vibrant food scene, guided by a local expert who will introduce you to the authentic tastes, stories, and traditions that make Greek cuisine so special.
First Stop: The Naxos Apothecary Step into a beautifully curated herbal boutique, where Greek botany meets gastronomy. Learn how native herbs are used in traditional pies and Greek cooking, and enjoy a tasting of herbal teas and savory pies in their cozy Herbal Tea Room , home to over 130 herbs and rare superfoods from Naxos. You’ll also hear about their signature herbal mocktails and cocktails crafted by renowned Greek mixologist Popi Sevastos.
Varvakeion Central Market Next, dive into the lively sights and sounds of Varvakeion Market , Athens’ main meat, fish, and spice market. This bustling hub of daily life is where locals come for the freshest ingredients. Stroll through its colorful aisles filled with aromas of herbs and spices, and see firsthand where the soul of Greek home cooking begins.
Lunch by the Market Enjoy a delicious lunch at a hidden gem right next to the market — a spot known for serving up authentic, local dishes made with fresh market ingredients. It’s a wonderful way to experience what real Athenians eat every day.
Final Stop: Stani – Traditional Greek Dairy Patisserie No Greek food experience is complete without something sweet! Visit Stani , a family-run dairy dessert shop that’s been serving since 1931. Indulge in traditional delights like masticha yogurt , house-made ice cream , and galaktoboureko (a custard pie soaked in syrup). Stani is a nostalgic treasure for those who appreciate the authentic taste of old Athens.
Afternoon & Evening:: The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Spend the afternoon exploring more of Athens at your own pace — whether you’re interested in museums, shopping, cafes, or simply relaxing in one of the city’s leafy squares. Dinner tonight is at your leisure
OVERNIGHT IN ATHENS
Enjoy a full buffet breakfast at the hotel before heading out for a day of rich flavors, local traditions, and hands-on experiences in the beautiful Peloponnese countryside.
8:30 AM – Departure from the hotel by private coach for the Peloponnese region — a land known for its fertile soil, ancient history, and exceptional culinary heritage.
First Stop: Olive Oil Estate Visit in Corinth – Visit an Olive Oil Domain , a fourth-generation family estate in Corinth. You’ll enjoy an advanced olive oil tour and tasting that offers more than just flavor — it’s a deep dive into Greece’s “liquid gold.”
Second Stop: Skouras Winery & Cooking Experience Continue to the famous wine region of Nemea, where the hills are lined with vineyards producing some of Greece’s finest wines – Arrival at the Skouras Winery where you will take a guided tour of the winery’s modern facilities and learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle.
Greek Cooking Class with a renowned Chef Get ready to roll up your sleeves! Under the guidance of Chef Costas, you’ll prepare a multi-course Greek meal right in the heart of the vineyard. This hands-on class combines classic techniques with seasonal ingredients.
Wine Pairing Lunch – Enjoy your homemade meal paired with a curated selection of Skouras wines. This long, relaxed lunch is the perfect celebration of Greek hospitality, flavors, and fellowship.
Depart from the winery and begin the drive back to Athens.
Around 7:00 PM – Arrive back at your hotel. Enjoy a restful evening or venture out to explore the city on your own.
Dinner: Free time to choose your own dining experience (dinner is not included and handled by the group).
OVERNIGHT IN ATHENS
Enjoy a relaxed buffet breakfast at the hotel, then prepare for a special day trip to the beautiful island of Aegina
8:30 AM – Depart from the hotel with your host and transfer to Piraeus Port .
9:30 AM (approx.) – Board a regular ferry to Aegina, one of the Saronic Gulf’s most charming islands. The ferry ride offers lovely sea views and a refreshing escape from the city.
11:00 AM – Upon arrival in Aegina, transfer by private vehicle to the island’s most famous ancient monument. Visit the Temple of Aphaia , a stunning Doric sanctuary perched on a pine-covered hill with panoramic views over the Saronic Gulf. Dating back to the 5th century BC, it forms part of the famed “Sacred Triangle” along with the Parthenon and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion.
Continue to a local pistachio factory for a guided visit and tasting. Aegina is internationally renowned for its PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) pistachios , and here you’ll learn how they’re cultivated, processed, and turned into delicious local products —from roasted nuts to pistachio spreads & sweets.
Free Time in Aegina Town – Return to the capital of Aegina and enjoy free time for lunch at one of the island’s seaside tavernas (lunch is handled by the group). Take a stroll along the harbor, go for a swim, or browse local shops for pistachio souvenirs, handmade jewelry, or ceramics.
4:30 PM (approx.) – Return to Athens via Flying Dolphin back to Piraeus Port.
5:30 PM – Arrival in Piraeus and transfer to your hotel.
6:00 PM – Arrive back at the hotel with time to freshen up before dinner. Farewell to Greece in Style for a final evening to remember.
8:00 – 10:00 PM – Farewell Dinner at ALERIA (or similar) , one of Athens’ most celebrated restaurants. Nestled in a restored 19th-century neoclassical home in the elegant Metaxourgeio neighborhood , Aleria masterfully combines warmth, refined ambiance, and a contemporary take on Greek gastronomy.
Relax, reflect, and raise a glass to an unforgettable journey through Greece, surrounded by friends, fine wine, and incredible flavors. Return transfer to your hotel after dinner.
OVERNIGHT IN ATHENS
Breakfast at your hotel and check out.
According to the departure time, we can arrange your transfer to the airport in accordance to your flight schedule.
● Foodies Tour of Thessaloniki, designated a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, followed by a cooking class with local chef/culinary expert Smaragda Makri.
● City Tour of Thessaloniki with Jewish heritage history and visits to the major Jewish sites.
● Truffle hunt followed by a mushroom and truffle pasta lunch cooked in the forest
● See two of Mateora’s famous monasteries built atop giant natural pillars mainly in the second half of the 14th century.
● Visit to a local farm to experience the bucolic life of the shepherds including a shepherd’s picnic.
● Tour of the archeological site and museum of Delphi, which the ancient Greeks considered to be the center of the world.
● Athens Foodie Tour including the large Varvakeion Market and the Naxos Apothecary to learn about Greek botany followed by a tasting in its Herbal Tea Room.
● Tour of the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum—a must when visiting Athens.
● Full day excursion to the Peloponnese to visit an olive grove with tour and tasting of top quality extra virgin olive oils followed by a chef-led cooking class.
● Ferry ride to the island of Aegina, known for its pistachio production with tasting and tour.
● 3 nights in Thessaloniki at 4* City Hotel or similar
● 1 night in Meteora at 5* Grand Meteora Hotel or similar
● 1 night in Delphi at 3* Parnassos Hotel or similar
● 4 nights in Athens at 4* Fresh Hotel or similar
● Buffet breakfast daily
● Entrance fees to sites
● Luggage service at the hotels
● Transportation by deluxe motor coach or van during the tour ● Bottled water on the coach/van
● Round-trip ferry tickets to go to Aegina Island
● Services of Alex, our English-speaking tour leader, from beginning to end
● VAT and local taxes on all services
● City tax at the hotels
● Thessaloniki events:
o Welcome dinner with beverages o Food tour witha culinary expert followed by lunch
o Cooking class and dinner o Excursion to Vergina, the ancient AIGAI
o Jewish Heritage guided tour
o Dinner at a local tavern with beverages
● Truffle hunting and cooking experience in the forest
● Guided visit to 1 or 2 monasteries in Meteora
● Buffet hotel dinner in Meteora
● Visit the local farm in Livadi village
● Guided tour of the Delphi archaeological site and museum
● Dinner at the local tavern in Arachova with beverages
● Guided panoramic tour of Athens
● Athens events:
o Guided panoramic tour
o Guided visit of the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum
o Dinner at a local tavern with beverages
o Food tour in Athens with an expert, followed by lunch
o Excursion to Markellos olive oil domain and olive oil tasting.
o Wine tasting, cooking class, and lunch at Kouras wine domain
o Guided tour of the Aphaia temple on Aegina island
o Visit the pistachio factory
o Farewell dinner at Aleria with beverages
● International flights going to Thessaloniki and returning from Athens
● Private transfers between the airport and the hotel, or vice versa
● Single supplement
● Gratuities to the tour leader, local guides, and drivers
● Beverages other than bottled water, coffee, te,a with lunches and dinners
● Meals not mentioned in the program
● Trip cancellation and travel insurance (highly recommended)
● Personal expenses
● Excess luggage
Thessaloniki at 4* City Hotel or similar (3 nights)
April 10 – 13, 2026
City Hotel
Address: Komninon 11, Thessaloniki 546 24, Greece
Phone: +30 231 026 9421
City Hotel offers modern 4-star accommodation with an urban nature design and eco-friendly atmosphere. Situated in the centre of Thessaloniki, City Hotel allows you to tap into the energy of the city with Tsimiski Street and Aristotelous Square close by.
Meteora at 5* Grand Meteora Hotel or similar (1 night)
April 13 – 14, 2026
Grand Meteora Hotel
Address: Kastraki, Μeteora 422 00, Greece
Phone: +30 2432 077707
Grand Meteora Hotel is located at the foot of Meteora, in the heart of the Thessaly plain. It is the most imposing and impressive accommodation in the area, next to the picturesque village of Kastraki and just 3 kilometers from the historic center of Kalambaka.
Delphi at 3* Parnassos Hotel or similar (1night)
Apri 14 – 15, 2026
Parnassos Delphi Hotel
Address: 32, Pavlou and, Friderikis str, Delfi 330 54, Greece
Phone: +30 2265 082321
Νestled in the heart of Delphi, is a cheerful, cozy and pleasant destination offering top-notch hospitality standards. Located just 500 meters from the Archaeological Museum/Sites. The modest building, recently fully renovated, was designed by the renowned historical architect “Petros Pikionis,” perfectly blending structured environment with the stunning nature of the area.
Athens at 4* Fresh Hotel or similar (4 nights)
April 15 – 19, 2026.
Fresh Hotel
Address: Athinas 59, Athina 105 52, Greece
Phone: +30 21 0524 8511
Downtown in the heart of Athens, Fresh Hotel is a stylish, urban resort, with unconventional atmosphere, cool and thoughtful service. With simple lines and vivid colors in a minimalist, sleekly designed sanctuary, the Hotel surrounds guests in absolute calm. The joy of life takes on a new meaning in Fresh Hotel. The Fresh Hotel is located right in the heart of Athens.
Aliza Green is a pioneering Philadelphia-based chef, experienced culinary tour leader, and James Beard Award-winning author. Her fifteen books include “Starting with Ingredients,” “Top 100 Cookbook of the Last 25 Years,” and “Field Guide to Herbs & Spices.” Celestial Voyagers has partnered with Chef Green to create unique cultural tours with a culinary focus for 2025 and 2026. You can find this program on Chef Aliza’s website and learn more details about her work.
https://www.alizagreen.com/culinary-tour/northern-greece-tour
Price in twin room (two beds or one): $7,725
Single room supplement: T.B.A.
Deposit: $750 upon registration
Final payment due: Friday, July 24, 2026
| This trip is a land-only program. For the international flights you need a ticket going to Thessaloniki and returning from Athens Please contact Celestial Voyagers before booking your flights. We can help you to select the best route, schedule and fare you may want. Should you get your ticket on your own please send us a copy in order to assist you with arrival and departure transfers. |
Celestial Voyager’s Terms and Conditions relate to specific contracts with various suppliers. The policies and regulations below must be strictly enforced.
We may adjust the program, but we will commit to creating the best possible program for guests with safety, comfort, and ease our top priorities.
A deposit of $750 is paid online at time of registration and will guarantee your space and the type of room you wish to reserve. We do recommend registering as soon as possible.
Final payment is due by Friday, July 24, 2026
Should you register after Friday, July 24, 2026, full payment is due; deposit can be paid on line and the balance due should follow as soon as you receive your invoice.
All changes and cancellations must be provided in writing via email or postal service.
Your deposit is refundable up to Friday, July 10 minus $350 processing fee.
For cancellation received in writing between Saturday, July 11, 2026 and Sunday, July 26, 2026, the deposit is nonrefundable.
For cancellation received in writing between Monday, July 27, 2026 and Sunday, August 9, 2026 , the penalty is 50 % of the trip value.
For cancellation received in writing after Sunday, August 9, 2026 , and in case of no show the penalty is 100% of the trip value.
Should you be able to provide a new participant to take your place the name change fee will be waived and no penalty will apply.
We highly recommend taking travel insurance to protect yourself from these penalties.
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We advise all travelers to purchase travel insurance in case of any unforeseen circumstances and if you are no longer able to travel. We offer the following insurance policies through Allianz Travel Insurance: Basic, Classic, and Classic with cancel anytime. Prices vary with age and amount insured. Click on the link below for more details:
https://celestialvoyagers.com/leisure/leisure-insurance-passports-visas/
PASSPORT & VISA:
Passport
Most countries require that a passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of a trip. If your passport expires 6 months prior October 19, 2026, you must apply to renew your passport.
Visa
If you are not a US citizen please check with the Consulate of GREECE or a visa agency for the latest requirements. You will also need a re-entry permit to return to the USA.
Aliza Green is a renowned chef, an award-winning author of 15 cookbooks, and a certified tour director who is experienced in planning and leading international culinary tours. She loves to share her deep culinary knowledge, her fascinating stories, and kitchen tips and tricks gained from her extensive experience in the kitchen.