Greece tours for seniors

Odyssey offers easy, convenient, and relaxed escorted small group tours across the Mediterranean and beyond. We explore Greece’s magnificent natural beauty, its incredibly ancient heritage, World Heritage Sites, and storied cities, all with some truly spectacular scenery along the way. This and more is all waiting to be explored on one of Odyssey’s small group tours of Greece, designed for the senior traveller, and led by experienced, and enthusiastic like minded people.

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Tours of Greece

Crafted tours for mature world travellers

Santorini - Eastern Mediterranean Islands History small group tour

21 days

Apr, Oct

Santorini, Crete and Cyprus Small Group Tour | Eastern Mediterranean Islands Tour

Visiting Cyprus, Greece

A fascinating small group tour, with an amazing mix of culture and history – the islands of Greece, the cradle of Western civilisation, where traces of a centuries-old history exists. Visit Santorini, a remnant of a volcanic era; Crete, the home of the Minoan civilisation with important archaeological finds at Knossos and Phaistos. Rhodes, inhabited since the Stone Age; and venture further to the island of Cyprus, where east meets west.

From A$17,545 AUD

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history of Santorini

10 days

Apr, Oct, Mar

Santorini - Crete: Eastern-Mediterranean Islands Short tour

Visiting Greece

Join our small group short tour of the Eastern Mediterranean. Spend 10 days in Greece for a glimpse of the land of great philosophers, myths, and legends. We will learn about the culture and heritage of modern Greece while travelling from Athens to Santorini and over to Crete.

From A$8,930 AUD

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Athens, Acropolis - Greek Islands

22 days

Apr, Sep, May

Greece small group escorted history tour

Visiting Greece

Our 21 day small group tour explores the land of great philosophers, myths, and legends. We will learn about the culture and heritage of modern Greece whilst exploring and learning Athens, which only found independence in its uprising from the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century.

From A$13,475 AUD

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Venice, Italy

27 days

Dec

European Cities Small Group History and Cultural Winter Tour

Visiting Albania, Croatia

An escorted tour A Journey that commences in Rome and takes in 12 destinations along its journey to Athens. This is an off season small group journey with like minded people. A small group tour across Southern Europe with local guides sharing authentic in-country authentic experiences for mature couples and solo travellers.

From A$17,295 AUD

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Meteora, Greece

18 days

Mar, Nov

Walking in Greece

Visiting Greece

Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites introduced by local guides feature on this walking tour for mature couple and single travellers. The days itineraries to selected destinations provide authentic experiences in the remote parts of Greece. A single supplement is charged for solo travelers on these small group journeys.

From A$11,715 AUD

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Crete small group tour

20 days

Sep, Apr

Crete Small Group Tour: The Minoans

Visiting Greece

Crete rich in UNESCO World heritage sites this small group escorted tour provides a travel experience for guests with experienced local guides to remember. For senior couples or single travellers who seek to travel with other like minded people to destinations rich in ancient history then this in one of many small group journeys to be enjoyed.

From A$12,925 AUD

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It’s hard not to feel awed when visiting the country that brought us democracy, philosophy and the theatre. Ancient Greece is still present in the astounding archaeological sites like the Acropolis of Athens, the cities of Mycenae, Mystras and ancient Olympia, and the remains of the Temple of Delphi. Similarly, Greek history and mythology abound at the home of the Gods in Mount Olympus, the country’s tallest mountain. But modern Greece has just as much to offer. When you’re tired out from archaeology, head to the Greek Islands to relax among the clear blue and green seas and iconic white-walled and blue-roofed villages. And of course, authentic Greek cuisine is all the more delicious in Greece, with fresh local produce and regional specialties key to the food culture.

In Athens, discover landmarks that are millennia old against the hum of a bustling, modern city. Santorini offers the most magical sunsets but all of the Cyclades Islands stun with their rustic and majestic beauty. Corfu and Kefalonia are known for beautiful stretches of beaches set against lush greenery and the Dodecanese Islands, far south enough to almost kiss Turkey, provide a glimpse into medieval Greece.

With an endless coastline and 6,000 islands, the cradle of Western civilization is an unmissable travel destination.

Articles about Greece

25 Total Articles
Islam in the Mediterranean

Islam in the Mediterranean

Article discusses the arrival of Islam in Mediterranean region with a focus on Istanbul and Turkey. The relationship to the merchants of Venice and the crusades should also be considered in this period of change. Join a Odyssey Traveller small group educational tour for senior couples and mature solo travellers to learn more.

13 May 22 · 12 mins read
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Empires in World History

Empires in World History

Empires shape history and influence the format of many of our small group tours. The Mongol, Persian, Roman, British and Ottoman empires are just a few An Antipodean travel company serving World Travellers since 1983 with small group educational tours for senior couples and mature solo travellers.

29 Jul 23 · 13 mins read
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Rhodes island. Greece

Ancient Rhodes, Greece

The East Mediterranean island of Rhodes is part of the ancient history of Europe. This article for senior couples and mature solo travellers on a small group tour, provides a platform for the ancient cities of the Mediterranean and the network of empires crossing the Mediterranean.

8 May 22 · 7 mins read
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British History Tours

Standing Stones of Britain and Europe

An article for senior couples and mature solo travellers curious to learn about Standing stones of Scotland, England, Wales, France and other parts of Europe. Support material for Odyssey's small group tours of pre-historic Britain, Scotland and the Anglo - France tour.

7 Feb 22 · 18 mins read
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Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos has an amazing history, rising and falling as an economic powerhouse and trade centre dominated and defended by various rulers.

2 Mar 20 · 5 mins read
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King Leonidas

Sparta, Greece

Sparta was a prominent city-state in ancient Greece famous for its powerful military. Throughout ancient Sparta a prominent militaristic culture pervaded with citizens’ lives centred around war.

2 Mar 20 · 4 mins read
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Touring Greece

The need to know

Getting around

Odyssey travels by coach and occasionally uses local transport, including trains and ferries. Specifics are always outlined in your tour itinerary. If you are travelling by boat to the Aegean Islands, the main ferry terminal in Athens is Piraeus, which is only a short distance from the airport. Be sure to buy tickets in advance. Buses are abundant in Greece, whereas train travel can be slow (although quite cheap).

Accommodation

In major cities, Odyssey stays in centrally located 3-4 star hotels, with easy access to public transport. In smaller towns or rural areas, we usually stay in family-run hotels or guesthouses. On our longstay tours, during which you spend the length of the tour in a single location, we use serviced apartments.

Geography, environment & weather

Greece has a southern European, Mediterreanean climate, featuring mild wet winters and hot dry summers – no matter where you are in the country. In some mountainous areas there is an alpine climate and snow is common. The Pindus mountain range affects Greece’s weather, bringing wetter conditions to the western side of the country due to the rain shadow effect.

In terms of geography, Greece has it all: mountains, plains, forests, coastal cities and thousands of tiny islands. At over 13000km, it has the 11th longest coastline in the world. Even so, the country is the most mountainous in Europe, with over eighty percent of the nation covered in mountains. The mainland is known as the Peloponnese peninsula.

Tour guides

Odyssey always engages local guides with regional knowledge to ensure an authentic experience during which you can learn as much as possible about the history and culture of places you visit.

World Heritage sites

Greece boasts 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, among the most for any country in Europe and indeed the world. You can view the official list of the sites here https://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/gr. It is well worth visiting every site, if you are able. But here’s a few highlights from the bunch:
Acropolis, Athens, universal symbols of the classical spirit
Temple of Apollo, famous temple to the god of healing and the sun
Delphi, ‘navel of the world’

Festivals & events

The Greeks love a festival, and they have plenty. Individual islands often have their own celebrations, and Greeks celebrate both their birthday and the day of the saint they are named after. The biggest national festival, however, is probably Orthodox Easter, celebrated by candlelit street parades and delicious feasts. Festivities can go for over a week – be aware though, datewise, Greek Orthodox Easter does not always match up with Catholic Easter. Other festivals include the Hellenic Festival, the August Moon Festival and Apokreas. You won’t want for reasons to celebrate in Greece.

Reading list

The Iliad or The Odyssey by Homer

Mani: Travels in the Southern Peloponnese by Patrick Leigh Fermor

The Magus by John Fowles

Zorba the Greek by Nikon Kazantzakis

eating & drinking

Food is an essential part of Greek culture. It tends to be very simple: fresh, seasonal produce, olive oil and charcoal grills. In some more remote parts of the country, people have been eating and cooking the same way for centuries. Given how seriously they take their food in this part of the world, the are many different types of restaurant. A mezodopolio offers a tapas-like dining experience. Tavernas have more generous servings, often in rustic settings. Psarotavernas are tavernas that serve seafood. Estiatorios offer the full restaurant experience: formal service, a choice of cuisine and wine. Many restaurants are open until midnight – the Greeks like to take their time over dinner.

health & safety

While much of Greece is usually safe to travel around, it’s important to stay alert to anything unusual. Also, you will often see signs warning of pickpockets in areas popular with tourists, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your belongings at all times.

Electrical supply

Whenever you travel overseas, it’s always wise to take an appropriate travel adaptor. The electricity supply runs at 230V, 50Hz. Greek plugs have three (sometimes two) circular pins which form a straight line, shared by most of Europe (but not Australia).

Tour Reviews

Our guide Filiz was wonderful, very well informed, historical insights very helpful, her care for our well being exceptional. Could not have wished for a better tour leader.

Participant 2017

Small group tour of Ancient Turkey

I was impressed by the number of places we visited. It was a very full itinerary which I like. We saw things of interest every day. I see no fault with the tour.

Participant 2017

Anglo French Tour | Normandy, Brittany, Channel Islands tour

It is hard to believe that such a small country can contain so much dramatic scenery. Icecaps and glaciers, huge waterfalls, volcanos and hot bubbling mud, and those wonderful fjords and high mountain passes

Participant 2016

Iceland cultural and wilderness small group tour

The geographical wonders offered by Iceland and Greenland left me in awe. The grandeur and spectacle of the countryside is breathtaking. Our leader (Rob) was excellent: well-researched, friendly, organized and good-humoured.

Participant 2017

Iceland cultural and wilderness small group tour

Every day was different with so much to see and do. Volcanoes, craters (including the pseudo ones), bubbling mud pools, and the active Strokkur Geyser, the bird life, black sand beaches, and those beautiful Icelandic horses. The time flew by...

Participant 2016

Iceland cultural and wilderness small group tour

Our guide was a great ambassador for his country, wide knowledge of literature, history, customs, industry, fishing - also a perceptive and sensitive person who inter-acted so willingly with all of us!

Participant 2016

Iceland cultural and wilderness small group tour

The country was apparently calm and safe. People were friendly and helpful. Such a pity there has been such a down turn in tourism. Ros & Tony S. Sep '17

Participant 2017

Small group tour of Ancient Turkey

We felt safe in Turkey and found the people friendly and helpful. Prices were excellent and the food almost universally magnificent. There is so much to see in the natural and built environment and the wonderful archaeological sites. It is sad to see the ordinary people and businesses suffering from the lack of tourists. Mary B. Sep '17

Participant 2017

Small group tour of Ancient Turkey

FAQs

What time zone is Greece in?

Greece has a single time zone (excluding its overseas territories), Eastern European Time. The nation observes daylight saving time from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

Is tipping customary?

If you’re on an Odyssey tour, we take care of tipping so you don’t need to give it a second thought. However, in your free time, or if travelling independently, it’s essential that you make sure you tip an appropriate amount for services, as is the case throughout much of Europe. It’s customary to tip 10-15% of the bill at restaurants, or 1 to 3 GBP at a more casual establishment. It’s polite to round a bill up to the nearest whole figure or leave the change when buying drinks.

Is the internet readily available?

Internet access is easily accessible, and most hotels and many cafes will be able to offer it.

Can I use my mobile phone in Greece?

Check with your cell phone provider to see whether you’re able to make calls and use data while in Greece. Many providers will offer a daily fee that allows you to make calls and check the internet while only being charged your regular rates. However, be certain to inform your provider that you’re heading overseas, because just like a bank they can turn off your service as a result of unusual activity.

Which is the prettiest and quietest Greek island?

All the islands have their own charms and beauty but many travellers claim that Santorini, Crete, and Corfu are the most beautiful and picturesque Greek islands.

Which Greek island is best for older couples?

Corfu is considered to be best choice for over 50’s and history lovers, being the site of numerous battles and conquests. The historical significance continues in the old town, which was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

Do you need a visa to travel to Greece?

You most likely do not need a travel visa. Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Mexico, Australia, Japan, and a host of other countries1 are permitted to enter Greece without a visa for up to 90 days within a six-month period. Please check Visa requirements with your local Greek embassy or consulate before you travel.

What is the official currency of Greece?

In 2002, the drachma was subsequently replaced by the Euro.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

The best times to visit Greece are April to May and September to November, due to milder weather and lesser tourists.

What are the top places and sites to see in Greece?

Greece is a paradise for everyone, from holidaymakers to travellers. Its numerous islands are captivating and then there’s also the capital of Athens. Some of the highlights in Greece are:

Athens: You need at least 2 days in Athens to see the wonders of Acropolis, The National Archaeological Museum, The Plaka neighborhood, The Temple Of Poseidon and many more.

Santorini: One of the most popular holiday destinations worldwide and the most visited of all the Greek islands. Famous for all shades of red creating unreal sunsets, Santorini offers the most dramatic sea views you’ve ever seen and enormous cliffs with dreamy Cycladic whitewashed houses.

Peloponnese: Located west of Athens, the Peloponnese peninsula is full of historical sites and archaeological vestiges.

Mycenae and Epidaurus: Both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, located in Peloponnese.

Olympia: Also located in the Peloponnese, Olympia Archaeological Site, the birthplace of the Ancient Olympic Games.

Corfu FAQs

What is the best area to stay in Corfu?

Corfu town has it all: a mix of Greek culture, historical architecture and welcoming restaurants. Paleokastritsa is an iconic, scenic spot to spend your Greek getaway, tucked around three beautiful bays. Kavos is the town to stay if you are after a party and beach holiday.

What is the best time to visit Corfu?

The best times to visit Corfu are April to May and September to November. Although there is never really a bad season in the Mediterranean, you’ll find that winter temperatures are too chilly to swim off the shores of Corfu, while the summer months draw hordes of tourists.

What is Corfu Greece known for?

Corfu is the ‘Emerald Island’ of Greece. With a turquoise sea and a landscape full of wild colorful flowers and bushes. The coastline is in touch with turquoise waters and is more than 200km long. Corfu is also known for its long history, going back more than 3000 years.

Is food expensive in Corfu?

A meal at a restaurant that includes a main course, a salad, and a soft drink would cost you around €20-25.

How to get to Corfu?

There are several flights from Athens to Corfu daily, taking just over an hour in flying time. You can also fly direct from Thessaloniki, with the same duration. Direct ferries to Corfu operates from the Ionan Island of Paxi and the mainland coastal city of Igoumenitsa.

Corfu location and population, where is it?

Corfu’s population is 101,000 and is located west of Greece, in the northerns Ionian Sea, 2,5 km from the Albanian Coast. It is 592 square km and the second largest Ionian island.

What is the main town in Corfu?

Kérkyra, the capital of Corfu, also called Corfu town.

How many days do you need in Corfu?

With three days on Corfu, there’s ample time to get acquainted with its sights and charms and explore beyond its shores.

Responsible travel tips for Greece

  • Learn at least the local greetings to break the ice. Although many locals speak English, the more you know of the native language, the greater your experience of the country will be.
  • Carry a business card in your wallet or purse from your local hotel, to assist you with the return journey if you do become lost.
  • Always ensure that you are covered by travel insurance. If you need advice on this feel free to contact Odyssey and we’ll be able to help.
  • When travelling independently, make sure you check the opening hours of shops and museums so that you don’t miss out! Museums and galleries are often closed on Mondays. Also be certain to check whether your trip coincides with any public holidays, so you can plan accordingly.
  • Consider contacting your bank to inform them that you may be making purchases overseas. Otherwise, they may flag any activity on your account as suspicious. Also, check which ATMs and banks are compatible with your cards, to ensure you can withdraw cash with minimal fees.
  • Before departing, make sure you have a number of euros in a range of denominations. You don’t want to be carrying around enormous amounts of cash, but take enough to make it easy to pay in locations that might not accept credit card. It will also help you avoid card transaction fees, and it makes tipping a breeze.

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