At the time of booking, you will be asked what type of room you would like.

A double room has either one large bed or two smaller ones. Double rooms are perfect for couples or if you’re travelling with a companion and wish to share a room. There are plenty of double rooms available on our tours.

A single or solo room has only one bed and may be smaller in size. These rooms are first come, first-served, as most properties have only a certain amount of these available.

A triple room usually consists of a standard double room with two beds. A cot or fold-up bed may be added, but it depends on the room size and local fire codes. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. Triples are first come, first-served, as they are also very limited. If you booked a triple and only a double and single room is available at a hotel, appropriate charges for the single and double accommodations will be assessed.

We will forward your request to the hotel and do our best to accommodate your needs; however, please know that we cannot make any guarantees. In certain countries, the hotel rooms may not be as large as standard hotel rooms in North America.

Here are a few details to keep in mind:

Check-in times are set by individual hotels and can vary, but most hotels offer afternoon check-ins. Depending on your arrival time, you may have to wait before you can get into your room. Some hotels may be willing to store your luggage in a secure location until your room is ready. In these instances, the hotel will not be responsible for lost or stolen items and there may be a charge for this service.

Please observe check out times at all properties. Hotels designate these as well.

Some hotels require a credit card imprint or your passport information upon check-in to activate telephones in the rooms and for potential incidental charges. Most hotels charge an access fee for using phones in hotel rooms. Please check with the front desk personnel at each hotel for specific policies. You will be responsible for all incidental fees occurred during your stay, and these must be paid at time of check out.

Hotel membership programs are not applicable.

The Americans with Disabilities Act does not apply outside of the United States.

We will make reasonable efforts to accommodate the special needs of our guests. However, if you require individual assistance you must be accompanied by a companion who is capable of, and totally responsible for, providing the necessary assistance. Neither our personnel nor the personnel of our destination partners may physically lift or assist clients onto transportation vehicles at any time while on tour. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a guest who has special mobility or other like needs.

If you have time before your tour to explore Athens, the capital of Greece and a city worshipped by gods and people — you will find plenty to do!

Athens brims over with sightseeing attractions, culture, history and delicious cuisine.

During your stay you may want to visit the popular National Archeological Museum, one of the best archaeology museums in the world. This wonderful museum houses a collection of art and artifacts like none other and is best known for collections of Cycladic, Mycenaean, and Classical Greek art. Another popular historical feature is the National Gallery, a small museum with the best selection of modern Greek and European art.

Perhaps visit the historic Plaka area for shopping and dining opportunities. A stroll through this neighborhood is a must for any visit to Athens. There are hundreds of shops where you will find just the right souvenir. There are also great restaurants, most providing outside seating year-round.

Between the metro system, bus transit, and taxi services available you will have plenty of options for getting around. Ask your concierge for suggestions if you are looking for ideas or directions.

Due to varied flight schedules and arrival times of our tour guests, there are no scheduled activities prior to dinner on arrival day. Should your flight schedule allow for an early arrival, enjoy this opportunity for some independent exploration.

If you are staying post tour, your Tour Manager will be available to offer suggestions for your additional time in the area.

Bring a camera, film, and batteries and be sure to bring enough photography supplies for your entire trip. If you have a video camera, bring an extra battery, plus proper recharging equipment. Due to security screening, we recommend storing your equipment in your carry-on luggage.

Bring a travel alarm clock, travel sewing kit and an alcohol based gel hand sanitizer when soap and water is not accessible. Pack items that may leak in plastic bags. In many cases, laundry services are available to you at the hotel, for an additional charge. Do not pack any articles of value in your checked luggage. As a precaution, we suggest that you divide the contents of your suitcase with your traveling companion. Avoid over packing and leave room for souvenirs that you plan to take back home. You may opt to pack wash cloths as they are not readily available in international hotels.

As you prepare to explore Greece, we have recommendations for you on what to pack.

Dress on tour is casual, so slacks, khakis, and comfortable tops are all appropriate.

However, make sure to bring clothing that is appropriate for visiting churches and monasteries. Shoulders and knees should be covered, so please bring long pants and skirts that fall below the knees. For women choosing to wear pants, a scarf will be provided to tie around your waist. Men must wear long trousers.

Also, locals tend to wear nicer clothes to restaurants, so you might want to bring a couple of nice outfits to wear out to dinner.

Comfortable footwear is crucial. Make sure you bring a pair of shoes that fit well and give you the necessary support. If you decide to purchase new shoes for your trip, we suggest you wear them a number of times before you leave to break them in. Your feet will thank you.

Be prepared for all types of weather. For warm, sunny weather, pack sunscreen, a hat or a bandana/scarf to protect your neck from sunburn. For cool, rainy weather, pack a light raincoat, travel umbrella and a thin pair of gloves. If traveling in the winter months, be sure to pack some warmer clothing as it will be a bit cool. It will most likely be in the 50-60F.

For your toiletries, pack anything that could leak in plastic bags or a waterproof case. And you might want to bring a washcloth or two. Not all hotels provide them.

If you take prescription medication, make sure to bring enough for your entire tour plus a few additional days in the original prescription containers. Medication should be packed in your carry-on bag, never your checked luggage; this is in case your luggage gets delayed. You don’t want to be without your medication. You could also bring extra medication in a separate bag in case any gets lost.

In general, we recommend you don’t pack anything of value in your checked bag.

You’ll want to take pictures of everything, so make sure to bring a camera as well as extra memory cards and batteries for your entire trip. If you decide to bring a video camera, don’t forget an extra battery for it plus a charger. Be sure to pack chargers and cords for all your electronic equipment.

It’s also a good idea to bring a travel alarm clock, a travel sewing kit, a portable scale to weigh luggage, and some hand sanitizer for when soap and water aren’t readily available.

If you are travelling with a companion, we suggest dividing the contents of your suitcase with them, that way if one bag is delayed, some of your belongings are still available to you both. If that is not an option for you, you could put a change of clothing in your carry-on if there’s room. That will give you something to wear if your checked luggage is delayed.

Last but certainly not least, leave room! You’ll need it to fit all the souvenirs you want to bring home.

It used to be when traveling abroad, you had to go to a bank to exchange your home currency for that of the country you were visiting. Thanks to technology, those days are gone. Now you can use your bank card at any ATM in almost any city around the world just like you would at home. There may be a fee for this convenience, but it makes getting local currency quick and easy.

You can find ATMs in airports, hotels, and banks. Fees tend to be lower at hotels or within cities than they are at the airport. Many exchange bureaus in Europe will not accept $50 or $100 US Dollar bills. While most vendors accept credit cards, you may need local currency for lunch, gratuities, or for smaller purchases.

You can also pay with a credit card when travelling. The price will automatically be converted to your home currency by the system. Some merchants charge a fee for this service, but it adds an extra guarantee on your purchase, so it’s a nice option.

If you have a credit or debit card with a chip in it, it is recommended you use it rather than a card with a magnetic strip. The chip adds an extra layer of protection against fraud.

Many of our tours include optional excursions that are available for purchase. If you decide to go on one of these during your trip, please note, the credit card you use for payment must have an expiration date greater than 30 days from the start of the tour.

If you choose to review exchange rates or exchange currency before you depart for your trip, the currency in this region is the Euro.

If you plan to enter or leave the EU carrying the equivalent of €10,000 or more in cash, you must declare it at customs. Cash includes currency notes, coins, bankers’ drafts, checks, and travelers’ checks. If you do not declare the cash, customs authorities could take away your money, and you may receive a fine of as much as €8,000.

When traveling to another country, you may need an adaptor and/or electric converter to plug your electrical devices and appliances into the local power grid. An adaptor changes the plug so it fits into the outlet. A converter changes the voltage coming out of the outlet.

To determine what you need, first verify if the plugs on your devices fit the outlet of your destination.

In Europe, the plug type is C, which has two round pins. If your plugs do not match this description, you will need an adaptor.

Next, verify the voltage of each device you intend to bring. You can find this information on the cord, plug, or on the device itself. Many devices are dual-voltage. For those, you do not need a converter. If your device is not dual-voltage and it differs from the voltage of your destination, you will need a voltage converter.

In Europe, the voltage is 220v-230v. If necessary, make sure to get a converter that converts to this voltage.

If you plan to bring a sleep apnea machine, please remember to bring an extension cord along with the adaptor and voltage converter as not all hotels have sockets next to the bed.

The highest elevation encountered on this tour is 1,850 feet/564 meters.

Tipping is a great way to show your appreciation for the people who help keep your tour running smoothly. But it can be confusing who to tip, when to tip, and how much. For baggage handling and waitstaff gratuities for included meals, the tips are handled by us. For hotel housekeeping staff, local sightseeing guides, transfer drivers, on-tour motor coach drivers, and Tour Managers, gratuities are not included in the price of your tour. The suggestions below are provided in US Dollars to help you budget for your trip. They can be converted and issued in the local currency, which is generally the preferred option. Personal checks should not be used as they cannot be cashed outside the United States.

Here are a few of our suggestions:

Tour Manager: To express appreciation for your Tour Manager’s delivery of excellent service, $5-8 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour)

Local Guide: For the insights, knowledge, and stories they share with you, $2-3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person is recommended. (When to tip: at the end of the time with your guide)

On-Tour Motor Coach Driver: To express your appreciation for a job well done, $3-5 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person for each travel day is customary. (When to tip: at the end of your tour or time with your driver)

Airport Transfer Driver: If your airport transfer is included in your package or purchased from Collette, gratuities might already be included. Please reference the transfer information section in your final tour documents for confirmation. If gratuities are not mentioned, the suggested amount is typically $3 US Dollars (or equivalent in local currency) per person.

Hotel Housekeeping: It is common for travelers to leave a gratuity of $1 US Dollar (or equivalent in local currency) per day, per room for hotel housekeeping staff. (When to tip: each day before leaving for your touring)

As an added measure of confidence while traveling internationally, visit www.travel.state.gov. The U.S. State Department offers a “Smart Travelers Enrollment Program” (STEP), which you may individually choose to enroll in. This allows the U.S. to better assist with lost passports or in the event of any emergency abroad.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi access has improved, with free or cheap internet available in many public spaces. Some restaurants, cafes, and hotels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, though it may not reach rooms in hotels. Wi-Fi will not be available onboard motorcoaches or other modes of transportation used during your tour.

Here is a list of entities we recommend you contact before you depart on your tour:

1.) Your cell phone/mobile carrier if you are planning on using your device. You will want to confirm you will have access in the area(s) you will visit and inquire about any charges you may incur.

2.) Your credit card company for any card(s) you plan to use. Make sure the card company knows when and where you will be traveling to avoid any charges being declined.

3.) Your bank, so you can use your ATM/debit card worry-free. If you are travelling to another country, your bank will be able to tell you if your card will work at the ATM machines to dispense local currency, including if your PIN will be accepted. Also, indicate if you plan to use your debit card as a credit card if your card has that option. Your bank will advise you of any charges for each transaction as well.

Leave a copy of your itinerary, hotel list (included in your tour documents bundle) and a contact number with a designated person in case an emergency comes up while you’re away and someone needs to reach you.

We recommend you leave a copy of your passport at home in a secure location and bring an additional copy with you as a precaution.

During your flight, make sure to stand up and walk around as much as possible, and drink plenty of water. These simple suggestions will help you stay comfortable, particularly during long flights.

Thank you for choosing to travel with us and allowing us to guide you along this adventure! From the moment you step out your door, we strive to provide a comprehensive, stress-free, and unforgettable travel experience. To that end, the following features are included with your tour: motor coach transportation, accommodations, hotel luggage handling (porterage), select meals, admission to attractions as outlined in your itinerary, and gratuities for bellmen, and door attendants.

You’re in for a treat as you explore the divine Mediterranean paradise of Greece where the cuisine is simple yet incredibly flavorful.

In Greece, meat is not served daily. When meat is part of the meal it is typically roasted or grilled on skewers or chopped to be cooked with vegetables in a variety of dishes.

Cheese is a large part of the Grecian diet and makes up a large portion of their protein. The Greeks often begin their day with fresh bread and a piece of cheese, generally feta, along with a cup of strong black coffee.

You’ll find many fruits and vegetables on the menus in Greece, as these healthy items play a large role in the diet here.

As Greece has a beautiful and extensive coastline, it is unsurprising to discover that fresh fish and seafood are very popular here.

Moussaka, a lamb and eggplant casserole, is a dish you must try.

Sample the delicious Souvlakia, a dish comprised of meat on skewers that is quite flavorful.

For travelers with a sweet tooth, you’re in luck! You must try the baklava — very thin dough stacked to create flaky little pastries, often prepared with a mixture of nuts and honey. Another popular dessert is Halvas, a grainy-textured dessert made with semolina, nuts, raisins and cinnamon.

Greece is one of the oldest wine producing regions in the world, its origins dating back to 6,500 years ago. Sample some of Greece’s most reputable wines during your visit.

In order to enhance your experience on tour, two local guides will accompany the group in specific locations. These guides come from the region and have a deep understanding of the people and culture. They are joining the tour to share their knowledge with you. Please refer to your Tour Manager for the cities these guides will join your tour and refer to the Gratuities section for tipping recommendations.

Guests flying to the United States from all international destinations will require extra screening when carrying powdered products weighing 12 oz./ 350 ml or more in carry-on luggage for security reasons. This added security measure will apply to all powders, with the exception of baby formula and medications. For your convenience, please consider packing any non-essential powders in your checked bag. Items that cannot be verified by a TSA officer risk being confiscated. Please visit www.tsa.gov for more information.

Remember the 3-1-1 rule: Each airline passenger is allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag containing no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) of any liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bag. Any liquids, including water bottles, that don’t fit in the one quart-sized bag or are larger than 3 ounces will be discarded by security. Common items that must comply with this rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. For a complete list of what is allowed and not allowed to bring on a plane, visit www.tsa.gov.

Your day of departure is almost here, and it’s time to think about what to pack. We have a few guidelines to help you. But before you pack anything, you must check with your airline for any luggage fees or restrictions. These can vary widely depending on your carrier and destination.

Let’s begin. The first thing to consider is how many bags to bring. We recommend one large bag that will be checked on the plane and onto the touring bus and one carry-on bag. It’s very important you keep this in mind. We have limited space on our buses, so limiting the bags ensures there’s room for everyone’s luggage.

Your larger bag can’t be more than 62 in/157 cm in length, height and width and cannot weigh more than 50lb/23kg. Your carry-on cannot be bigger than 17 x 12 x 10 inches (43 x 30 x 25 centimeters) so it will fit under the seat or in the overhead racks on the buses. Your carry-on should be a size that you can carry comfortably. You will use this bag to hold your personal items during sightseeing trips.

Please note that if you bring more than one checked bag and one carry-on, we cannot guarantee there will be room for them on the bus. You’ll need to store or ship any additional luggage at your own expense. If there is room for your additional luggage, we will charge a fee of 4 USD per bag per hotel. It’s also very important that all your bags be labeled clearly. In your packet you will find a luggage tag. Please attach it to the bag you plan to check.

The name on this tag should match the information on your reservation exactly, so the Tour Manager and all baggage handlers can properly identify the bag as yours. This will ensure the bag is delivered to you quickly and efficiently.

Finally, we recommend you purchase travel insurance to ensure peace of mind while you’re on tour. We cannot assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft or normal wear and tear that results from hotel, airline and group carrier handling. But we offer comprehensive “No Worries Travel Protection” for your convenience. With insurance, you’ll be able to focus on creating wonderful memories, not worrying about your luggage.

Please note, some attractions do not allow large backpacks into their sites, so you may need a smaller bag for sightseeing.

The restrictions on passenger ferries between the Greek Islands may require that you embark and disembark the ships with your own luggage, as porterage is prohibited on certain vessels. Therefore, you are advised to choose your luggage carefully and pack lightly, so you can personally handle your luggage on the ships.

For your interflights within Greece, your checked bag cannot exceed 50b/23kg. Luggage exceeding these limits may not be permitted on board and/or will be subject to additional charges at your own expense. Your carry-on bag cannot exceed 18lb/8kg and the dimensions cannot exceed 22 x 16 x 8 inches (56 x 41 x 20 centimeters.)

For the most up-to-date baggage restriction information, please visit your airline carrier’s website.

The food people eat is a window into their history, traditions, and values, and sharing food brings people together. One of the many wonderful aspects of travel is to experience as much of the regional cuisine as possible. Your tour includes many meals as outlined on your itinerary. Our team has carefully chosen restaurants that feature local ingredients and offer regional flavors.

For meals that are not included in your itinerary, your Tour Manager will be happy to recommend eateries and local businesses that best fit your taste and needs.

The average price for meals in this region ranges from the equivalent of 15 to 20 US Dollars for lunch and 25 to 35 US Dollars for dinner.

It is customary to drink bottled water in Greece. Your Tour Manager will suggest convenient locations for purchasing water while on tour. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout each day of your tour to stay hydrated.

Please let your Tour Manager know of any food allergies or dietary needs you may have at the beginning or your tour.

Special Diet

North America offers diverse dietary options due to ingredient availability and acceptance of alternative diets. However, traveling abroad may pose challenges as menus reflect local tastes, alternative diets may not be common, and medical conditions requiring dietary adjustments may not be understood. Group meals typically offer a pre-fixed menu that cater to diverse travelers. It’s important to note that while some dietary requests can be accommodated, options may be limited.

Included in your tour documents bundle is your personalized name tag. We ask that you put this on before your first gathered event and wear it throughout your tour. This helps your fellow travelers get to know you and for your Tour Manager to better identify you in large groups.

As you prepare for your tour, reading is the perfect way to learn about the culture, people and history of your destination.The following is a list of novel and book recommendations that will immerse you into the destination long before your arrival. Let this set the scene for you as you prepare for the tour of a lifetime and get excited about all that is to come!

The Odyssey by Homer

Embark on a captivating adventure with the legendary Greek hero Odysseus as he tries to return home after the Trojan War.

A Concise History of Greece by Richard Clogg

The fourth updated edition of this concise illustrated introduction to the history of modern Greece from the late 18th century independence movement to the present day, including new analyses of political, economic and social developments as Greece emerges from a devastating economic crisis.

Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazantzakis

Explore the vibrant spirit of Greek culture through the eyes of the unforgettable character of Zorba, a larger-than-life figure who celebrates life to the fullest.

The Greeks by H.D.F. Kitto

H.D.F. Kitto’s classic brief introduction to ancient Greek life and culture explores with wit, insight, and scholarly rigor how the Greeks developed a totally new conception of human life.

The Greek Way by Edith Hamilton

Edith Hamilton evocatively captures the spirit of 5th century BC Greece, exploring the aesthetics and philosophy that defined this golden age of human achievement in the arts, literature, and history writing of figures like Homer, Pindar, the great tragedians, Socrates, Plato, Herodotus, Thucydides, and Xenophon.

The Parthenon Enigma by Joan Breton Connelly

In this revelatory work, Joan Breton Connelly challenges long-held assumptions about the Parthenon and ancient Athenian society by recreating the development of the Acropolis and probing the legendary frieze’s mythic yet long-obscured meaning, calling for the reunification of the Parthenon’s dismembered artworks so this unparalleled surviving masterpiece from antiquity can be viewed as its creators intended.

In the European Union, the law states all passengers must wear a seat belt in all vehicles whenever one is available. Most of the motor coaches we use will have them, so if you see one, be sure to wear it. Failure to comply could result in a personal fine of up to €750 Euro. Please be aware that we will not issue refunds to passengers fined for non-compliance. While on tour, your Tour Manager will remind you to buckle up.

One of the best parts of traveling is coming back home with souvenirs that really reflect the place you’ve just been. Greece offers many shopping opportunities and wonderful items!

In Mykonos, look for gold jewelry and beeswax candles, two of the island’s most popular souvenirs.

Items that can be found all over Greece include colorful glass “eye beads” believed to ward away evil, “komboloi” which are worry beads believed to be the secret to serenity, cobalt blue glass, herbs, savory Grecian olive oil, Byzantine Icon gifts, pistachios, handmade Greek boats, rugs, soaps, honey and wine.

A Greek aperitif called Ouzo, known all over the world for its unique anise flavor, is also a popular gift to bring back home.

DVDs or other electronic equipment purchased abroad may not be compatible with your PC or home equipment.

Our tours are non-smoking throughout. If you require a smoking room, please let your Client Care agent know when you book your tour. Please note we cannot guarantee your request as many hotels prohibit smoking in rooms and on property.

Please be mindful of other locations where smoking is not allowed. These include the motor coach, at dining venues, and any other restricted areas on tour. Guests are responsible for any fines they incur for failing to comply with smoking regulations.

Greece is 7 hours ahead of both Eastern Standard Time and Eastern Daylight Time.

Peace of mind for our guests is our number one priority. When you’re on tour with us, your only thoughts should be to immerse yourself in creating lifelong memories. Your Tour Manager is a destination expert on the people, places, history, and culture and ensures that you will have the best experience with us. Please utilize your Tour Manager’s expertise for any concerns or questions you may have while on tour.

If you have chosen our air-inclusive tour package, you have opted that we take care of all your air travels from your home to the destination and back. This also includes any inter-flights from city to city within the tour package if applicable. We ask that you keep the following in mind:

1) In order to comply with Homeland Security’s “Secure Flight” mandate, you must provide full name (including middle name or middle initial, if applicable), as it appears on your valid, non-expired, government issued photo ID that you will show at the airport. The name on your airline ticket must be an exact match to this ID, or you may be prevented from boarding the aircraft.

2) If you are a member of a participating frequent flyer program, make sure to provide the number when you book your trip and retain the copy of your ticket and boarding pass so you will receive proper credit for your mileage. Please note that some air tickets are not eligible for mileage accrual.

3) Whenever possible, we will add charges for air departure taxes to your invoice. Some international arrival and departure fees are not included in your air ticket and must be paid by you during the tour in the local currency.

If you chose to purchase a land-only tour package, you have opted to purchase your own airline tickets to and from home and, if applicable to your tour package, flights from city to city (inter-flights). In this case, we ask that you keep a few important factors in mind when booking your round-trip flights:

1) Please make sure your round-trip flights work with your tour itinerary. There may be scheduled activities on these days.

2) You must provide us with your flight schedules for the entire tour upon final payment. This ensures that we can arrange any other services you may have purchased from us, including hotel transfers, and that your Tour Manager will know when to expect your arrival. This also allows us to maintain contact with you in case of an emergency.

Upon arrival at Athens Airport, you will be welcomed by a Meet & Greet guide. This local representative will assist you in finding your vehicle transfer to your hotel. This representative will have a Collette sign and will meet travelers outside the luggage claim area, where all other drivers/representatives are located. They will not be inside the arrival area next to the conveyor belt. Your Tour Manager will be waiting to greet you at the hotel in Athens.

We offer full-service transfers from start to finish. So, when you arrive at the airport of your destination, arrangements will have been made to transfer you to your first hotel on the tour.

If you purchased our air-inclusive tour package, you will enjoy this service free of charge.

If you purchased your air ticket on your own (our land-only tour package), you may purchase a round-trip transfer for a fee.

Meeting locations and times will be set up to accommodate your transfer arrival and departure schedules, which will be provided to you in your documents packet. If you decide to arrange your own transportation to the hotel, please make sure to check in with your Tour Manager once you arrive.

Your comfort is important to us. With that in mind, we charter coaches that are temperature-controlled.

While some coaches may have a toilet facility, it is for emergency use since local laws require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons. Rest assured that frequent stops will be made along the touring route for your comfort and convenience.

Please note, outlets for charging devices may not be available on the coach. Therefore, if you anticipate using electronic devices, we recommend bringing portable power banks.

Change your seat, change your view! At least once a day, the Tour Manager will ask all guests to change seats. This ensures that every guest has an opportunity to enjoy a variety of views as they travel and a chance to get to know each other better. Depending on availability, single passengers may be seated next to another traveler. In fairness to all, there will be no exceptions to this policy.