Mythic Greece, the cradle of Western civilization, is the home of democracy, art, and culture. Philosophy was raised to a science, and the gods ruled over all. Greece is at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, and is also heir to the heritage of the Ottoman Empire. Bordered by the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Ionian Seas, you are never far from a beautiful beach.
Let us take you on a 12-Day adventure through sleepy towns with inspiring history, legendary food and drink, and a walk through the mysteries of gods and goddesses. Discover both her ruins and her modern personality. A local guide is with you every step of the way. We travel in comfortable, air-conditioned mini coaches with windows that frame extraordinary views. This is remarkable Greece at her finest.
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Ancient Athens
Greece is the home of legends, ancient myths, verdant hills, villages lost in time, fresh cuisine, and sun-draped beaches. And Athens is the ideal place to start your adventure through this cradle of Western civilization. On our first evening, we’ll gather with our fellow travelers and enjoy a dinner of lively conversation and good cheer. Dinner is included.
Greece Trivia: Q: People love the Greek Islands. How many islands are there? A: Greece includes 6,000 islands and islets scattered in the Greek Seas; only 227 islands are inhabited. The Greek coastline offers a beautifully varied landscape: Beaches stretching over miles, sleepy villages, Venetian ports, sheltered bays and coves, sand dunes, traditional fishing boats, pebbled beaches, wetlands, deltas, mysterious caves formed by seawater, black sand, and golden sand.
Arrive at
Arrive at Athens International Airport, Attica
Arrive at Athens International Airport to begin your holiday!
Overnight Location
Athens, Attica
On the Map: Motorway A1 is the oldest and most important motorway in Greece. It connects Greece’s largest cities, Athens and Thessaloniki, and passes through many important areas of Greece, in a north-way direction. The full length of the motorway is 346 miles.
Athens is the southernmost capital on the European mainland, and it is the warmest city in continental Europe. With a population of close to 4 million, it is the 7th largest city in the European Union. It is also one of the world’s oldest cities; recorded history began 3,400 years ago. It is widely considered to be the birthplace of democracy, and has had a tremendous impact in all areas of cultural life and science.
Day 2
Accommodation
Stylish Central Hotel - Athens, Attica
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Ancient Athens
The history of Athens unfolds around the Acropolis. This astonishing temple complex stands guard over the city as it has for thousands of years. Today your local guide will tell you the tales of the Acropolis, including the Parthenon. Dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and military victory, she is the patron of Athens. Her father was Zeus, and her mother, Metis, was a nymph. Then you’ll have free time to explore nearby neighborhoods, the National Archaeological Museum, or settle into a taverna for a great meal and a glass of Ouzo. Breakfast is included.
Athens Trivia: Q. How old is Athens? A. Athens is the historical capital of Europe. The home of Plato, Socrates, Pericles, Euripides, Sophocles, and Aeschylus, Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities. Its recorded history spans 3.400 years, and it has been inhabited since the 11th millennium, BC.
Overnight Location
Athens, Attica
On the Map: Motorway A1 is the oldest and most important motorway in Greece. It connects Greece’s largest cities, Athens and Thessaloniki, and passes through many important areas of Greece, in a north-way direction. The full length of the motorway is 346 miles.
Athens is the southernmost capital on the European mainland, and it is the warmest city in continental Europe. With a population of close to 4 million, it is the 7th largest city in the European Union. It is also one of the world’s oldest cities; recorded history began 3,400 years ago. It is widely considered to be the birthplace of democracy, and has had a tremendous impact in all areas of cultural life and science.
Day 3
Accommodation
Enchanting Design Hotel - Naxos, Cyclades Islands
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Ancient Athens - Astonishing Naxos
After breakfast we go to Naxos. Naxos is rightly called the Queen of the Cycladic Islands, situated in the heady blue waters of the Aegean Sea. It is a haven for culture, gorgeous beaches, and extraordinary cuisine. We happily board a ferry… be amazed by the views and enjoy the slow pace. We dock at the capital, called Naxos Town. Notice how the lush hills hug the shore, while mountains rise above all. Fill your senses with everything that is Greece as you ramble through the town—the cobblestone streets are lit by lanterns. We’ll dine together this evening. Breakfast and dinner are included.
Cyclades Trivia: Q. Why are the islands called “the Cyclades”? A. In the distant past, they were the center of a Bronze Age culture called The Cycladic. This culture was known for its white marble statues. The name Cyclades itself is translated as “encircling islands,” and were called this because they circle the sacred island of Delos. This was the legendary birthplace of Artemis and her brother, Apollo.
Overnight Location
Naxos, Cyclades Islands
On the Map: The Cyclades Islands are located in the Aegean Sea. Naxos, one of the islands, is about 25 miles south of Mykonos, 112 miles southeast of Athens, 53 miles north of Santorini, and 124 miles north of Crete. You can get to Naxos by plane or ferry. With a population of 21,000, the island is about ¼ the size of Maui and 8 times the size of Manhattan. At its widest point, it is about 19 miles.
The main town, Chora, has a castle, the Apollo Temple ruins, narrow lanes with local shops, and a nice beach. According to Greek mythology, Naxos is the childhood home of Zeus. Naxos has been ruled by the Thracians, Ionians, Athenians, Macedonians, Egyptians, Romans, and the Ottoman Empire. There are over 200 Byzantine churches in Naxos! The island became part of the Greek State in 1832.
Day 4
Accommodation
Enchanting Design Hotel - Naxos, Cyclades Islands
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Astonishing Naxos
Be prepared for gods of the earth as we head to a working, family farm. First, we’ll taste a selection of local cheeses and marmalades—this area is citrus heaven. Next, with the help of our local experts, we will let go and learn to create a traditional Greek lunch. We’ll dine on our creations for a thoroughly joyous experience. After we return to town, the evening is ours to explore. Look for handcrafted goods or enjoy a delicious glass of Citron. Naxos’s signature drink, it is distilled from the fruit and leaves of citron trees. Breakfast and lunch are included.
Naxos Trivia: Q. Are there special events in Naxos I should know about? A. Naxos bustles with cultural activity. Traditional festivals and events take place throughout the summer and into September, including the Naxos Festival in Bazeos Tower, and Dionysia with its art, concerts, and theatrical events. The last celebrations of the year are the Wine Festival and the Fisherman’s Festival, both held in September.
Overnight Location
Naxos, Cyclades Islands
On the Map: The Cyclades Islands are located in the Aegean Sea. Naxos, one of the islands, is about 25 miles south of Mykonos, 112 miles southeast of Athens, 53 miles north of Santorini, and 124 miles north of Crete. You can get to Naxos by plane or ferry. With a population of 21,000, the island is about ¼ the size of Maui and 8 times the size of Manhattan. At its widest point, it is about 19 miles.
The main town, Chora, has a castle, the Apollo Temple ruins, narrow lanes with local shops, and a nice beach. According to Greek mythology, Naxos is the childhood home of Zeus. Naxos has been ruled by the Thracians, Ionians, Athenians, Macedonians, Egyptians, Romans, and the Ottoman Empire. There are over 200 Byzantine churches in Naxos! The island became part of the Greek State in 1832.
Day 5
Accommodation
Enchanting Design Hotel - Naxos, Cyclades Islands
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Astonishing Naxos
The treasures of Naxos are yours today. Expect amazing food, a mellow feel, and true Greek hospitality. Let yourself get lost in Naxos Town. Explore the Apollo Temple ruins and the Temple of Demeter. Dine out, shop for treasures, go swimming or sunbathing on an endless, golden beach. If you like beach sports, consider windsurfing or kitesurfing. Wander up the causeway to the mysterious Portara. Find a terrace and watch the sun turn indescribable colors as it sinks into the sea. It is said that Dionysus, god of fertility, blessed Naxos with rich land. Enjoy the bounty! Breakfast is included.
Naxos Trivia: Q. What is the natural side of Naxos known for? A. Naxos is well known for its long, white sandy beaches, specifically Agios, Prokopios, and Plaka. It also has ideal wind conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing at Mikri Vigla, and Laguna. The quality of local products is terrific, especially for potatoes and cheeses such as arseniko and anthotiro. Tomatoes, olives, olive oil, fruits, honey, wine, and the famous liqueur of Naxos, Citron, are all must-tastes! Naxos is also home to fine marble and Smirida black stone.
Overnight Location
Naxos, Cyclades Islands
On the Map: The Cyclades Islands are located in the Aegean Sea. Naxos, one of the islands, is about 25 miles south of Mykonos, 112 miles southeast of Athens, 53 miles north of Santorini, and 124 miles north of Crete. You can get to Naxos by plane or ferry. With a population of 21,000, the island is about ¼ the size of Maui and 8 times the size of Manhattan. At its widest point, it is about 19 miles.
The main town, Chora, has a castle, the Apollo Temple ruins, narrow lanes with local shops, and a nice beach. According to Greek mythology, Naxos is the childhood home of Zeus. Naxos has been ruled by the Thracians, Ionians, Athenians, Macedonians, Egyptians, Romans, and the Ottoman Empire. There are over 200 Byzantine churches in Naxos! The island became part of the Greek State in 1832.
Day 6
Accommodation
Dreamy Beachfront Hotel - Nafplion, Peloponnese
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Today we head west to Nafplio by way of the Corinth Canal. Nafplio is one of the most beautiful towns in the eastern Peloponnese, and one of the most romantic cities in all of Greece. Our route takes us through rolling hills covered with vineyards and mountainous peaks. The Corinth Canal itself is a dramatic triangular shape. At 82 feet wide, it is the narrowest canal in the world. As we approach Nafplio, take a moment to admire Bourtzi Castle. It is a Venetian fortress that appears to float in the middle of the harbor. Check into your hotel and stretch your legs in this village of dreams and dreamers. Breakfast is included.
Nafplio trivia: Q. Where can I see history in Nafplio? A. Layers of time and history are all around you in the coastal gem of Nafplio. Ancient walls, medieval castles, monuments, statues, Ottoman fountains, and Venetian or neoclassical buildings will intrigue you. Each has a unique architectural style and beauty.
Overnight Location
Nafplion, Peloponnese
On the Map: It is 85 miles from Athens to Nafplion and the town is situated on the Argolic Coast. The easiest way to get there is by private car or private coach. This coastal city of 15,000 people is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful towns in the Peloponnese. It is 150 square miles in size.
Nafplio has a distinctive mix of Venetian and Classical architecture. The old town is filled with colorful buildings, including some eclectic modernist architecture. The port is not deep enough for heavy ships, making tourism and agriculture the two main sources of income.
Nafplio is quite ancient. Its name comes from Nauplius, the son of Poseidon and Amymone. Some feel the original inhabitants were Egyptians. Due to its location, this seems quite possible. The Peloponnese itself is a peninsula and geographic region in southern Greece. It is connected to the main part of the country by the Isthmus of Corinth land bridge, which separates the Gulf of Corinth from the Saronic Gulf.
Day 7
Accommodation
Tranquil View Hotel - Gytheio, Peloponnese
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
This morning is free for you to discover the wonder that is Gytheio. First inhabited in prehistoric times, Heracles and Apollo founded the city, according to Greek mythology. We do know it was the main port of Sparta. Consider climbing to the top of Palamidi Castle. (You can also take a taxi up.) This fortress was built by the Venetians. In eight parts, it climbs the hill and watches over the city. From the top, you are granted a 360 degree view that takes in the town, sea, and lush valley. After lunch, we’ll gather and go to Mystras. This mysterious medieval city, once the Byzantine capital, has plenty of secret spots. As we head back to Gytheio, we’ll have an exceptional time, sharing adventurous tales. Breakfast and Dinner are included.
Gytheio Trivia: Q. Who founded Gytheio? A. It is said that ancient Gythium was founded by Hercules and Apollo—they often appear on their coins and in their legends. In other legends, it seems it was founded by the Phoenicians and was the center of their purple dye trade. The area was a plentiful source of murex, used for its purple color. In classical times, it had an identity of its own, but was dependent on Sparta.
Overnight Location
Gytheio, Peloponnese
On the Map: The distance between Gytheio and Athens is 105 miles as the crow flies, and 172 miles southwest by road.
Gytheio is an ancient town on the eastern shore of the Mani Peninsula, Peloponnese, Greece. It was the seaport of Sparta, which is 25 miles north. According to legend, Paris of Troy and Helen from Sparta spent their first night together here, before leaving for Troy. This set off the Trojan War.
Gytheio is the largest and most important town in Mani. The Mani Peninsula is a geographical and cultural region in Southern Greece—the people here are said to be descendants of the Spartans. Mani is the central Peninsula of the three that extend south from the Peloponnese. To the east is the Laconian Gulf, and to the west is the Messenian Gulf. It is the mountainous spine of the Peloponnese. There is a beautiful beach, secluded areas, ghostly villages, and wild landforms.
Day 8
Accommodation
Tranquil View Hotel - Gytheio, Peloponnese
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
After breakfast, our local guide will take us to Diros Cave. This is Mother Nature at her surreal best! This subterranean wonder is a maze of bright turquoise water in ponds and rivulets. Ancient lava formations abound in what feels like a vast underground cathedral. After spending time here, we head to picturesque Areopoli, the town made of stone. The traditional architecture, plus towers, offered protection from Turks and pirates. It is truly a charmer. Upon our return to Gytheio choose from an array of seafood restaurants, and enjoy an ouzo, Greece’s beautiful liqueur. Enjoy! Breakfast is included.
Diros Cave Trivia: Q. Was there ever life inside Diros Cave? A. Yes! The fossilized bones of panther, hyena, lion, deer, ferret, and the largest hippopotamus bone deposit in Europe have been found inside the cave. Near its natural entrance, ceramics have been found that indicate human presence.
Overnight Location
Gytheio, Peloponnese
On the Map: The distance between Gytheio and Athens is 105 miles as the crow flies, and 172 miles southwest by road.
Gytheio is an ancient town on the eastern shore of the Mani Peninsula, Peloponnese, Greece. It was the seaport of Sparta, which is 25 miles north. According to legend, Paris of Troy and Helen from Sparta spent their first night together here, before leaving for Troy. This set off the Trojan War.
Gytheio is the largest and most important town in Mani. The Mani Peninsula is a geographical and cultural region in Southern Greece—the people here are said to be descendants of the Spartans. Mani is the central Peninsula of the three that extend south from the Peloponnese. To the east is the Laconian Gulf, and to the west is the Messenian Gulf. It is the mountainous spine of the Peloponnese. There is a beautiful beach, secluded areas, ghostly villages, and wild landforms.
Day 9
Accommodation
Natural Light Hotel - Olympia, Peloponnese
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Today we travel deep into the heart of ancient Greece and the peaceful Peloponnese Peninsula. The rhythm of traditional rural life is slow; vineyards roll up hillsides and snow-capped mountains are seen in the distance. It’s here that you can truly feel this land where mythic beasts, heroes, and gods were born. Our first port is Kardamyli, a lovely fishing town. We’ll have free time for lunch in the chief port of Kalamata. Then we’ll savor a traditional tasting at an olive orchard in Olympia—this is a master class in the art of olive oil production! At the end of the day, we’ll have plenty to share over dinner together. Breakfast and dinner are included.
Olympia Trivia: Q. Why was Olympia important? A. Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympic Games, the most important sporting event in antiquity. Beginning in 776 BC, Greeks were united every four years. During that time, hostilities were put aside so all could participate in a spirit of good sportsmanship. Olympia is still a powerful landmark. Mt. Olympus is in today’s Macedonia, but the twelve Greek gods of the Olympic games (Zeus, Poseidon, Hera, Hestia and Demeter, Hades, and later on Apollo, Artemis, Hermes, Athena, Hephaestus, Aphrodite, and Ares) are spectators across the mountains.
Overnight Location
Olympia, Peloponnese
On the Map: Olympia is 164 miles west of Athens, and it is a 3 ½ hour drive. It is about the same distance, but north, from Olympia to Delphi. And, from Gytheio to Olympia it is 120 miles, taking about 2 ½ hours.
The lighthouse of Gythio, the Caves of Diros, and Mavrovouni Beach are on your way. After going inland over verdant mountainsides, the road stretches out to lovely scenic beaches. Located in western Peloponnese, in “the valley of the gods,” Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympic Games.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient Greeks’ areas of worship, sports, and symposia centers still remain. These include statues of Hermes, Nike (Victory), and sculptures used to decorate the Temple of Zeus. The temples of the goddess Aphrodite and the god Apollo, are nearby, as is a medieval castle.
Day 10
Accommodation
Inspired Boutique Hotel - Delphi, Central Greece
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Iconic Olympia - Bayside Nafpaktos - Sacred Delphi
After breakfast, a local guide will take us on a tour of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games, begun in 776 BC. This event was founded on the same principles as the games work off today: Peace between regions and healthy competition. Wandering these ancient grounds, imagine yourself as a spectator in those games, cheering as the athletes enter the arena. When we’re ready to move on, we go to the seaside town Nafpaktos. This town fuels the senses of those who love both scenic mountains and seas. Atmospheric Nafpaktos has a Venetian Harbor, narrow streets, and a castle perched above the town. Later we arrive at our Delphi hotel. Delphi, called “the navel of the earth” by Grecians, is the center of ancient Greece. Breakfast is included.
Delphi Trivia: Q. What will I see at Delphi? A. Greece was at the crossroads of mighty civilizations. These civilizations left behind architecture, settlements, grand art, traces of daily life, nutritional habits, and popular crafts in regions throughout Greece. Because diverse cultures traveled to Delphi, you will see a mosaic of historical, cultural, and artistic expressions left behind by thousands of varied people.
Overnight Location
Delphi, Central Greece
On the Map: The distance from Delphi to Athens is 110 miles and should take about 2 to 2.5 hours on the road. The mountain ways through Delphi are rustic, changing to farmlands as you approach Athens. Delphi is 12 miles from beautiful Itea beaches and located on Greek National Road 48. The road follows the northern slope of a pass between Mount Parnassus to the north and the mountains of the Desfina Peninsula on the south. The Peninsula juts into the Gulf of Corinth. The river Pleistos runs through, from east to west.
Delphi was an ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. Developed in the 8th century B.C., the sanctuary was home to the Oracle of Delphi and the priestess Pythia. They were known throughout the ancient world for divining the future and were consulted before all major ventures—small altars still remain. This UNESCO site, containing statues, theaters, stadiums, and treasuries, is remarkably intact.
Day 11
Accommodation
Inspired Boutique Hotel - Delphi, Central Greece
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Sacred Delphi- Seaside Itea - Sacred Delphi
We begin this extraordinary day with a uniquely qualified local guide. Our guide will lead us through the site, the secrets, and the sacred stories that live within the mists of time in Greece. Delphi was the center of religion and home to Pythia, the high priestess, or Oracle. The Oracle at Delphi was consulted about all major moves in this crossroads of the western world. The views? Heaven. Next, we head to the glorious beach town of Itea. We’ll savor a local honey-tasting. Close your eyes and inhale. Pure renewal. After our return to Delphi, we’ll gather for a last dinner and share memories of this adventure. Cheers! Breakfast and dinner are included.
Delphi Trivia: Q. What is the Oracle of Delphi? A. In ancient times, no important decision was undertaken without consulting the Oracle. Great leaders, politicians, and philosophers came for advice, as did ordinary folks. The prophet, Pythia, was in a trance state while answering questions. Sometimes pilgrims were not sure what her answers, occasionally vague, meant. For example, one general asked if it would be safe to join a military campaign. The answer he received was, “Go return not die in war.” In modern psychology, this sort of answer would give the person room to do what they had intended to do before asking the question!
Overnight Location
Delphi, Central Greece
On the Map: The distance from Delphi to Athens is 110 miles and should take about 2 to 2.5 hours on the road. The mountain ways through Delphi are rustic, changing to farmlands as you approach Athens. Delphi is 12 miles from beautiful Itea beaches and located on Greek National Road 48. The road follows the northern slope of a pass between Mount Parnassus to the north and the mountains of the Desfina Peninsula on the south. The Peninsula juts into the Gulf of Corinth. The river Pleistos runs through, from east to west.
Delphi was an ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. Developed in the 8th century B.C., the sanctuary was home to the Oracle of Delphi and the priestess Pythia. They were known throughout the ancient world for divining the future and were consulted before all major ventures—small altars still remain. This UNESCO site, containing statues, theaters, stadiums, and treasuries, is remarkably intact.
Day 12
Daily Itinerary
Sacred Delphi - Breathtaking Arachova - Ancient Athens
This is the final morning of our journey through Greece. We’ll be amazed during our scenic route back to Athens, by way of Arachova. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Parnassus, this is an elegant, must-see town. Back in Athens, our travels are at an end, and we bid farewell to our traveling companions. Breakfast is included today.
As you will be arriving late in the day to Athens, you may want to add a post night in Athens, depending on your flight's departure time. Please let your Destination Expert know so he or she can make your ideal arrangements.
Depart From
Depart from Athens International Airport, Attica
Conclude your holiday and depart from Athens International Airport.
Available Dates
16 - 27 May 2026
ON SALE! From $6,117 $5,917 per person Single Supplement $1,529
23 May - 03 June 2026
ON SALE! From $6,117 $5,917 per person Single Supplement $1,529
30 May - 10 June 2026
ON SALE! From $6,117 $5,917 per person Single Supplement $1,529
04 - 15 July 2026
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05 - 16 September 2026
ON SALE! From $6,199 $5,999 per person Single Supplement $1,541
26 September - 07 October 2026
ON SALE! From $6,046 $5,846 per person Single Supplement $1,506
03 - 14 October 2026
ON SALE! From $5,493 $5,293 per person Single Supplement $1,377
Prices are per person based on 2 people traveling together and sharing a room. For solo travelers, a Single Supplement will be added to the price per person.
"My clients were SO happy with their Italy trip"
Nov 10, 2025
Nicole K.
Missouri
I worked with Ellie at Authentic Vacations to plan a client's trip to Italy. Not only were the clients SO happy with the itinerary that Ellie crafted, but as the travel advisor, working with Authentic made the whole process seamless and stress-free!
My clients toured around Florence, Rome, and Tuscany. They were sending me pictures throughout their trip, letting me know that I "nailed" the itinerary. Authentic Vacations and its staff really understand the destinations and what travelers are truly looking for.
On the travel advisor side, it was an absolute joy from start to finish working with Ellie. She was always quick to respond and available to help in any way. I truly can't wait to work together in the future!
"Fantastic Vacation in Scotland"
Nov 3, 2025
Alison E.
Louisville
My clients just returned from Scotland and Ireland and had a fantastic vacation. I appreciate the fast responses and knowledge in creating custom itineraries and have confidence that everything will be perfect for my clients. I love working with Authentic Vacations!
"Mother & Son vacation to Ireland"
Oct 23, 2025
Monica H.
Lynnwood, WA
Lauren was a fantastic consultant to help me craft a great trip for my clients who were a mother and son duo who wanted to travel to Ireland. They loved Dublin and their hotel was top notch, well located and she had fun learning about the history of the hotel as well. Another highlight was the horse-and-carriage ride in Killarney.
"Amazing Ireland Guided Vacation"
Oct 21, 2025
Douglas K.
Minneapolis
The best part of our 8-day tour of Ireland? Tour director Joan.
Joan is a perfect blend of group director, logistics manager, guide, travel buddy and fun entertainer. Her knowledge is wide and her demeanor is lively, always full of sunshine (even if the weather is not). Joan clearly understands group dynamics with the ability to easily and subtly adjust an itinerary when warranted.
Each day of our tour included historical insight from Joan with her personal lore added for context, answers to every type of question with interesting explanations, and even an occasional folk song beautifully sung. When she granted us entry into the cathedral in Killarney - her home church and school when growing up - the experience became personal and moving.
I'm certain every member of our group of 17 wants to travel again with Joan because of her gracious and fun expertise. Thank you Joan and Authentic Vacations!
"Our confidence in Authentic Vacations is sky-high"
Oct 16, 2025
Steve P.
Acton, MA
We returned back from our Italy vacation last week and we just wanted to thank you for what you and your team at Authentic Vacations set up for us.
As in our previous trip with your company, EVERY single private transfer and tour was ready and waiting for us -- everything went without a hitch (excepting our flight to Italy which was delayed for 22 hours and cost us to lose a full day -- no fault of your company). The hotels were incredible; some of the largest rooms I've ever seen in Europe, and the service at each was precisely what one would want; doting without being intrusive. The LivTours excursions were mostly good. The guides were very knowledgeable and hospitable at each one. The only exception was the Colosseum tour in Rome, where we felt we didn't get a tour that was commensurate with the cost (it only took us to the Colosseum floor and was only about 90 min. long -- not the 3 hour tour we expected).
However, that one criticism certainly doesn't diminish the fact that we enjoyed the trip of a lifetime. We met our last remaining Italian cousins in Ascoli Piceno, who brought us up in the mountains to the village where my grandfather was born, a day we shall never forget.
There was one destination that totally surprised us; the little city in Marche called Ascoli Piceno. This is the largest city near my Grandfather's village of Pretare, about 15 miles inland from the Adriatic coast. You found a hotel for us there called the Palazzo dei Mercanti, which was built in the 1400s and was redeveloped about 15 years ago as an upscale hotel. The hotel and its staff were marvelous (even calling our cousins for us, who speak only Italian), with modern amenities in a building with ancient ambience. But the real charm here is the city itself. Ascoli has a piazza, the Piazza del Popolo, which is almost completely untouched by the modern world. It has all the charm of Florence without the crowds. If one wants to enjoy Old Italy and they're on the East coast of Italy, this is a must see.
After two trips with you, our confidence in Authentic Vacations is sky-high. Every little detail is done, and we're able to enjoy our trip without worry. From the tickets for the excursions right down to the chocolates on the pillows at night, you provide a complete service for your customers. Please pass along our thanks to the group you have in Italy, as I know they played a large part in making the arrangements. They were even able to switch our tour of Pompeii/Mt. Vesuvius to a different day when our plane arrived a day late! And Jen, our agent, was very helpful in giving us the information we needed to make the claim with our travel insurance. You folks are the best!
"Best vacation my clients had ever taken!"
Sep 18, 2025
Phyllis M.
Oregon
I am a travel advisor and recently sent two couples on the 8 night Enchanted Ireland revealed trip. Both couples came back raving about how much they loved this trip. They thought their guide Joan was fabulous and loved the driver Damian. Both couples said it was one of the best vacations they had ever taken! Thanks Authentic Vacations! I love happy clients!
"Wonderful 30th Anniversary Trip"
Sep 1, 2025
Steve M.
Lititz, PA, USA
We had the trip of a lifetime to Ireland (the Enchanted Ireland trip). It was an incredible small-group tour, and Joan our guide is knowledgeable, fun, and kept us on a good schedule without being rigid. As a native of Killarney, Joan shared stories, sang us songs, and truly provided a customized experience that we could not have gotten with a large group tour in a coach.
So thankful that we made this investment and trusted our trip to Authentic Vacations!
"Amazing Small Guided Vacation in Ireland"
Aug 26, 2025
Debra B.
Michigan
We were going to go with a big tour but we were told about Authentic Vacations and boy are we glad we changed our minds!
This wonderful trip went beyond our expectations. Joan made us feel so welcomed and we not only saw so many incredible places, she made sure we were informed as well. We are looking forward to going back to Ireland and hopefully Joan is our guide.
Complete our inquiry form by selecting your departure date, and all other relevant fields. Be sure to let us know if you're traveling for a special occasion! We can adjust most of our vacation packages to suit your needs, based on the details you provide.
2. Online Account & Quote Created
Your request will be forwarded to our team of Destination Experts, and a price quote will be prepared, based on your submitted preferences and criteria. A free Authentic Vacations online account will also be created, allowing you to view and request changes to your quote at any time. Log into your account via “LOGIN” at the top of any of our webpages.
3. Fine-Tune Your Tour Quote
Work with your assigned Destination Expert to tweak your quote in any way you wish. Our customers continually tell us that our flexibility in this regard is exceptional – your Destination Expert’s sole brief is to create the perfect tour for you!
4. Reserve & Pay Online
Once your quote is 100% to your liking, you can pay for your package with your credit card via your Authentic Vacations online account. We also accept payment by personal check and wire transfer. We only require a 20% deposit to secure your vacation, and our Risk-Free Cancellation Policy provides you with complete peace of mind.
5. Print Your Travel Documents & Go!
Once your vacation has been paid in full, you will be able to print your travel documents directly from your online account. You’re ready to embark on your ideal, authentic vacation!!
Questions?
If you would prefer to discuss your perfect vacation on the phone, we would be delighted to hear from you! Our Destination Experts are standing-by and looking forward to speaking with you at any time during our business hours listed below. We also operate a very responsive and efficient Live Chat service on our website…instant gratification awaits!
Toll-free from the US and Canada: 1-888-443-5259 Rest of World: +1-707-687-0191
Hours of Business:
Monday – Thursday: 7:00am – 5:00pm PST
Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm PST
Saturday: 6:00am – 3:00pm PST
Sunday: 6:00am – 3:00pm PST
With offices in Scottsdale, San Francisco, London, Dublin, Copenhagen and Edinburgh, we can offer you unrivaled support while you are abroad. We truly believe all our clients deserve an extraordinary, authentic experience!
My Trips 
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