I’m hoping to go to Greece but the number of options and my limited budget are both problems. For those of you that have been, recommend me a not too expensive guided tour (under $2000 or so) that covers all the things I must see when visiting Greece. I’m interested in a bit of history and a bit of beauty (think temples meet Santorini sunsets). Suggest away! Oh, and if you don’t recommend a guided tour please elaborate.
Thanks.
It has been ages since I was there - I was in my 20’s - but just took a train from Germany and got off at Athens.
Found the people very friendly, could find ample and decent lodging at an affordable price, and Athens alone has enough to see to keep you busy.
From there, just pick an island and take a ferry - easy to do.
I went to Crete - rented a motorbike and toured the island - staying a month and renting a primitive, but fun house in Matala.
I guess what I am saying is just “wing it” and you won’t be bored or trapped in a bus with a bunch of people who are looking for the nearest McDonalds.
Then again, that is always how I have traveled, so I might not be the best person to ask.
Still, it is almost impossible NOT to stumble across history when in Greece, and with even the slightest bit of street smarts, you should do just fine on your own.
BTW, you usually run into lots of interesting people when traveling, so you are only “alone” as much as you want to be - there is always someone up for going off on that tour, or whatever, if you want, or you can go by yourself.
I took a tour with Cosmos a couple of years ago. It was reasonably priced, fun, and we saw a lot of fantastic places. Don’t miss Delphi!!
The ruins of the Knossos palace in Crete is well worth a look, the museum there is good too.
Other than that, maybe you should wait to get to your destination and wait to find out about more locally organised guided tours? Like DMark says, it’s near impossible not find anything historically interesting, but you might have a better time more removed from McTourists?
I’ve no idea about guided tours but I strongly recommend you visit slightly out of season: April / May or end September / October when the crowds are less and it’s not so hot.
You have to see the new Akropolis Museum in Athens, it’s awesome!
And have lunch in the cafe, best view ever combined with tasty affordable food!
Oh, I also loved the isle of Chios! It has a nice museum also, and beaches, and it’s pretty!