A pre- or post-excursion trip is recommended to the Messinia region of Greece. Marvel at the spectacular ancient city of Ithomi, the historical capital where excavations have unearthed over 9 kilometers of city walls including ancient temples, a marketplace and a stadium. Along the nearby west coast of the Peloponnesse stands the mythic field of dreams, Ancient Olympia. Wander among the ruined temples and buildings of the setting for the first Olympics, almost 3,000 years ago. Visit the Olympic museum, which displays artifacts dedicated to the ancient gods and includes the statues of Hermes and Apollo. Be enthralled by nearby Pilos Castle, the setting for the 1827 War of Independence and the heavily fortified Methoni castle, which overlooks the region’s wide sandy beaches.

A pre- or post- excursion trip to the island of Crete is also of great interest.

Explore Minoan ruins at Knossos Palace, one of the must-see archaeological sites of Greece, presenting a rare view into ancient Minoan civilization. Be guided on a private tour through this complex of rooms, halls, passages, myths and legends, all dating back to 2500 B.C., before traveling to the nearby-restored village of Archanes.

Surrounded by an enormous medieval wall, visit the Cretan capital of Heraklion, which houses an extraordinary Archaeological Museum, acclaimed for its representative artifacts from Neolithic to Roman times, alongside rare Minoan cultural masterpieces.

Venture to Karouzanos village, where you will discover the delicacies of Cretan cooking with a regional food and wine excursion highlighting local specialties, including wine and olive oil. Bask in the warm sun on a private cruise through St. George and Sissi Village, where you will have the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the crystal clear Aegean waters.

Fly above the beautiful island of Mykonos on an exclusive helicopter tour of its magical sights. Soar above the whitewashed architecture of Chora, the capital of this vibrant Greek destination, and past its enchanting windmills and domed churches. Traverse past the ancient island of Delos, one of the largest archaeological discoveries of modern history, and along the stunning coastline for a birds-eye view of Aegean paradise.