Greece is a frequent destination among Melted & Moved clients, and for years I’ve been working with an outstanding in-destination partner to create impactful itineraries. Their mission closely aligns with ours: to create unforgettable journeys that awaken the senses, nourish the soul, and positively impact both local communities and travelers. Traveling to Greece with us offers an immersive and transformative experience, connecting travelers deeply with the country’s culture, nature, and people.
My partner, Seetha, is based in Athens. She has been organizing amazing itineraries with her team for nearly ten years and knows everyone. Let us help you experience Greece with the best in the business.
I’ve been to Greece before but this time I did it right. I was reminded of the distinction between what a private driver at an airport pick-up offers.
Last time I traveled, I took a cab from the airport, and while my driver was pleasant enough, he spent the entire ride expressing frustration about Greece and the challenges of living there. This time, I had a driver waiting for me inside the airport with a sign, ready to take my luggage and escort me to the car.
He asked about my flight, if I had previously visited, and where I was staying before offering ideas for his favorite coffee shops and lunch spots near my hotel. He also recommended beaches in Athens to see if I had time, and his general mood and enthusiasm for my arrival rubbed off on me. I was more excited to be in Athens, and these things are often what make or break a trip. It’s all the little interactions that shape our perception of a city and our enjoyment of the vacation!
We create bespoke itineraries that include all private transports, guides, ferries, domestic flights, and more, so you can leave the details to us!
The best international flights run through Athens. In my opinion, Athens is a must-visit for first time visitors and much more than a stop over destination.
Grand Hotel Bretagne: If you want to feel connected to the heart and history of Athens; than the iconic GB is for you. Perfect walkable location and I loved learning it was built to feel more like home for those coming to visit from Great Britain. You’re here for the rooftop views, location, and historic setting.
Tons of amenities: they have a cigar bar with courtyard area that was beautiful and incredible spa (perfect after a long haul flight).
The new chic place to stay in the center of Athens in the Dolli. As soon as I walked in, I could tell it was designed by a woman. A modern living room filled with whimsical artwork that tells a story. One&Only Aesthesis or the Four Seasons are great options if you have at least 2-nights and would rather be a bit further out from the city center.
The Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a hilltop citadel in Athens and one of the most important archeological sites in the world! A must-see when visiting Athens.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September – October) to avoid crowds and extreme weather. If too hot in the summer they will close the site so be sure to take this into consideration when planning your visit. Visit in the morning if you want a peaceful stroll on your way to the Acropolis before the city wakes up. Visit in the afternoon for dramatic photos during golden hour.
Visiting Tips:
Good to Know: Many people confuse the Acropolis with the Parthenon. The Acropolis is the site where three temples are built, the largest of the three being the Parthenon. While the Parthenon is often used interchangeably with the Acropolis, it’s important to remember that the Acropolis is the overarching site, and the Parthenon is the largest and most famous structure located within it.
Main Attractions: The Parthenon, The Erechtheion, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Propylaea.
Athen’s is a big city and like all big cities, it’s important to know the best spots and hidden gems to leave a good impression. That’s why we’re meeting with a local today to show us around the city – stopping at all the best restaurants, so we’ll get a taste for Athens and its history.
Food makes everything better. And Greek food…well let’s just say they take it very seriously. I did an incredible walking tour through Athens with the wonderful Valentini and she made sure we had the best cheese pie, souvlaki, greek yogurt, proper greek coffee, and loukoumades. She reminded me of a grandma – so excited for us to taste everything she loved – she even had some pistachio wafers in her purse she brought for us to try!
When we think of Greece, we immediately envision the Greek islands. And usually the more popular islands in the Aegean Sea (Mykonos & Santorini). But there is so much more to Greece. You can take a ferry from Athens to the Saronic Islands in 2 hours.
I took a ferry from Piraeus Port to Hydra. This small island is filled with history and small concrete platforms with ladders into the sea.
No cars allowed! Donkeys are used to transport luggage and shipments. Our local guide said each of her siblings had their own donkey. I took a water taxi to my hotel and scheduled a speed boat to island hop the next day.
The marina is quaint and filled with unique shops and if you sit at a cafe you’ll hear very little English (my favorite!!) The sunset was spectacular with several dining spots along the water to enjoy the views.
Mandraki Beach Resort, a true hidden gem in the Saronic Islands.
Mandraki is a newly resorted historical site, now a 5-star boutique hotel characterized by absolute calmness and comfort. No crowds, no cars – built for unhurried island moments.
Mandraki had a fabulous welcome and the rooms were thoughtfully designed. Having dinner under the stars and watching the sailboats rock back and forth was quite an experience. When I was in my pool, I looked up to see goats walking on the mountain edge. The beach was one of the few sandy beaches on the island and it did feel like a perfect spot to getaway for couples who like an eco-luxe hotel.
I was able to have lunch with the owner, Arthur and his pup and he told us all about the journey of creating a luxury hotel on this historical bay where ships were built and launched during the 1800s to protect the Greek seas against the Ottoman fleet. There are remnants of cannons and since no new buildings are allowed to be built here, this property will remain a boutique hideaway.
You deserve a trip good for the soul. Let’s explore a different side of Greece.
We took a luxurious speedboat right from our hotel to explore Spetses and Porto Heli.
Spetses was the perfect stop for lunch to take you back in time with horse carriages and historic streets – we had lunch seaside and shopped a bit before our boat picked us up for some more swimming stops along Porto Heli. If you’re looking for nightlife, you could stay in Spetses at The Poseidonion Grand Hotel, an elegant and historic hotel with great sea views.
You know I love a boat day and these Axopar’s are perfect for island hopping. We can book this experience and full itinerary, customized to you. Let’s plan your dream trip.
I’ve saved this trip to my instagram highlights if you missed it: https://www.instagram.com/p/DBVz1G2xmns/