logo

Retire & Relax in Greece

Bookbag Tours
Retire & Relax in Greece image

September 14th - 23rd, 2026

general icon

Trip Description

Join us on a captivating journey to Greece, where history and stunning landscapes come to life. Explore ancient wonders in Athens, bask in Santorini's beauty, and connect with fellow teachers in the birthplace of democracy. Whether you're drawn to ancient tales or the Mediterranean Sea, this trip promises an educational adventure that will inspire your teaching spirit. Secure your spot now for an unforgettable experience filled with treasured memories.

info icon

 Note: Itinerary Subject to Change

general icon

Leaders:

Image 0

Terrain: LOTS of stairs and uneven walking paths

Activity Level:  Moderate (hills and archeological sites)

info icon

*Reserve your spot with a nonrefundable deposit today!

Questions? Visit our Bookbag Tours FAQ page.

Booking Your Trip

Costs & Inclusions
Booking Your Trip image
general icon

Booking Info

Secure your spot on this unforgettable adventure with just a $300 nonrefundable deposit. From there, 40% of your trip cost will be due 6 months before your travel date, and the final payment will be due 3 months prior to departure. It’s a simple, flexible way to lock in your journey and start counting down to the experience of a lifetime!

warning icon

Trip pricing can change at any time due to fluctuating travel costs. Book now to lock in your rate and secure your spot at the current price!

✅ What’s Included

  • Welcome Reception

    Welcome reception at hotel upon arrival

  • Airport Transfers

    Our BBT Team will arrange airport transfers upon arrival and departure

  • Accommodations

    3 or 4 star hotel accommodations during entire trip

  • Meals

    Large breakfast buffet every morning

  • Farewell Dinner

  • Sunset Cruise

    Sunset Cruise in Santorini with snacks

  • Group Activities

    Group Activities included (as indicated in itinerary)

  • Ground Transportation

    All ground transportation in-country to and from group activities

  • The BBT Team

    Your amazing Trip Leaders, our Trip Managers, and our On-Site and Off-Site Team members!

  • BBT T-Shirt

    A trip specific BBT T-shirt will be sent to participants before the trip

❌ What’s Not Included

  • Airfare

    Airfare is not included

  • Optional Side Trips

    You will have a list of optional side trips for an additional fee at a later date

  • Tips and Gratuities

    For in-country guides and drivers

  • Early/Late Transfers

    If you are arriving or departing earlier/later than the scheduled Group dates, you will be responsible for your own transfers. We are happy to advise, but we will not cover the cost.

Overview

Overview image

Overview

general icon

Trip Description

general icon

Leaders:

Loading Map…

Map

1. Athens

Athens, Greece

2. Sounion

Sounion, Greece

3. Santorini

Fira 847 00, Greece

4. Peloponnese

Peloponnese 220 16, Greece

Day 1 - September 14

Arrival in Athens
Day 1 - September 14 image
flight icon

Arrival Flight into Athens International Airport (ATH)

Leaders will welcome you at the airport and will get you transferred to the hotel.

accommodation icon

Check in at The Stanley Hotel (or similar)

Experience The Stanley, conveniently located near major attractions and public transport, ensuring easy exploration of the city. Enjoy stunning Acropolis views from select rooms and indulge in on-site dining with a diverse menu. Unique features like a rooftop pool and spa services make your stay a memorable one.
Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
meal icon

Welcome Reception (Hotel Rooftop):

Enjoy a panoramic view of Athens while mingling with fellow educators and light refreshments.

accommodation icon

Accomodations

Overnight in Athens at The Stanley Hotel (or similar)  

lightbulb icon

Arriving early? Let us help you plan your early adventure!

Fill in this form on our website

Day 2 - September 15

Acropolis & Surroundings
Day 2 - September 15 image
meal icon

Breakfast at Hotel (Included)

activity icon

Morning Free to Explore

activity icon

Group Activities:

As a group, we will explore:

  • Acropolis,

  • Acropolis Museum

  • Agora

Explore the iconic Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike. Visit the Acropolis Museum to delve into ancient Greek history and culture through its impressive artifacts. The Agora, the city's political and commercial center, is where democracy and philosophy were born. This tour covers the peak of Greek civilization in classical times and lasts four and a half hours.

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
activity icon

Optional Activity:  Food Tour ( 10:30 am, 3 hours)

Appease your appetite for traditional Greek food during this half-day small-group culinary tour in Athens.

Follow your guide to carefully curated specialty food shops, located off the beaten path in residential neighborhoods, to taste Athenian delicacies.

Image 0
accommodation icon

Accomodations 

Athens at The Stanley Hotel (or similar) 

Day 3 - September 16

Day Trip to Delphi
Day 3 - September 16 image
meal icon

Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

activity icon

Group Activity

Full-day guided trip to Delphi to explore.

Delphi is known as the center of the world and it was the most famous oracle of ancient times. You will see the ruins of Athena and Apollo sanctuaries, all the impressive dedications of the people, and hear interesting stories about the procedure of prophecies given.

We will visit both the site and the museum during your guided tour.

meal icon

Lunch

We will enjoy lunch in one of the traditional tavernas before returning to Athens. 

activity icon

Free Evening to Explore

accommodation icon

Accomodations

Overnight in Athens at the Stanley Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 - September 17

Day trip to Argolida (Peloponnese)
Day 4 - September 17 image
meal icon

Breakfast at Hotel (Included)

activity icon

Group Activity

Full day guided trip from Athens to Argolida (Peloponnese)

The first stop will be the Corinth Canal. Then we head to Mycenae, the major city of the great Mycenaean civilization. You will see the famous lion gate, the kings' cemetery, the palace, and the findings in the museum.

Next stop at the area of Epidavrus. This was the most popular healing center of ancient times related to the god Asclepius. You will see his temple, the stadium, the healing buildings, the items found during the excavations, and the spectacular ancient theater known for its great acoustics.  

Image 0
accommodation icon

Accomodations

Overnight in Athens at The Stanley Hotel (or similar)  

Day 5 - September 18

Temple of Poseidon
Day 5 - September 18 image
meal icon

Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

activity icon

Group Activity

Cape Sounio:

In the late afternoon, we will drive through the Athenian Riviera to reach the Cape of Sounio. There, on a cliff coming out of the sea, is the Temple of Poseidon. The view from there at sunset is amazing. This is a four-hour tour.   

Image 0
Image 1
accommodation icon

Accomodations

Overnight in Athens at The Stanley Hotel (or similar) 

Day 6 - September 19

The Island of Santorini
Day 6 - September 19 image
meal icon

Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

transport icon

Transport to Airport

Early morning group flight to Santorini.

(Only take a carry-on bag and leave the bulk of your luggage in our hotel luggage storage in Athens, since we will return to Athens.)

flight icon

Flight to Santorini

activity icon

Morning/Afternoon Free for Exploration

activity icon

Group Activity

As a group, we will head to Oia, to see the beautiful Blue Domes.

There you will be able to have dinner (on your own).

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
transport icon

Evening Bus to Hotel

Experience the Blue Sea Hotel, where stunning ocean views greet you from your room. Enjoy easy access to local attractions and beautiful beaches, making exploration a breeze. Savor delicious regional cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and unwind at the outdoor pool with a scenic terrace. With friendly staff dedicated to personalized service, your stay will be truly memorable.
Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4

After checking into the hotel you can enjoy either going for a walk on the beach, sitting by the pool, or swimming.

Day 7- September 20

Island of Santorini
Day 7- September 20 image
meal icon

Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

activity icon

Free Morning/Afternoon in Kamari Beach Area

Take your time to explore the stunning views, charming streets, and delightful local cafes at your own pace.

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
activity icon

Group Activity

Sunset Catamaran Sailing Tour (4pm-10pm)

Indulge in the freedom of being on a private cruise. Sailing on a luxury catamaran is the best way to explore this beautiful island away from the noisy crowds. During this 6-hour cruise, you will be astonished by the unique island landscape, ranging from colorful beaches to wild volcano reefs. Try swimming and snorkeling, and taste the most authentic Greek delicacies paired with fine local wine, watching the island’s famous sunset from front-row seats! Meal included. 

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
accommodation icon

Accommodations

Overnight in Santorini at Blue Sea Hotel (or similar)

Day 8 - September 21

Travel Back to Athens
Day 8 - September 21 image
accommodation icon

Check-out at Blue Sea Hotel (or similar)

flight icon

Flight Santorini to Athens

 Morning flight back to Athens.

activity icon

Free Afternoon to Explore Athens

meal icon

Summit Dinner:

Traditional Greek Meal at Grillhouse Arachova 

accommodation icon

Accomodations

Overnight in Athens at The Stanley Hotel (or similar)

Day 9 - September 22

Athens Free Day
Day 9 - September 22 image
meal icon

Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

activity icon

 Free Day in Athens! 

A free day with many different options:

Relax by the rooftop pool at the hotel, head South and enjoy a luxury sailing cruise, or journey North by train and enjoy the cliffs of Meteora. 

Image 0
Image 1
Image 2
Image 3
Image 4
accommodation icon

Accomodations

Overnight in Athens at The Stanley Hotel (or similar)

Day 10 - September 23

Departure From Athens International Airport (ATH)
Day 10 - September 23 image
meal icon

Breakfast At Hotel (Included)

If flight allows, enjoy all the memories you have created on this wonderful journey.

activity icon

Free Day to Explore

If your flight allows.

transport icon

Transfer to Athens International Airport (ATH)

Our team will help arrange transfers to the Athens airport. 

lightbulb icon

Extending your stay? 

Let us help you plan your next adventure. Fill in this form on the website OR choose your own activity.

Package Options

Package Options image
accommodation icon

Shared Room Package

Perfect for travelers looking to save and connect. Share a comfortable room with another traveler and enjoy all the same great experiences at a lower cost. If you’re traveling with a friend, let us know your roommate preference at checkout. Otherwise, we’ll thoughtfully pair you with someone of a similar age and teaching level.

accommodation icon

Private Room Package

Ideal for those who prefer extra privacy. Relax in your own room after each day’s adventure while still enjoying all group activities and inclusions. A great option for travelers who want a little more personal space.

Roommate Disclaimer

Heads-Up, Snoozers! 😴💤  If you snore like a bear 🐻, rock a CPAP machine 🛏️, need white noise 🌊, or have any other quirky sleep habits, we totally understand — everyone has their bedtime vibe! But to keep things peaceful for your fellow travelers, please consider booking a private room 🛌.

Even better? Bring a friend you’ve already shared a room (and some laughs) with, and have them register too! 👯‍♀️

Let’s keep the Zzzs drama-free and the vibes just right. Thanks for being the considerate rockstar you are! 🌟

Travel Tips

Travel Tips image
general icon

Travel Tips

  1. Carry cash – Many smaller shops and tavernas prefer cash over cards.

  2. Dress modestly for monasteries – Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.

  3. Use public transportation or ferries – It’s affordable and the best way to island hop.

  4. Eat like a local – Avoid tourist traps and enjoy authentic meals at family-run tavernas.

  5. Stay hydrated – Greek summers can be hot, so always carry water.

  6. Plan ahead for popular sites – Book tickets early for places like the Acropolis to skip long lines.

  7. Learn a few Greek words – A simple “Efharistó” (thank you) goes a long way.

general icon

A Few Useful Phrases

Here are Top 7 Useful Phrases in Greece (with pronunciation):

  1. Hello – Γειά σας (YAH sahs)

  2. Thank you – Ευχαριστώ (Ef-har-ee-STO)

  3. Please / You’re welcome – Παρακαλώ (Pa-ra-ka-LO)

  4. Yes – Ναι (Neh)

  5. No – Όχι (OH-hee)

  6. How much is it? – Πόσο κοστίζει; (PO-soh koh-STEE-zee?)

  7. Where is…? – Πού είναι…; (Poo EE-neh…?)

About Us

About Us image

Bookbag Tours

general icon

What is Bookbag Tours?

Bookbag Tours is dedicated to providing quality professional development through immersive travel experiences for educators and their family and friends. Our trips offer a truly global perspective, allowing participants to gain insights that enrich their classrooms and lives.

Our mission is to empower educators and their companions with hands-on global experiences, equipping them to inspire students both in and out of the classroom.

general icon

What to Expect from Your Trip?

With Bookbag Tours, you’ll earn 20+ professional development hours while exploring incredible countries alongside fellow educators and their guests. We also offer specialized trips focused on Marine Conservation and Ancient Civilizations that provide excellent PD without school visits, ensuring valuable knowledge is brought back to every participant.

We’re committed to enhancing the lives of those who strive to make the world a better place through meaningful group trips, professional development conferences, and cultural engagement.

We're Here to Help

We're Here to Help image

Contact Us!

We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure! For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out:


Phone or WhatsApp: +1 (864) 907- 9874

Email: [email protected]

DM us on Socials: @bookbagtours

Our team is available to assist with bookings, itinerary changes, and any questions you may have. Let us help you make your dream trip a reality!