Travel with WWU
Greece
Greece is a place where mythology, philosophy, empire, and faith still shape the landscape around you. Ancient temples crown rocky hillsides, whitewashed villages spill toward the sea, and everyday life unfolds in the shadow of stories that have influenced the world for thousands of years.
From the birthplace of democracy in Athens to island harbors shaped by centuries of trade and conquest, Greece offers a rich blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean beauty.
Together, we’ll experience Greece the way it was meant to be —sharing long meals, wandering ancient ruins, and moving slowly enough to take it all in. Along the way, you’ll encounter the legacies of classical Greece, the Byzantine Empire, and Orthodox Christianity, while discovering the warmth, hospitality, and deep-rooted traditions that continue to define Greek life today.
Traveling Scholar:
Professor Rodd Strobel
Chair, Health and Physical Education
Each day will include a time of reflection. Together, the group will process what was seen and learned, connecting Greece's rich history and culture to enduring questions about health, purpose, community, and what it means to live well.
Your Tour Coordinator
WWU alum, Darren Wilkins ‘94, will serve as the tour guide in conjunction with the WWU Advancement and Alumni Engagement team.
A passionate history teacher, storyteller, and seasoned leader, Darren has guided students and their families through Greece for years, bringing the past to life in meaningful ways.
What past travelers have to say about this trip:
12-DAY TOUR
May 17-29, 2027
$2,990 / person
$700 Single Room Supplement
Buy flights to arrive and depart from Athens, Greece.
THIS NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT SAVES YOUR SPOT[S] ON THIS TOUR.
This tour is designed by Solejourn for the Walla Walla University alumni community and friends. Journey with fellow WWU travelers on a learning-focused experience shaped by a Walla Walla University faculty. Who is Solejourn?
Questions? Contact Alumni@wallawalla.edu or call (509) 527-2631.
Reserve your spot with a non-refundable $500 deposit. The balance will be split into three equal payments with the final payment due three months before the tour start date.
Please view our Booking Terms & Refund Policy.
12-Day Tour Itinerary
Daily rhythm & activity level: Our days in Greece are designed to be rich and rewarding, blending incredible history with time to relax and soak in the culture. A typical day includes a morning visit to a museum or archaeological site, followed by a delicious lunch in a nearby town. In the afternoon, we’ll take a private bus charter to our next destination, leaving your evening completely free to explore the new town at your own pace or join the group for dinner.
Because Greece’s historic treasures have stood for thousands of years, navigating them does require some physical activity! You can expect several hours of walking or standing during our morning sightseeing. We will regularly encounter historic cobblestone streets, uneven terrain, and stairs.
While guests should be able to move independently to get the most out of the daily sightseeing, you are always in control of your day. We want you to feel energized, not exhausted. If a morning site feels too demanding, or if you simply want to catch your breath, we are happy to help you adapt the schedule. We can provide alternative options—such as relaxing at a charming nearby café, finding a shaded spot to take in the views, or skipping a specific walk—to perfectly match your personal needs and energy levels.
This itinerary is a sample and small items may be changed or rearranged to capitalize on additional opportunities and build the best adventure possible.
-
Day 1 • May 17
Athens
Arrive in Athens and settle into your hotel. Enjoy your first Greek dinner, then take an evening stroll up Mars Hill and/or Philopappos for stunning nighttime views of the Acropolis. A relaxed introduction to the city sets the stage for the adventures ahead.
-
Day 2 • May 18
Athens
Today, we dive into Athens’ incredible history. Explore the National Archaeological Museum and marvel at treasures spanning centuries. Then, visit the iconic Parthenon, where ancient architecture and sweeping city views make for unforgettable photo opportunities.
-
Day 3 • May 19
Athens ✈ Santorini
Rise early for a flight to Santorini, famous for its volcanic caldera and turquoise waters. Tour the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash, older than Pompeii by 1,500 years. Stand in awe of the remarkable ruins and imagine life here thousands of years ago.
-
Day 4 • May 20
Santorini
Adventure-seekers may choose to hike the rim of Santorini’s caldera to the scenic town of Oia, taking in breathtaking views along the way. Others may choose to take the opportunity to sleep in and grab a cab to Oia for lunch.
In Oia you can browse shops, take a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean or simply soak in the island’s sun and sparkling waters.
-
Day 5 • May 21
Santorini ✈ Athens—Kalambaka
Catch an early flight back to Athens, then drive north to Meteora. On the way, visit Thermopylae, where the Spartan 300 heroically delayed a Persian army. Reflect on history and courage before reaching the stunning cliff-top monasteries of Meteora, our introduction to northern Greece’s dramatic landscapes.
-
Day 6 • May 22
Kalambaka—Delphi
Tour Meteora’s cliff-top monasteries this morning, marveling at the unique rock formations that have beguiled visitors for centuries. These dramatic peaks offered isolated refuge to Christian monks and even starred in the James Bond film For Your Eyes Only. In the afternoon, travel by bus to Delphi, the spiritual heart of ancient Greece, and prepare for tomorrow’s exploration of the Oracle.
-
Day 7 • May 23
Delphi—Olympia
Visit Delphi’s Temple of Apollo and learn the fascinating story of the Pythia and her prophetic inspiration. Then journey south along the Gulf of Corinth to ancient Olympia. Tonight, relax near this legendary site, setting the stage for a day steeped in Olympic history.
-
Day 8 • May 24
Olympia
Tour the ancient Olympic site, including the Temple of Zeus, once home to one of the Seven Wonders.
Explore the Olympic Museum before heading to Nafplio, a charming seaside town that will serve as our base for the Argolid Peninsula.
-
Day 9 • May 25
Nafplio
Step into myth at Mycenae, standing in Agamemnon’s palace and reliving the stories of the Trojan War. In the afternoon, test the perfect acoustics of the theater at Epidavros. End the day in picturesque Nafplio, wandering its charming streets and soaking in the local atmosphere.
-
Day 10 • May 26
Hydra
Take an early ferry to the idyllic island of Hydra. Walk through small coastal villages along the shoreline. Enjoy a peaceful evening in Hydra Town, savoring the island’s unique charm and tranquility.
-
Day 11 • May 27
Hydra
Early risers can tackle a challenging but rewarding hike to the peak of Mt. Eros, offering sweeping island vistas. Whether you choose to start it with a hike or not, the day is yours to explore Hydra at a leisurely pace, strolling along the coast or discovering hidden corners of this serene island.
-
Day 12 • May 28
Hydra—Athens
Take an afternoon ferry back to the mainland and return to Athens for your final evening. Reflect on the rich history, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences of the trip before preparing for your departure.
-
Depart • May 29
Book your departing flight to leave from Athens. We will arrange your transfer to the airport.
What to expect
This is a group adventure right from the beginning and from the moment you sign up, we will make sure you feel prepared, excited, and supported. You'll hear history where it actually happened, gain confidence as a traveler, and experience the kind of camaraderie that only comes from shared adventure.
Before departure:
Group calls: You’ll be invited to two group calls where you can ask questions, meet fellow travelers, and get a feel for what’s ahead.
Packing lists & recommended reading: To help you prepare, we’ll send a packing list and recommended reading list ahead of time—so when you step off the plane, you're ready to immerse yourself in the journey.
While traveling:
Arrival: When you arrive, we’ll be there to greet you at the airport and take you to our hotel to drop your bags—no stress, no guesswork. You’ll receive a detailed itinerary booklet, and everything you need to start exploring immediately.
Balance of structure & freedom: Each day begins with breakfast at your hotel before setting out on that day's adventure. Expect a mix of guided walking tours that bring history to life and free time to explore at your own pace. Lunchtime? We’ll point you to the best local spots. When it’s time to meet for an afternoon activity, a quick WhatsApp notification will keep you on track.* Evenings are for sharing stories and enjoying great meals together. As we walk to dinner as a group, you'll find yourself laughing over the day’s experiences and forming friendships that will last long after the trip ends. Before bed, you'll receive a message with any updates for the next day’s itinerary.
*We use a WhatsApp group to communicate with everyone in-country and alert you to potential schedule changes. You will be required to use this platform during our trip. A key benefit of using WhatsApp is that it doesn’t require cell service to function—as long as you have a data package, you will be able to stay in contact with everyone. This can be a significant cost savings if you opt for purchasing an eSIM card for the country.
-
You can expect 3-star accommodations in central, walkable locations with lots to see and do right outside the hotel door. Rooms will be comfortable but not luxurious. You’ll want to be prepared to climb stairs because many of the prime-location hotels that we stay in do not have elevators.
Rooming assignments: Our tour is priced based on double occupancy, so if you’re joining us as a solo traveler you will be paired up with a roommate unless you purchase a single room supplement at the time of booking.
-
Breakfast and most dinners are included in your trip fee (see list of inclusions below for more details). Each morning you’ll eat breakfast in the hotel and each evening our group will gather for dinner together in delicious local restaurants. You will be responsible for your own lunch, but we will always be happy to make recommendations.
Vegetarian options are always available. Other special diet requests should be made at the time of booking. While we will make every effort to accommodate you, we cannot guarantee options for all dietary needs in every location.
-
Once you’ve signed up for a trip we will send you a packing list. We always plan an opportunity to do laundry approximately halfway through the trip and most pack in carry-on sized luggage.
While not required, packing in a carry-on can avoid logistical nightmares if an airline loses your luggage. And they’re easier to carry up hotel stairs!
What’s included—and what’s not
We want you to feel confident about what’s covered in your trip cost and what extra expenses to plan for. By covering the essentials and giving you flexibility in other areas, we ensure a balance of structure and freedom—so you get the most out of your trip. Here’s a breakdown of what’s included in your tour fee and what you’ll need to budget for separately:
Included
✔️ Airport Transfers – From the moment you arrive, we’ve got you covered. We’ll pick you up at the airport and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. At the end of our journey, we’ll get you back to the airport for your flight home. Please be prepared to provide your flight information so we can coordinate your pickup.
✔️ Lodging – You’ll stay in well-located accommodations chosen for their character, convenience, and welcoming atmosphere. They will be comfortable, but not luxurious. Be prepared to climb stairs as many hotels in Europe do not have elevators.
✔️ All Major Ground Transportation – Whether it’s ferries, buses, or private coaches, all necessary transportation between tour destinations is arranged for you.
✔️ Breakfast & Most Dinners – Start each day with breakfast at the hotel, fueling up for a full day of exploration. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a group dinner, featuring local flavors and great conversation. Exception: On the 12-day tour through Greece there will be 2 evenings when we do not eat together and you will have the opportunity to explore the local cuisine on your own.
✔️ All Site Entrance Fees – No surprise costs at the door. Your entry to historical sites, museums, and major attractions is covered, so you can focus on the experience.
✔️ Experienced Tour Coordinator – Your dedicated coordinator ensures everything runs smoothly, answers your questions, and helps create a seamless, stress-free travel experience.
✔️ Travel Insurance – Your tour fee includes Short Term Travel insurance (class 1) administered by Adventist Risk Management. Note that tour deposits are non-refundable. For maximum flexibility you may also want to look into protecting your travel investment by purchasing CFAR (Cancel For Any Reason) insurance immediately after booking your trip.
Not Included
❌ Airfare & Baggage Fees – You’ll book your own flights to and from the tour destination. Be sure to check your airline’s baggage policies and budget accordingly.
❌ Lunches – Midday meals are on your own, giving you the flexibility to explore local cafés, grab a quick bite, or indulge in something special that catches your eye.
❌ Passport Application Fees – Your passport must have at least 6 months of validity past the end of this tour. If you need a new passport or renewal, be sure to take care of this in advance. Please be prepared to provide us a photo of your passport.
❌ Bottled Drinking Water – You’ll want to stay hydrated while exploring on your feet all day! Tap water is safe to drink, so consider bringing a reusable bottle to keep with you.
❌ Gratuities – Tips for local guides, bus drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Program Partner: Solejourn
Walla Walla University partners with Solejourn, a group travel company owned by WWU alumni and specializing in education- and values-centered journeys, to offer select alumni travel experiences.
Solejourn works closely with WWU to design and operate each trip, managing logistics, accommodations, and on-the-ground coordination. Walla Walla University provides the academic and community leadership that shapes the learning experience, ensuring each journey reflects WWU’s values and commitment to lifelong learning.
Questions? Contact Alumni@wallawalla.edu or call (509) 527-2631.