8 DAY GREECE SOLO FEMALE EASTER TOUR

– escorted by Sandy Papas

Ideal for: women looking to join a small guided tour who have an interest in Greek Culture, lots of laughs, good food and wine, and making magical memories. You do not have to be remotely ‘religious’, but a mild interest in Theology may help.

Payment: 30% deposit on confirmation, balance 60 days prior to arrival.

Need to know: this incredible tour is one of a kind and will book out very fast. Numbers are capped at just 14 women!

About Sandy 

Sandy is an award-winning Australian blogger, podcaster, writer, and Social Media sensation who is an expert on Greece.
She’s been married to a Greek for 28 years and she has visited Greece countless times with John, on her own, and with family and friends. She is passionate about the people and the places but also has a deep interest in Mythology, history, and archaeology as well as the food, dance, wine, and language.

She is an avid reader, cook, and shopper and will share her many insights and favourites on the trip.

ITINERARY

8 DAY GREECE SOLO FEMALE ESCORTED EASTER TOUR

May 2: Athens

Arrival in Athens- you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Evening Activity:

Zafiro experience welcome dinner

Welcome dinner with traditional Greek food and live music from a venue high in the hills with amazing sunset views.

Includes private bus transfer to and from the venue from your hotel.

May 3:  Athens-Santorini

After Breakfast, pick up from the hotel and transfer to the airport for a flight to Santorini. Flight time is one hour.

Transfer and Check into the hotel.

Evening Activity:

Evening Epitaph processions at Pirgos Kalistis and dinner

Pyrgos on Good Friday offers one of the most incredible experiences in Greece for the entire year. You will watch the renowned Epitaph processions in Pirgos Kalistis, the highest village on Santorini. It hosts one of Greece’s most renowned Epitaph processions on Good Friday, considered the most solemn and devout in the Cyclades, due to its connection to the Santorini tradition of “denekedakia.”

After the afternoon Descent from the Cross, the “Tantalo” announces the event in the streets as church bells mournfully toll. In the evening, as the Epitaph procession begins, residents light thousands of tin lamps called “denekedakia” on either side, creating a stunning display.

Women emerge from their homes to sprinkle the Epitaph with rose water from their gardens. This cherished tradition continues each year, with locals striving to light as many as possible. If the weather permits, they remain lit until Holy Saturday morning.

Continue on to have dinner at a restaurant where we will have a traditional Good Friday Menu. This is a vegan meal as per the Greek Orthodox Tradition on Good Friday when fasting from meat and dairy is observed. (Food images here do not represent menu items.)

Overnight at the hotel.

May 4: Santorini

Daytime Activity:

All-time classic Santorini tour

After breakfast meet your tour guide for your All time classic Santorini tour.

• Private guided tour
• Full-Day Bus Tour
• Bring a bathing outfit, sunscreen, hat, and towel
• Wear comfortable walking shoes

History

This excursion starts by taking you on a journey in time and the island’s history – from Prehistoric Thera to the myth of Lost Atlantis, and on to the natural beauties of Santorini and its much-praised, award-winning wine.

You are guided to the prehistoric town that inspired the Lost Atlantis myth. Akrotiri was buried under volcanic ash after the huge volcano eruption of 1612 BC that destroyed the Minoan civilization.

Beach
Visit one of the unique beaches of Santorini – Red, white or black. Perhaps more than one time permitting.

Also, you will visit the Prehistoric Museum of Santorini which brings to life Akrotiri of the 18th and 17th centuries BC.

Lunch & Wine
Learn about the award-winning Santorian wine with wine tasting an a lesson on the unique micro-climate of Santorini and their unique wine-making techniques. The wines are perfectly paired with a delicious 4-course lunch.

Views
Next an unforgettable stop for the breathtaking views of Fira and Firostefani and the iconic Blue Domes and Church Bells.

Pyrgos

Pyrgos, the oldest village on the island built on a hill with panoramic views of Santorini, comes next! Postcard-inspiring neighborhoods, with whitewashed houses and colorful flowers, carry you away in past decades, while you enjoy views of the entire island.

Moni Prophet Elias
Your next stop is Prophet Elias, the highest point of Santorini with spectacular, panoramic views of the only habitable Caldera in the world and its surroundings – just the perfect location for pictures.

Sunset and Cocktail
The best end to the excursion you could wish for breathtaking Sunset views upon drinking a cocktail inspired by Santorini.

Evening Activity:

Easter Saturday fireworks and dinner

On Holy Saturday night, experience the Resurrection in Pirgos, Santorini’s spectacular Easter sight. Built at an altitude on Profitis Ilias mountain, Pirgos is home to the monastery of the same name, which dates back to 1711. The mitre of the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, Gregory V, executed by the Ottomans in 1821 as retribution for the War of Independence, is preserved there.

At the monastery, the Resurrection is a solemn religious event without firecrackers. Bring a red egg and a “koutsouna” (traditional Easter bread) to celebrate. Due to the altitude, you can enjoy fireworks from other Santorini villages.

Complete your Easter experience with unique, tasty local cuisine. “Sgardoumia,” a soup originally from Thirasia but now popular across Santorini is prepared on Holy Saturday afternoon and eaten after the Resurrection. This local version of magiritsa soup with rosemary sticks, with lamb intestines which are then wrapped before cooking (completely optional of course).

May 5: Santorini to Paros

It’s Easter Sunday!

Why is Orthodox Easter on a different date to Catholic Easter?

Orthodox churches around Europe follow the Julian calendar, which was launched in 45 BC. The Protestant and Catholic churches follow the Gregorian calendar, which replaced the Julian calendar in 1582.

On Easter Day, everyone gets to crack a number of eggs with other people. The person who is left with the only uncracked egg is the winner, and they will have good luck for the next year. In the end, everyone gets to eat their eggs.  Cracking the eggs is symbolic of the Resurrection of Jesus, and eternal life.

Transfer to Port and ferry to Paros on the ferry – ferry time is 1 hour and 45 minutes

Transfer to Hotel

Daytime Activity:

On Easter Sunday, the whole island celebrates and is filled with the aroma of roasting, as we have come out of Lent, and people’s cheerfulness picks up momentum with the dancing, singing, and good Parian wine.

At the port of Naoussa, the celebration lasts all day, with all the restaurants sharing the same music and everyone blending and becoming one group of people, drinking and dancing until late at night. Visitors also get the chance to live the experience of the “Second Resurrection”, where firecrackers explode in the sky during the litany of the Virgin Mary’s image in Naoussa. In Marpissa there is the celebration of ‘Agapi’ (love) and the revival of the custom ‘Kounia’ (swing).

Festivities don’t stop since there is also Easter Monday, with numerous festivals in all the churches dedicated to St.George in Agkairia, Lagkada, and Naoussa, where you can enjoy traditional dance groups performing, lots of cheer, treats, dancing, and souma (a local traditional alcoholic drink).

Nighttime Activity: Free time at your leisure

May 6: Paros

Daytime Activity: Paros Island Tour

After your breakfast, you take off to explore Paros on a Paros Island tour.

• Private guided tour
• Full-Day Bus Tour
• Bring a bathing outfit, sunscreen, hat, and towel
• Wear comfortable walking shoes

The island tour starts with a transfer from your hotel to the traditional, medieval village of Lefkes. This settlement is in the hills overlooking Naxos and was once the former capital of Paros. It is built amphitheatrically in a cruciform shape, at an altitude of 250 meters, at the centre of the island.

It is surrounded by small forest areas, olive groves and vineyards. It is characterized by its beautiful, full of pine forest, which covers one side of the village.

Continuing on we cross the southern coast, where we pass the villages of and then to the charming small fishing harbour of Piso Livadi and the seaside villages of Drios and Alyki.

You will have some free time for lunch (not included), to shop and perhaps a swim if you’re game.

Finally the tour ends in the port town and Capital of Paros, Parikia. Wander the alleys of the old town and walk to the Frankish castle and the church of Saints Constantine and Helene. This is one of the islands most scenic area, full of whitewashed alleys and sweeping bougainvillea.

Then we will visit one of the main attractions of Paros, Panagia Ekatontapyliani, one of the oldest churches in the country built around 400 AC, also called “the church of One hundred Doors”. Not only is it an architectural and archaeological monument, but also one of the most important pilgrimage sites throughout Greece.

Lastly we will walk down to one of the beach bars for a sundowner and some hard earned rest.

Evening: Free evening at your leisure

Lefkes

May 7: Paros

Daytime Activity: One-day cruise to Delos & Mykonos

After breakfast, you will take off for a full-day cruise from Naoussa in Paros to Delos & Mykonos with Alexander Cruises.

• Public cruise
• Full-day cruise tour
• Bring a bathing outfit, sunscreen, hat, and towel (if you intend to swim in Mykonos)
• Wear comfortable walking shoes

You will visit the ancient ruins on the spectacular, uninhabited island of Delos and then the cosmopolitan Mykonos at lunchtime.

Sail the Archipelagos from Naousa (Paros), visit the uninhabited island of Delos, and explore the most sacred of all the Greek islands in ancient times.

You have 3 hours of free time to wander around the impressive ruins, imagine ancient Greeks wandering around, and admire the excavated artifacts in the small local museum.

The admittance to the archaeological site is not included in the price. In 2023 the price is 12 Euro – assume a slight increase for 2024.

We will have a professional tour guide waiting for you once you enter the archaeological site which will upgrade your experience. You can also join one of the groups formed on the spot to spare some cash by sharing the same guide.

Afterward, cruise to Mykonos Island and enjoy 3 full hours of free time.

Walk in the narrow streets of the town with the premium brand shops at Matoyanni Str. and stroll in the pretty alleys all the way to the romantic “Little Venice” to enjoy a coffee or a cocktail with the sea washing your feet.

Climb the hill to see the famous windmills up close and get spectacular views of the surroundings. Swim at the beach near the port or have lunch at one of the traditional Greek tavernas (not included) within walking distance from the port. Sail back to Paros in the early evening.

Evening: Free evening at your leisure

Little Venice

May 8: Paros to Athens

Ferry to Athens – journey time 4-5 hours

Arrival in Athens- you will be met at the Port and transferred to your hotel.

Daytime Activity: Visit The Parthenon/Acropolis

After refreshing up at the hotel, your friendly Guide will take you to see the magnificent Parthenon. The area is called Acropolis, which means ‘High City’ and includes all the buildings and structures like the theaters and monuments as well.

• The Parthenon opened in 432 BC.
• It’s dedicated to a Greek goddess – Athina.
• It’s not the first temple in this space.
• It was originally quite colorful.
• It attracts 16,000 visitors per day (up to 23,000 in July 23!)

The Parthenon is a former temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, that was dedicated to the goddess Athena during the fifth century BC. Its decorative sculptures are considered some of the high points of classical Greek art, an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece, democracy, and Western civilization.

Evening Activity: Anna’s Night Food Tour

May 9: Departure

Transfer – Hotel to Airport or other

ACCOMMODATION

 €4126 per person Double

€5927 Single

Frequently Asked Questions

8 DAY GREECE SOLO FEMALE ESCORTED EASTER TOUR

What is included in the trip?

All inclusions and exclusions are detailed in the itinerary above and even more detail via the enquiry button. All transfers, accommodation and breakfasts are included and some lunches and dinners where specified.

What is not included?

Meals as specified, spending money, insurance, international airfares, tips. Optional activities.

Is this a religious tour?

No, it is a cultural tour that covers the most important days of the Greek calendar, which happens to be Easter. Sandy is not religious, and people from any denomination ( or lack of) are welcome.

Will I have my own room?

If you wish to have your own room, you can book ‘single’ occupancy which will have a double (usually King) bed and will only be occupied by one guest.

Can I bring my child or partner?

This is a female-only small group trip specifically designed for women traveling on their own. If you wish to travel with a female friend that is welcome, but we regret that male travelers are not allowed. Children over 16 are welcome.

Will I get sea sick on the ferries.

If you are prone to sea sickness, we recommend talking to your doctor before the trip to take the necessary precautions and seasickness medication. We try to book the slower, bigger ferries where possible because they are the most stable and have lots of outdoor areas and fresh air. Most people find these to be a very enjoyable experience.

What if I have to cancel?

Payments are not refundable if the trip goes ahead. This is why we require all guests to purchase travel insurance that covers unforeseen circumstances that would prevent them from traveling. We recommend checking with a site such as Travel Insurance Master to compare quotes and coverage.

Why is travel insurance mandatory?

Travel insurance is critical when visiting a foreign country, as your health insurance will likely not apply locally. It is not uncommon for people to trip and fall on stairs and uneven surfaces or have accidents with adventure sports and ATVs. Health care in Greece is very good, but things like surgery and repatriation can be extremely expensive. Further to that, insurance will cover you for lost bags, delays, theft, and more.

What should I pack ?

May is a wonderful time of year for sightseeing with mild, sunny days and cooler nights. Temperatures should range between 72/23  maximum and 60/16 minimum. You will need comfortable, casual clothes with a light jacket or wrap during the day and a warmer jacket at night and appropriate footwear is essential (i.e., no heels!) A hat and sunscreen are a good idea Leave plenty of room for shopping.
We will share a recommended packing list before the trip.

Can I pay by credit card?

Yes, all payments can be made by credit card for an additional 3% fee or via wire transfer at no additional cost. Please reach out to us for details of the wire transfer.

Are vegans and vegetarians catered for in this trip?

Vegetarian options are available at every meal and there will be many vegan options but it is not possible for us to adapt the tour completely to suit veganism. For other dietary needs, please reach out to us BEFORE booking so we can ensure that your needs can be accommodated.

Do I need a visa for this trip?

This trip departs from Athens. You will need a Schengen visa to enter Greece, and in 2024, the ETIAS authorization is expected to finally be rolled out. This will be quick and easy to apply for and last for 3 years.

What is the fitness level for this trip?

Our itinerary will involve a lot of walking, so it is best if you are mobile, have a moderate level of fitness, and are able to handle stairs. There are a lot of cobblestone streets, and hilly terrain, as well as uneven and slippery surfaces, hence the need for good footwear. That said, we will move at a leisurely pace, and there will be lots of rest and hydration breaks.

All bookings will be handled by Monobrow Holidays Greece (owned by Monobrow Holidays Pty Ltd ABN 51 669 848 622), who will accept bookings from you the participant, including everyone on whose behalf you make a booking, for Monobrow Holidays Greece.

Please take time to read and understand the Terms and Conditions on their website carefully as they set out our and your respective legal rights and obligations when you book a Monobrow Holidays Greece tour with us.