- Email address verified
- Email address verified
About this trip
Join Walker Wellness Retreats on an all-inclusive adventure in the Greek islands! This 9-day/8-night retreat will take you on a luxurious journey through Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini.
From the moment we pick you up at the airport, every detail will be taken care of so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience. You will enjoy stays at 5-star hotels, with all transportation, meals, and activities included, ensuring a seamless and unforgettable getaway. This exclusive retreat is reserved for our group only, making it an intimate and personalized experience.
Retreat Style This retreat offers a balanced mix of activities, excursions, and relaxation. While there is plenty of downtime, it is classified as active due to the stairs and transportation required for island hopping. Over the course of the retreat, we will stay at three different luxurious hotels, each offering unique charm and breathtaking views.
Important Notes
- All activities and excursions are entirely optional, allowing you to tailor your experience to your preferences.
- The itinerary is subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen factors.
- The retreat officially begins with the welcome dinner on the first evening and concludes after breakfast on the final day.
Embark on this luxurious adventure and discover the magic of the Greek islands with Walker Wellness Retreats!
Meet Your Host
Amy Walker, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Licensed Clinical Social Worker | Owner, Walker Wellness Retreats
Amy Walker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Walker Wellness Retreats, which she launched in 2016 to combine her passions for travel, mental wellness, and creating transformative experiences. With a deep commitment to helping others, Amy leads 6–10 international retreats each year, providing all-inclusive experiences that foster connection, self-discovery, and personal growth. She loves showing people the world and creating meaningful, unforgettable travel experiences.
When she’s not guiding retreats, Amy works as an online mental health therapist, specializing in helping individuals and couples overcome barriers, improve communication, and build fulfilling relationships. Her approach integrates evidence-based techniques with compassionate, solution-focused support.
An avid traveler, Amy has visited over 80 countries and counting, with a personal goal to reach 100 countries and all seven continents. She enjoys international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and spending time outdoors. She runs Walker Wellness Retreats alongside her husband, Brian Walker, ensuring each retreat is a seamless and enriching experience.
To learn more about Amy and the Walker Wellness Retreats team, visit our About Us page.
Travel Tips and Information About Greece
Athens
Must-See Attractions
- Acropolis and Parthenon: Iconic landmarks with stunning views and rich history.
- Acropolis Museum: A modern museum housing artifacts from the Acropolis.
- Plaka District: Charming streets with local shops, tavernas, and cafes.
- Ancient Agora: Explore ruins of ancient markets and temples.
- National Archaeological Museum: A treasure trove of Greek artifacts.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes: The Acropolis and many streets are uneven and require walking.
- Dining: Try traditional dishes like moussaka, souvlaki, and baklava at local tavernas.
Santorini
Must-See Attractions
- Oia Village: Famous for its whitewashed buildings and sunsets.
- Fira Town: The island's capital with shops, restaurants, and breathtaking views.
- Akrotiri Archaeological Site: A well-preserved Minoan Bronze Age settlement.
- Red Beach: Known for its striking red cliffs and clear waters.
- Wine Tasting: Visit wineries like Santo Wines to sample local Assyrtiko wines.
Travel Tips
- Sunset spots: Arrive at least an hour early in Oia for a good viewing spot.
- Pack light layers: Evenings can be breezy, especially near the caldera.
Mykonos
Must-See Attractions
- Little Venice: A picturesque area with waterfront bars and restaurants.
- Windmills of Mykonos: Iconic landmarks overlooking the town.
- Delos Island: A short ferry ride away, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers ancient ruins.
- Paradise and Super Paradise Beaches: Known for their lively party scenes.
- Ano Mera Village: A quieter area with a traditional vibe and monasteries.
Travel Tips
- Nightlife: Check out famous clubs like Scorpios or Cavo Paradiso.
- Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes like kopanisti (spicy cheese).
General Tips for All Destinations
- Best time to visit: Late spring (May) or early fall (September) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Currency: The euro (€) is widely used; carry some cash for smaller establishments.
- Language: Basic English is widely spoken, but learning a few Greek phrases like "Efharisto" (Thank you) is appreciated.
- Water: Tap water is safe in Athens but opt for bottled water on the islands.
- Packing: Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and swimwear.
- Ferry schedules: Book in advance and confirm your tickets, as weather can affect services.
Packing List
Essential Documents:
- Passport (valid for at least six months beyond your stay)
- Copy of passport (both physical and digital)
- Travel insurance details (including emergency contacts)
- Credit/debit cards (with a four-digit PIN for ATM use)
- Cash (€100–€200 for small purchases and emergencies)
- Trip itinerary (including accommodation and transportation details)
- Any necessary vaccination or medical records
Tip: Keep digital copies of your important documents stored securely online and have a printed copy in a separate bag.
Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton, linen)
- Comfortable walking shoes (closed-toe for cobblestone streets)
- Sandals or flip-flops (for beaches and casual wear)
- Swimsuit (at least two if swimming frequently)
- Swim cover-up or sarong
- Light jacket or sweater (evenings can be cool)
- Scarf or shawl (for visiting religious sites)
- Sunglasses and sun hat (for sun protection)
- Casual outfits for daytime exploring
- Dressy outfit (for nice dinners or upscale venues)
- Activewear (for hiking or yoga)
- Undergarments and socks
- Sleepwear
- Laundry bag
Tip: Greece in September is warm, but evenings can be cooler, especially in coastal and island areas. Pack layers accordingly.
Toiletries & Health Essentials:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
- Shampoo and conditioner (travel-sized or solid bars)
- Body wash or soap
- Deodorant
- Razor and shaving cream
- Sunscreen (reef-safe, SPF 30+)
- After-sun lotion or aloe vera
- Lip balm with SPF
- Insect repellent
- Personal medications (in original containers)
- Motion sickness medication (if taking ferries)
- Pain reliever (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.)
- Anti-diarrhea medicine (Imodium, Pepto-Bismol)
- First aid kit (band-aids, antiseptic wipes, etc.)
- Hand sanitizer
- Tissues or wet wipes
- Earplugs and eye mask (for sleeping in different environments)
Electronics & Accessories:
- Smartphone and charger
- European plug adapter (Greece uses Type C and F plugs)
- Portable power bank
- Camera and extra memory card (optional)
- Waterproof phone case (for beach or boat trips)
- E-reader or book
- Headphones
- VPN software (for internet security)
Bags & Travel Essentials:
- Daypack or small backpack (for daily outings)
- Cross-body bag or money belt (for security in busy areas)
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated in the heat)
- Dry bag (for storing wet clothes or electronics near water)
- Beach bag or tote (for island trips)
- Packable tote bag (for souvenirs or extra shopping)
Miscellaneous:
- Journal or notebook (for travel notes or reflections)
- Lightweight travel towel (quick-dry for beach or excursions)
- Snacks (nuts, granola bars for travel days)
- Small sewing kit (for quick fixes)
This list balances comfort, practicality, and style while keeping your luggage light. Let me know if you’d like it customized further!
European Travel Tips
Greece Travel Tips
Money & Currency
- Withdraw Euros from ATMs: Use ATMs from reputable banks (like Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, or Eurobank) for the best exchange rates.
- Avoid EuroNet ATMs: These charge high conversion fees (up to 15%). Always check the fee before withdrawing.
- Use a Currency App: The XE Currency app helps track exchange rates in real-time.
- Always Choose to Pay in Euros: If asked whether to process your card in USD or EUR, always select EUR to avoid extra fees.
- Cash is Essential: Many small vendors, cafes, and taxis prefer cash, so carry small bills and coins, especially for restrooms.
- Tipping is Minimal: Round up the bill or leave small change. No need for a 20% tip like in the U.S.
- Use Up Your Coins Before Leaving: Euro coins cannot be exchanged outside of Europe.
Financial Safety
- Keep Money in Different Places: Don’t store all cash and cards in one spot. Use a money belt or secure bag.
- Use Credit Cards for Larger Purchases: They offer better fraud protection than debit cards.
- Notify Your Bank Before Traveling: Avoid getting your card blocked due to foreign transactions.
- Check Your Statements: Regularly monitor your account for unauthorized charges.
- Be Careful with Public Wi-Fi: Avoid checking bank accounts on public networks. Use a VPN for added security.
Personal Safety
- Stay Alert: Pickpocketing can happen in crowded tourist areas, especially in Athens and on public transport.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Use a cross-body bag with zippers or a money belt.
- Be Wary of Strangers Offering Help: Scams targeting tourists are common.
- Avoid Isolated Areas at Night: Stick to well-lit streets and main roads.
- Learn Basic Greek Phrases: Knowing “help” (Βοήθεια - voítheia) or “thank you” (Ευχαριστώ - efcharistó) can be useful.
- Register with the U.S. Embassy: Enroll in the STEP program for safety alerts.
Transportation
- Validate Tickets Before Boarding: This applies to buses, trams, and metro systems. Fines are issued for unvalidated tickets.
- Use Licensed Taxis or Ride-Sharing Apps: Taxi scams exist, so insist on the meter being used. Apps like Beat are safer than hailing a taxi.
- Book Airport Transfers in Advance: This avoids overcharging or taxi scams.
- Ferries & Islands: Book ferry tickets early, especially in peak season, and arrive at the port ahead of time.
Payment & Cancellation Policy
If you cancel your trip before the 90-day deadline, 25% of the total trip price is non-refundable, as are any airfare, train tickets, or ferry tickets purchased as part of your trip package due to the strict cancellation policy by foreign carriers (if applicable).
Trip cancellations requested after the final payment deadlines listed above are non-refundable, and guests are encouraged to file a claim with their travel insurance for reimbursement.
In the unlikely event Walker Wellness Retreats cancels the retreat, guests will be provided a full 100% refund of their booking.
Lastly, we partner with several third-party booking platforms that have separate deposit and cancellation policies. If you book through a third-party partner, please refer to their specific cancellation policies.
Questions about refunds or cancellations? Click here to view our payment and cancellation policy.
The deadline to book an international retreat is 30 days before the retreat begins; however, some exceptions can be made based on availability. Please email us at contact@walkerwellnessretreats.com to inquire about booking after the deadline has passed.
What’s included
- Accommodations9 days/8 nights in luxury accommodations
- Airport TransfersPick-up and drop-off at Athens airport (ATH)
- Ferry TransfersFerries between each location
- MealsAll meals during the retreat (breakfast, lunch, & dinner)
- TransportationAll transportation during the retreat
- GratuityGratuities for tour guides, restaurant staff, and drivers
- Airfare from SantoriniEconomy air tickets from Santorini to Athens
- Athens City TourAcropolis Tour
- Private CatamaranCatamaran cruise in Santorini
- Cooking ClassCooking class in Mykonos
- Mykonos TourTour of Mykonos Town
- Fira to Oia HikeHiking Fira to Oia- 6 miles
- Retreat giftRetreat gift
What’s not included
- AirfareAirfare to and from Athens, Greece
- Additional ItemsSouvenirs, drinks, snacks, additional excursions, or other personal items
- Additional GratuityGratuities of a personal nature (hotel staff, spa services, etc.)
- Additional AlcoholAny additional alcoholic beverages (unless listed on itinerary)
- InsuranceTravel insurance and medical insurance (required)
- Travel FeesAny travel-related fees (visas, passports, baggage, etc.)
Available Packages
Double occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 2 people.
Helpful hints: If you have two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages. If you are traveling alone but want to be paired with another solo traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package. If you are traveling alone and want your own room, select 1 Single Occupancy package below.
Solo occupancy includes a private bedroom and private bathroom for 1 person.
Helpful hints: If you are traveling alone but want to share a room with another traveler, select 1 Double Occupancy package above. If you are booking for two people who would like to share a room, select 2 Double Occupancy packages above.
Available options
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Athens International Airport, you’ll be greeted and transferred to your hotel by private transportation. After collecting your luggage, step outside the terminal and look for the WALKER WELLNESS RETREATS sign, signaling the beginning of your journey.
The retreat officially kicks off with a group dinner and orientation, but if you arrive earlier in the day, take advantage of the time to explore the heart of Athens. A short walk will lead you to the vibrant Plaka district, known for its charming alleys, local shops, and cafes. Savor a glass of ouzo paired with delicious mezedes (Greek appetizers) while soaking in the breathtaking view of the Acropolis—a perfect prelude to your adventure.
Schedule:
- 6:30 PM: Meet in the hotel lobby for a welcome meet-and-greet with your fellow travelers.
- 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Mystilli, a delightful restaurant just a 5-minute walk from the hotel.
Hotel/Lodging:
A77 Suites by Andronis or Grand Hyatt Athens