Insider's Greece
June 22 - July 1, 2026
Creativity Tour with Dr. Lucy Bartholomee
- Creativity Tour with Dr. Lucy Bartholomee
- Lucy Bartholomee
- 84185
- No Flights
- 190 days
Announcements & Reminders
- Greek Islands Creativity Tour theme - Ecology: People, Places, and the Sea: Announcing the Greek Islands Creativity Tour theme Ecology: People, Places, and the Sea Ecology examines the inter-relationships between living beings. As artist-educators, we experience the world in multiple ways almost simultaneously. Relationships with our families, students, friends, and ourselves are a kaleidoscope of visual impressions and creative expression while we give and receive kindness, love, and companionship. Of course, there are bumps and collisions in our relationships, too. As we explore the Greek Islands visiting sites of artistic beauty and architectural achievement, we will also consider the inter-relationship of visual expression across time. We will be inspired by vibrant graffiti and street art in Athens, colorful organic Minoan designs at the Palace at Knossos, and the iconic blue and white villages of Santorini. Our theme of ecology invites observation and discussion about the relationship of the ancient world with the beauty and power of the Mediterranean Sea, the marine life depicted in artwork, and of course our own interaction with nature as we journey across the water. The ecology of this experience also includes enjoying the delicious cuisine of the Greek islands, our inter-relationships as fellow travelers and being creative together. Read More
- Welcome to the Creativity Tour 2026!: Immersed in arts rich locations, each Creativity Tour is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to travel with like-minded people exploring the art, architecture, history, and artistry of each region. As we travel together we creatively engage with the natural landscape and the cultural heritage through art making. All materials are provided for the art making activities along the way. Art educators will earn 30+ professional development hours for museum visits, historical sites, creative activities, and other professional learning activities. Certificates and workshop descriptions are issued by Dr. Bartholomee after the trip. Come and make art with us! Read More
Itinerary
The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.
Day 1, Monday June 22: Overnight Flight
Depart from the USA.
Day 2, Tuesday June 23: Athens
Arrive in Athens, meet your ACIS Tour Manager and begin to explore this enchanting, ancient city. Perhaps stop for a plate of honey-soaked, cinnamon-spiced loukoumades while you stroll through the winding streets of this cradle of civilization. Before dinner, we will gather for a welcome orientation session, hand out the art supply kits, and have our first creative activity. Then we will have dinner together in a local restaurant. (D)
Day 3, Wednesday June 24: Athens
Greet the day with a guided sightseeing tour that reveals the glories of ancient Greece. Ascend to the top of the Acropolis and visit the iconic Parthenon, which dominates the city and stands as a powerful and impressive memorial to the remarkable civilization that built it. Then view the Agora, followed by a stroll through the Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural jewel. The afternoon is yours to explore more of the bustling Plaka at your own pace. Tonight you'll be thoroughly entertained by a Greek cultural evening at a classic taverna in the Plaka area. Dine on authentic taverna cuisine, feast your eyes and ears on professional dancers moving to traditional live music, and have a smashing good time! An expert also teaches you the steps of traditional Greek dances so that you can join in the fun. (B,D)
Day 4, Thursday June 25: Overnight Ferry
This morning after breakfast we will gather for a creative activity and discussion led by Dr. Bartholomee. Then you are free to explore the historic Plaka area or take in the treasures found at the National Archaeological Museum and have lunch. This afternoon, we will drive to the port at Piraeus to board our overnight ferry to Crete. (B,D)
Day 5, Friday June 26: Chania
Disembark in Chania, one of Greece's most beautiful cities and enjoy a typical Cretan breakfast. You'll then spend time exploring this former Venetian port on a guided walking tour. The rest of the afternoon is free. You may want to take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea at Nea Chora beach or explore the Old Town of Chania with your camera and sketchbook. Dinner will be a traditional affair. (B,D)
Day 6, Saturday June 27: Heraklion
This morning visit a local agricultural farm to take part in a variety of country Cretan traditions. Walk around the farm as you learn about the different native trees and garden plants, traditional uses for aromatic herbs, raising animals, how to thresh with a horse, and the art of cheese production—from the milking to the making, to the maturing. Sample some of the cheese and other local products before also enjoying a full authentic lunch at the farm. Continue into the heart of Crete, Rethymno, where a short stop uncovers this ancient city's aristocratic architecture and Venetian history. Tonight you arrive in Heraklion. (B,L,D)
Day 7, Sunday June 28: Heraklion
Today you'll explore Heraklion, the capital of Crete with a guided panoramic tour, including a visit to the 5,000 year-old Minoan Palace of Knossos. In the afternoon, you'll learn some secrets of Greek cuisine during a cooking lesson, focusing on the authentic coffee and treats that you'd find at a local kafeneia. You'll learn to prepare a type of fried dough called loukoumades and coiled and fillled pies called sarikopites, as well as traditional coffee and mountain tea. As time allows, we will have an art/ography walk this evening exploring the old town of Heraklion with camera and sketchbook in hand. (B,D)
Day 8, Monday June 29: Santorini
Many believed that Santorini was part of the lost continent of Atlantis. This morning we will travel by ferry to this stunning island and enjoy a creative activity while on board. Upon arrival, we will settle into our hotel followed by free time to explore the island, take pictures, or create an iconic watercolor of the gorgeous scenery. (B,D)
Day 9, Tuesday June 30: Santorini
This morning take a Caldera cruise including Thirassia & Hot Springs including private caique or catamaran, with an English speaking guide, and entrance fees at Geological park. After a free afternoon with time for lunch on your own or some shopping depart for a tour of Akrotiri excavations, Black Beach and Oia Village before returning to Fira for dinner. (B,D)
Day 10, Wednesday July 1: Departure
Depart for the USA. (B)
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