Pickleball Spartans: Conquer Greece on this Epic Pickleball Adventure!
Join the ultimate pickleball Greece vacation today!
Unleash your passion for pickleball and join us on an adventure to uncover Greece's hidden gems. This tour perfectly blends the thrill of the game with the splendor of ancient Greece, creating an unparalleled vacation experience.
Get ready and bring your A-game in the company of fellow pickleball enthusiasts. The group will be led by our one and only, George Kas, and you will be immersed in local culture, history and mouth watering cuisine in Athens, Santorini and Crete.
Got a travel companion who's not as thrilled about pickleball as you are? No problem at all! We've got an exciting alternative program lined up just for them. While you unleash your skills on the magnificent courts of Greece, they can indulge in a captivating experience tailored to their interests. Everyone's a winner on this extraordinary journey!
From $6,950 per person
Take a closer look at your spectacular Greece pickleball vacation itinerary
itinerary for 22 - 30 september 2025
September 22 » Athens
Arrive in Athens.
Stay overnight.
Start your journey in the breathtaking city of Athens, where you'll enjoy a delightful Greek dinner accompanied by a captivating folk dance performance. Sink into your comfortable hotel bed to rest up for the adventure that awaits.
September 23 » Athens
Half Day Athens City Tour, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
Free Time
In the morning, you will be met at your hotel for a half-day Athens city tour including the Acropolis Museum. This tour gives you the opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Our expert guides will take you to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896 (short stop). Continue and pass by the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, the Parliament and the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma). At the Acropolis you will visit the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally “the harmony between material and spirit”, the monument that “puts order in the mind”, the Parthenon. Continue and visit a must-see in Athens, the place where finally the statues found their home and admire the wonders of the classical era: The New Acropolis Museum, voted by the Sunday Times as the 3rd best museum in the world. Overnight in Athens.
September 24 » Athens » Crete
Heraklion Walking Tour / Shopping
You will be met at your hotel and transferred for your scheduled flight to Crete. Upon arrival, Delve into the fascinating history of Crete: explore the most important landmarks and monuments in Heraklion on this guided walking tour. Discover the myths and legends of the ancient Minoan civilization! Explore the past and present of the city while visiting all the important landmarks such as: Koules fortress Venetian Loggia St. Titus Church Lion's Square & Morosini Fountain Central Market and the Venetian Walls. You will learn about the city's past and present. You will also have some free time to stroll & shop (commercial stores close at 15:00 on Wednesdays). Transfer to the hotel to check-in. Overnight in Crete.
September 25 » Crete
Full Day Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos, Including Public Boat, Entrance Fees and Lunch at Local Tavern
Pickleball Play or Beach Relaxation / Optional Tours
In the morning, we sail from the port of Elounda to Spinalonga a small rocky islet, in the entrance of the lagoon of Elounda. Spinalonga used to be one of the most powerful fortresses of the Venetian Crete, and it was never conquered. Its high walls were built in 1579 and are preserved today intact. In 1630 it had 35 cannons. For half a century after the Turkish conquest of Crete, Spinalonga remained in the hands of the Venetians and was a refuge for many Christians who fled there to escape from the Turks. In 1715 the islet was handed over to the Turks with the conclusion of a treaty. From 1912 to 1958 the islet served as a sanatorium for the lepers of Crete, and although it is now deserted it is still possible to imagine the way of living from the buildings that remain.
After the tour we sail back to Elounda, and we have lunch at local restaurant. Our vehicle will then take us to the beautiful town of Ag. Nikolaos, the capital of prefecture of Lassithi. It is one of the most highly developed tourist town in Greece. The landmark of city is a small lake, known as “Voulismeni’ that is located in the center of the city, at the foot of the cliffs. Its shape is circular with a diameter of 137m. There are also many, restaurants, bars and shops in the center of the small town.
In the afternoon, Pickleball lessons to teach techniques, strategies, and group play using the hotel’s courts or simply enjoy the beach (optional tours and water activities are available at extra cost).
Overnight in Crete.
September 26 » Crete
Olive Oil tasting with lunch
Pickleball Play or Beach Activities / Optional Tours
In the morning, arrive at Olive oil Estate.
Tour of the olive press with a family member:
• Viewing of the original 1865 museum-piece hand-operated press and a description of how olive oil used to be made
• Viewing of the working olive mill and a description of how olive oil is made today Expert-led olive oil tasting session with appetizers:
• Professional tasting of 4 different olive oils: how experts judge olive oil quality & learn how to recognize it for yourself. Includes appetizers.
Browse the on-site shop:
• Taste local food products.
• Buy products for take-away or home delivery.
Free time for photos and questions.
Proceed to a local restaurant for lunch.
In the afternoon, sharpen your Pickleball skills with expert-led lessons focusing on techniques, strategies, and group play at the hotel’s courts. Alternatively, let the rhythm of the waves guide your day as you unwind at the beach. For the adventurous ones, optional tours and water activities are at your disposal (at an extra cost).
Rest and recharge overnight in Crete.
September 27 » Crete » Santorini
Half Day Santorini Tour with lunch
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to port to catch the high-speed hydrofoil to Crete.
Upon arrival, embark on a Santorini sightseeing tour including Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Lighthouse, Red Beach, Monastery of Ilias, Three Bells of Fira, Village of Oia and its main street. After lunch at Vassilikos Restaurant in Kamari area.
Transfer to the hotel to check-in. Overnight in Santorini.
September 28 » Crete
Pickleball Tour in Santorini
Santorini Wine Tasting Tour
Morning transfer to Santorini for 4 hours of Pickleball lessons to teach techniques, strategies, and group play. Transfer back to your hotel. In the afternoon, enjoy Santorini wine tasting. Take this half-day wine tour of the Santorini countryside and visit the most distinctive wineries on the island. Taste a selection of 12 different wine styles from Santorini and Greece.
Winemaking on Santorini dates back more than 4.000 years and the tour covers the most traditional wineries of the island, starting at a vineyard on the volcanic soils. Stroll through the unique basket vines, learning about the unique viticulture that makes vine-growing in Santorini respected worldwide for its distinctive means of production.
Learn the island’s history through its winemaking from your wine-expert guide as you move between the most legendary wineries, all acclaimed by international experts. Taste the major wine styles of Santorini such as Assyrtiko, Nykteri, Vinsanto accompanied by local delicacies, such as cheese and local snacks. As the sun sets, retire to your hotel and let the tastes of the day dance in your dreams.
September 29 » Crete
Pickleball Play in Santorini
Santorini Sunset Cruise
Morning transfer to Santorini for 4 hours of Pickleball lessons to teach techniques, strategies, and group play. Transfer back to your hotel.
In the late afternoon, discover Santorini’s beautiful coastline with this delightful cruise, which includes BBQ meal with drinks. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear blue waters at the red beach, and sail past the big lighthouse south of the caldera.
Explore secluded volcanic beaches, experience the volcanic hot springs, or simply relax on deck. Visit Red beach, White Beach, hot springs, stops below Oia for the sunset.
Overnight in Santorini.
** Cruise includes full BBQ menu, unlimited drinks, snorkeling equipment.
September 30 » Santorini » Athens
Departure day
Wave goodbye to Santorini as you get transfered to Santorini airport for your flight to Athens. From there, connect to your onward flight, carrying cherished memories of your Greece vacation back home to the USA.
OPTIONAL POST-TOUR
Are you interested in extending your vacation with a few extra days in Europe? Check out some of our recommendations in the Pre/Post Tour Section.
OPTIONAL PRE-TOUR
Are you interested in arriving a few days ahead of time before the start of the Pickleball group tour? Check out some of our recommendations in the Pre/Post Tour section below.
Stay overnight.
Free Time
Free Time to Stroll & Shop
Pickleball Play or Beach Relaxation
Pickleball Play or Beach Activities
Santorini Wine Tasting Tour
Santorini Sunset Cruise
OPTIONAL POST-TOUR
Are you interested in extending your vacation with a few extra days in Europe? Check out some of our recommendations in the Pre/Post Tour section below.
2-night accommodation » Hotel Divani Palace Acropolis or similar » Athens
Breathtaking Acropolis Views
Divani Palace Acropolis is an iconic hotel showcasing the best of Athens.Just meters away from the world-famous Acropolis this is the perfect place to savor Athens fascinating history.Divani Palace Acropolis offers a variety of rooms & suites that satisfy each guest and embraces how heritage and modernity blend in perfect harmony.Unique details can be discovered in every corner making it the perfect base to take a time journey through the history of Athens.
3-night accommodation » Orama Hotel & Spa » Santorini
One of the most prestigious hotels in the island
Discover the eclectic elegance of Orama Hotel & Spa and experience a stay driven by extraordinary feelings of comfort and relaxation. Located in Fira, the capital of Santorini, only a few meters away from the cliff of the caldera and the panoramic view of the volcano, Orama Hotel & Spa invites you to indulge yourself and enjoy a unique experience of cycladic hospitality.
3-night accommodation » Lyttos Beach or similar » Crete
An all-inclusive experience like no other
Experience the warm Cretan hospitality at Lyttos Beach, a premium all-inclusive 5-star beach resort in Hersonissos on Northern Crete, providing a rejuvenating and exceptional retreat. Nestled among sparkling pools and lush greenery beside the mesmerising Cretan Sea, Lyttos Beach offers a lavish haven just a short distance from the vibrant Hersonissos bay. Immerse yourself in the elegance of Lyttos Beach and indulge in the finest Cretan experiences.
Inclusions
• 2-night accommodation at hotel Divani Palace Acropolis or similar in Athens on BB
• 3-night accommodation at hotel Orama or similar in Santorini on BB
• 3- night accommodation at hotel Lyttos Beach or similar in Crete on all-inclusive
• All transfers in Athens (airport – hotel, hotel – airport), Santorini (port – hotel-port) and Crete (port – hotel – airport).
• Flight Athens to Santorini and Heraklion to Athens, including taxes | 1 checked luggage 23kg | 1 carry-on 8kg.
• Highspeed ferry Santorini to Heraklion on economy class numbered seat.
• Greek dinner with folk dance performance
• Morning half-day city tour, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum.
• Santorini sightseeing tour including Akrotiri Archaeological Site, Lighthouse, Red Beach, Monastery of Ilias, Three Bells of Fira, Village of Oia and its main street. Group lunch.
• Santorini wine tasting tour.
• Santorini shared sunset cruise with swimming stops, BBQ, and open bar.
• Olive oil farm visit with a traditional meal
• Knossos Archaeological Site tour including Knossos Palace and Heraklion Museum.
• Day 04 morning visit & play in pickleball courts usage for 4 hours in Santorini in Playland Santorini
• Day 05 morning visit & play in pickleball courts usage for 4 hours in Santorini in Playland Santorini
• Day 07 afternoon visit & play in pickleball courts usage for 4 hours at Lyttos Beach in Crete
• Day 08 afternoon visit & play in pickleball courts usage for 4 hours at Lyttos Beach in Crete
Exclusions
• International air
• Tips and gratuities (135€ / person or prepaid $160)
• Accommodation tax 10€ per room, per day (subject to change), it must be paid at the reception upon arrival.
• Pickleball equipment such as paddles, balls, tapes… etc.
• Any item not mentioned as included.
• Travel Insurance
• Private airport-hotel roundtrip transportation (one private group transfer included in Athens and Crete at a designated time; if your departure does not match the designated time, you will need your own transportation)
Airfare
We have consolidator and published airfare contracts available with all major airlines. If you’d like our assistance in securing your flight itinerary, please submit your request by clicking HERE.
Travel Insurance
Our preferred travel insurance partner is Travel Insured. We recommend the Worldwide Trip Protector policy.
Submit your Travel Insurance Request by Clicking HERE or access their website by clicking HERE to get a quote and purchase the policy.
Coverage and policy details HERE.
Optional pre-post stays & tours
If you’d like to extend your European vacation with an optional pre- or post stay, or visit another destination before or after your land vacation, we can help. Not sure of what to pick? Schedule a consultation with us and we can come up with ideas tailored to your needs. Submit your extension request here.
Terms and Conditions
See Evyssa Vacations (Global Voyages Inc. dba Evyssa Vacations) and Conditions by clicking here.
F.A.Q.
Do I need to bring my own pickleball equipment?
You should bring your own paddle. Balls will be provided.
What level of pickleball players is this trip suitable for?
This trip is designed for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there will be activities tailored to your level.
Are non-pickleball players welcome on this trip?
Absolutely! Non-players can enjoy the beautiful locations, cultural experiences, and leisure activities available during the trip.
What is the group size for this vacation?
The maximum group size will be capped at 22 participants + the pickleball instructor and tour leaders to ensure a personalized experience.
How will the pickleball sessions be organized?
The pickleball instructor will have a diverse schedule prepared that includes matches, king-and queen, open play and clinics.
Will there be options for private lessons?
There may be time allocated for private lesson, for an added cost payable directly to the pickleball instructor. If you are interested in private lessons, please let us know.
Are there any age restrictions for this trip?
This vacation is open to adults aged 18 and above. Minors are welcome if accompanied by a participating adult.
What travel documents do I need?
A valid passport is required for entry into Greece. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date. No visa is required for U.S. citizens for stays under 90 days.
Is travel insurance required?
Travel insurance is strongly recommended to protect against unforeseen events. It is not required but highly advisable.
Can I extend my stay in Greece before or after the pickleball vacation or add an additional destination?
Yes, extensions can be arranged. We can assist in planning additional tours or extended stays in Greece or other European destinations. Contact us to customize your itinerary.
Do you charge for custom itinerary planning?
We will be waiving our usual Itinerary Research and Design fees of ($350-$500) as a courtesy for being part of our Pickleball Group Trips. However, a Plan-to-Go Deposit of $250 will be charged to start working on your custom itinerary. This amount will be credited towards your total trip cost, so it not an extra cost to you. If for any reason you decide to not book the trip we worked on, this deposit will be considered payment for services rendered and the time allocated to working on your proposal.
What is the weather like in Greece in September?
September in Greece is typically warm and pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C). It’s a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Is there a dress code for any of the events or dinners?
Most activities are casual, but feel free to dress up if it fits your style. Comfortable attire is recommended for pickleball and day trips.
Are room upgrades available, and how can I request one?
Yes, room upgrades may be available for an additional fee. Please contact us after you deposited your trip to discuss upgrade options and availability.
Can you assist with choosing and booking airfare?
Yes, we offer personalized assistance in finding the best flights for your schedule and budget. We can help you compare options, book your airfare, and coordinate arrival and departure times with the group itinerary. We charge a ticketing fee of $100/person.
Are there any recommended activities or tours for those arriving early or staying later in Greece?
Definitely! We can suggest and help book popular pre- and post-tour activities, such as island hopping, wine tours, or additional cultural excursions, to enhance your Greek experience.
Can I get assistance with airport transfers if I arrive earlier or depart later than the group?
Yes, we can arrange private or shared airport transfers to suit your schedule if your arrival or departure does not coincide with the group itinerary.
How do I coordinate my travel schedule if I plan to arrive early or stay longer in Greece or other parts of Europe?
We recommend discussing your travel plans with us as early as possible. We’ll help you align your schedule with the group’s activities and arrange any additional accommodation or tours you may need.
Will I receive any support or information before the trip to help me prepare?
Yes, we provide a detailed pre-departure guide, including packing tips, travel tips, and an itinerary overview. We also offer a pre-trip webinar or Q&A session where you can ask any last-minute questions.
How do I find a roommate if I’m traveling solo?
We recommend using your pickleball network to find a potential roommate. You can also post your search for roommates in our Pickleball Group Trips Facebook page (Pickleball Group Trips | Facebook)
How much spending money should I budget for meals and extras?
This depends on your personal preferences. We recommend looking at how much you spend in the US on lunches or dinners if you eat out- costs are similar in Europe, but charged in Euros. Also consider if you will be doing lots of shopping, and going out to town on your free time.
Do I need cash with me?
Credit cards are widely accepted (we recommend Visa and Mastercard). We recommend you have cash on you mostly for tips, and some souvenirs. Getting local currency out at an ATM is an easy way to access your cash if you run out of money and need more.
Are you interested in extending your vacation with a few extra days in Europe? Check out some of our recommendations in the Pre/Post Tour Section.
Have questions?
For all things Pickleball ask George by clicking HERE.
For all things Travel & Bookings ask Csilla by clicking HERE.
Pricing
To confirm your reservation, a non-refundable deposit of $2,000 per room is kindly requested at the time of sign-up. Please refer to the payment schedule below for a detailed summary of various charges and their due dates.
The tour will be guaranteed once a minimum of 10 travelers are under deposit. If we have to cancel the tour due to lack of registration, your tour deposit will be refunded, or you can use it for a different tour.
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
$6,950 per person
SINGLE OCCUPANCY
$8,800 per person
Terms and Conditions:
• Deposit payments are non-refundable/non-transferable.
• Any Cancellation Requests must be submitted in writing by filling out the Trip Cancellation Request Form: Click HERE.
• The airfare cost included in this itinerary is just estimated at the time of deposit.
• The airfare cost may vary depending on when you sign up for the tour and will be guaranteed only after 50% of the trip payment has been submitted.
• Those who pay their trip cost in full by 15JAN will not be affected by any potential airfare cost increases included in this itinerary.
Payment schedule and due dates
Deposit: Due at the time of sign-up.
• 15 Jan 2025 - 1st. installment of $2,500/person
• 15 May 2025 - Final Balance Due
*You may pay more than the minimum installment due anytime, or you may submit full payment anytime after the deposit has been paid and before the final due date. You can authorize any amount you wish to submit directly on your invoice link.
The following cancellation policy applies:
• All requests for cancellations must be submitted in written form by filling out the Trip Cancellation Request Form: Click HERE.
• Initial deposits are fully non-refundable, unless Evyssa Vacations cancels the tour due to lack of enough participants.
• Additionally, the following penalties will be imposed based on the timing of cancellations:
• Cancellations made before May 15, 2025, will incur a penalty of $250 per person on top of the deposit.
• Cancellations made between May 16 and June 20 will incur a penalty of $1,000 per person on top of the deposit.
• After June 21, 2025, the entire trip cost becomes non-refundable.
*If you cancel your reservation between 1 NOV-21 JUN, but can find someone else to go in your turn, we may be able to help transfer the funds over. Please note this is not guaranteed and will be dealt with on a first-come first served basis. No fund transfers will apply to bookings canceled on or after 21 JUN 2025. We strongly suggest insuring your trip cost.
* The penalty for cancellation is determined based on the full land cost of either Single or Double occupancy as booked by the traveler.
We highly recommend the purchase of optional travel insurance. We will be sending you a quote as soon as your deposit is submitted.
A passenger becoming a single, as a result of a partner's cancellation, must pay the single supplement.
Interested in other pickleball vacations?
You asked and we delivered. We took your feedback and created the top requested pickleball group trips. Check them out below!
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Choose to extend your vacation
Not quite ready for two full tours but interested in extending your trip with additional 2-3 night stay? Check out our suggested pre- and post tours.
optional pre- or post-tourS
Suggested Itinerary » Tuscany, Italy
Starting at $2,499 per person based on double occupancy.
- 3-night stay in the room category of your choice
- Roundtrip transfers to/from Florence airport
- Enjoy the resort facilities
Pricing and room categories are based on availability at the time of booking.
Escape to the hills of Tuscany
Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of Castelfalfi, a medieval jewel nestled in the heart of Tuscany - one of Italy's most celebrated regions, renowned for its art, culture, and culinary traditions. Picture a historic Borgo adorned with a medieval castle, a luxurious 5-star hotel, a prestigious golf club, an organic agricultural estate, and delightful villas—all surrounded by lush vineyards and olive trees as far as the eye can see.
Suggested Itinerary » Lake Como, Italy
Starting at $2,699 per person based on double occupancy.
- 3-night stay in the room category of your choice
- Roundtrip transfers to/from Milan airport
- Enjoy the resort facilities
Pricing and room categories are based on availability at the time of booking.
Discover the Majestic Lake Como
Escape to the Breathtaking Beauty of Lake Como and Experience The Grand Hotel Tremezzo, an Iconic Art Nouveau Masterpiece perched on the western shores. Behold the mesmerizing views of the glistening waters stretching towards Bellagio and the majestic Grigne mountains. Your stay at this exquisite retreat promises sumptuous accommodation, three inviting pools, a private beach hugging the lake's edge, and a lavish private park. Here, you'll be embraced with the warmest Italian hospitality, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience. Surrender to the enchantment of Lake Como and indulge in the timeless elegance of The Grand Hotel Tremezzo - a haven of unparalleled luxury and serenity.
Suggested Itinerary » Corinth Canal
Starting at $1,999 per person based on double occupancy.
- 3-night stay in the room category of your choice
- Roundtrip transfers to/from Athens with an en-route stop to Corinth Canal
- Enjoy the resort facilities.
- Pickleball court set-up and reservations may be available we have enough requests for it.
Pricing and room categories are based on availability at the time of booking.
Start or end your Greece adventure in pure luxury, off the beaten path at Costa Navarino!
Experience the Magnificence of The Romanos at Costa Navarino: Nestled by the Ionian Sea in Navarino Dunes, this sustainable Mediterranean destination has been honored as Greece's leading resort by Condé Nast Traveller’s 2022 Readers’ Choice Award. Embrace the beauty of Messinia through its award-winning architecture, offering breathtaking views of the coastline and lush golf landscapes. Delight in luxurious guestrooms, exclusive Ionian suites, and beachfront villas with personalized Butler service. Indulge in epicurean delights curated by acclaimed chefs, unwind at Anazoe Spa, and explore world-class golf courses and the new Mouratoglou Tennis Center. Get ready for an unforgettable blend of sports and authentic experiences at The Romanos.
Don’t see what you are looking for?
Our travel consultants are experts at customizing vacation needs. Just submit a request with your idea and we’ll create a dream itinerary around it. Sit back, relax, let us handle the rest. As our distinct client, we handle all your travel arrangements, organize all your trip components and make sure you have a seamless, memorable experience before, during and after your trip. Let’s get going!
Meet George Kas
Meet George Kas, a renowned certified Pickleball instructor, tournament champion and dedicated Du Page, IL Pickleball ambassador
"My mentor and coach was the number one women’s player Simone Jardim who I was so fortunate to have as my instructor. Instantly I was captivated by its fast-paced nature and social aspects, I immersed myself in learning everything about pickleball.
I honed my skills through countless hours of practice, participating in local and out of state tournaments, and seeking guidance and lessons from top pro players and coaches along the way. I decided to pursue being a pickleball instructor. I have completed coaching certifications, attended workshops and seminars, and continuously educated myself on the latest techniques, rules and strategies.
Because I am passionate and experienced pickleball instructor with a deep love for the sport of Pickleball with over 8 years of playing and coaching experience, I have become a respected figure in the pickleball community. I am a certified Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) instructor/coach along with being a (USAPA) certified referee...."
Hear from Our Satisfied Travelers!
Book your next Pickleball Greece vacation Today!
Your next pickleball vacation starts with us!
We assist with your itineraries as much - or as little - as you need us to. From simple logistics planning to designing entire itineraries, Evyssa Vacations works with you every step of the way to help make your plans a reality.
Ideas based on our experience.
As certified travel agents, we work for you, our client. Customization is what we do best, and it looks different for each client. Our end to end services help you make travel decisions that best suit your needs, our creative consultants always come up with ideas and recommendations you might not otherwise consider, and we make sure your trip components are booked through trusted tour operators.
Making the best decisions.
We act as your advisor and your advocate, we help you understand where it makes sense to splurge or where to hold back, and assist in making sure that you make the best decisions for yourself and your family.
Custom itineraries.
Every itinerary is unique and catered to you. We plan for your budget, your party, and your interests to ensure that your vacation is stress-free and truly memorable!
Feel the Vibe of Our Pickleball Vacations
See some of our past trip experiences.
