Biology in Greece

Biology in Greece

Tentative Dates: June 15 - 25, 2026 

Price: $5,100
Class: BIO 210 (4 credits)
Eligibility: Open to both campuses, prerequisite or corequisite BIO 108, BIO 118, BIO 145, BIO 151, or instructor's permission

Program Description

Discover the ecological and cultural diversity of Greece on this instructor-led study abroad course in the spring. Then, in the summer visit several Greek islands such as Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Evia, as well as mainland Athens, for an unconventional, authentic, and refreshing approach to learning. Snorkel in the Mediterranean Sea, and hike the mountainous chaparral terrain, exploring both terrestrial and marine habitats. Enjoy native cuisine and visit various historic sites and museums.

The Price Includes

  • Accommodations 
  • Scheduled group activities on this itinerary
  • Round-trip airfare
  • All airport taxes, security fees and fuel surcharges
  • Breakfast

The Price Does Not Include

  • Transportation to/from JFK
  • Meals that are not listed on the itinerary
  • Additional increases in taxes and fuel surcharges at the time of ticketing
  • Additional activities or optional trips
  • Personal expenses such as Wi-fi, phone, and souvenirs
  • Exceeding the airline's baggage allowance

Itinerary

  • June 15: Overnight flight from JFK to Athens  
  • June 16: Arive in Athens Airport, Bus to Rafia and Ferry boat. Check into the hotel in Karystos.
  • June 17: Morning walking tour of Karystos where we’ll visit the major parts of the city, such as the bakeries, fish markets, St. Nikolas Church, Bourtzi Fortress, fishing boats, beaches and the Karystos Museum. Afternoon snorkeling boat trip.
  • June 18: Full day of hiking, following the 6 mile downhill hike of Dimosaris Gorge to Kallianou beach.
  • June 19: Full day of exploration in the village of Platanistos, including freshwater, estuarine, and marine ecosystems.
  • June 20: Uphill hike up Mt. Oxi to Drakospito (ancient ruins). In the afternoon, taste local wine, bread and cheese. One hour before sunset, sunset hike of Venetian castle “Castello Rosso” for amazing sunset views/photos.
  • June 21: Early morning ferry to Rafina and transfer to ferry boat for Mykonos (4hr). Van tour of the island. Boat taxi to Xora. Explore Xora (shops, galleries, boutiques, etc.) and dinner on your own. 
  • June 22: Ferry boat to Santorini. Guided tour of Akrotiri (ancient city preserved in volcanic ash). 
  • June 23: Ferry boat to Heraklion, Crete. Tour of Minoan Palace of Knossos a.k.a. Palace of King Midas (home of the mythical Minotaur).
  • June 24: Tour and lectures from Marine Ecology Laboratory at the University of Crete; Tour of UoC Medical School; CretAquarium Tour; Lunch at aquarium. Visit at Hellenic Center for Marine Research (HCMR). 
  • June 25: Return to Athens. Tour the famous Parthenon at the Acropolis and other famous sites in Athens, such as Syntagma square.
  • June 26: Exploration and souvenir shopping at Monastiraki marketplace and surrounding neighborhoods, like Anafiotika neighborhood (island architecture in the middle of Athens). Farewell group dinner.
  • June 27: Return flight from Athens to JFK.

*Please note that the itinerary is subject to change.

How to Apply

Directions for applying online:  

  1.  Log in to the portal
  2.  View our Study Abroad Application Process
  3.  Follow the St. Joseph's Faculty-led Programs Checklist.

Passport Requirements

Due to new government regulations, passport information must be provided with your final payment. If you need a new passport, apply immediately.

Without passport information tickets cannot be issued and delays with ticketing may create penalties and/or cancellations without a refund.

A copy of your passport is due no later than January 22, 2026.