EF Go Ahead Tours has introduced a new 12-day guided itinerary, “Footsteps of the Odyssey,” designed to take travelers through the legendary route of Odysseus across Greece. The tour, announced on 13 July 2026, will begin on 26 June 2027, strategically aligned with the 17 July release of a major film adaptation of Homer’s epic.
The program covers Athens, Ithaca, Kefalonia, Corfu, and the Ionian Islands, blending mythological storytelling with historical and cultural immersion. Participants will visit sites such as the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion and the underground Lake Melissani on Kefalonia, which is mythologically linked to the nymphs who aided Odysseus.
Set-Jetting Momentum Drives Demand
The launch capitalizes on the growing “set-jetting” trend, where travelers seek destinations featured in films and television. According to a study conducted by Qualtrics Research on behalf of EF Go Ahead Tours, 65% of travelers are more inclined to visit locations seen on screen, and 81% expressed heightened interest in Greece specifically due to the upcoming film. This data underscores the potential for tour operators to leverage cinematic releases to drive bookings.
Lael Kassis, Vice President of Market Innovation and Development at EF Go Ahead Tours, commented: “With renewed interest in The Odyssey, we’re transforming an iconic, timeless literary tale into an EPIC adventure.” The tour includes curated “Odyssey Moments,” such as standing at the Temple of Poseidon and exploring the mythical Lake Melissani, designed to create memorable touchpoints for clients.
Pricing starts at $4,499 (approximately £3,500) per person, covering expert guides, accommodations, and select meals. An optional extension to the Peloponnese is available for those seeking deeper exploration of ancient Greek sites. EF Go Ahead Tours, part of the EF Education First group, operates over 200 guided trips worldwide, offering a balance of structured sightseeing and independent discovery.
For travel professionals, this product represents an opportunity to tap into cultural tourism and film-linked travel. The itinerary’s focus on mythology and history appeals to both leisure travelers and educational groups. As set-jetting continues to influence booking patterns, similar thematic tours could emerge tied to other literary or cinematic properties.
EF Go Ahead Tours’ move also reflects broader industry trends where tour operators align product launches with entertainment releases. The company’s established network of agents and direct-to-consumer channels will likely promote this itinerary through targeted marketing campaigns. For agents, the tour offers a high-value, niche product that can differentiate their portfolio in a competitive market.
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