Explore the rich history of Classical Greece on a 8-days tour departing from Athens. Led by an expert guide, see UNESCO-listed sites such as the Sanctuary of Asclepius and discover the Delphi Archaeological Museum.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Epidaurus: Epidaurus is one of the most important archaeological findings reflecting the splendour of Greek culture through its imposing beauty. Visit the birthplace of Apollo's son and an ancient place of healing
Mycenae: See ancient Greek remains and the tomb of Agamemnon in Mycenae
Meteora: Discover the secrets of the ancient monasteries of Meteora in Kalambaka
Delphi: At the foot of Mount Parnassos, lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which was the most famous Oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi is the second-most important archaeological site in Greece (after the Acropolis in Athens) and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Food tour: Visit the Athens Central Market and stroll through off-the-beaten-path areas in the city. Discover where Athenians shop and eat in a lively neighbourhood. Learn about the Mediterranean diet and sample Greek savouries and sweets.
Day 1: ARRIVAL ATHENS
On your arrival at Athens airport you will be greeted and taken to your Athens hotel in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, strolling the beautifully arranged streets of charming Athens. Perhaps enjoy a walk in the picturesque Plaka area, indulge in a tasty coffee at one of the inviting cafes in Agia Eirini Square, or adventure into a souvenir shopping session on Adrianou Street.
Overnight in Athens.
Day 2: ATHENS
Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy the day exploring the Capital of Greece: Athens on your own.
Overnight in Athens
Day 3: ATHENS – CANAL OF CORINTH – MYCENAE – NAUPLIA – EPIDAURUS (250 km - 3 hrs)
Breakfast in the hotel. Explore the remains of the ancient city of Mycenae a major center of Greek civilization from 1600BC to 1100BC. Depart from Athens via the coastal National highway for the Corinth Canal (shortstop). Drive to Mycenae and visit the archaeological site, home to the kingdom of mythical Agamemnon. Visit the Palace, the Lionesses Gate and the tomb of Agamemnon. After lunch (not included), proceed through Argos to Nauplia the first capital of modern Greece with its Venetian fortress of Palamidi and the fortified islet of Bourtzi (shortstop). Continue to and visit the ancient theatre. The UNESCO’S world heritage listed monument is reputed to be the birthplace of Apollo's son Asclepius, the healer and was the most celebrated healing center of the classical world. Epidaurus is probably most famous for its theatre, one of the best-preserved classical Greek buildings and still used today due to its amazing acoustics. The tour returns to Athens in the late afternoon.
Overnight in Athens.
Day 4: ATHENS – DELPHI – KALAMBAKA (420 km - 5.5 hrs)
After breakfast, leave for Delphi via Thebes, Levadia and the picturesque village of Arachova, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, arrive in Delphi and visit the Archaeological Site. After the visit depart for Kalambaka, passing through picturesque villages and towns of Central Greece. Proceed to Kalambaka for dinner and overnight.
Overnight in Kalambaka.
Day 5: KALAMBAKA – ATHENS (355 km - 4.5 hrs)
Breakfast at your hotel. Visit Meteora and enjoy a unique and most impressive scenery with ageless Monasteries, containing priceless historical and religious treasures, standing between earth and sky atop huge rocks. Return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae (short stop to see across the road the Leonida's Monument), arrive in Athens early in the evening.
Overnight in Athens.
Day 6: ATHENS: FOOD TOUR
Breakfast at the hotel, followed by the Delicious Athens Food Tour. Discover a different side of Athens by indulging in the Greeks' favourite pastime: eating! Your English-speaking guide will meet you in central Athens to start the tour with a Greek coffee and insights into local food culture. Taste a variety of Greek specialties, beginning with koulouri, a classic street snack, and sampling olive oils, spreads, and other delights at a specialty food store. Next, visit a historic baklava bakery known for its syrupy sweets, and enjoy authentic souvlaki with fried potatoes at a popular grill. Experience the bustling Varvakios Market, Athens’ largest fish, meat, and vegetable market, alive with vibrant vendors showcasing local and unique ingredients. Stroll through Spice Street to browse herbs and spices like Greek oregano and saffron, and enjoy a bougatsa pastry for a sweet treat. End the tour at a charming deli with a selection of Greek meze, cheeses, and cured meats. By the end of the tour, you’ll leave with a happy stomach and a deeper appreciation of Greek food culture!
Overnight in Athens.
Day 7: ATHENS: DAY AT LEISURE
Breakfast at your hotel. Today is at your own leisure to enjoy your free day in Athens. Explore the city and discover its secret corners on your own rhythm or book an optional tour to the three islands Poros, Hydra and Aegina for a relaxing day on the sea. With all your transport, transfers and buffet lunch organized, (a delicious lunch and Greek folklore show aboard your ship are included), you can sit back and enjoy your leisurely day cruise with free time on each island to explore.
Full-day Cruise to Three Saronic Islands: After transferring from Athens to the port by coach, you'll set sail for the island of Poros, where you'll have free time for strolling and shopping. Head ashore at the colorful capital and enjoy around two hours to look around on your own. As you approach the island of Hydra admire the colourful harbor. You will have about 1.5 hours at leisure to enjoy the unique charms of Hydra island, whose amphitheater shape once served as a safe shelter for Saronic Pirates. Amble down the narrow lanes, relax over coffee, or buy souvenirs in the quaint shops. As an asset, you can explore the island on your schedule with a free self-guided audio tour. From the decks, you will be able to admire the very special architecture and dramatic landscapes of this island, whose old traditional stone houses and mansions silently stand witness to a long and turbulent history. Upon arrival in Aegina a guided excursion to Egina's ancient Temple of Aphaia is also available at your own expense or take a walk around the main town. Aegina is one of the Saronic islands of Greece in the Saronic Gulf. The lovely island is only 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Athens and is a popular getaway for Athenians during the summer months. Return to your cruise boat and sit down to enjoy a Greek folklore show of traditional music and dancing as you sail back to the port. After an hour at sea, disembark and finish your trip with a drop-off in Athens.
Overnight in Athens.
Day 8: DEPARTURE ATHENS
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Athens airport to continue with your travelling arrangements.
Breakfast included.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Athens. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
