Greek Odyssey Monasteries, Myths, and Monuments - 7 Days

Upon arriving in Athens, we will provide your transfer to the hotel, where you'll have some leisure time to yourself. In the afternoon, please check the hotel reception area for information regarding the start of your adventure. Enjoy your initial encounters with this vibrant city at your own pace, allowing the anticipation of your journey to build. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On the second day of our journey, we'll set off early to explore northern Greece, beginning our adventure in Athens and travelling through captivating scenery to Kamena Vourla. This delightful seaside location is known for its charming atmosphere and is surrounded by stunning landscapes. After a refreshing stop, we'll continue our journey northwards to the idyllic setting of the Thermopylae Mountain Pass, the famed location of the historic battle where King Leonidas of Sparta once stood his ground.

Continuing our travels, we'll reach the picturesque village of Kastraki, offering breathtaking views of the valley. You'll have some free time here to enjoy lunch amidst this scenic backdrop. Our afternoon is dedicated to the remarkable Meteora – a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning rock formations and historic monasteries perched high on the cliffs. Entrance to one of these famed monasteries is included in our tour, offering a glimpse into centuries of monastic life amid incredible vistas. We'll conclude our day's adventure with dinner in Kalambaka, a charming town that nestles beneath the Meteora cliffs.

Today, we'll head south through the scenic Thessaly region to reach the ancient site of Delphi. Known for its stunning vistas over the Gulf of Corinth, Delphi was once considered the centre of the world in ancient Greek mythology. We'll explore this remarkable archaeological treasure, allowing time to absorb its historical significance and enjoy lunch. Our journey then takes us to the Hosios Loukas Monastery – a World Heritage Site celebrated for its exquisite 11th-century Byzantine mosaics. As one of Greece's most beautiful monasteries, it offers both spiritual and aesthetic allure. We conclude our day by travelling back towards Athens, arriving in the evening.

Today, we'll embark on an enlightening city tour of Athens, guided by a knowledgeable local expert. Our journey will take us to significant landmarks such as the Presidential Mansion and the historic Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games. We'll also visit the impressive National Library and explore the vibrant city centre squares. As we move through the city, we'll discover both the historic and contemporary neighbourhoods that emerged after the 2004 Olympic Games. Our tour will conclude at the iconic Acropolis, although entry is not included. In the evening, we'll provide a transfer to the historic Plaka district, known for its delightful Greek tavernas. Here, you'll have the opportunity to savour local cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich folklore of this captivating country.

On our fifth day, we venture into the Peloponnese with a quick stop at the remarkable Corinth Canal, an engineering feat of the late 19th century. Winding through the mountains, we arrive in Tripoli, the capital of the Arcadia region. Here, you’ll have the chance to explore Aeros Square, lively with its array of cafes and restaurants. Our journey then takes us to the historic site of Olympia, where a local guide will lead us through the vestiges of the first Olympic Games held in 776 B.C. You'll be fascinated by the Temple of Zeus, the Stadium, the Gymnasium, and the Arena. Following Olympia, we make our way to Patras, Greece’s third largest city, notable for its medieval fortress and Greece’s largest cathedral. Right next to the cathedral, you’ll find the small church of St. Andrew, a renowned pilgrimage site. We’ll conclude the day with an included dinner.

Following breakfast, we will cross the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, a striking feat of engineering that links the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. Our first destination is Nafpaktos, situated on the Gulf of Corinth. This charming town, once known as Lepanto, boasts a Venetian fortress that offers a glimpse into its significant history, notably the famous naval battle between Christian and Turkish forces where Cervantes lost his arm. You will have free time to wander around its scenic harbour and explore the delightful old town.

We continue our journey alongside the Gulf of Corinth, heading to Mycenae, an ancient citadel from the 18th century BC and a pivotal site in early European civilisation. Admission is included, allowing you time to delve into its fascinating history and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Our adventure then takes us to the Fortress of Acrocorinth. This prominent landmark, with remnants of the ancient Temple of Aphrodite at its peak, offers an intriguing slice of history, with entry tickets provided.

Finally, we'll make a brief stop at the impressive Corinth Canal before returning to Athens in the evening, wrapping up our day's explorations with the city lights before us.

Following breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with lasting memories of your adventure.