Discover ancient history and classical architecture on this 8-day group tour of mainland Greece. Enjoy a guided tour of Athens, visit the legendary Acropolis, impressive Meteora and the Delphi Sanctuary. Discover the northern province of Macedonia, Greece's second city of Thessaloniki and Thermopylae, where the Spartan King Leonidas made his heroic last stand against the Persians.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Welcome to Athens!
Welcome to Greece! On arrival in Athens, you will be met and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is free to head out and explore the city, an incredible contrast of the ancient and the modern.
Overnight: Athens
Athens City Tour
Today we embark on a guided coach tour of Athens. We take in important highlights of the city including the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Zappeion and the Panathenaic Stadium, which is the only stadium in the world built entirely from marble. We also see the Greek Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Later we head to Athens' most iconic attraction - the legendary Acropolis. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel built atop a rock overlooking the city. As well as the amazing view, we take in the highlights of the site, including the Temple of Athena Nike, the Propylae and the most famous of all ancient Greek architecture, the Parthenon. We visit the Acropolis Museum and the afternoon is at leisure to wander the streets of the picturesque Plaka district.
Itinerary Alteration - please note:
The order of the Athens city tour and the excursions to Olympia, Delphi, and Meteora may vary from the outlined itinerary, depending on the departure date.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
The Delphi Sanctuary
Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka. Leaving Athens, we head north towards Delphi, which was once one of the world's most sacred sites and an important pilgrimage destination. We admire the UNESCO-listed Sanctuary of Apollo and follow the footsteps of ancient Greeks on the Sacred Way. Admire the remains of the Temple of Apollo, home of the legendary Pythian Oracle.
We then explore the local museum, which is home to the famous bronze statue of the Charioteer. After our visit, we cross the mountains of Central Greece to Kalambaka.
Overnight: Kalambaka | Breakfast, Dinner
Meteora & Thessaloniki
Kalambaka - Meteora - Thessaloniki. Today we visit Meteora, where tiny sacred monasteries perch atop incredible towering rock formations. Meteora is considered one of the most beautiful regions in the whole of Greece and the view from the cliffs is breathtaking.
After our visit to Meteora, we continue our drive north. Pass through the striking plain of Thessaly and the Valley of Tempi. Our drive leads under mighty Mount Olympos, home of the twelve Gods in Greek mythology. We arrive in the northern city of Thessaloniki for the night.
Overnight: Thessaloniki | Breakfast, Dinner
Exploring Thessaloniki
We spend this morning exploring Thessaloniki, taking in it's most important landmarks and monuments, embracing the glorious Byzantine history of the city. See beautifully decorated churches and visit the Museum of Byzantine Culture. After our tour, the afternoon is at leisure.
Overnight: Thessaloniki | Breakfast, Dinner
Historical Macedonia
Today we explore the Greek province of Macedonia, not to be confused with the country of North Macedonia which is located just across the border. Our first stop is Edessa, where we marvel at the city's picturesque waterfalls. We then visit Aristotle's School, where a young Alexander the Great was taught the doctrines of morals and politics by the famed philosopher.
We also take in the Royal Tombs of Macedonia at Vergina. The father of Alexander the Great, King Phillip II is buried here. The final stop of today is Veria, home to the ancient Bema of St Paul. We also browse the colorful market and take in the Jewish neighborhood before returning to Thessaloniki.
Overnight: Thessaloniki | Breakfast, Dinner
Pella, Dion & Thermopylae
Thessaloniki - Athens. Today we begin our journey back to the Greek capital. On the way, we stop at the ancient city of Pella, which was once the capital of Macedonia, and the birthplace of Alexander the Great. Admire the exquisite floor mosaics of the site and explore the new local museum.
We then take in the famous archaeological park of Dion, an ancient Macedonian sanctuary at the foot of Mount Olympus. Our final stop of the day is Thermopylae, where the Spartan King Leonidas made his heroic final stand against the Persians in 480BC. On arrival in Athens, your final night in Greece is at leisure.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Athens
Today marks the end of our Greek adventure. Enjoy a final breakfast in the hotel before check out. An airport transfer will be provided.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin Share' prices are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single Room' prices are applicable to those who don’t have anyone to share a room with or anyone wanting the privacy of a single room.
Hotels
In Greece a variety of hotels are used in various locations. The ones listed are examples of some commonly used hotels. We reserve the right to substitute these for ones of a similar standard when necessary.
Polis Grand, Athens
In the heart of Athens, the Polis Grand is a contemporary hotel with excellent facilities. Guest rooms are well appointed with elegant furniture and all modern conveniences. Some rooms are equipped with a balcony with fantastic views over to the Acropolis. The hotel benefits from a number of eateries which serve up an array of Greek and international cuisine as well as tasty coffee and delicious pies. Definitely head for a cocktail in the evening at the roof garden bar for amazing views across the city.
Titania Hotel, Athens
Nestled in the historic centre of Athens, the Titiana offers beautiful accommodation all classically designed. The ensuite guest rooms are furnished to a high standard with neutral tones and wooden flooring. Breakfast is served in the impressive rooftop Olive Garden restaurant which affords amazing views across the city including the Acropolis. The hote offers complimentary Wi-Fi and a fitness centre.
The Golden Age Hotel of Athens, Athens
The Golden Age Hotel of Athens is a 4 star hotel, located close to the Kolonaki District. A 5 minute walk from the Megaro Mousikis Metro Station, the urban chic property is 2 stops away from the centre of Athens. Each guest room is soundproofed, air conditioned and feature an ensuite bathroom and blackout drapes. Be sure to try the hotel's daily American buffet breakfast, that includes traditional Greek options. There are two restaurants onsite that serve gourmet Meditteranean cuisine.
Hotel Amalia , Kalambaka
Hotel Amalia is embedded on 14 acres of beautiful greenery. Built from traditional materials to match its surrounds, the hotel features extensive gardens, a large swimming pool and distant views of the Meteora Rocks. Guestrooms are spacious and fully equipped with the latest facilities. In the dining area, a rich American buffet breakfast is served with both local and international cuisine available for lunch and dinner. Relax by the fireplace in the hotel’s cosy lounge bar and listen to piano music as you sip a cocktail.
Hotel Divani Meteora , Kalambaka
Offering the chance to enjoy traditional Greek hospitality within a contemporary setting is the Hotel Divani Meteora. Surrounded by natural beauty, the hotel is set in front of the World Heritage-listed Meteora sandstone monasteries. The fully renovated hotel has a welcoming decor, with warm shades and a luxury wooden floor. A tranquil restaurant offers delicious Mediterranean cuisine and there is an outdoor and indoor pool. You can also unwind after a day of exploring in the sauna steam bath or bubbling Jacuzzi.
Hotel Mediterranean Palace , Thessaloniki
With astonishing views over the Thermaikos Gulf, Mediterranean Palace offers five-star accommodation within the heart of Thessaloniki. The attractive lobby was inspired by the city's aristocratic atmosphere in the 1930s. Guestrooms have warm, relaxing colours in line with the hotel’s classic decor, with some overlooking the city’s vibrant port. You can enjoy fine Greek and international cuisine in the Diplomatico Restaurant or relax at The Hours Bar and sip from a glass of fine wine.
At a Glance
