Classical Greece

8 Days Starting and ending in Athens

Visiting: Athens, Olympia, Delphi, Greece, Kalambaka Greece

Tour code:

100231

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

18-

Tour operated in:

English , French

Interests:

Cultural

From: $1349

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Discover the famous historical monuments of mainland Greece! With this eight-day tour, you will get to visit some of the country’s most interesting sites, such as the Acropolis, the birthplace of the Ancient Olympics, the archaeological site of Delphi, the Temple of Apollo and the UNESCO-listed World Heritage rock-tower monasteries of Meteora.

Highlights

  • Epidaurus: Epidaurus is one of the world’s 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

  • Olympia: Birthday of the Olympic Games

  • 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-listed World Heritage Site

  • Meteora: In a region of almost inaccessible sandstone peaks, monks settled on these 'columns of the sky' from the 11th century onwards

  • Meteora is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List

  • Athens: Explore the Capital of Greece on your own, with plenty of time for shopping

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival Athens

Location: Athens


On your arrival at Athens airport, you will be greeted and taken to your Athens hotel in the comfort of an air-conditioned luxury car or bus. Athens has an array of amazing hotels, and this package offers the cream of the crop. Once you’re settled, you can spend the rest of the day at leisure, either by heading out to explore the streets of Athens at your own rhythm or by making the most of the services available at the hotel. In the evening, you have the opportunity to book an optional night tour of the city (not included). 

Night out in Athens (English-speaking guide, Thursdays and Saturdays only): The evening begins with a panoramic drive around the centre, allowing you to witness this historical city after dark. Continue up the slopes of the sacred Acropolis Hill, where you will be able to admire and take photographs of the illuminated Acropolis. The tour continues with a pleasant walk through the narrow street of Plaka, the old city, arriving at a typical Greek tavern for dinner. Your dinner tonight will be accompanied by live music and dancers in traditional costumes who will entertain you with a selection of Greek folk dances.

Overnight in Athens.

Day 2 : Athens And Acropolis

Location: Athens


In the morning, have breakfast and then embark on a sightseeing tour of the ancient city. Along with your expert guide, go see the city centre, Constitution Square (Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier and the National Library. On your way to the Acropolis you will pass Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Make a short stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Then, at the Acropolis, visit the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and the famous Parthenon. Your first taste of Athens would not be complete without a visit to the Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural building where, at last, the statues have found their home. After the tour, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or you can book an optional tour (not included).

Half-day Cape Sounio Excursion: Drive along the coastal road, passing the wonderful beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni & Varkiza to the most Southern point of Attica, Cape Sounion, where the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand. On the way, you have a splendid view of the Saronic Gulf and the little islands offshore. After visiting the Temple of Poseidon, you have time to walk at leisure on the rocky promontory of Sounion.

Overnight in Athens.

Day 3 : Athens – Canal Of Corinth – Epidaurus –Nafplion - Mycenae – Olympia (385 Km – 9 Hrs)

Location: Olympia


After breakfast in the hotel, leave Athens by the coastal road to the Corinth Canal, where you will make a short stop to contemplate the views. Then drive on and visit the splendid Theatre of Epidauros, famous for its remarkable acoustics. After that, proceed to the town of Nafplion, where you will enjoy a brief photo stop before continuing to Mycenae. Here you will visit the city’s fascinating Archaeological Site, as well as the Tomb of Agamemnon. Lastly, depart for Olympia by driving through the Central Peloponnese and the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Once you arrive in Olympia, the cradle of the Olympic Games, check-in at the hotel to spend the night. 


Overnight in Olympia.


Day 4 : Olympia - Delphi (330 Km – 8 Hrs)

Location: Delphi, Greece


Today breakfast in the hotel is followed by a visit to the Archaeological Site containing the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium and the Archaeological Museum. After that morning of history, monuments and enlightenment, it’s time to drive through the plains of Eliad and Achaia to the magnificent bridge crossing the Corinthian Bay from Rion to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque towns of Nafpactos (Lepanto) and Itea before you finally arrive in Delphi, a city once regarded as the centre of the world. According to mythology, Zeus sent out two eagles from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world, and it was in this location that they met. The sanctuary of Delphi is set within the most spectacular landscape. Check-in at the hotel and spend the night. 


Overnight in Delphi.


Day 5 : Delphi - Kalambaka (310 Km – 8 Hrs)

Location: Kalambaka, Greece


Wake up to breakfast in the hotel and then head out to explore the Archaeological Site and Museum of Delphi, where amongst other archaeological treasures you can contemplate the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos. After the visit, you will depart for Kalambaka, a small town located at the foot of the astonishing complex of Meteora, an almost alien landscape filled with gigantic rock formations. Check in to the hotel for the night. 

Overnight in Kalambaka.

Day 6 : Kalambaka - Athens (355 Km –9 Hrs)

Location: Athens


After breakfast in the hotel, explore the striking scenery of Meteora. Perched on top of enormous pillars of rock that seem almost suspended in mid-air, stand a series of ancient monasteries showcasing a wonderful collection of Byzantine art. You will ascend to two of the monasteries to marvel at their beautiful contents before beginning the drive back to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, and Thermopylae, where you’ll make a short stop to see Leonida's Monument. Arrive in Athens early in the evening and check in to the hotel.


Overnight in Athens.


Day 7 : Athens

Location: Athens


Charge your batteries after finally returning to Athens with breakfast in the hotel. Then you are free to enjoy a full day at leisure. Today you have the chance to book an optional one-day cruise to the islands of Hydra, Poros, and Aegina (not included).

Hydra, Poros and Aegina Islands Cruise (English-speaking guide): After a morning transfer by bus from Athens to the port, you’ll be welcomed onboard a luxurious cruise ship and invited to one of its spacious open decks. From the deck, you’ll have a great vantage point for enjoying views of the Greek coast. The first stop is the island of Poros, the smallest of the 3 islands you’ll visit on the tour. It’s separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow strait. Have ample time to explore the island and once you’re on board again you’ll be served a delicious lunch as the ship sail towards Hydra. Take in the stunning views as you enter the port of Hydra and see the cove that at one time served as a shelter for pirates. From the open decks, marvel at the dramatic landscapes of this island. There will be time for you to explore the narrow, stone-paved streets of the island on foot, or by saddled donkey, which is the traditional mode of transportation. If you choose to go by foot, you can walk along the old seaside promenade and perhaps stop at some of the small shops. When you return to the ship, you’ll find the tables set once again with more delicious food prepared by the ship’s superb chef. Along with your food enjoy charming Greek music on the way to Aegina, which is the largest of the 3 islands on the tour. Apart from its beautiful harbour, there are numerous interesting sites that you’ll have a chance to discover on your own. Enjoy a Greek folk show with singers and dancers in traditional costumes on the sail back to Athens.

Overnight in Athens.

Day 8 : Departure Athens

Location: Athens


Wake up to one last breakfast in the hotel before taking your transfer back to Athens airport, where you’ll catch your flight to your following destination. The time your transfer leaves depends on your flight departure.


What's Included

TOUR GUIDE: 

  • Operated with a qualified local English-speaking guide for the half-day Athens sightseeing tour and the 4 days roundtrip (day 3,4,5,6)
  • French-speaking guide available on Saturday departures only

ACCOMMODATION: 

  • 7 nights' accommodation

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Athens:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Jason Inn or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

Day 3 Olympia:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Village or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Europa or similar 4*

Day 4 Delphi:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Hermes or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*

Day 5 Kalambaka:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Orfeas or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Grand Meteora or similar 4*

Day 6-7 Athens:

Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Jason Inn or similar 3*

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

OPTIONAL EXTRA

Pre and post-night stay in Athens:

MEALS: 

  • 7 breakfasts
  • 3 dinners (Day 3, 4, 5)

TRANSPORT:

  • Shared air-conditioned transportation in a luxury vehicle for the half-day Athens sightseeing tour, and the four-day round trip. 
  • Inbound/Outbound transfers from/to Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport (Athens International Airport)

ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES: 

  • All entrance fees mentioned in the itinerary: Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, Delphi Site and the Museum, Olympia Site and the Museum, Epidaurus, Mycenae and two Monasteries of Meteora. 

OTHER: 

  • Meet & Greet on arrival at Eleftherios International Airport 

What's Not Included

  • Flight tickets or visa fees
  • Airport taxes for domestic and international flights
  • Gratuities for driver and guide
  • Optional tours
  • Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals if not stated explicitly in the programme
  • Climate Change Resilience Fee. Clients will have to pay the Fee on the spot at the hotels
  • Please note that the inbound/outbound airport transfers are included only as part of the package or if pre and post-night stay is booked as an extra. Otherwise, additional transfers should be purchased separately. 

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Greece. 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.



Please Note

  • Please note that local conditions prevalent at the time of travel may result in modifications to the tour contents without prior notice 
  • Hotel early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.
  • In many hotels in Greece, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed.
  • The distances and travel times described in the itinerary may vary. 
  • No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
  • The tour may be combined with other languages
  • Please note that the inbound airport Athens - City hotel transfers are included only as part of the package and if pre and post-night stay is booked as an extra. Otherwise additional transfers should be purchased separately.

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Athens:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Evita Asty or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

Day 3 Olympia:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Village or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Europa or similar 4*

Day 4 Delphi:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Hermes or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*

Day 5 Kalambaka:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Orfeas or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Grand Meteora or similar 4*

Day 6-7 Athens:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Evita Asty or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

OPTIONAL EXTRA

Pre and post-night stay in Athens:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Evita Asty or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4* 

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1-2 Athens:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Jason Inn or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

Day 3 Olympia:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Olympic Village or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Europa or similar 4*

Day 4 Delphi:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Hermes or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*

Day 5 Kalambaka:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Orfeas or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Grand Meteora or similar 4*

Day 6-7 Athens:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Jason Inn or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

OPTIONAL EXTRA

Pre and post-night stay in Athens:

  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Jason Inn or similar 3*
  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4* 

Check out our Q&As

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Ivana  

Amazing

07-Apr-2023

This adventure in Greece was AMAZING!! My friend and I decided at the last minute to book this journey. The local team is so professional, engaging and so knowledgable!! They went up and beyond to help us enjoy our time!! THANK YOU!

Johanne  

Great tour!

19-Jun-2023

Great tour, saw many of the highlights of Greece. Lots of walking Bus and tour guide were great.

Mehta  

Overall good to excellent

24-Jun-2023

Overall good to excellent. The guided tour of Athens and the 4 day classical tour was excellent with very comfortable travel arrangements, The hotel accommodation in Athens was bit basic, however the accommodation for the classical tour was excellent . We were especially impressed with Thomas, our tour guide for the the classical tour. Thomas and George (the coach driver) were friendly and very courteous, Thomas was remarkebly fluent in English, was very knowledgable and informative.

Delia  

Great staff

26-Jun-2023

The bus driver Dionysos SUPER and the guide Georges SUPER, SUPER!!!!

Vanessa  

Excellent itinerary

13-Apr-2023

Tour guides were excellent. The two day tour to central Greece was excellent however the choice of lunch stops was quite expensive with no other options available.

Elena S  

Enjoyable tour

21-Mar-2023

Overall enjoyed the tour - informative guides and spectacular destinations. 

Read all 6 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Greece requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 35 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services greece charges.

    Up to 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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