Grand Tour in Greece

Grand Tour in Greece

heart_plus
tourhub | Destination Services Greece | Grand Tour in Greece | 352573
37 Views
10 Days From

$2063

Grand Tour in Greece

10 Days Starting and ending in Athens

Visiting: Athens, Delphi, Kalabaka, Thessaloniki

Tour code:

352573

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

Min age:18

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural

From: $2063

NB: Prices correct on 30-Jun-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Join our 10-day tour and travel to the heart of Greece, the land of Gods. Discover the legends of the Greek mythology by visiting the Acropolis and feel the harmony between material and spirit in the magical Parthenon. Coastal driver along the Corinth Canal will take you to the cradle of the Olympic Games, Olympia, and magnificent sanctuary of Delphi will unveil you the secret techniques of ancient prophesy. Admire the beautiful landscape that surrounds Meteora Monasteries in Kalambaka and once in Thessaloniki, get in to the vibrant life of this bustling city and enjoy its beauty as a local, savouring the local gastronomy and surrounded sites to Edessa, Vergina and Naoussa. This trip will fill all your senses and will leave great memories for the lifetime.  

Highlights

  • Parthenon: dedicated by the Athenians to goddess Athena Parthenos, the patron of the city, is the most magnificent creation of Athenian democracy at the height of its powerOmphalos of Delphi: oracle which consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world

  • The Greeks considered Delphi the naval (or centre) of the world, as represented by the stone monument known as the Omphalos of DelphiKalambaka: picturesque town, home to a Meteora monasteries, a spiritual, mystical, magical, breath-taking and extraordinary experience, listed in the UNESCO World Heritage

  • Only 6 of them have made it through the centuries, from an initial estimated number of 24Edessa: romantic town, surrounded by the charming little bridges, running water and magnificent waterfalls that will accompany your loving walks around this place

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Arrival Athens

Location: Athens

Upon your arrival at Athens airport or Piraeus port (please advise your flight details or ferry details, in order to arrange the pick-up), meet and greet, and transfer to your hotel for check in. The afternoon is free at leisure for exploring this never sleeping city. 


Overnight in Athens.



Day 2 : Athens

Location: Athens

Luscious breakfast at your hotel is followed by the exciting Athens city tour which gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Our expert guide will take you to see Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held (shortstop), the Prime Minister's residence guarded by the Euzones in their colorful uniform, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma). On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally the monument that "puts the order in the mind", magnificent Parthenon. The tour ends with a visit to the new Acropolis museum. Return to your hotel in Athens. The rest of the day is free for leisure. Optionally, you can book a half-day excursion to Cape Sounio (not included, optional extra).

Cape Sounio excursion

This unique tour will take you through the coastal road, passing the wonderful beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni & Varkiza to Cape Sounio, where the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand. After visiting the Temple of Poseidon, you have time to walk at leisure on the rocky promontory of Sounio.

(Includes roundtrip shared transportation from/to hotel, shared professional English-speaking guide, entrance fee to Cape Sounio).

End time: 19:30

Overnight in Athens

Day 3 : Athens – Corinth Canal-Epidarus –Nafplio-Mycenae-Olympia (395 Km – 5.45 Hrs)

After the delightful breakfast at the hotel, depart today by the coastal road to the impressive Corinth Canal where you will have a short photo stop. Continue the drive on and visit the Theatre of Epidaurus famous for its remarkable acoustics. Then proceed to the Town of Nauplion (short stop) drive on to Mycenae and visit the Archaeological Site and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Then depart for Olympia through Central Peloponnese passing by the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Arrive at Olympia, cradle of the ancient Olympic Games and after the check-in enjoy a dinner at the hotel.


Overnight in Olympia.



Day 4 : Olympia – Delphi (215 Km – 3.15 Hrs)

Location: Delphi

Breakfast at your hotel. In the morning visit the archaeological site with the sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium and the archaeological museum. After drive on through the plains of Ilia and Achaia until the magnificent bridge which is crossing the Corinthian Bay from Rion to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque Towns of Nafpactos (Lepanto) and Itea, and once in Delphi, check-in to your hotel. Dinner serves at the hotel.


Overnight in Delphi.



Day 5 : Delphi – Kalambaka (235 Km – 3.15 Hrs)

Location: Kalabaka

Wake up to tasty breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your morning visit of the archaeological site and the museum of Delphi. Depart for Kalambaka, a small town situated at the foot of the astonishing complex of the Meteora, those gigantic rocks that rise steep from the plain of Thessaly. Arrive to Kalambaka, check-in and wrap up the day with a dinner at the hotel.


Overnight in Kalambaka.



Day 6 : Kalambaka – Thessaloniki (230 Km – 2.5 Hrs)

Location: Thessaloniki

Enjoy your breakfast at your hotel and get ready for one of the most exciting sites, Meteora, perched on top of huge rocks, which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine art. Afterward, depart from Kalambaka, drive through the striking plain of Thessaly and the Valley of Tempi, and admire the gigantic figure of Mount Olympos, the highest mountain in Greece, home to the 12 Gods in Greek Mythology. Arrival at Thessaloniki, the second largest and the most vibrant city in Greece, check-in to the hotel and dinner.


Overnight in Thessaloniki.



Day 7 : Thessaloniki

After breakfast, in the morning visit the city that throughout the era of the Byzantine Empire was the “co-reigning” city, second in population and prestige after Constantinople. See unique sites like the White Tower, Roman Forum, Ottoman Market, St. Demetrius’ Church, and the Byzantine Walls. A short walking tour includes the ruins of the Palace and Arch of Galerius, and a visit to the famous Rotunda built as a temple and transformed into a church, with fine Early-Christian mosaics. The rest of the day is free, to enjoy time in the lively center of the city (dinner and overnight).

Overnight in Thessaloniki.

Day 8 : Thessaloniki – Edessa – Naoussa –Vergina – Veria –Thessaloniki (245 Km – 4Hrs)

After an energizing breakfast at the hotel, depart in the morning for a unique approach to historical Macedonia. First stop is at picturesque Edessa where you see the town's famous landmark, the Waterfalls. Then proceed to Naoussa, to visit the Aristotle's School, the picturesque site where the great philosopher taught ‘the doctrines of morals and politics' to Alexander the Great and the Macedonian youth. Afterward drive to Vergina (ancient Aigai), to live the experience of a visit to the unique Museum, created in the Great Tumulus covering the royal tombs of Macedonia. See the astonishing findings from the tomb of King Phillip II, Alexander's father, and feel the thrill of the greatest discovery of the 20th century. In only a few miles away is Veria (Biblical Beroea) to visit Saint Paul's Bema, and then stroll through the old Jewish neighbourhood and the colourful market area. A walk in a city where past is present and around. Return to Thessaloniki for dinner at your hotel.


Overnight in Thessaloniki.



Day 9 : Thessaloniki – Pella – Dion – Thermopyle – Athens (575 Km – 6.15 Hrs)

Location: Athens

Start your day with a tasty breakfast at the hotel, after which you drive to Pella, the capital of Alexander the Great. See the exquisite floor mosaics of the 4th century B.C. villas, in situ as well as in the new Museum. Further on continue to the Archaeological Park of Dion (sacred city of the Macedonians, at the foot of mountain Olympos) and afterward, you proceed driving south and through Thessaly, Lamia, Thermopylae (see the Leonidas' Monument) and Thebes, back to Athens, where you arrive in late afternoon. The rest of the day at leisure.


Overnight in Athens.



Day 10 : Departure Athens

Location: Athens

Delightful breakfast at the hotel are followed by a big farewell to Greece. At an indicated time you will be transferred to the Athens airport to take your flight to following destinations. 


What's Included

TOUR GUIDE:

  • Operated with English-speaking local guides in each city during sightseeing & excursion from day 2 to 9

ACCOMMODATION:

  • 9 night’s hotel accommodation

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

Day 1, 2 Athens:

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

Day 3 Olympia:

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Europa or similar 4*

Day 4 Delphi:

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*

Day 5 Kalambaka:

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Kalambaka or similar 4*

Day 6, 7, 8 Thessaloniki:

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mediterranean Palace or similar 4*

Day 9 Athens:

Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

MEALS:

  • 9 Breakfasts 
  • 6 Dinners (from day 3 to 8)

TRANSPORT:

  • Inbound/Outbound shared air-conditioned transfers from/to Athens Airport or Piareus Port
  • Shared transportation in an air-conditioning bus throughout the tour (from day 2 to 9)

ENTRANCE FEES & ACTIVITES:

  • All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Athens City tour (Day 2), Corinth Canal sightseeing tour, Theatre of Epidaurus, Mycenae Archaeological site (Day 3), Olympia sightseeing tour (Day 4), Delphi archaeological site and museum (Day 5), Meteora excursion (Day 6), Thessaloniki city tour (Day 7), Thessaloniki and surrounded sites sightseeing tour (Day 8), Pella, Dion and Thermopyle full-day trip (Day 9)

OTHER:

  • Meet & Greet 

What's Not Included

  • Domestic or International flights 
  • Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise)
  • Any visit not mentioned in the program
  • Porterage and gratuities  
  • Optional tours
  • Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program
  • Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any)
  • Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
  • Overnight city tax for the hotel overnights effective from January 1st 2018. Clients will have to pay the TAX on the spot at the hotels.
  • Climate Change Resilience Fee effective from December 12th 2023

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

  • Day 1: Please advise your flight details or ferry details, in order to arrange the pick-up.
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
  • Late check-out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.
  • In many hotels in Greece, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed.
  • 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:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*

Day 3 Olympia:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Europa or similar 4*

Day 4 Delphi:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*

Day 5 Kalambaka:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Kalambaka or similar 4*

Day 6, 7, 8 Thessaloniki:

  • Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mediterranean Palace or similar 4*

Day 9 Athens:

  • 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.

  • 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. 

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • 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.

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

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

Reviews of this operator

Indra  

Best Tpur Operator for Greece

06-Jul-2023

The best Tour Operator. The planning and timing by the agency was great. Accommodation was also good. The package was reasonable. Thanks to Destination Services Greece

Giovanni B.  

Great

27-Jul-2022

Very committed service with proper follow-up. Service provided as per their schedule with a hassle free journey... thanks to ITS tours and travels for providing services

Duran  

Excellent company

15-Jun-2022

Based on their very positive reviews, we booked with Destination Services Greece. I found the service and response of this travel agency to be excellent. Easily 5-stars. My emails were promptly responded to, and everyone showed up when they were supposed to.

1 Select your preferred date

Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Thursday

Sep 10, 2024 - Sep 19, 2024
$2063
Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Thursday

Sep 17, 2024 - Sep 26, 2024
$2063
Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Thursday

Sep 24, 2024 - Oct 03, 2024
$2063
Instant Booking Available

Saturday - Monday

May 03, 2025 - May 12, 2025
$2447
Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Thursday

May 20, 2025 - May 29, 2025
$2447
Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Thursday

Jun 10, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025
$2447
Instant Booking Available

Tuesday - Thursday

Jun 24, 2025 - Jul 03, 2025
$2447

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.

Similar Tours