Day 1 – Athens, Greece

Arrive in Athens, cradle of Democracy and capital city of Greece. Spend the day as you wish, exploring the city independently. This evening, celebrate the beginning of your Greek experience with a delightful welcome dinner.

Day 2 – Athens

Enjoy a panoramic tour of the highlights in Athens showcasing the city’s ancient and glorious monuments, such as the Temple of Zeus, the Parliament, and the Olympic Stadium. Next, ascend the steep hill of the Acropolis. Greek for “highest city,” the Acropolis was the religious center of ancient Athens and is crowned by the Parthenon, considered the pinnacle of classical Greek architecture. This evening, perhaps you’ll choose to join an optional local food tour of Athens.

Day 3 – Athens – Thermopylae – Kalambaka

Travel north through central Greece to Thermopylae. Stop to see a monument dedicated to Leonidas who died defending Greece against the Persians. End your day at a family-owned taverna and savor a delicious meal with recipes passed down from generations.

Day 4 – Kalambaka – Metéora – Arachova

This morning, visit Metéora and enjoy guided tours of two remote monasteries situated in a unique landscape of limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air. Over 600 years ago, Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community perched atop these virtually inaccessible rocks. Continue on to charming Arachova, a popular ski resort town with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Day 5 – Arachova – Delphi – Olympia

This morning, explore the ancient city of Delphi, one of Greece’s most significant religious centers during Classical times. A local expert leads you through the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Doric Temple, the ancient theatre, and the Delphi Museum, home to an extraordinary collection of artifacts. It was here that the famed Oracle once offered prophecies that shaped the course of history. Continue your journey along the Gulf of Corinth and cross into the Peloponnese, arriving in the historic city of Olympia, a lasting symbol of ancient Greek achievement. This evening, broaden your knowledge of traditional Greek musical instruments and folkloric dances during a delightful Greek dance class.

Day 6 – Olympia

Begin your day with a guided visit to ancient Olympia, including the sanctuary of Zeus, the Olympic Stadium – site of the first Olympic Games in 776 B.C. – and the museum. Next, visit a local farm in the countryside and meet the owners to gain insight into everyday rural life. Following your tour, enjoy a lunchtime tasting of local wines, olive oil, homemade jams, marmalades, and traditional sweets. Later, learn to prepare some of the region’s finest dishes as you take part in a Mediterranean cooking experience, followed by a traditional Greek dinner.

Day 7 – Olympia – Tolo

Enjoy spectacular scenery as you cross the Arkadian Mountains en route to the picturesque seaside hotel in Tolo. En route, stop at a family-owned ouzo distillery producing Greece’s signature anise-flavored aperitif since 1869.

Day 8 – Tolo – Nafplio – Tolo

Today, it’s your choice! Journey to ancient Mycenae, once ruled by mythological King Agamemnon, commander-in-chief of the Greeks during the Trojan War. Explore the excavations during a guided visit featuring the Beehive Tombs and the Lion Gate -OR- linger in Nafplio and join a walking tour of Greece’s first capital city. Nafplio’s mix of Venetian and Neo-classical architectural influences make it Greece’s most elegant city.

Day 9 – Tolo – Piraeus Port – Aegina Island – Athens

This morning, make your way to Piraeus Port in Athens, getting a view of the Corinth Canal along the way. Then, board a quick hour long ferry to Aegina Island. One of the Saronic Islands, Aegina is inhabited year-round, offering a glimpse into Greek island life. Spend your afternoon on this island, famed for its pistachios and fresh seafood, however you wish. Perhaps you’ll soak up Aegina Town with its shops and local markets, or venture a little farther on your own by taxi to nearby archaeological sites. Gather with your fellow travelers to celebrate the end of a memorable trip over a farewell lunch before returning to Athens by ferry.

Day 10 – Athens – Tour Ends

Your tour ends today.