Ancient Wonders of Greece

Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be warmly greeted and chauffeured to your deluxe hotel, ideally situated in the heart of this ancient city. The rest of this day is yours to settle in and simply relax—or to begin exploring at your own pace.  

With a rich history spanning over 7,000 years, Athens is a lively contemporary capital that boasts some of the worlds most renowned ancient landmarks. This morning, you’ll embark on a journey through time with your private guide and chauffeured vehicle, discovering both the modern and historic aspects of the city. Highlights include the Parliament building, the National Library, and the Pan-Athenian Stadium, as well as the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch. Youll then make your way up to the legendary Acropolis #WHS# at the heart of Athens, where youll marvel at iconic structures like the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, famous for its Caryatids—statues of six maidens. Afterward, visit the New Acropolis Museum, home to an impressive array of sculptures and relics that once graced the ancient citadel. The rest of your afternoon and evening are at your leisure to explore Athens at your own pace.   If you’d like to extend your stay in Athens, we can arrange additional nights along with a variety of excursions to further immerse you in the region’s history and culture. Meals B  

Begin your journey in the comfort of a chauffeured vehicle, departing from your hotel and traveling into the heart of Central Greece, one of the country’s most mountainous regions. En route, youll pass through historic Thebes and Levadia, before arriving at the picturesque mountain town of Arachova. Known for its charming, traditional character and stone houses, Arachova is a popular stop for its quaint atmosphere and spectacular views. Enjoy a short break here to soak in its beauty.   Continuing on, youll arrive at Delphi #WHS#, one of Greece’s most revered ancient sites. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi was once considered the center of the ancient world, famed for its oracle and spiritual significance. Your guided exploration will take you along the Sacred Way, lined with the remains of ancient treasuries and arcades, leading to the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle once prophesied. Youll also visit the ancient stadium, where the Pythian Games were held, and the gymnasium, integral to the site’s cultural history.   A visit to the Delphi Archaeological Museum follows, where you’ll see remarkable artifacts unearthed from the site, including the exquisite Kouroi statues and the iconic bronze Charioteer of Delphi. After your exploration, enjoy a four-course lunch at a local restaurant and then continue to Kalambaka where you will check in to your deluxe hotel.  Meal B+L  

After breakfast and checkout, continue your northward journey in the comfort of your own chauffeured vehicle. Your destination is Meteora #WHS#, site of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring architectural assemblages. Here in a region of  seemingly inaccessible sandstone peaks, medieval monks settled upon these towering pinnacles from the 11th century onwards. In the 1400’s, overcoming enormous logistical and engineering challenges, twenty four monasteries were built atop these “columns in the sky.”   Seemingly suspended in the air, only six of the original twenty four ancient monasteries remain. These include Megalou Meteoru, established in 1340 atop one of the highest pinnacles; Varlaam, famed for its wondrous murals; Roussanou, built in 1529 on top of the ruins of an even older construction; and Agios Stefanos, built in 1350 with an imposing Holy Altar that now houses important Byzantine artifacts. This morning, you’ll join your personal guide to explore two of these amazing monasteries. Continue onward to Olympia for an overnight stay at our comfortable hotel.  Meals B  

Located in a tranquil valley in the Peloponnese and inhabited since prehistoric times, Olympia emerged in the 10th century BC as a center for Zeus worship. By 776 BC, it hosted the first Olympic Games, a tradition that lasted nearly 1,000 years. With your engaging private guide, you’ll explore impressive ruins spanning from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine Era, including the Temple of Zeus that once housed a colossal statue of the Greek God—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.   Visit the ancient stadium, where athletes competed in footraces and other events, walking through the same entrance used millennia ago. The Temple of Hera, where the Olympic flame is still lit today, is also a highlight. Conclude at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia, which displays key artifacts, including the famous Hermes of Praxiteles statue and relics from the Games. Following this deep dive into ancient Greek religion, athletics, and the legacy of the Olympic tradition, you’ll continue to Nafplio for a 2-night stay.  Meals B

Nafplio, the first capital of modern Greece from 1823 to 1834, is a city rich in history and culture, with roots extending back to ancient Greek and Roman times. Its strategic location made it a coveted prize for centuries, leaving the city marked by Frankish, Venetian, and Turkish influences. With your guide, explore its diverse past as you visit key landmarks.   First, ascend to the Palamidi Fortress, an impressive Venetian stronghold built in the 18th century. From its towering ramparts, enjoy sweeping views of Nafplio and the Argolic Gulf. Then, head to the waterfront and take a boat ride to Bourtzi, a small Venetian castle situated on an island just offshore. Originally built to protect the harbor, Bourtzi offers insight into Nafplio’s defensive history.   As you walk through Nafplio’s charming streets, you’ll encounter a blend of architectural styles, from neoclassical buildings to Ottoman influences, illustrating the city’s complex past. This guided tour reveals Nafplio’s unique role in Greek history and its enduring cultural significance.  Meals B  

Explore the ancient city of Mycenae #WHS#, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites, with roots stretching back to the second millennium BC. This UNESCO World Heritage site was the heart of the powerful Mycenaean civilization, which played a crucial role in shaping Greek culture and history. Your guide will lead you through the ruins, beginning with the iconic Lionesses Gate, a monumental entrance adorned with two imposing lioness sculptures, symbolizing the strength and power of Mycenae. At the royal tombs of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra, you’ll learn about these key figures in the Trojan War as described in Homer’s Iliad. With their unique beehive shape, they offer insight into ancient burial practices and the Mycenaean elite.   Before leaving the Mycenae archaeological site, you’ll also explore the remnants of the Palace of Mycenae. As you walk through its ruins with your engaging guide, it’s easy to picture the grandeur of its once-lavish rooms and courtyards. The ancient center of Mycenaean administration, religion, and culture, its ruins offer a glimpse into the sophisticated life of one of ancient Greece’s most influential civilizations.   Then visit Domaine Skouras, a venerable winery set amidst scenic vineyards against a mountain backdrop. Enjoy a tour of the estate including lunch and a tasting of their fine red and white wines. Return to Athens and check in to your conveniently located airport hotel.  Meals B+L  

After breakfast and check out, you can head to the nearby terminal to check in for your homeward flight.  Meals B