7 daysGreece
Explore the ancient Acropolis in Athens and indulge in an authentic cooking demonstration in Olympia, as a local chef prepares a feast from locally farmed produce. Replete with lashings of olive oil and Greek cheeses you’ll master tzatziki, cheese pies and zucchini balls, before experiencing Greece in all its glory. From the Temple of Athena and the Arch of Hadrian in Athens, the gargantuan pinnacles of Meteora near Kalambaka beckon. Guided by your Travel Director, you'll ascend the ancient rock formations of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit one of the historic monasteries at the top. Explore where the Olympic Games began in 776 BC at the Temple of Zeus and in the city of Mycenae, take in the giant Cyclopean stones before discovering traditional Greek pottery methods at the Mycenae Pottery Studio.
Venture back to a time when great philosophers roamed the halls of the Agora and gods vied for supremacy. Embark on an unforgettable exploration of ancient myths and legends in the vibrant capital of Athens. Upon arrival, your Local Host will meet you and escort you to your hotel, where you can settle in and relax or explore the City of Violet Crown. This evening, join your Travel Director for dinner, savouring local cuisine while getting to know your fellow travellers.
Begin your journey into ancient Greece today, where the history of this remarkable civilisation comes to life. Explore Athens with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the city's renowned ancient sites with a Local Expert, or venture into the dynamic Plaka neighbourhood, guided by your Travel Director. Next, venture to Thermopylae, the mountain pass where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their legendary stand against the Persians in 480 B.C. Pay tribute at the memorial honouring their courage before continuing to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning 'suspended in the air'. The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a science-fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a relaxed walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum.
Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You'll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,' rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts' expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner will be served at your hotel.
It's all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C., in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honour the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef who will share with you their passion for local ingredients and high-quality products with an entertaining and immersive cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek regional flavours, as you savour dishes prepared for your dinner.
Today you leave the town of Olympia and begin your journey back to the Greek capital. Stop for a visit at the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones, used to build the city walls. Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio known for its beautiful architecture, colourful shops and vibrant cafes. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet Maria and her daughter to learn about the ancient techniques of hand weaving. Your journey continues, following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal, dividing the Peloponnese and mainland Greece, before arriving in Athens. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style with good company.
This morning after breakfast, your Grecian odyssey comes to an end. Take a complimentary transfer to Athens Airport for your onward journey.
Athens, Greece
1 night
Located on the bustling artery of Syngrou Avenue, within walking distance of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Centre and the Athenian Riviera. Designed to perfection, the rooms and suites, are outfitted with contemporary decor and plush bedding, spa inspired bathrooms and modern workspaces.
Hotel Pool, Foreign Currency Exchange, Gym, Spa, Bar, Restaurant
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, Mini fridge, TV, Wi-Fi
Athens, Greece
1 night
Divani Palace Acropolis is an iconic hotel showcasing the best of Athens. Just meters away from the world-famous Acropolis, this is the perfect place to savor Athens fascinating history.
Hotel Pool, Bar, Restaurant, Gym, Concierge
Room Air Conditioning, Mini fridge, Telephone, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Athens, Greece
Offering an entirely new approach to young interior design, energetic hospitality, and seductive customer-centered services, NEW Hotel in Athens city is the first ever hotel project of the award winning designer duo Fernando and Humberto Campana.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Business Centre, Concierge, Room Service, Laundry, Gym, Spa, Safe deposit box, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Mini Bar, Bathrobes and Slippers, Hairdryer, Turndown Service, Safe, Telephone, TV
Meteora, Greece
2 nights
Surrounded by the majestic, towering rocks known as Meteora, in the charming village of Kalambaka.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Concierge, Foreign Currency Exchange, 24-hour Front Desk, Room Service, Gym, Pool, Spa
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Archaeological Site of Olympia, Greece
2 nights
This is a unique place that combines the energy, the space, the serenity of Ancient Olympia, set in a green landscape filled with olive trees. From every corner of the white marbled spacious lobby, guests enjoy the endless green scenery along with the open air terrace of the lounge café.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Business Centre, Laundry, Concierge, Pool, Room Service, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Olympia, Greece
Set on Drouva Hill above Ancient Olympia, this family-owned hotel offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by gardens and open countryside. An outdoor pool and terrace overlook the Alfeios Valley, while the relaxed atmosphere and proximity to Olympia’s archaeological treasures make it a fitting base for your time in the Peloponnese.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Pool, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Lively Trikala Town and Dinner
Paid on tour
Per person, twin share
