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Much like the delicious baklava, modern-day Greece is layered with history so rich and complex that the only way to do it justice is to see it for yourself. Explore the country with a knowledgeable local leader from Athens to Delphi and Olympia. Learn how the hanging monasteries of Meteora protected modern Hellenic culture from invading Turks, then trace a path through the ruins in Delphi. Visit the site of the world’s first Olympics, stop in at the quiet seaside villages of Nafplion and discover the secrets behind Greek honey and ouzo on a whirlwind adventure from ancient sites to local homes.

Itinerary

Day 1: Athens

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Your journey begins in Athens, Greece’s storied capital. You’ll be collected from the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Then, you’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to do and see, as you’re in one of the world’s oldest cities! Maybe visit the Archaeological Museum of Athens to brush up on some history or go in search of the best souvlaki. After your meeting, head out for dinner with your group at one of Athens’ local restaurants and maybe toast the beginning of the adventure with a glass of raki or ouzo.

Day 2: Athens / Kalambaka

Today, you’ll get to know ancient Athens during visits to two of the city’s most famous sites. Your leader will bring history to life as you visit Temple of Olympian Zeus – the largest temple in all of Greece. Then, it’s on to the famous Acropolis – one of the Western world’s most important historical structures. Meet with an expert local guide who will provide profound insight into the history and legacy of the civilisations who lived in this ancient citadel. Start with an ascent to the top via the towering entrance, the Propylaia. When inside, you’ll see the Parthenon – the greatest Doric temple in the ancient world. Later in the afternoon, drive north to the town of Kalambaka, which sits at the base of the Meteora Mountains. This evening, you can choose to have dinner at the hotel or perhaps take a short walk into town and dine at one of the local tavernas.

Day 3: Meteora / Kalambaka

After breakfast, travel into the hills for a walk through the incredible monasteries of Meteora. The ancient stone buildings, which sit precariously on soaring cliffs, make these mountains one of Greece’s most extraordinary natural and cultural sites. Settlement of the area dates back to the 11th century, when hermit monks first settled in the hidden caverns of Meteora. Begin your hike at the nearby Kastraki village, see the ruins of the Pantokrator monastery, cross a lush forest and walk through the huge rocks of Meteora with your leader by your side to guide you and answer questions on the landscape and the history behind it. You’ll have the opportunity to visit several the monasteries, one of which will be the Moni Varlaam (Varlaam Monastery). You’ll then return to Kalambaka in the afternoon.

Day 4: Delphi / Itea

Have breakfast before travelling to Delphi this morning. When you arrive, visit the Sanctuary of Apollo in Ancient Delphi, home to the Delphi Oracle. Legend has it that Zeus released two eagles from different ends of the world, and Delphi was where they came together. Zeus then threw a Sacred Stone at this same point, making Delphi the centre of the world. Walk through the complex and explore the Temple of Apollo – the most important building of the site. This is where statues and offerings to the gods were housed, and where cult rituals took place. You’ll also see the Sanctuary of Athena, the 4th-century BC theatre and the well-preserved stadium. There will also be time to visit the Delphi Museum if you wish. Continue to your overnight stop in the small coastal town of Itea.

Day 5: Itea / Olympia / Dimitsana

This morning, visit a family of local beekeepers to learn about honey production, see the beehives and of course taste some of the delicious local honey. Next, drive on to the archaeological site of ancient Olympia. Stop at the village of Galaxidi or Nafpaktos along the way for a visit to a traditional family-owned bakery offering stuffed pastries and famous sesame round bread. Olympia is a complex that once comprised temples and public buildings and was the site of the first Olympic Games. When you arrive, tour leader will show you the main stadium, gymnasium, wrestling school, priest houses, Temple of Hera, Temple of Zeus and the hippodrome. Continue to the medieval village of Dimitsana – home to your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights. Sitting at the base of the Arcadian mountains is the romantic stone guesthouse of En Dimitsani. Traditionally decorated rooms feature modern comforts, cosy fireplaces and panoramic balconies.

Day 6: Central Arcadia / Dimitsana

Today, join your leader for an exploration of the central part of the Peloponnese peninsula and the spectacular Lousios Valley. Walk deep into the valley to the incredible working monastery of Prodromos. This wood and clay structure has stellar views over the valley below and was built into a rock face. Get a look into the lives of the local monks as they show you around their home and offer you a coffee or the local specialty, the Greek delight. See the splendid 14th-century frescoes decorating the rock walls inside the chapel. Then, visit the tenth-century Byzantine monastery of Philosophou. Learn how this monastery was the base for a secret school known as ‘Kryfo Scholio’, which was run by monks during Ottoman rule to teach Greek children their own language and religion. Later, visit the medieval villages of Stemnitsa, Karitena or Andritsena. Return to Dimitsana for the night.

Day 7: Nafplion / Epidaurus / Athens

This morning, drive to the seaside town of Nafplion (Nafplio) – the original Greek capital. Stop in for a tasting of Greece’s most celebrated drink – ouzo. A taste of this anise-infused alcohol will take you straight to the heart of Greek culture. Chat to the experts and learn how Greece’s national drink is made, then take some time to explore Nafplion at your own pace. Maybe head to one of the town’s three fortresses, or the seaside promenade. Later, continue to ancient Epidaurus (Epidavros) – the most famous healing centre of the Greek and Roman world. The highlight of Epidaurus is the third-century theatre, one of Greece’s best-preserved classical structures. The theatre has incredible acoustics and is still used today for major performances. Later, return to Athens for a free afternoon.

Day 8: Athens

Your journey comes to an end in Athens after breakfast. If you’d like to extend your stay, just speak to your booking agent ahead or time to organise additional accommodation.

Departure Dates