Classical Tour of Greece

June 2023 – Cost, $3800 – 7 Night Tour

DAY 1 

Arrive in Athens, the classical capital of Greece; transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure to discover the ancient wonders of this city known as the cradle of Western Civilization and the birthplace of democracy. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Director at approximately 7 PM, followed by a welcome dinner. 
Overnight: Athens – Piraeus

Meals: Dinner

DAY 2 

Athens City Tour

The exploration of Athens begins with a panoramic drive through the city center. View the Panathenian Stadium and the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch, built to celebrate the arrival of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Continue on to visit the Acropolis, the ancient architectural masterpiece built during the Golden Age of Athens and the new Acropolis Museum, a striking modern building built at the base of the monument where many of the original statues from the Acropolis are now displayed. The rest of the day is at leisure. Be sure to walk to Constitution Square, where you might catch a glimpse of the colorfully-costumed Evzone guards, outfitted in the traditional Greek style. Tonight, perhaps walk through the lively Plaka area, the oldest section of Athens, a neighborhood of charming restaurants, shops and sidewalk cafes
Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 3

Archaeological Tour of Delphi, Travel to Kalambaka

Tour the excavated site of Delphi and the archaeological Museum, perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Considered one of the most significant places in Greek history, its stunning setting and ancient ruins are truly inspirational.

Walk the Sacred Way to the imposing 4th century B.C. Temple of Apollo, site of the most important oracle in the classical world. Then travel over the Pourmaraki Pass towards the small town of Kalambaka, situated amidst smooth sandstone cliffs in the foothills of Meteora where we’ll have dinner.
Overnight: Kalambaka
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 4

Meteora Monasteries, Kalambaka Mushroom Museum

Visit Meteora, meaning “suspended in the air”, and tour 3 out of 6 mystical Eastern Orthodox monasteries incredibly nestled perilously close to the edge of bizarre rock formations. Experience visit the local mushroom museum for a truffle tour to search for the famed fungus and see how specially trained dogs find them in the forest! After a lunch of pasta with truffles to learn about the rich history of the industry in Greece. Afterward, proceed to a nearby winery to see how the locals make their wine in this mountainous region.

Continue to Thessaloniki for dinner and overnight

Overnight: Thessaloniki
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5

 Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, capital of Macedonia and second largest city in Greece. Transfer to your hotel and spend the balance of the day at leisure to rest, or explore on your own. 
Overnight: Thessaloniki
Meals: Dinner

DAY 6

Discover Thessaloniki, Walking Food Tour

Embark on a walking food tour, where you discover Thessaloniki’s distinct local flavors and historical landmarks. Learn about the regional cuisine and sample Greek meze dishes and freshly baked goods. Visit the open-air market, with its charming paved alleys, stalls filled with fresh produce, fish, meat, spices, dairy products, and many local specialties. After lunch at a taverna, spend free time at Aristotelous Square. In the evening, take a boat tour around the Thermaikos Gulf and admire views of Thessaloniki and the beautiful coastline. Afterwards, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant with your fellow travelers
Continue to the town of Kalambaka, nestled at the base of inspirational Meteora for dinner at a local restaurant
Overnight: Kalambaka
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 7

Tour the Olympia Archaeological Site

Morning visit to the archaeological site of Olympia, including the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, and the ancient stadium where the Olympic Games were first held in 776 B.C. Visit a local store, where you will have a chance to taste local olive oil and spices. Then, drive north through the plains of Eliad and Achaia, crossing the Corinth Strait via a cabled bridge from Rion to Antirion. Return to Nafpaktos for overnight at your hotel.
Overnight: Nafpaktos
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 8

Arrive in Athens – Transfer to Airport.