Classic Greece

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive Athens

Arrive in Athens at any time. As your fellow travellers are arriving at various times throughout the day, there are no planned activities so check into our hotel and enjoy the city.Athens is the capital of Greece, the city of the Olympic idea, and a city of culture, science and commerce. From the colourful markets, to the ancient monuments, to the hustle and bustle of Plateia Syntagmatos (Constitution Square), Athens is rich with history and an important influence on the development of Western civilization. Named after the goddess of wisdom Athena, Athens encircles eight hills within its borders. The most prominent of these, the Acropolis, stands as the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Athens is a growing city, engulfing its neighbouring suburbs all the way to Piraeus, the city's port and gateway to the Greek isles.

Day 2 Nafplio / Epidavros ruins

Estimated Travel Time: 3 hoursA short trip to the Peloponnese region of Greece takes us to the lovely port town of Nafplio, the first capital of Greece after their independence. The Peloponnese has been of great importance to Greek history since ancient times, being home to such archaeological sites as Mystras and Olympia. It is also a region of fantastic natural beauty, with mountains, beaches, and citrus groves. Nafplio is a perfect introduction to this area of Greece, and is often described as one of the country’s prettiest towns. Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the old town and explore the many sights, sounds and smells that Nafplio has to offer.In the afternoon we will explore the nearby ruins of Epidavros to get the first taste of Greek history. This site is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites, housing a huge, well-preserved theatre famous for its incredible acoustics. Explore the various buildings, including other temples, sanctuaries and a stadium. We will head back to Nafplio for the night, enjoying the warm Greek hospitality and wonderful food!

Day 3 Sparta

Estimated Travel Time: 4 hoursSpend the morning relaxing in Nafplio with time to explore the town, go to the beach, climb to the town's fortresses for spectacular views or perhaps take an optional visit to nearby Mycenae. Depart for Sparta in the afternoon by bus, arriving in the evening in time for dinner. Nestled in the fertile Evrotas Valley, Sparta is surrounded by citrus and olive groves with views of the nearby mountain range to the west.

Day 4 Sparta / Mystras ruins

Estimated Travel Time: 25 mins each wayToday we’ll head out to the nearby, spectacular ancient archaeological site of Mystras. Divided into 3 sections, we’ll enjoy a guided tour exploring the summit fortress and upper and lower towns, while taking in the fascinating history of this captivating place. Dating back to the 11th century, Mystras has experienced a turbulent history, passing through the hands of the Byzantines and Turks, before being burned by the Russians and Albanians in the 16th century. The site has undergone much renovation in recent decades and remains a truly fascinating remnant of ancient history. Following our visit we will return to Sparta for the night.

Day 5 Olympia / Ancient Olympia

Estimated Travel Time: 3.5 hoursMorning departure from Sparta to travel over the spectacular Taygetos mountain range to Kalamata and on along the coast to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, arriving around lunchtime. Tour of Ancient Olympia in the late afternoon. On our way we will cross the Taygetos Mountains by way of the Langada Pass, considered to be one of the most beautiful stretches of roads in Greece, winding along canyons and rivers. The evening is free to relax and visit the modern village of Olympia.

Day 6 Olympia

Free day in Olympia to take time to enjoy the fantastic archeological museum, historical and Olympics museums, wander the town, walks through the neighbouring olive groves, explore the near-by beaches, sampling the freshly caught fish in a restaurant overlooking the Ionian Sea.

Day 7 Delphi

Estimated Travel Time: 4.5 hoursAn early departure from Olympia takes us from the Peloponnese and back onto the Greek “mainland.” We arrive at Delphi, a small town perched at the edge of a cliff with fantastic views of the valley below. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley.

Day 8 Ancient Delphi

Ancient Delphi is a mere 500m away from town and enjoys the same fantastic scenery and location over the cliff into the valley. One of the most important structures in the site is the Sanctuary of Apollo, to which multitudes of pilgrims would flock to ask advice of the revered Delphi Oracle, who was said to speak on behalf of Apollo himself. The Delphi Oracle was a seer and prophesier, who would give advice on everything ranging from personal problems to politics. Enjoy a guided tour of the site to learn about the fascinating history and mythology of ancient Greece. After a day of exploration and learning you are free to enjoy modern Delphi in the evening, with its many bars and restaurants boasting spectacular views down the valley to the coast.

Day 9 Athens

Estimated Travel Time: 3 hoursDepart for Athens in the morning to arrive before lunchtime with plenty of time for further exploring the city and a final dinner together with a chance to hear some typical music and watch some Greek dancing.