Classic Mainland Greece: Athens to Istanbul
14 days, Athens to Istanbul
Itinerary
Day 1Athens
Arrive at any time.
We recommend arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city.
There are no activities planned until an evening welcome meeting.
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
FreeMost of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
National Archaeological Museum Visit
12EUR per personTake a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Ancient Agora Visit
8EUR per personExplore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Day 2Athens
Explore the city on a guided walking tour to the Parthenon and Acropolis with a refreshment stop at a local non-profit cafe, Shedia Home, along the way. Enjoy a free afternoon to immerse yourself deeper into this historical city; opt to visit the new Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Agora, or the National Archaeological Museum. Later in the evening attend a cooking class with a local chef and enjoy a dinner of your creations.
Guided Visit of Acropolis and Parthenon
Discover the most famous of Athens’ eight hills: the Acropolis, the ultimate architectural and artistic expression of the ancient Athenian spirit. Visit the Parthenon, built for the Goddess Athena in 447 BC. This Greek temple, despite the gradual state of ruin and damage sustained over time, still symbolizes the key ideals of harmony and balance that defined the Classical style of Greek architecture.
Athens Walking Tour
Join this brief yet captivating walking tour that seamlessly connects your Acropolis exploration to the vibrant heart of Athens. As you walk through the historic streets, you'll pass by key landmarks and picturesque neighborhoods, offering a glimpse of both ancient and modern Athens. Along the way learn about the city's rich history, from its iconic monuments to its bustling squares, before continuing your journey toward Shedia.
Your G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and a Beverage
Take time to relax at Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe providing purpose and employment to over 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. You'll enjoy a drink while one of Shedia's guides recounts the recent history of Greece's financial crisis which has made initiatives like Shedia even more important for those who have found themselves without work and shelter. Your stop here supports their programs - including the cafe, art program, and magazine - all dedicated to supporting the community.
Your Foodie Moment: Cooking Class Athens
Go on a culinary journey in Athens with a local chef. Learn how to make authentic Greek mezze (sharing dishes) such as dolmades (rice-stuffed vine leaves), imam baildi (stuffed eggplants), and spanakopita (spinach pies). You'll also create a carrot tzatziki — a twist on the classic yoghurt dip — to accompany the dishes and finish off the class with the sweet treat of portokalopita (orange phyllo cake). Sit down with your fellow "chefs" to indulge in your delicious creations for dinner and toast with a shot of ouzo.
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Ancient Agora Visit
8EUR per personExplore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.
Acropolis Museum Visit
Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
Syntagma (Constitution) Square Visit
FreeMost of Athens important sights and interesting neighbourhoods border this central square. The square was built in the early 19th century in front of the Old Royal Palace of King Otto of Greece. Walk around to admire the architecture, stop at a café and people watch, or watch the ceremonial changing of the guards called Evzones.
National Archaeological Museum Visit
12EUR per personTake a tour of the National Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important artifacts from ancient Greece. In the collection are various sculptures, vases, as well as metal works and is considered one of the most impressive museums in the world.
Accommodation
Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | DinnerDay 3Athens/Meteora
Travel north from Athens by bus and train to Kalampaka, the perfect base for visiting the monasteries and the area of Meteora.
Perched on high cliffs there are monasteries built on immense natural pillars and make for a once-in-a-lifetime sight.
Local Bus
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Meteora Sunset Tour
30EUR per personListen to the stories and legends of Meteora from a local guide, visit one of the 6 active monasteries, the Byzantine church of Virgin Mary and enjoy great views from the most panoramic spots. The tour ends with the an awe-inspiring sunset which you will watch from a magical spot high up on the rocks of Meteora.
Accommodation
Hotel Kosta Famissi (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Meteora
Spend a full free day in the area. Head out and visit the mountain top monasteries on your own by bus or pre-book the Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour to do it on foot with a local guide.
Free Time
Explore the Meteora area with free time today and if you're feeling adventurous, lace up your hiking boots and explore the local trails and monasteries on foot.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Guided Meteora Monasteries Hiking Tour
Set off on foot with a local guide along the paths of the first monks, to visit the striking mountaintop monasteries of Meteora. Walk in the footsteps of monks and enjoy incredible views of the Meteora Valley. Along the way, admire Meteora’s awe-inspiring rock formations, observe all six monasteries from the outside, and step inside two of them to explore their rich heritage. Discover the beauty of Meteora and experience a journey through time in this UNESCO World Heritage site!
Natural History Museum of Meteora
7EUR per personLocated along the highway and a short distance from the city centre, the Natural History Museum of Meteora houses over 300 exhibits featuring mammals, birds and local flora and fauna.
Accommodation
Hotel Kosta Famissi (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Meteora/Delphi
After breakfast, transfer to the site of Thermopylae and Information Centre to learn of the famous battle that helped create the Greece we know today. Continue on to Delphi for an orientation walk before touring Ancient Delphi with a local guide. Spend the evening as you wish with free time.
Travel through mountain scenery around Mt Parnassos to Delphi.
Enjoy a visit to the ancient city of Delphi, then spend the evening exploring the charming little town or relaxing in a small café enjoying the views of the nearby valley.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Thermopylae and Information Center Visit
Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Delphi Orientation Walk
Enjoy a brief orientation walk with your CEO, then enjoy a free evening in the ancient city of Delphi.
Ancient Delphi Tour
Visit the ancient city of Delphi, at the base of Mount Parnassos. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes ancient buildings like treasuries, a stadium, a gymnasium, an altar, hippodrome and the Temple of Apollo.
Accommodation
Hotel Acropole Delphi (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Delphi/Náfplio
Travel Nafplio with a stop at the Corinth Canal on the way. Take part in a brief orientation walk then spend the evening exploring the cobblestone streets with free time. Opt to climb the Acronafplia to take in the views.
Described as one of Greece's prettiest towns, the narrow pedestrian streets of old town are begging to be strolled upon.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private bus.
Corinth Canal Visit
Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Nafplio
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Free Time
Lose yourself in the narrow pedestrian streets of the old town and explore the many sights, sounds, and smells it has to offer.
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
Bourtzi Castle
7EUR per personTake a short ferry ride to this Venetian landmark - a medieval castle off the coast of Nafpilo. A visit here offers visitors the chance to explore the castle's rooms, and a great views of the city on shore.
Archaeology Museum
10EUR per personLocated in one of Nafplio's best preserved Venetian buildings near Syntagma Square, the Archaeological Museum exhibits a wide range of artifacts from the Argolis region, including a full set of armour cast in bronze from the Mycenean era. It's certainly worth a visit!
War Museum
3EUR per personExplore the history of Nafplio through the Greek Revolution, Macedonian Struggle, the Balkan Wars and succeeding conflicts at the War Museum, housed in the building of the First Academy.
Acronafplia Fortress Visit
FreeClimb to the top of the Akronofplia fortress tower to enjoy the phenomenal view from the top that looks back over the bay to Argos and out into the Saronic Gulf.
Palamidi Fortress Visit
20EUR per personExplore the Palamidi Fortress, built by the Venetians in the late 1600s when they occupied the area for the second time. Climb the 999 stairs from the town to the fortress, or 913 depending on who you ask—either way expect to feel the burn tomorrow. The view over the Argolic Gulf and the city are worth the work to reach the top.
Accommodation
Park Hotel Nafplio (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 7Náfplio/Athens
Enjoy free time to explore Napflio and the surrounding areas. Choose to visit Epidavros, as well as the nearby site of Mycenae then transfer in the late afternoon to Athens for the night.
There is a wealth of ancient sites to explore within easy reach of Nafplio on a free day such as Epidavros, which is highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. Or choose to visit the famous Mycenae, also close by, with its spectacular treasury and ruins, or for another lesser-known Mycenean site visit Tiryns, just in the suburbs of Nafplio itself.
Free Time
Head out and explore the city or nearby landmarks.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Epidavros Visit
20EUR per personVisit Epidavros, highly regarded as one of the most renowned of Greek ancient sites. The site houses a huge, well-preserved theatre famous for its incredible acoustics, as well as the remains of an important medical sanctuary.
Please note to partake in this optional you will need to take a taxi. The pricing listed does not include the cost of roundtrip transportation needed.
Mycenae Site Visit
12EUR per personVisit the famous Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archaeological site with spectacular ruins and a treasury. Once a major settlement of Greek civilization, Mycenae was occupied during the Neolithic period around 4000 BC, and is linked to the mythology in Homer’s epics the Iliad and the Odyssey.
Please note to partake in this optional you will need to take a taxi. The pricing listed does not include the cost of roundtrip transportation needed.
Tiryns Site Visit
10EUR per personExplore the lesser-known Mycenean site, hidden in the suburbs of Nafplio. Along with Mycenae, Tiryns is a listed UNESCO World Heritage Site first excavated in 1831 by German archaeologists.
Accommodation
Parnon Hotel Athens (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Athens/Vólos
Depart Athens in the morning for the drive to Volos, with a quick stop in Thermopylae on the way for a short visit. Once in Volos, set off on an orientation walk with your CEO, followed by some free time to settle into the hotel and relax. In the evening, meet up with a local guide and head out on a cultural walk to see some of the city's highlights, stopping at 2 different local taverns along the way for small plates of food called 'meze,' truly a local and delicious experience that will serve as a light dinner.
Thermopylae is an ancient battlefield where Greek (mainly Spartan) soldiers held off the Persian army for three days. A battle which acted as inspiration for the movie 300.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Thermopylae and Information Center Visit
Explore the Thermopylae site and Information Center, dedicated to commemorating the historic Battle of Thermopylae, a pivotal event in ancient Greek history. Learn about how Spartan warriors defended against a Persian invasion at this site in 480 BC through exhibits featuring multimedia presentations and artifacts.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Volos
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, and ATMs, as well as point out some local sites.
Your Foodie Moment: Cultural Walk and Tavern Visits with Meze Plates
Set out on a walk with a local guide, learning of archaeology, mythology, and gastronomy as you sample local drinks and delicious plates of 'meze'. Witness the city's highlights and immerse yourself in Volos' unique culture.
Accommodation
Magnes Hotel Volos (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Vólos
Head out from Volos today on a day of exploration and cultural immersion, hopping village-to-village. Explore Milies and take a short hike to a cave, stop by a women's co-op in Vizitsa then visit the town of Pinakates and have beach time at Kato Gatzea before returning to Volos in the evening. Each stop provides a unique glance into the daily life in this beautiful corner of the world.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Milies Visit
Explore Milies, a well preserved village known for its stone mansions, cobblestones, and railway. Head out on foot for a short 1-hour hike to visit the Centaur Cave where Chiron lived. Visit the church and take some time to shop for local wares.
Vizitsa Visit
Visit Vizitsa, known for the agricultural co-op owned and run by local women. Opt to sample local goods and enjoy coffee and snacks.
Pinakates Visit
Explore the village square; take in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Kato Gatzea Visit
Sit back and relax with free time at the beach. Enjoy the golden sand and clear water, or explore the quaint village, home of local tavernas serving truly authentic Greek cuisine.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Magnes Hotel Volos (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Vólos/Thessaloníki
Drive north from Volos, stopping at Mount Olympus National Park for a short walk near the mountain that was home to the gods in Greek mythology. Continue to the Polycentric Museum of Aigai to tour the tombs and see the archaeological artifacts before carrying to Thessaloniki. Join your CEO for an orientation walk and enjoy a free evening.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Mt Olympus National Park
Arrive at the Prioni Refuge and visitor centre for free time over lunch, then take part in a short walk with your CEO through the forest around Mt Olympus, the summit is said to house the mythical Gods. Explore the vast wilderness and several different ecosystems.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Polycentric Museum of Aigai
Visit one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century, the Vergina Royal Tombs. Vergina was the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia and houses the Royal Tomb of King Phillip, father of Alexander the Great. Tour the tombs and museum and witness the stunning treasure found here.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Thessaloniki
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets and ATMs.and show you some of the main sites.
Accommodation
Queen Olga Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Thessaloníki
Take advantage of a free day to explore Thessaloniki. Discover historic landmarks like the Roman Forum, visit museums or take a walking food tour, sampling dishes like Greek 'meze' and other regional specialties. In the evening, head out for an optional dinner at one of your CEO's favourite local spots.
Free Time
There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow
Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
One of the largest museums in Greece, the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki is home to to artifacts from the Prehistoric, Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods.
Nea Paralia
Head down to Thessaloniki's waterfront, one of the most beautiful and internationally awarded promenades. Explore the cycle paths, sports fields, culinary outlets, and the attractive seaside.
Accommodation
Queen Olga Hotel (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Thessaloníki/Kavala
Wave goodbye to Thessaloniki this morning and drive to the city of Kavala. Settle in and orient yourself with a CEO-led orientation walk of the old town with the option to walk up to the castle for great views of the city and of the sea. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free to continue exploring or to relax.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Kavala
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Free Time
There's plenty to see and do; now is your time to explore.
Accommodation
Airotel Galaxy Kavala (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Kavala/Istanbul
Depart Kavala in the morning and drive east to the city of Alexandropoli. Take a short walk with the CEO to explore the area and have some time for lunch before continuing on to the Turkish border and onwards to Istanbul, arriving in the evening.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Alexandroupoli Walk
Wander the old town area with your CEO and learn about the two communities intermingling in their daily lives.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Hotel Centrum Istanbul (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Istanbul
Depart at any time.
Departure Day
Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.