Athens (Greece) | Delphi (Greece) | Kalampaka (Greece) | Nafplio / Nafplion (Greece) | Olympia (Greece)
The following are Signature: Greece's Ancient History Of Athens, Meteora & The Peloponnese tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
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Welcome to Greece. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Athens, the ancient capital where the pulse of history beats beneath a modern metropolis. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel to settle in. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers for a welcome reception followed by a delicious dinner at the rooftop restaurant. Gaze out at the illuminated Acropolis glowing golden against the night sky, standing guard over the winding streets of the Plaka old town below.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. 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. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.
Set off this morning to wander the ancient Agora, standing where Socrates once spoke and democracy was born, then venture into the vibrant Plaka neighborhood. Visit Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe supporting the homeless, and participate in a hands-on upcycling workshop before a delicious lunch of fresh local ingredients. Later, immerse yourself in ancient history on an exploration of the New Acropolis Museum to examine the Parthenon frieze up close, then ascend the sacred rock to stand before the Parthenon itself, marveling at the symmetry of the columns against the vivid blue sky.
Explore 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.
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.
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.
Depart Athens for the legendary pass of Thermopylae to stand before the statue of Leonidas, honoring the 300 Spartans who held the line of battle. Continue north as the landscape shifts to the surreal, towering rock pillars of Meteora. After lunch, join a local expert for an off-the-beaten-path exploration away from the crowds. Visit an active monastery, admire 11th-century frescoes in the Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary, and walk to hidden hermit caves tucked into the cliffs. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Olympus before dinner at a local restaurant, watching the shadows lengthen over the valley.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Discover the wonders of Meteora through a visit to St. Stephen's Monastery and the historic Church of the Virgin Mary, renowned for its 11th-century artistry. After, take a short walk to the secluded Hermit Caves and take in unparalleled panoramic views of the entire landscape.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Start the day with a presentation about the spiritual architecture of the region then step back 130,000 years at the Theopetra Prehistoric Cave. Guided by an archaeologist, uncover the traces of early human life in this ancient site, seeing footprints of our ancestors. After a local brunch, venture into the damp, mossy forests for a thrilling truffle hunt. Follow an expert hunter and their trained dog as they sniff out "black diamonds" in the earth, culminating in a short tasting of these incredible and rare local delicacies.
Led by a professional archaeologist, this immersive journey bridges the gap between prehistory and local tradition through an exploration of the region's most significant sites. You will uncover the ancient secrets of the Theopetra Prehistoric Cave and enjoy an exclusive visit to the secluded Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosios, gaining rare insight into the area's long human history. This cultural experience is complemented by a series of authentic culinary encounters, from traditional village snacks to a full taverna lunch featuring classic regional specialties.
Step inside the Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosios for a private tour of this secluded rock-hewn sanctuary. You will have exclusive access to explore the ascetic cells and ancient frescoes preserved within the quiet mountainside.
Take part in a truffle hunt with a local guide and their trained dogs. You'll follow the dogs as they use their sense of smell to locate truffles buried in the forest; a rewarding experience that connects you with nature and the joy of the hunt. Then, enjoy a snack featuring the famous truffles.
Travel south, stopping at the Hosios Loukas Monastery to admire its Byzantine mosaics and peaceful courtyards before arriving at Delphi, clinging to the slopes of Mount Parnassus and considered to be the "navel" of the ancient world. Explore the sanctuary with a local guide and walk in the footsteps of pilgrims along the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo. Marvel at the theatre and stadium carved into the mountainside, offering sweeping views of the valley. In the evening, enjoy an open-air barbecue dinner featuring homemade savory pies, perched on a cliff overlooking Greece's largest continuous olive grove.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Experience the architectural splendor of the UNESCO-listed Hosios Loukas monastery, a premier masterpiece of Middle Byzantine art and architecture nestled on the slopes of Mount Helicon.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orient yourself to the dramatic setting of Delphi with an Expedition Leader led walk through its historic streets and cliffside pathways. This brief tour offers a helpful overview of the town's geography and the stunning natural scenery that has inspired visitors for millennia.
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.
Capture the iconic image of Delphi with a brief photo stop at the Temple of Athena Pronaia, home to the famous circular Tholos. This visit offers a stunning perspective of the sanctuary's graceful columns set against the dramatic, steep backdrop of the Parnassus mountain range.
Journey to Olympia, the UNESCO World Heritage site where the Olympic Games began in 776 BC. Explore the ancient ruins and walk under the archway into the stadium, visualizing athletes standing before the temples of Zeus and Hera. Visit the archaeological museum to deepen your understanding of the site's significance. In the evening, head to a family-owned olive farm and learn the secrets of harvesting and pressing techniques from the owners before sampling the fresh, peppery oil. Delve into an al fresco dinner of delicious local specialties, surrounded by the silvery leaves of the groves.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, lies in a lush valley filled with symbolic ruins and captivating landscapes. Wander through the ancient olive groves to see remains of the Temple of Hera (today the starting point of the Olympic torch relay), the Temple of Zeus (a model for the development of Doric architecture) and the great Stadium of Olympia. Visit the nearby Archaeological Museum, whose collection spans over 3,500 years of Greek history. Here, find sculptures depicting Hermes and the Infant Dionysus, Zeus and Ganymede, and Nike of Paionios.
Go behind the scenes for an exclusive visit to a family-owned estate, where you will meet the owners and discover the time-honored secrets of harvesting and pressing olives. After an expert-led tasting, enjoy a private al fresco dinner featuring regional specialties paired with local wine or beer in a beautifully branded, intimate setting.
Travel to the coastal town of Nafplio, one of Greece's most romantic destinations with its Venetian architecture and seaside promenades. Board a small boat for a short ride to Bourtzi Castle, a fortress perched on a harbour island that once guarded the city. Stroll among the fortifications before returning to the mainland. Join a guided walk through the narrow, bougainvillea-draped alleyways of the old town, discovering hidden squares and neoclassic mansions before a dinner of Greek delicacies. Finish the evening with a scoop of gelato - a sweet end to a beautiful day by the sea.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Take a short Expedition Leader led orientation walk through the elegant streets of Nafplio, Greece's first modern capital, to discover its unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Neoclassical charm.
Take 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.
Join a local guide and explore the highlights of Nafplio's Old Town, from its charming alleys to its impressive landmarks. The walking tour offers perfect views of Bourtzi Castle and Palamidi Fortress, giving you a great overview of the city's unique history.
Set off from the hotel for a visit of the fortified city and open-air museum of Mycenae. Pass beneath the iconic Lion Gate to discover the royal palace, the ancient grave circle, and the monumental Tomb of Agamemnon, feeling the weight of a civilization that inspired Homer's epics. Next, visit an award-winning winery to meet the owners, learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle, and sample distinct Greek varietals like Agiorgitiko over a delicious gourmet lunch in the vineyard.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit 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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Experience an exclusive National Geographic Signature moment with a private visit to the Bairaktaris Winery, where you will meet the owners for a personal tour of their storied estate and cellars. This intimate encounter concludes with a guided wine tasting and sampling of local flavours, offering a sophisticated deep dive into the heritage of Greek viticulture.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
The evening is yours to explore Nafplio's vibrant waterfront and hidden squares, offering the perfect opportunity to browse the town's artisan boutiques.
Explore the sanctuary of Epidaurus, a healing center dedicated to Asclepius. Marvel at the acoustics of the magnificent ancient theatre, where a whisper on stage can be heard in the back row. Pause at the Corinth Canal to see the engineering marvel connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas, cutting through solid rock. Return to Athens for a guided visit of the National Archaeological Museum, home to the world's finest collection of Greek antiquities, including the Mask of Agamemnon. In the evening, gather for a family-style farewell dinner, toasting your journey through the ages in the shadow of the Acropolis.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Explore the ancient sanctuary of Asklepios, a UNESCO site and the birthplace of organized medicine. See the ruins of the world's first recorded hospital where ancient Greeks sought cures through a combination of physical and spiritual healing, and then the famous, well-preserved ancient theater, still in use today.
Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Delve into the heart of ancient Greece with a guided exploration of its most iconic artifacts and artistic milestones within the nation's premier archaeological institution.
Your expedition to Greece concludes today. After a final breakfast, transfers are provided to the Athens airport at any time during the day.
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Greece's Ancient History Of Athens, Meteora & The Peloponnese tour:
Drouva st. 1
Ancient Olympia, Greece-27065
18-20 Navarchou Nikodimou Str.
Athens, Greece-10557
Apollonos 1
Delphi, Greece-33054
National Road Trikalon - Ioanninon
Kalampaka, Greece-42200
Vasileos Georgiou v 2
Nafplio, Greece-21100
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Greece's Ancient History Of Athens, Meteora & The Peloponnese tour:
Max 22.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Truffle Hunting Experience with Dogs, KalampakaYour G for Good Moment: Visit to Shedia Home, AthensYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, AthensSignature Moment: Archaeologist- Led Exploration of Theopetra Cave, KalampakaYour Foodie Moment: Olive Farm Visit, OlympiaSignature Moment: Bairaktaris Winery Visit, Bairaktari. Arrival and Departure Transfers. Local Guided Tour of Agora. Guided Tour of Acropolis Museum. Leonidas Statue Photo Stop. Meteora Highlights with Archeologist. Agios Dimitrios Village Brunch. Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosio Visit. Truffle Hunting Experience. Hosios Loukas Monastery Visit. Delphi Orientation Walk. Delphi Guided Tour. Temple of Athena Pronaia Visit. Olympia Archeological Site Guided Visit. Leader Led Exploration of Bourtzi Castle. Naplfion Guided Walk. Mycanae Open Air Museum. Epidaurus Exploration. Corinth Canal Photo Stop. National Archeological Musuem Guided Visit. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles. Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader and Expert. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Hotels (9 nts)
9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Private vehicle, small boat, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a National Geographic Signature tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.