Grand Classical Tour of Greece
Grand Classical Tour of Greece
10 days Historical/ Cultural, Guided Tour
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Group Size
Small – Private
From
2.400€
Ages
7-80
With this epic journey you come in contact with classical Greece, with the legendary Peloponnese, with the glorious cities of Macedonia where Alexander the Great lived before the long and glorious campaign to the East and with the wonderful geological formations of the Meteora of Thessaly that in the late Byzantine period were changed to Christian monastic enclaves. You also get in touch with the wonderful Greek nature of the contrasts, the unique beaches we have chosen for you to see and swim, the Greek mythology and history in their most glorious moments, as well as the Greek gastronomy in a large part of the mainland.
Why you’ll love this tour
Visit Voidokoilia, one of the most impressive beaches in the Mediterranean Sea
#sea #sun #relaxation
Visit Ancient Epidaurus, where tragedy and comedy flourished in a theatre of exemplary acoustics
#history #theatre #culture
Explore the entrance of the Underworld! Get on the boat and discover a cave of unique beauty, formed by stalactites and stalagmites
#caves #explore #nature
Walk into the narrow streets of the romantic Nauplion, the first capital of Greece
#history #swimming #architecture
Step down the narrow corridors of the stunning Byzantine castle-city of Mystras
#history #architecture #culture
Travel back in time in Monemvasia,the uniquely preserved medieval city. Walk this carved in stone city of knights, crusaders emperors and pirates!
#history #castle #culture
Explore Mycenae, the legendary kingdom of the Atreides, surrounded by massive “cyclopean walls
#history #architecture #culture
Visit the famous Meteora and its Hanging Monasteries!
#rocks #religion #nature
Discover the imposing medieval castles of Methoni and Koroni
#history #castles #culture
Take the cog railway and enjoy the most Scenic Rack in Greece through Voraikos Canyon
#cog railway #nature #explore
Visit Sparta, the glorious city of Leonidas and the 300
#Sparta #History #culture
Inclusions
Accommodation 9 overnight stays in double / twin rooms |
Meals • 9 breakfasts • 10 lunches with a soft drink or beer or local wine (250 g) • 2 dinners in traditional taverns with a soft drink or beer or local wine (500 g) |
Transportation • Minivan • Cog Railway |
Entrance fees included • Tickets in caves • Tickets in Monasteries |
Activities Included • 30mins of cave boat trip • A Wine Tasting • The Cog Railway • Hike the hermit caves in Meteora |
Exclusions
Museum Tickets and Archaeological Sites
Transfer to and from the Airport
Drinks and soft drinks (except the above)
Gratuites (optional)
You can read more about why we have these inclusions and exclusions.
Need to know
- The maximum number of participants per group is 6.
- Our Tour runs with a professional driver and a local tour guide.
- Our lunches and dinners have always a gastronomical character. You will taste plenty of authentic Greek recipes at selected tavernas where the locals eat. Read more about our meals!
- Overnight at beautiful top-class locations & hotels taking full advantage of your evenings.
- A typical day starts at 08:30 and it finishes at around 17:00-18:00
- We are flexible and the duration of the tour is flexible, so there is no rushing during the tour except when there are specific restrictions (like not to miss the closing time of the sites).
- Our tour has an authentic and very flexible itinerary and is best suited for flexible people too. We can adjust and even add some special moments depending on your pace and good communication.
Itinerary
1st Day
Departure from Athens for the famous Canal of Corinth and Ancient Corinth where we will visit the Museum of Ancient Corinth and the Archaeological site. We will see the temple of Apollo, the fountain of Peirene and the spot from where the Apostle Paul spoke to the locals – Then we will find ourselves in the town of Loutraki and Iraion (Ancient sanctuary) where we will dive into the blue waters of the fantastic Lake Vouliagmeni (Lunch in the tavern by the lake).
Then we will drive south to the Ancient Epidaurus, the organized archaeological site of Asklepieion and the main points of interest: the Archaeological Museum, the Ancient Theater and the surrounding archaeological site (a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site). During our visit we will be able to watch an Ancient Theater performance in the evening (from Late June to Mid August). Our evening will be completed with a dinner at a historic tavern in Lygourio or in Nafplio. Overnight stay at Nafplio
Distance 210 Km: about 3 hours drive
2nd Day
Morning departure for Palamidi the huge castle on the hill. From there we have a panoramic view at Argolis plain and a deep immersion into the Greek mythology, prehistory and history. We can imagine the figures of Perseus, Adrastos, Atreus, Hercules, Agamemnon, Ifigeneia, Orestes, the monster Hydra in Lerna and so many others. The glory of Greece is in front of us.
A few kilometers below, opposite the Argolic Bay we will visit the Ancient Mycenae, one of the most glorious cities of Argolis (another UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site) and one of the most popular archaeological sites in Greece.
We will have to learn about its history, as it was the realm of mythical Agamemnon, and it is considered to be the most important and richest palace of the late Bronze Age. Immediately afterwards we will have a wine tasting with traditional Greek food at a local winery belonging to the network of the Peloponnese wine roads. Then we will find Argos , the most ancient city in Europe and the water springs of Lerna where we will dive into the waters of Amymoni river, exactly on the point of its estiary to the Argolic gulf. We will have lunch at a local fish tavern at the village Myli by the sea.
Then we come back to the romantic city of Nafplio. We will be in a host of attractions and beauties: Palamidi, Bourtzi, Syntagma Square, we will walk to Akronafplia and we will be lost in narrow alleys. The day will end with dinner at Nafplion. Overnight stay in Nafplio.
Distance 110 Km: about 1 hour and 45 minutes drive
3rd Day
Departure for Sparta, the glorious ancient city of the south Peloponnese, the city of Tyndareus, his sons Castor and Pollux known as the dioscuri, Menelaus and the beautiful Helen, the city of Leonidas, of Pausanias, the glorious leader of the battle of Plataea (479 BC), of Lycurgus, the ancestral lawmaker and the city of so many heroes .
Unfortunately, today there is not much left of the famous city. Fanatic priests in the 18th Century destroyed what was left of the earthquakes and the wear of time. We visit the river Evrotas, the statue of Leonidas, the archaeological site and the archaeological Museum. Then we head to the enchanting castle of Mystras (a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site), where from the top of the hill we will descend the narrow corridors and the streets of the castle-city. We will visit the castle, the Byzantine churches, the monasteries and the palace of Palaiologoi, the last Byzantine emperors.
We will try the local food in Mistras or Sparta. After lunch we depart we will get to the romantic Monemvasia where we will wander in this uniquely preserved medieval castle-city roads with its arched alleys, churches and mansions. Overnight at a romantic hotel in the castle of Monemvasia.
Distance 300 Km: about 4 hours drive
4th Day
Departure for Gytheion which is the largest and one of the most beautiful cities in the area of Mani. There we will have a walk on the dock of the city and the isle of Kranai where Paris and the beautiful Helen spent their first night before sailing for Troy.
Then we visit the stunning Diros Caves with its extremely beautiful and exquisite caves . We get in the boats to do a 5000 meters boat trip in the subterranean caves lasting 30 minutes and 10 minutes walk. One of the most beautiful lake caves in the world! The crystal-studded stalactites and stalagmites are spectacular in shades of rose, green, amber, black, blood red, and purple.
We are leaving for Cape Tainaron (Cavo Matapan) located in the middle leg of the Peloponnese peninsula – Visit the small temple of Poseidon, which also functioned as a necromancy once. The cave inside the temple is said to link Down with the Upper World. Following a good path we will reach the lighthouse (optional), built in 1882 and dominates the Cape Tainaron, which is said to be the 2ond southernmost tip of Continental Europe.
Walking back we take our bus and drive to the beautiful bay Porto Kagio where we will have our lunch in a local fish tavern by the sea. On the way back to Areopolis we will visit the settlement of Vathia, the most photographed traditional settlement of the Peloponnese, and the beautiful settlement of Gerolimenas.
Throughout our journey we pass through cities that were part of the Koinon (Common) of free Laconians, most of which no longer exist. At this point (village Kyparissos) there was the ancient Kainipolis, which was sunk by a deadly earthquake.
We are now in the heart of Mani, Mesa Mani (Inner Mani) and we are going up to Areopolis, whose central location in Mani makes it its capital.
We will have the opportunity to see this beautiful small town, the gorgeous coastal settlement of Limeni in the bay of Oitylon and also the magical coastal settlements of Neo Oitylo and Karavostasi.
In the evening we will walk in the traditional part of Areopolis and admire the local architecture, the towers and the churches. A traditional dinner at a local tavern will follow. Overnight at Aeropolis or Limeni.
Distance 190 Km: about 3 hours and 20 minutes drive
5th Day
Departure for the Messenian Mani and Kalamata, a really gorgeous city, the capital of the district of Messinia. We Stop at Stoupa for a swim in the sandy famous beach of Kalogria and a dive in the fabulous bay of Phoneas gorge. We are close to Kardamili, a beautiful seaside village of Messinian Mani, famous for its rich traditional cuisine. (Lunch). Then we will make a tour through the fascinating city of Kalamata. In our visit to the amazing Pylos, a small town – built in the bay of Navarino, we will stop at Heroes Square for a coffee. Dinner in a local tavern in Pylos. Overnight stay in Pylos.
Distance 140 Km: about 2 hours and 45 minutes drive
6th Day
After our breakfast, a morning dip at Voidokilia beach. Its hollow-shaped, the golden sand and its blue-green waters make it without doubt one of the most beautiful and impressive beaches in the Mediterranean Sea.Then it is worth visiting the Palace of Nestor, the legendary wise king of Pylos, who took part in the Troy campaign.
On our way to Ancient Olympia we will have lunch in the fishing village of Kakovaton one hour drive before getting to Ancient Olympia. Then we leave for Ancient Olympia, a journey back in time to the greatness of ancient Greece and to the place that gave birth to the Olympic Games. We‘ll visit the Museum, the big archaeological site (a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site) and the ancient Olympic stadium. Here we will have the opportunity to see, among others, the Temple of Zeus, the ancient stadium and the spot where the Olympic flame lights up before its traveling to the place where the Summer and Winter Olympics take place. You can enjoy a late afternoon walk in a scenic landscape on the road above the ancient stadium leading to the Olympic Academy premises. Dinner at a local tavern. Overnight stay in Olympia.
Distance 120 Km: about 1 hour and 50 minutes drive
7th Day
Our tour continues to Foloi forest, the traditional village of Divri (Lampeia), the water springs of Aroanios river in the magical place of Planitero and finally to
Continuing our trip, we will reach the Rio – Antirio bridge, one of the world’s longest multi-span cable-stayed bridges. The 2,380-metre-long bridge crosses the Gulf of Corinth near Patras, linking the town of Rio (on the Peloponnese peninsula) to the town of Antirio on mainland Greece. Arrival to Delphi, where we will spend the night. Dinner at Delphi or Arachova.
Distance 280 Km: about 4 hours drive
8th Day
We visit the popular archaeological site of Delphi, also known as “the navel of the world”. It constitutes the point where the most important religious center of antiquity was founded and flourished. Their archaeological site was declared a UNESCO Cultural Heritage Site in 1987.
We will spend about three hours exploring the archaeological site of Delphi, the Kastalia Fountain, the Temple of Athena Pronaia and the Treasure of Athenians, the Temple of Apollo, the Sacred Way, the Ancient Stadium of Delphi and the Ancient Theater, as well as the Archaeological Museum of Delphi.
At noon we visit the village of Arachova to take a walk into the main road of this mountainous village and soon after we leave for Meteora. Overnight stay at Meteora.
Distance 316 Km: about 3 hours drive
9th Day
Today we will see the world-famous Byzantine monasteries built on the tops of the imposing rocks and stand safely in various and beautiful shapes. Their history goes back to the 14th century when the monks sought refuge in the caves of the rocks. Then they left higher to build the impressive monasteries (UNESCO Cultural Heritage Sites)
We visit the monasteries of Grand Meteoron, Holy Trinity, Varlaam& Roussanou (guided by a local guide). Lunch in a good tavern in Kastraki.
In the afternoon we leave for the city of Veria, a rural city that produces and exports peaches and had the honor to host Apostle Paul, who, after he had left the city, wrote a letter to the first Christian community of Veria.
A walk in the town. We will see the spot from where the Apostle Paul spoke to the locals. –Lunch in a local tavern
Overnight stay at Veria
Distance 160 Km: about 2 hours drive
10th Day
After breakfast we leave for Vergina to visit the Archaeological site of Aigai, the first capital of Macedonia, which has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status as “an exceptional testimony to a significant development in European civilization, at the transition from classical city-state to the imperial structure of the Hellenistic and Roman periods”.
In 336 BC Philip II was assassinated in Aigai’s theatre and his son, Alexander the Great, was proclaimed king. We will see and admire here –among other things- the burial sites of several kings of Macedonia, including the tomb of Philip II which had not been disturbed or looted, unlike so many of the other tombs there.
Then we drive south (45 Min.) to the Archaeological site of Dion, another Macedonian city, located at the foot of Mount Olympus, best known for its great ancient Macedonian sanctuary of Zeus. Philip II and Alexander the Great celebrated victories here, and Alexander assembled his armies and performed magnificent sacrifices here on the eve of his campaign to Asia in 334 BC.
After our lunch in a local tavern we depart for Athens through the historical battlefield of Thermopylae, where 300 Spartans stood against the huge Persian army. We will have a coffee near the beautiful beach of Kamena Vourla. We arrive in Athens in the evening.
Distance 450 Km: about 4 hours drive
Available departure dates
Month | Departure Date |
---|---|
March 24' | 15, 22, 29 |
April 24' | 05, 12, 19, 26 |
May 24' | 03, 10, 17, 24, 31 |
June 24' | 05, 12, 19, 26 |
July 24' | 03, 10, 17, 24 |
August 24' | 01, 08, 15, 22, 29 |
September 24' | 04, 11, 18, 25 |
October 24' | 02, 09, 16, 23 |
November 24' | 06, 13, 20, 27 |
Select date
Gallery
Additional Information
All our Epic Tours offered are accompanied by one of our local English speaker group guides. The aim of the group guide is to take the hassle out of your trip and to help you have the best experience possible.
The guide has excellent knowledge of the places visited and will provide you information throughout the whole trip, including historical, cultural and social aspects. Your guide takes care of all the essential things of the tour, offers suggestions for things to do and see and introduces you to the local communities.
We use a minimum three-star rating,conveniently located hotels and apartments with all the essential modern conveniences. Lodges that practice good eco-tourism, use products and hire staff from the local villages, walk lightly on the surrounding environment and are true to the area they represent.
Accommodation on all our trips is on a twin or double bed basis. Single upgrades are available upon request and depend on availability.
Concerning the transportation, our company cooperates with leading transfer companies which use vehicles of the latest technology with the most stringent standards. All minivans are equipped with comfortable seats, air condition and large windows.
Our experienced drivers will do everything they can so that your transfer be safe and pleasant.
In all our Epic tours offered, we have made an effort to include as many attractions as possible, therefore reducing our stay in the bus to the minimum, by making many stops.
When it comes to meals, Epos Travel & Tours strikes a perfect balance, since gastronomy is one of the main aspects of the total tour experience offered.
We include most meals (at selected seaside or traditional taverns) to save you time and money, yet we also leave enough free time so you can sample Greece’s gastronomic delights on your own.
Epos travel packages vary as to the number of meals included. All provided meals are clearly stated on the tours’ inclusions section.
As most of our hotels offer anything from coffee to a full breakfast, you can start the day the way you like best with high quality local products.
Dinner is your chance to make culinary discoveries of your own – Your tour guide can give you tips about recommended places if asked.
When your itinerary includes a special experience, such as fishing on a hired boat,rafting or wine tasting, lunch will be included.
Please note that if you have any special dietary requirements you should inform us prior to the trip. We can provide vegetarian and vegan meals.
Please feel free to contact us, regarding any questions you may have about food, so we can provide you the best options possible.
Meeting and finishing point: Most of our tours -unless otherwise stated in the trip’s information section- start and end at Syntagma square in Athens. Tours commence at 08:00 on the starting date and finish between 21:00 and 22:00 on the finishing point. Please note: In case you leave Greece on the day the tour ends,it is advisable to book your return flight at least 3 hours after our scheduled return time. That will give you the tranquillity and ease of mind, avoiding any unfortunate events that could blemish you vacation.
When you book with us, please have in mind that our tours don’t include any accommodation before or after the tour. So we advise you to make any stay arrangements for the date the tour ends. In relation to your arrival date and your stay in a hotel in Athens or in another city for one or more days before or after the trips, please feel free to contact us and we shall arrange it at no cost.
With regard to your transfer to and from the airport, we are able to help, if you ask us about it. We can arrange a private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Athens and vice versa 24/7. Your private driver will be waiting for you at the exit of the airport, holding a placard with your name on it.
Regarding the issue of your air ticket you know that the sooner you buy it the more cheap it comes. You are most likely to find lower prices in your home country. But it is worth trying together.
Please check if you belong in one of the Free or Reduced admission categories below.
Free admission for:
• Members of the Chamber of Fine Arts of Greece and equivalent Chambers of member-states of the EU, upon presentation of their membership card
• Members of the ICOM-ICOMOS, upon presentation of their membership card
• Students of University – Higher Education Institutes, Technological Educational Institutes, Military Schools or equivalent Schools of EU member states, as well as Schools of Guides, upon presentation of their student identity card
• Young people, up to the age of 18, upon presentation of their Identity Card or passport for age confirmation.
Reduced admission for:
• Greek citizens and citizens of other Member – States of the European Union who are over 65 years old, upon presentation of their ID card or passport for verification of their age and country of origin
• Students of University – Higher Education Institutes, Technological Educational Institutes or equivalent Schools of countries from outside the European Union, upon presentation of their student ID cards