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Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating self-drive journey through the heart of Greece with the "Classical Greece, Self-drive" tour. Begin your adventure in Athens, exploring the historic Plaka neighborhood nestled beneath the Acropolis. Travel through the mythical Peloponnese, where legends like Hercules once roamed, and visit iconic archaeological sites such as Mycenae and Epidaurus. Continue to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and then to Delphi, the ancient Greeks' navel of the world. Conclude your journey in Kalambaka, home to the breathtaking Meteora monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Enjoy the freedom of the open road with car hire included, and relax in comfortable accommodations each night. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes, making it an unforgettable Greek odyssey. ...more ...less
Highlights
Plaka: Athens’ oldest historical neighbourhood, located right under the Acropolis.
Explore the mythical Peloponnese, the birthplace of legends like Hercules and Paris of Troy.
Visit the most important archaeological sites of Greece, including Olympia, Epidaurus, and Mycenae.
Discover Meteora, where monks settled on the 'columns of the sky' from the 11th century onwards.
Experience the ancient ruins, Byzantine temples, and renovated neoclassical buildings in Athens.
Admire the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, renowned for its symmetry and incredible acoustics.
Visit Delphi, considered the navel of the world by ancient Greeks, and home to the famous oracle.
Itinerary
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Welcome to Greece! As soon as your flight lands at Athens International Airport proceed to the Car rental desk to pick up your car! Today your adventure to the mainland of Greece begins. Leave by the coastal road to reach the Corinth Canal. Then it’s a must to visit two of the most important archaeological sites of Greece, that of Mycenae and Epidaurus. Mycenae, the kingdom of mythical Agamemnon, was the richest palatial centre of the Late Bronze Age in Greece. Just an hour away you will find Epidaurus. On your way there you will pass by small villages where you can stop for lunch (not included). In Epidaurus you will admire the Ancient Theatre which was constructed in the ancient times to host religious ceremonial events in honour of god Asclepius. It is world–renowned for its symmetry and the incredible acoustics. Late in the afternoon make your way to Tolo check-in to your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure.
Overnight in Tolo.
Day 2
:
TOLO – OLYMPIA (188 km – 3 hrs)
Location: Tolo, Nafplio, Olympia
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Neda or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel. Then get in your car and lose yourself in the streets of beautiful, small village of Tolo that has grown into a successful tourist resort while retaining its traditional Greek charm. Stop by one of the beaches found all around the area and dive in the crystal-clear waters. After cooling off, take to the road to Olympia. Just 20 minutes outside Tolo, you will find Nafplio, the past capital of Greece and one of the most beautiful towns in the area of eastern Peloponnese. There you will find plenty of taverns with local cuisine to kill your hunger. In the afternoon, you can either take the route passing through the mainland to Olympia or drive along the Gulf of Kyparissia. Once you check-in to your hotel, enjoy this ancient vibrant Greek afternoon at leisure.
Overnight in Olympia.
Day 3
:
OLYMPIA – DELPHI (240 km – 3.5 hrs)
Location: Olympia, Patra, Delphi
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Parnassos or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning breakfast at the hotel is followed by driving around Olympia! In western Peloponnese, in the beautiful valley of the Alpheus River, lies the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece. Dedicated to Zeus, the father of the gods, it is the birthplace of the most important athletic event of all times; the Olympic Games. Visiting the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus there is a must. Within minutes’ walk from the archaeological site lies also the Archaeological Museum. Your journey continues. You will pass by dozens of small villages where you can enjoy tasty local dishes. Going a little bit out of your way to pay a quick visit to Patra, Greece's third-largest city, is also an option, before ending in Delphi to overnight.
Overnight in Delphi.
Day 4
:
DELPHI – KALAMBAKA (231 km – 3 hrs)
Location: Delphi, Mount Parnassos, Kalambaka, Meteora
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Meteoritis or similar 3*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Keep yourself fuelled throughout the day with a big breakfast at the hotel. Delphi offers a landscape of untamed beauty and was considered to be the navel of the world for the ancient Greeks. At the foot of Mount Parnassos lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Apollo and the world-famous oracle of ancient Greece that you may visit along with the museum. The road to Kalambaka is quite long so it’s suggested to make one or two short stops. Many smaller cities are to be found along the way that suit all tastes. Before the night falls, arrive in Kalambaka and witness the astonishing complex of Meteora as you will be entering to the city.
Overnight in Kalambaka.
Day 5
:
KALAMBAKA – ATHENS DEPARTURE (350 km – 4 hrs)
Location: Meteora, Athens
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, get ready for an amazing site! Visit Meteora, among striking scenery, perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite examples of Byzantine art. The word Meteora literally means “hovering in the air”; what created this rare geological phenomenon is still one of the mysteries of nature. Due to its uniqueness, it has been declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. Depart for Athens as soon as you finish your visit. On your way back, you may stop by the cities that you didn’t have the chance to see on the previous day. Then drive to the Athens Airport to return your car.
What's Included
The tour includes car hire with unlimited mileage, third party cover, collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection (TP), zero excess, safety equipment, and local tax.
What's Not Included
Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included in the tour package.
Drinks
Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.
Climate Change Resilience Fee
Clients will have to pay the Climate Change Resilience Fee on the spot at the hotels.
Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included in the tour package.
Local Guide
A local guide is not included unless an optional tour is booked.
Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or accidents is not included.
Car Hire Exclusions
Personal accident insurance (PAI), fuel, fines, tolls, parking, damage due to negligence, theft with keys left in the ignition, and other specified exclusions are not included in the car hire.
Please Note
Driver’s age from 21 to 75 years old (must have had their driver´s license for a minimum of one year)
Pick-up outside of working hour’s times is subject to a surcharge.
Drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver’s license together with the original from their country of origin.
If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days
Deposit credit card Visa or MasterCard only
Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 48 hours of the incident
In cases where, following the return of the vehicle, additional cleaning is required due to the car being dirty beyond the level expected from normal vehicle use, an additional charge shall apply, against evidence of the cost of the service provided
One rental day is calculated as 24 hours and 29 minutes. An additional day will be charged if the rental exceeds this period.
We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
Late check-out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.
Accommodation
Enjoy 4 nights of hotel accommodation with options ranging from standard 3-star hotels like Tolo, Neda, Parnassos, and Meteoritis, to superior 4-star hotels such as Flisvos Royal, Amalia Olympia, Amalia Delphi, and Amalia Kalambaka. Pre and post-night stays in Athens are also available.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Tolo
Standard Hotel Category = Tolo or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Flisvos Royal or similar 4*
Day 2 Olympia
Standard Hotel Category = Neda or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Amalia Olympia or similar 4*
Day 3 Delphi
Standard Hotel Category = Parnassos or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Amalia Delphi or similar 4*
Day 4 Kalambaka
Standard Hotel Category = Meteoritis or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Amalia Kalambaka or similar 4*
CAR HIRE OPTIONS:
Car Group B = Opel Corsa or similar
OPTIONAL EXTRA
Pre and post-night stay in Athens:
Standard Hotel Category = Evita Asty or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Mode of Transport
This self-drive tour includes car hire with unlimited mileage, third-party cover, collision damage waiver, theft protection, zero excess, and safety equipment. The car provided is from Group B, such as an Opel Corsa or similar, ensuring a comfortable journey through Greece.
Check out our Q&As
What type of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour includes 4 nights of hotel accommodation with options for standard or superior hotel categories. Each night is spent in a different location: Tolo, Olympia, Delphi, and Kalambaka.
What is included in the car hire for the tour?
The car hire includes unlimited mileage, third party cover, collision damage waiver (CDW), theft protection (TP), zero excess, safety equipment, and local tax. The car provided is from Car Group B, such as an Opel Corsa or similar.
Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 4 breakfasts. Other meals are not included and will need to be arranged separately.
What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights of the tour include visiting the historical neighborhood of Plaka in Athens, exploring the archaeological sites of Mycenae and Epidaurus, experiencing the ancient sanctuary of Olympia, and witnessing the monasteries of Meteora.
What are the driving requirements for the car hire?
Drivers must be between 21 to 75 years old and have had their driver's license for at least one year. Non-EU citizens must present an international driver's license along with their original license.
What are some of the exclusions in the tour package?
Exclusions include domestic and international flights, drinks during meals unless specified, climate change resilience fee, porterage and gratuities, local guide unless an optional tour is booked, personal expenditures, and travel insurance. Car hire exclusions include personal accident insurance, fuel, fines, tolls, parking, and damage due to negligence.
What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
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Reviews of this operator
Indra
Best Tpur Operator for Greece
06-Jul-2023
The best Tour Operator. The planning and timing by the agency was great. Accommodation was also good. The package was reasonable. Thanks to Destination Services Greece
Giovanni B.
Great
27-Jul-2022
Very committed service with proper follow-up. Service provided as per their schedule with a hassle free journey... thanks to ITS tours and travels for providing services
Duran
Excellent company
15-Jun-2022
Based on their very positive reviews, we booked with Destination Services Greece.
I found the service and response of this travel agency to be excellent. Easily 5-stars. My emails were promptly responded to, and everyone showed up when they were supposed to.
...more ...less
CTS demo white label allows you to make 20 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
Low Deposit
CTS demo white label requires a minimum deposit of
55%
or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.
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It is world–renowned for its symmetry and the incredible acoustics. Late in the afternoon make your way to Tolo check-in to your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure.</p><p style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #57646f; margin-top: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em\"><strong>Overnight in Tolo.</strong></p>","lat":"37.98381","lng":"23.727539"},{"title":"Day 1: ARRIVAL ATHENS – TOLO (144 km – 2 hrs)","name":"Tolo","description":"<p style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #57646f; margin-top: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em\">Welcome to Greece! As soon as your flight lands at Athens International Airport proceed to the Car rental desk to pick up your car! Today your adventure to the mainland of Greece begins. Leave by the coastal road to reach the Corinth Canal. Then it’s a must to visit two of the most important archaeological sites of Greece, that of Mycenae and Epidaurus. Mycenae, the kingdom of mythical Agamemnon, was the richest palatial centre of the Late Bronze Age in Greece. Just an hour away you will find Epidaurus. On your way there you will pass by small villages where you can stop for lunch (not included). In Epidaurus you will admire the Ancient Theatre which was constructed in the ancient times to host religious ceremonial events in honour of god Asclepius. It is world–renowned for its symmetry and the incredible acoustics. Late in the afternoon make your way to Tolo check-in to your hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure.</p><p style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #57646f; margin-top: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em\"><strong>Overnight in Tolo.</strong></p>","lat":"37.521175","lng":"22.859754"},{"title":"Day 2: TOLO – OLYMPIA (188 km – 3 hrs)","name":"Tolo","description":"<p>Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel. Then get in your car and lose yourself in the streets of beautiful, small village of Tolo that has grown into a successful tourist resort while retaining its traditional Greek charm. Stop by one of the beaches found all around the area and dive in the crystal-clear waters. After cooling off, take to the road to Olympia. Just 20 minutes outside Tolo, you will find Nafplio, the past capital of Greece and one of the most beautiful towns in the area of eastern Peloponnese. There you will find plenty of taverns with local cuisine to kill your hunger. In the afternoon, you can either take the route passing through the mainland to Olympia or drive along the Gulf of Kyparissia. Once you check-in to your hotel, enjoy this ancient vibrant Greek afternoon at leisure. </p><br/><p></p><br/><p><strong>Overnight in Olympia. </strong></p><br/>","lat":"37.521175","lng":"22.859754"},{"title":"Day 2: TOLO – OLYMPIA (188 km – 3 hrs)","name":"Nafplio","description":"<p>Start your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel. Then get in your car and lose yourself in the streets of beautiful, small village of Tolo that has grown into a successful tourist resort while retaining its traditional Greek charm. Stop by one of the beaches found all around the area and dive in the crystal-clear waters. After cooling off, take to the road to Olympia. Just 20 minutes outside Tolo, you will find Nafplio, the past capital of Greece and one of the most beautiful towns in the area of eastern Peloponnese. There you will find plenty of taverns with local cuisine to kill your hunger. In the afternoon, you can either take the route passing through the mainland to Olympia or drive along the Gulf of Kyparissia. Once you check-in to your hotel, enjoy this ancient vibrant Greek afternoon at leisure. </p><br/><p></p><br/><p><strong>Overnight in Olympia. </strong></p><br/>","lat":"37.567317","lng":"22.801553"},{"title":"Day 3: OLYMPIA – DELPHI (240 km – 3.5 hrs)","name":"Patra","description":"<p>Morning breakfast at the hotel is followed by driving around Olympia! In western Peloponnese, in the beautiful valley of the Alpheus River, lies the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece. Dedicated to Zeus, the father of the gods, it is the birthplace of the most important athletic event of all times; the Olympic Games. Visiting the Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus there is a must. Within minutes’ walk from the archaeological site lies also the Archaeological Museum. Your journey continues. You will pass by dozens of small villages where you can enjoy tasty local dishes. Going a little bit out of your way to pay a quick visit to Patra, Greece's third-largest city, is also an option, before ending in Delphi to overnight. </p><br/><p><strong>Overnight in Delphi. </strong></p><br/>","lat":"38.24664","lng":"21.734574"},{"title":"Day 4: DELPHI – KALAMBAKA (231 km – 3 hrs)","name":"Kalambaka","description":"<p>Keep yourself fuelled throughout the day with a big breakfast at the hotel. Delphi offers a landscape of untamed beauty and was considered to be the navel of the world for the ancient Greeks. At the foot of Mount Parnassos lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Apollo and the world-famous oracle of ancient Greece that you may visit along with the museum. The road to Kalambaka is quite long so it’s suggested to make one or two short stops. Many smaller cities are to be found along the way that suit all tastes. Before the night falls, arrive in Kalambaka and witness the astonishing complex of Meteora as you will be entering to the city. </p><br/><p></p><br/><p><strong>Overnight in Kalambaka. </strong></p><br/>","lat":"39.706618","lng":"21.628873"},{"title":"Day 5: KALAMBAKA – ATHENS DEPARTURE (350 km – 4 hrs)","name":"Athens","description":"<p style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #57646f; margin-top: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em\">After breakfast, get ready for an amazing site! Visit Meteora, among striking scenery, perched on top of huge rocks which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite examples of Byzantine art. The word Meteora literally means “hovering in the air”; what created this rare geological phenomenon is still one of the mysteries of nature. Due to its uniqueness, it has been declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. Depart for Athens as soon as you finish your visit. On your way back, you may stop by the cities that you didn’t have the chance to see on the previous day. Then drive to the Athens Airport to return your car.</p><p style=\"font-size: 14px; line-height: 1.6; color: #57646f; margin-top: 0.5em; margin-bottom: 0.5em\"><br></p>","lat":"37.98381","lng":"23.727539"}]
