Glories of Greece
7 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece
Visiting: Athens, Thermopylae, Kalambaka, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, Nafplio, Corinth Canal
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Discover Greece in all its glory, visit the Acropolis, marvel at Meteora's monasteries, explore Olympic history, and master local cuisine over a cooking demonstration.
Choice Highlights
- Athens: Get up close and personal with ancient Greece as you explore Athens with your Local Expert. With your Local Expert, visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian. Then, ascend to the iconic Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers commanding views of the city. Discover the intricacies of the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of Wingless Victory, and admire the six exquisite Caryatids supporting the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
- Athens: Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" under the guidance of your Travel Director. Nestled beneath the Acropolis, explore Plaka’s timeless charm, discovering the historical treasures and hidden corners, before enjoying time at leisure along Adrianou, a bustling pedestrian hub, brimming with vibrant shops and traditional cafés.
Top Rated Highlights
- Athens: Ascend the Acropolis to admire the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion's Porch of the Maidens.
- Athens: See the Arch of Hadrian, separating the ancient city and the new Roman district, along with the Temple of Olympian Zeus.
- Thermopylae: See the Leonidas Monument dedicated to the brave warrior and his 300 Spartans.
- Kalambaka: Your Travel Director will provide an orientation of this town situated at the base of the extraordinary Meteora rocks.
- Meteora: Visit one of the remarkable centuries-old monasteries, teetering on towers of rock.
- Delphi: Walk to the Sacred Way, and take in the Athenian Treasury, Polygonal Wall and Temple of Apollo.
- Archaeological Site of Olympia: Explore the Stadium of Olympia, see the Temple of Zeus, athlete's gymnasium and the stone marker where the sprint began.
- Archaeological Site of Mycenae: Walk through the Lion Gate past the royal beehive-tombs where Schliemann uncovered golden treasure, as your Local Expert shares tales of Agamemnon.
- Nafplio: Join your Travel Director in an orientation of this beautiful seaport town and see why it is named one of Greece's prettiest spots.
- Corinth Canal: Cross the amazing rock-cut channel dividing the Peloponnese from mainland Greece.
Make Travel Matter
Nafplio: Experience the timeless craft of hand weaving by visiting a traditional workshop. Immerse yourself in the ancient art and discover the intricate techniques passed down through generations. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Authentic Dining
Athens: Indulge in local specialties with your fellow travellers as you savour dinner in one of the city's historic neighbourhoods.
Olympia: Taste unique Greek flavours and savour regional specialities over dinner.
Athens: Toast the culmination of your travels with dinner in true Greek style at a local restaurant or the hotel restaurant.
Insight Choice
Athens: Get up close and personal with ancient Greece as you explore Athens with your Local Expert. With your Local Expert, visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Arch of Hadrian. Then, ascend to the iconic Acropolis, where the Parthenon offers commanding views of the city. Discover the intricacies of the Temple of Athena Nike, also known as the Temple of Wingless Victory, and admire the six exquisite Caryatids supporting the Porch of the Maidens on the Erechtheion.
Athens: Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods" under the guidance of your Travel Director. Nestled beneath the Acropolis, explore Plaka’s timeless charm, discovering the historical treasures and hidden corners, before enjoying time at leisure along Adrianou, a bustling pedestrian hub, brimming with vibrant shops and traditional cafés.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation: Divani Palace Acropolis, NEW Hotel, Athens Marriott Hotel
Accommodation Name: Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott
Meals Included: Dinner
Venture back to a time when great philosophers roamed the halls of the Agora and gods vied for supremacy. Embark on an unforgettable exploration of ancient myths and legends in the vibrant capital of Athens. Upon arrival, your Local Host will meet you and escort you to your hotel, where you can settle in and relax or explore the City of Violet Crown. This evening, join your Travel Director for dinner, savouring local cuisine paired with wine while getting to know your fellow travellers.
Day 2: Athens, City of Gods
Location: Athens, Thermopylae, Kalambaka
Accommodation: Divani Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka., Grand Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka.
Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Begin your journey into ancient Greece today, where the history of this remarkable civilisation comes to life. Explore Athens with an Insight Choice experience. Choose to visit the city's renowned ancient sites with a Local Expert, or venture into the dynamic Plaka neighbourhood, guided by your Travel Director. Next, venture to Thermopylae, the mountain pass where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their legendary stand against the Persians in 480 B.C. Pay tribute at the memorial honouring their courage before continuing to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Day 3: The Pinnacles of Meteora Relaxed Start
Location: Meteora
Accommodation: Divani Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka., Grand Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka.
Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka
Meals Included: Breakfast
With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning 'suspended in the air', renowned for its uniquely strange and beautiful landscape featuring monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Originally, twenty-four of these monasteries were built despite incredible difficulties; today, only six remain active and open to the public for viewing. This awe-inspiring backdrop has graced the scenes of numerous movies and TV shows, such as James Bond’s film ‘For Your Eyes Only’ and Game of Thrones. Visit one of the monasteries to see the collection of ancient religious artefacts, including icons and frescoes, and witness the daily routines of the resident monks. Observe monastic rituals, learn about their spiritual practices, and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Consider a relaxed walk along the nature trails or a visit to the Natural History Museum.
Day 4: The Sacred Way and onto Olympia
Location: Delphi, Olympia
Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Olympia., Olympion Asty
Accommodation Name: Amalia Olympia, Olympion Asty
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You'll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,' rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner will be served at your hotel.
Day 5: Ancient Olympia
Location: Olympia
Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Olympia., Olympion Asty
Accommodation Name: Amalia Olympia, Olympion Asty
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It's all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C., in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honour the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef who will share with you their passion for local ingredients and high-quality products with an entertaining and immersive cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek regional flavours, as you savour dishes prepared for your dinner.
Day 6: Mycenae and Nafplio
Location: Mycenae, Nafplio, Corinth Canal, Athens
Accommodation: Divani Palace Acropolis, NEW Hotel, Athens Marriott Hotel
Accommodation Name: Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you leave the town of Olympia and begin your journey back to the Greek capital. Stop for a visit at the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones, used to build the city walls. Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio known for its beautiful architecture, colourful shops and vibrant cafes. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet Maria and her daughter to learn about the ancient techniques of hand weaving. Your journey continues, following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal, dividing the Peloponnese and mainland Greece, before arriving in Athens. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style with good company.
Day 7: Depart Athens Relaxed Start
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning after breakfast, bid a fond adío to newfound friends as your unforgettable Grecian odyssey comes to an end.
What's Included
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Local Expert Guided Tours
Explore Athens, Thermopylae, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, and Nafplio with a Local Expert.
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Authentic Dining Experiences
Enjoy local specialties and regional flavors in Athens, Olympia, and other locations.
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Transportation
Travel in a luxury, air-conditioned coach with complimentary Wi-Fi and onboard washroom.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Receive personal radio headsets for guided tours to ensure you don't miss any commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
All hotel and restaurant tips are included, along with taxes and porterage charges.
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Baggage Handling
Bags are carried and delivered to your hotel door.
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Airport Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times for flights matching the itinerary start and end dates.
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Well-being Measures
Enjoy sanitized coaches, physical distancing measures, and freely available hand sanitizer.
What's Not Included
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Flights
International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees and any related travel documentation costs are not included.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 6 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxury, air-conditioned coach.
Insight Experiences
- Olympia: Join a local chef for a cooking demonstration and learn how to make tzatziki and other regional dishes.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxury, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through Greece's historic landscapes.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at renowned hotels such as Divani Palace Acropolis, NEW Hotel, and Athens Marriott in Athens, and Divani Meteora and Grand Meteora in Kalambaka, offering a blend of luxury and local charm.
Summary
- Visit the Acropolis • Meteora monastery • The Sacred Way and Temple of Apollo in Delphi.
- City tours of Athens, Meteora, Delphi and Mycenae, all with Local Experts.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxury, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom, ensuring a relaxing journey through Greece's historic landscapes. The coach also offers complimentary Wi-Fi and an onboard washroom.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour package?
Yes, airport transfers are available at scheduled times for flights matching the itinerary start and end dates. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
The tour includes authentic dining experiences where you can enjoy local specialties and regional flavors in Athens, Olympia, and other locations. You will also have the opportunity to join a local chef in Olympia for a cooking demonstration showcasing classic Greek cuisine.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at renowned hotels such as Divani Palace Acropolis, NEW Hotel, and Athens Marriott in Athens, and Divani Meteora and Grand Meteora in Kalambaka, offering a blend of luxury and local charm.
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What are some of the key historical sites visited on this tour?
The tour visits several key historical sites including the Acropolis in Athens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Arch of Hadrian, the Leonidas Monument at Thermopylae, the monasteries of Meteora, the Sacred Way of Delphi, the Archaeological Site of Olympia, and the ruins of Mycenae.
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Is there a focus on sustainable tourism during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Nafplio, where you can learn about the ancient techniques of hand weaving, which supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions