Ancient Greece - Islands, Myths and Legends |
Overview • Detailed Itinerary • FAQ's • Testimonials • Dates & Prices |
![]() Download Ancient Greece Detailed Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in AthensYou are met upon arrival and transferred to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Dinner tonight will be at a local restaurant in the Plaka district. Day 2: The Parthenon and Cape SounionOther than the pyramids in Egypt, the Parthenon of Athens has probably received more attention from archaeologists, historians and architects than any structure from the ancient world. Day 3: The Byzantine City of MystrasAfter an early breakfast we drive to Mystras via Corinth and Sparta. Once in Mystras we take a light hike to the Byzantine Citadel. Day 4: Cape Tainaro - Entrance to the UnderworldAfter breakfast our journey takes us to Cape Tainaro. On our way, we will stop for a short visit to the partially restored village of Vathia. The basic settlement of Vathia was formed mainly after the 18th century. It flourished in the 19th century and began to decline in the 20th. At Cape Tainaro we walk (approximately 3 hours) to the Lighthouse at Cape Tainaro, the southernmost area of continental Europe. Greek Mythology says that Cape Tainaro was the entrance to the underworld. On our walk today we enjoy the rugged landscapes of the Mani region. Day 5: Diros Caves, KardamyliThis morning we travel to the picturesque village of Kardamyli. On the way we visit the Diros Caves, which were places of worship in Paleolithic and Neolithic times. They are part of a huge underground river system and are filled with stalagmites and stalactites. On arrival in Kardamyli, we take a light hike (approx. 1-2 hours) to visit the ancient ruins of the old city, including the church of St. Spyridonas and the dwellings of the Troupiani or Troupiakis-Mourzinos clan. Day 6: Travel to Olympia - Birthplace of the Olympic GamesToday we drive through the Central Peloponnese before arriving in Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Here we visit the archaeological site of ancient Olympia, the archaeological museum and the monument of Cubertin. Day 7: The Handmade Textiles, Olives and Vineyards of ArahovaWe depart from Olympia this morning crossing over the newly constructed Rio-Antirio Bridge and drive along the Corinthian Gulf. On our way to the picturesque fishing village of Galaxidi, we will stop for lunch in Nafpaktos. Day 8: Delphi - The Center of the Ancient WorldIn the morning we are guided to the center of the Ancient World - the Omphalos (Navel) of the Earth. On the slopes of Mt. Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty and majesty, lie the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo. Day 9: MeteoraThe name Meteora, meaning "suspended in air" encompasses the 24 monasteries set in the canyons of the Eastern Pindus Mountains. The Byzantine Monasteries dating back to the 14th century were constructed on the tops of huge rock pillars, and are one of the most memorable sites in northern Greece. Day 10: To Athens, Ferry (catamaran) from Rafina to the Island of TinosAfter breakfast, we start our journey back to Athens, and specifically Rafina port, from where we will catch our ferry to Tinos island. Day 11: Tinos, ChoraAfter an early breakfast, we depart for the village of Exomburgo, where a stunning view of the Aegean awaits us. Explore the Venetian Castle, situated on top of an overgrown hill. This fortress was built on the ruins of Psofida, an ancient acropolis of the islands. Continue on to the Church of the Sacred Heart. Following the well maintained path to Chora, we will pass through the village of Tripotamo and the Church of Kyra - Xeni to end the trek in Chora. Wander through the white walled streets and lanes in one of the most picturesque Cylades settlements. In the afternoon journey back to Tinos for a relaxing dinner by the sea. Day 12: Tinos, Pyrgos VillageThis morning visit the picturesque village of Pyrgos. The largest village on the island, famous for its top quality white and green marble. On our walk through the village, we will see small marble workshops, as well as the museum and cemetery of the island. Continue with a short walk down to Panormos beach, where we will have lunch. Return to our hotel in the evening and later on, enjoy another delicious dinner. Day 13: Ferry to MykonosThis morning we leave Tinos by local ferry to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos. Day 14: The Sacred Island of Delos - the Temple of ApolloToday we take a small boat over to the sacred Island of Delos, which is believed to be the birthplace of Apollo, the son of Zeus. Day 15: Return Ferry to AthensAfter breakfast we will take a midday ferry back to Athens for an evening free to enjoy this historic and exciting city. Day 16: Exploring AthensThis morning we visit the National Archeological Museum. Afternoon is free to visit the Temple of Zeus or take the funicular to the top of Lycabettus Hill for views of Athens and the Aegean Sea. We have our farewell dinner at a local restaurant in the Plaka. Day 17: Depart AthensToday we transfer to the airport for our departure flights. |
1-800-741-7956 North America • 0808-234-1714 United Kingdom • 416-588-5000 Worldwide