Tour Details
DEPARTURE INFORMATION
Starts any day. January to December
10 days from $7495.00Arrive Athens, Greece
Upon arrival, you are met and then escorted on an orientation tour of Athens, one of the oldest cities in the world. View the Temple of Zeus, Arch of Hadrian, Constitution Square, and the home of the first modern Olympic Games en route to your luxury hotel in the heart of Athens' old town.
Athens Sightseeing
Your morning sightseeing tour begins at Acropolis Hill, home to the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens. Wonder in awe at the incomparable Parthenon, built to honor the Goddess Athena. At the foot of the hill, see the Ancient Agora, Mars Hill, and the Hill of Pnyx, where democracy was born. Next, visit the New Acropolis Museum, containing more than 4000 choice artifacts discovered in this area. In the Parthenon Gallery, make sure to view the video presentation, and see the ancient marble inscriptions recording detailed construction cost records of the Parthenon. (B)
Delphi & Nafpaktos
Travel to ancient Delphi, home to the most important oracle in the classical Greek world. Visit the ancient sanctuary of Apollo, and the museum housing the bronze statue of Charioteer, one of the masterpieces of ancient Greek art. Your guide leads you along the sacred way of this archaeological site to explore the Theater and Pyrene Fountain.
Next, drive to beautiful Nafpaktos, built in the shape of an amphitheater on a pine-clad slope, and known for the famous sea battle defeat of the Turkish fleet in 1571. (B)
Olympia & Mani
Travel to Ancient Olympia for a tour of this sacred archaeological site and museum. Walk in one of the most important sanctuaries of ancient Greece and discover its incredible history. Your drive continues, traveling to Mani, on the southernmost Peloponnese peninsula. Mani is a treasure trove of Byzantine and post Byzantine churches, Frankish castles, and stunning scenery. The region’s distinctive architecture is noted for its tower houses and fortified family dwellings from the Ottoman period. (B)
Mani Excursion
Your full day excursion today explores the Mani peninsula, a part of Greece rarely visited by tourists. Drive along the stark, rugged coastline – dotted with excellent beaches and quaint towns. Stop to explore Limeni, Itilo, and Areopoli, the cobblestoned capital of Mani.
Tour the vast network of the Diros Caves, including a boat trip on the lake hidden within the caves. Next, visit Stoupa, a large market town that was home to Nikos Kazantzakis, the author of Zorba the Greek. (B)
Mystras to Nafplio
This morning, depart a drive to the archaeological site of Mystras, one of the most important and well-preserved sites in Europe. Tour this UNESCO World Heritage Monument, seeing the famous Agios Demetrios church, the beautiful frescoes in Agioi Theodoroi and the captivating Byzantine and Ecclesiastical exhibits at the Archaeological Museum. Continue to Sparta, for a comprehensive tour of the Museum of the Olive and Greek Olive Oil. Learn about the culture and technology of the olive and olive production, and discover its real and symbolic importance in Greek mythology, customs, and economy.
Late afternoon, arrive in beautiful and romantic Nafplio, whose history traces back to the prehistoric era. Admire the unique architecture and beauty of the ancient walls, medieval castles, and monuments left behind by the Roman, Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman conquerors. (B)
Mycenae Excursion
Begin today with a tour of the “golden" city of Mycenae, city of the legendary king Atreus and Agamemnon, and one of the most important and most famous archaeological sites of Greece. The Mycenaean citadel is a particularly fascinating place.
Next, enjoy a delightful tour of the Domaine Skouras estate vineyards, and sample the varietals of this century-old wine producing region. (B)
Epidaurus, Piraeus & Hydra
This morning, drive to a small valley in the Peloponnesus, and the health resort city of Epidaurus, featuring temples and buildings devoted to the healing gods. Visit the ruins of Aesculapium, including the temple of Asklepios, the Tholos and the incredible 4th century Theatre, an architectural masterpiece by Polycletes the Younger of Argos, and considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture.
Your drive continues to explore the port city of Piraeus, then on to Hydra, a historic and cosmopolitan island resort. Its tranquil scenery and vibrant nightlife have made it a favorite for European celebrities. Stay in an early 19th century Hydrian mansion, lovingly restored by the descendants of the original owners. (B)
Hydra to Athens
Relish your last day in Greece, and enjoy the scenic drive back to Athens, arriving with time to celebrate your last evening in Greece. (B)
Depart Athens
Today you are at leisure until you are transferred to the airport for your departing flight. (B)
Electra Palace Hotel, Athens
Like all the hotels of the chain, “ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL ATHENS” (5*) was named after Electra, the character of ancient Greek theatre and literature who became a symbol for her love to her father. “ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL ATHENS” is located in Plaka, in the heart of the old town of Athens, only a few minutes away from the Acropolis and the Parthenon (the temple dedicated to Athena, patron goddess of Athens), the new Museum of Acropolis, the representative ancient theatre of Dionysus, Herodion Theatre (hosting significant artistic events every summer) and from a number of important sights of the city. The hotel’s location is particularly privileged compared to other hotels in Athens for another reason: As it is located inside the commercial and business district, one can have a walk for shopping, coffee or entertainment, any time of the day. Access to the hotel from the Eleftherios Venizelos international airport or the port of Piraeus is easy, even with public transport. “ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL ATHENS” was recently expanded, refurbished and fully renovated to reflect the high-class and subtle aesthetics of the old aristocratic neighbourhood which make it stand out among other hotels in Athens. It operates 102 standard rooms 33 of which offer a great view to the Acropolis, 9 Junior Suites, 10 Suites and 1 Presidential Suite. The presidential suite offers a wonderful view to the Acropolis - one of the most beautiful monuments made by man, showcased at night by specially designed lighting – and also comfortable stylish areas, a veranda with a pool, a steam bath, and many other amenities with an attention to detail. Of course, all rooms offer all amenities appropriate to one of the best hotels in Athens, including: soundproof windows, air conditioning, satellite TV, mini bar, electronic safe, direct dialling, internet connection, night and emergency lights, full bathroom equipment (hair dryers, bathrobes, slippers, magnifying mirrors, etc), 24-hour room service and secretarial support services during office hours, in case you are travelling on business. Our guests can also use our business centre and a private garage.
Nafs Hotel, Nafpaktos
Nafs hotel is an oasis of comfort in one of the most beautiful beaches of Nafpaktos. The panorama of the Corinthian, the Venetian port and the admirable suspension bridge of Rion – Antirion embraces the luxurious shelter that is inspired from the elements of nature: ground, air, fire and water. Just 150m from the Cosmopolitan Venetian port, on the beach of Psani, a breath away from the commercial centre, Nafs hotel offers a remarkable window to the beauty of Nafpaktos an ideal hub for tours and excursions. Inspired from nature, dedicated to hospitality, Nafs hotel constitutes a “small” paradise where your wishes come true.
Kyrimai Hotel, Mani
The traditional Kyrimai Hotel is situated on the edge of the crystal clear sea in the picturesque little port of Gerolimenas. It offers to its guests a magical journey into the proud past of Mani. The ‘Kyrimai’ Hotel is to be found just a few kilometres from the southernmost point of the Tainaro peninsula, where the Ionian Sea meets the Aegean. On the same latitude as southern Sicily and the straits of Gibraltar, it is a place of unusual beauty with its own distinctive cultural identity and a unique architectural style. The buildings have been restored by the Kyrimis family with particular care and respect for tradition. The original materials, mainly stone and wood, have been used throughout and the whole process of restoration has been carried out in strict accordance with the architecture and geometry of the buildings. The result is unique – a complex of stairways, arches and internal courts situated in a privileged position on the edge of the sea with a view of Gerolimenas natural bay.
Grande Bretagne, Nafplio
Hotel Grande Bretagne has 20 welcoming rooms and suites that include all the latest facilities, that provide a luxurious, relaxing, and pleasant stay. Our location right in front of the port, in the center of the old town of Nafplion, in Argolis gulf, gives you the opportunity to combine, holidays, sightseeing and work, away from the stress and routine of everyday life.
Cotommatae Mansion, Hydra
Situated in the centre of the historical town of Hydra, the Cotommatae 1810 Guest House has been opened as a special Boutique Hotel. It is a traditional Hydrian Mansion which over the past four years has been lovingly restored by the descendants of the original owners who have taken great care to retain its character and history. We invite you to travel to Hydra to enjoy a romantic escape in an exceptional house where you will find comfort, relaxation and pleasure on a car-free island. The Cotommatae 1810 Guest House is situated 200m from the port from where you can take sea taxis for excursions to the islands beaches and coves. Cafes, restaurants and bars are all within easy reach on foot. The Mansion stands in a quiet, privileged district, within the protected privacy of its own lofty stone walls. There are courtyards, a garden and a splendid veranda from which extensive views can be enjoyed.