ATHENS - SOUNIO CAPE
Acropolis - Undoubtedly the most famous landmark of Athens ‘97 and the pride of Athenians - is the Parthenon, atop Acropolis Hill. It is the ancient temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess Athens is named after. It is visible from most of central Athens and is surrounded by the city’s charming and picturesque historical centre.
Arch of Hadrian - The monument known as Hadrian’s Arch, a distinctive Roman structure dedicated to Theseus and Hadrian, the founders of Athens.
Temple of Olympian Zeus - Next is the Temple of Olympian Zeus, with only a few of its original 104 columns standing.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - We watch the Changing of the Guard - at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - in front of the Parliament. These guards, known as Evzones, are the elite force of the Greek Army and were known for their bravery and honour until World War II. Their uniform was introduced by King Otto of Greece and was inspired by the traditional clothes of the mountain warriors and bandits who formed the resistance to the Ottoman Empire.
Panathenaic Stadium - We will also see the stadium that held the first modern Olympics in 1896.
Temple of Poseidon - Travelling along the coast, we head to the southernmost tip of the peninsula of Attica, Cape Sounion, a getaway close to Athens and famous for its beaches, fish restaurants and the striking ruins of the Temple of Poseidon. Set high atop a cliff rising above the Aegean Sea, the temple forms part of a trio of ancient sites, including the Acropolis, and the Temple of Aphaea on the Greek island of Aegina. Equal distances from each other as the crow flies, on a clear day you may be able to see all the monuments from the others. Sounio is also where Aegeus tragically fell from the cliffs when he saw the black sails that his son had forgotten to change, therefore believing he had died. The Aegean Sea was thus named after him. It is a beautiful place to watch the sunset, the white marble columns framed by the sky and the lovely blue sea!
DELPHI, ARACHOVA, THERMOPOLIS, METEORA.
Delphi Archaeological Museum - Along with a professional guide, we visit Delphi - considered the religious centre of the ancient Greek world and the seat of Pythia, the greatest oracle. Located on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo overlook the timeless beauty of the ancient landscape. People from all over Greece would travel to ask advice from Pythia, the oracle of Apollo. In fact, in some of the most important moments in history, her words had a great effect on the course of events, and it is recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The Temple of Apollo is the centre of an extensive archaeological site that includes the Treasuries of the Siphnians and the Athenians, a theatre, and a stadium. We also visit the museum, which houses the famous Delphic Charioteer and the statue of Antinous, the lover of Hadrian.
Arachova - The picturesque mountain resort of Arachova is one of the most popular places near Athens for skiing in the winter. There we will relax, enjoy the beautiful views, or have coffee at one of the many charming cafés.
Thermopylae Museum - We then visit the site and museum of Leonidas’ 300 Spartans stand against the mighty army of the Xerxes of Persia - Thermopylae, or the “Hot Gates”. The Spartans and their allies lured the Persian army to this narrow pass between the cliffs and the sea and although they were defeated, their bravery allowed the other Greek city-states to mobilise and finally defeat the Persians at the Battle of Salamis.
Kalabaka - Finally, we reach Meteora, where we stay. We will have dinner and enjoy the view of the monasteries that we visit the next day.
METEORA, return to Athens.
Meteora - At the stunning, fairytale landscape of Meteora, we visit at least three monasteries (or more, time permitting), two of which are guided with a professional guide, before having a meal and returning to Athens late in the afternoon.
Monasteries include:
Great Meteoron
Monastery Varlaam
Monastery Holy Trinity (Agia Triada)
Monastery of Rousanou.
The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour - You will get to see at least 3 monasteries (if there is time even more), 2 of them will be guided with a professional guide.
Varlaam Monastery - You will get to see at least 3 monasteries (if there is time even more), 2 of them will be guided with a professional guide.
Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada) - You will get to see at least 3 monasteries (if there is time even more), 2 of them will be guided with a professional guide.
Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara - You will get to see at least 3 monasteries (if there is time even more), 2 of them will be guided with a professional guide.
- Exclusive Private Tour
- Professional English-speaking driver with local insights
- Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi and A/C
- Convenient pick-up/drop-off at Athens hotels, ports, and airport
- Inclusive of fuel, tolls, and parking fees
- Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast and one meal (lunch/dinner)
- Expert-guided visits to Delphi and Meteora Monasteries
- Entrance fees to all listed sites
- Coffee, drinks & snacks, alcoholic drinks with the meals
- Extra Professional guide in the other sites (if wanted, with a small extra charge)
- Gratuity is not included and is left to individual discretion
Seeking a more tailored experience? The vast history of Greece is echoed in its numerous archaeological and cultural locations scattered throughout the country. Some of these are globally renowned, but there are many more waiting to be discovered. Given its rich past, Greece is home to artifacts and ancient remains from different epochs, including 18 UNESCO World Heritage Sites!
Not just a repository of ancient monuments and beautiful islands, Greece boasts a remarkable diversity in landscapes. Whether it’s the dream-like setting of Meteora, the breathtaking sea vista at Sounio, the untamed beauty of the Peloponnese, or the awe-inspiring Delphi - one of Greece’s most celebrated historical sites - embarking on a journey beyond Athens is undoubtedly rewarding!
We cover the highlights of Athens, Sounio, Delphi, Arachova, Thermopolis, Kalampaka, Meteora, and several other locations during the tour. A journey that transports you back several millennia. Experience and explore places from a unique perspective, like a local with a local.
- All prices are for 1 private vehicle, for 1 to 4 passengers with a sedan, 4-6 passengers (on request 8 passengers) with a minivan, usually Mercedes Benz
- Children/Youth under 18 must be accompanied by an adult
- Youth (13+) charged at Adult rate
- You must be able to walk on unpaved or uneven terrain, otherwise the driver will do their best for you to see most of the sites
- Departure time is usually between 6:00am-9:00am, based on your preference!
- Duration: 3 days, 2 night
- We reserve the right to cancel a booking for a full refund in the case of bad weather, health issues or site closures
- Our drivers are professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. Their priority is your satisfaction and safety. All our drivers speak English and are ready to help and to provide tips!
- Our cars are well-maintained, clean, and have free Wi-Fi. Baby chairs, wheelchairs and most phone chargers are available on request, at no additional charge
If you cancel at least 7 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 3 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
