-
Thermopylae - Heading north from Athens for about 220 km, we will arrive at the renowned Thermopylae, the site of the legendary battle of the 300 Spartans. A modern memorial dedicated to King Leonidas stands on one side of the highway, depicting the Spartan King atop a wall with the inscription “Molon Lavei” beneath the statue. This phrase, meaning “Come and get it,” was Leonidas’ retort to the Persian king Xerxes when asked to surrender his weapons. It has since become a global symbol of defiance. Opposite the modern memorial, across the highway, lies the ancient memorial erected shortly after the battle. This small carved stone plaque reads, “Stranger, tell the Spartans that we lie here obedient to their laws.” This ancient memorial is situated on the small hill of Colonos, across the national road from the modern memorial.
-
Thermopylae Museum - The Center for Historic Information in Thermopylae features three halls, with exhibits curated by the Foundation of the Hellenic World. The educational content is based on Herodotus’ histories and archaeological research. In the first hall, named ‘Leonides’, visitors can watch a seven-minute video introducing the Centre’s operations and previewing the exhibits in the other halls. The second hall, ‘Diinekis’, offers a fifteen-minute virtual reality film, viewed with special glasses, depicting key events of the Battle, including the Greek armory, the ascent of the Anopaia Way, and the battle’s conclusion. Viewers experience the traitor Efialtes leading the Persians through the Anopaia Way to the West Gate and Kolonus Hill. In the third hall, ‘Thermopylae’, interactive touch screens provide detailed information about the Battle’s history, the Persian Wars, the protagonists, the 300 Spartans, their armor, the movements of the opposing armies, and more, in an engaging and educational manner.
-
Battlefield of Thermopylae - At the battlefield of Thermopylae, you will see the hot gates where hot water has flowed since ancient times.
-
Kamena Vourla - A picturesque seaside resort where we will stop for lunch on our return to Athens.
-
Battlefield of Thermopylae - The site of the 480 BC battle.
-
Thermopyles Hot Springs - The location of the hot healing waters that have flowed since ancient times in the Thermopylae area.
- Round-trip hotel transport included
- Complimentary bottled water
- Experienced and knowledgeable drivers
- Comfort with air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicles
- Transportation costs like tolls covered
- Food and drinks
- Licensed Tour Guide
- tickets to the archaeological sites
The journey begins in Athens. Heading north from Athens, we will pause to appreciate the serene Lake Ylikii for about 15 minutes. We will then visit the majestic Thermopylae, the very spot where the famed battle of the 300 Spartans occurred in 480 BC. A memorial stands there, paying homage to the Spartan King Leonidas. Mounted on a wall, the statue features the words ‘Molon Lavei’ beneath, translating to ‘Come and get it’. This phrase, a response to the Persian king who demanded that Leonidas surrender his arms, is globally recognized as a symbol of resistance. An antique memorial exists opposite the highway from the present-day one, installed shortly following the battle. It features an eloquent, carved stone plaque that reads: ‘stranger, tell the Spartans that we lay here obedient to their laws’. Finally, a visit to the museum offers insights into the lifestyle of the Spartan warriors, their combats, and an immersive experience of the battle via virtual reality games in a dedicated room.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
