Grand Tour of Greece [10days]

• Panathenaic Stadium: Pass by this historic stadium (Kallimarmaro), the only one in the world built entirely of marble, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896.
• Hellenic Parliament: Drive past the Hellenic Parliament, the seat of Greece’s government, and see the changing of the guard at the Monument to the Unknown Soldier. Also pass by the Prime Ministers Residence, guarded by the traditionally dressed Euzones.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus: Admire the towering columns of this once-grand temple dedicated to Zeus, the king of the gods.
• Hadrian’s Arch: Observe this impressive Roman-era arch, which once marked the boundary between ancient Athens and the Roman city.
• Academy, University & National Library: Pass by these neoclassical buildings, which represent Greece’s dedication to education and culture.
• Constitution Square (Syntagma): Drive through the central square of Athens, a hub of political and social activity surrounded by historical buildings.
• Acropolis: Stop at this legendary site and explore its iconic monuments, including the Parthenon, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.
• Acropolis Museum: Stop to visit this modern museum showcasing an impressive collection of artifacts and sculptures from the Acropolis.
• Free Afternoon: Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring Athens on your own.

• Depart from Athens aboard a shared luxury bus and travel along the scenic coast to the Corinth Canal, making a short stop to admire this engineering marvel. Continue to Epidaurus, home to the world-renowned ancient theater with exceptional acoustics, where every word spoken on stage can be heard perfectly by 14,000 spectators. Visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus and experience its legendary sound properties. Journey onwards to Nafplion, Greece’s first capital, for a brief stop to stroll through its charming streets and take in the picturesque views.

Next, head to Mycenae, the legendary kingdom of Agamemnon, one of the most significant archaeological sites of the Bronze Age. Explore the Mycenaean Citadel, pass through the Lion’s Gate, and visit the Treasury of Atreus (Tomb of Agamemnon), one of the grandest and most elaborate tholos tombs of the ancient world. Finally, cross the Peloponnese to Olympia, arriving in time for dinner and an overnight stay at a 4-star hotel.

• Travel to Olympia on a shared bus, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visit the archaeological site and museum, gaining insights into ancient athletic traditions.
• Arrival at Delphi for dinner and an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel.

• Journey to Delphi on a shared luxury bus, once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology. Explore the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Museum.
• Arrival at Meteora for dinner and an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel.

• Head to Meteora on a shared luxury bus to witness the stunning monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. Tour these architectural marvels and learn about their historical significance.
• Arrival at Thessaloniki for an overnight stay in a 4-star hotel.

Explore Thessaloniki’s rich history and culture, visiting landmarks such as the White Tower,
the Rotunda, and the Arch of Galerius. Stroll along the waterfront promenade and discover
the city’s vibrant markets and Byzantine churches.

• Begin your day with an enriching journey through the historic region of Macedonia. Your first stop is Edessa, a charming town renowned for its breathtaking waterfalls, a true natural spectacle.
• Continue to Naoussa, where you will visit the serene and historically significant site of Aristotle’s School, where the great philosopher shared his wisdom on ethics and governance with Alexander the Great and the Macedonian youth.
• Next, head to Vergina (ancient Aigai) to explore the remarkable Museum of the Great Tumulus, home to the royal tombs of Macedonia. Discover the fascinating artifacts from the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, a discovery that reshaped our understanding of ancient history.
• A short distance away, visit Veria (Biblical Beroea), where you will see Saint Paul’s Bema, a site of religious and historical importance. Wander through the old Jewish quarter and explore the vibrant marketplace, where history and local culture come to life. Conclude your day with a return to Thessaloniki for dinner and an overnight stay.

Travel to Pella, the historic capital of Alexander the Great, where you will admire the remarkable 4th-century B.C. floor mosaics, beautifully preserved both in their original setting and within the modern museum. Continue your journey to the Archaeological Park of Dion, the sacred city of the ancient Macedonians, nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Olympus. After exploring these iconic sites, drive south through the scenic landscapes of Thessaly, passing Lamia and the legendary battlefield of Thermopylae, where you will see the monument of King Leonidas. Conclude your journey in Athens, arriving late in the afternoon.

After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer, with a luxury vehicle, from your hotel to Athens International Airport for your departure.