Wonders of Ancient Greece

Motorcoach from Central PA to a local international airport for an overnight flight to Athens, Greece.

Arriving in Athens, you will have time to explore the city independently before a welcome dinner with your fellow passengers. Hotel: Crowne Plaza Athens City Center (Dinner)

Take in a panoramic tour of Athens’ most famous monuments, including the Olympic Stadium and Temple of Zeus. Then, climb to the Acropolis* where you will see the iconic Parthenon. Hotel: Crowne Plaza Athens City Center (Breakfast)

Travel northward from Athens to Thermopylae, where you will see a monument to Leonidas, who died defending Greece from Persian invasion. Then end your day at a family owned taverna for a traditional Greek meal. Hotel: Grand Hotel Meteora, Kalambaka (Breakfast, Dinner)

Visit Meteora and take a guided tour of two remote Byzantine monasteries** nestled amongst natural limestone towers hundreds of feet tall. Then travel to Arachova, a ski resort town with a stunning view of mountains and valleys surrounding it. Hotel: Domotel Anemolia Resort & Conference, Arachova (Breakfast, Dinner)

Take a tour of the ancient city of Delphi, one of Greece’s religious centers during the Classical era. A local guide will take you to visit the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Doric Temple, the ancient theatre, and the Delphi Museum. Then travel into the Peloponnese to the city of Olympia, and a local farm in the nearby countryside to learn about everyday Greek life. There, enjoy a tasting of local wines, oils, jams, and sweets. Hotel: Europa Hotel Olympia (Breakfast, Dinner)

Take a guided tour of ancient Olympia, including the sanctuary of Zeus and the Olympic Stadium where the first Olympic Games were held. Then, join a Mediterranean cooking experience to learn traditional recipes, and enjoy a Greek lunch. In the evening, join in a Greek dance class and learn about the traditional Greek instruments and folkloric dances. Hotel: Europa Hotel Olympia (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Cross the Arkadian Mountains, enjoying spectacular views as you travel to the picturesque seaside town of Tolo. On the way, you will stop at a family owned ouzo distillery, Greece’s signature aperitif. Hotel: King Minos Hotel (Breakfast)

Continue on to ancient Mycenae, ruled by King Agamemnon of Trojan War fame, where it’s your choice! You can explore archaeological excavation sites at the Beehive Tombs and Lion Gate OR take a walking tour of Nafplio, Greece’s first capital city. This city’s mix of Venetian and Greek influences makes for a striking combination. Hotel: King Minos Hotel (Breakfast)

Stop at the famed Piraeus Port to take a ferry to Aegina Island, where you are free to spend the afternoon at your leisure. A classical Greek island, you can enjoy local shops and markets, or venture further to see nearby archaeological sites. Then, gather with your fellow passengers for a farewell lunch before returning to Athens by ferry. Hotel: Crowne Plaza Athens City Center (Breakfast, Lunch)

Return home to Central PA via Athens International Airport.

*In order to access the Acropolis, you will be required to climb 50-60 steep, uneven steps and walk over rugged terrain with loose stones and without railings.

**In order to enter the monasteries in Meteora, all travelers must have their shoulders covered. Women must wear skirts or dresses that cover the knees or bring a scarf to tie around your waist if wearing pants. Men must wear long trousers. You may be denied entrance to the monasteries if this dress code is not followed. Accessing one of the monasteries requires climbing around 200 steps.

***Hotel and itinerary are subject to change at any time without notification and/or compensation.