Journeys: Discover Mainland Greece - 9 Days
Who is this trip for
Genders
- Female%
- Male%
Age range
12 - 100Start / End
- Athens
- Athens
Physical rating
Group size
1 - 16Meals included
12Highlights
- Hunt for truffles in the forest alongside a local guide
- Explore the ancient wonders of the Acropolis and Meteora monasteries
- Savour local wine cheese and mezze on a flavour-packed culinary experience
- Step into the remains of one of the world’s first hospitals dedicated to holistic healing
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Summary
Uncover the layers of history, landscape, and flavour that make mainland Greece a timeless wonder. Begin and end in Athens, where ancient columns rise above lively modern streets. Wander the sacred heights of Meteora, explore the legendary Acropolis, and experience the thrill of a truffle hunt led by a local expert. Along the way, sip local wine, savour mezze feasts, and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s healing traditions and enduring spirit.
Map
Itinerary
Days 1-0: AthensArrival Day
Arrive at any time. Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
Days 2-1: Athens
Considered the cradle of Western civilization, Athens is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Explore the iconic Acropolis with an archaeologist guide and wander among the columns of the Parthenon. This Greek temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, was built from white marble in 447 BC and takes centre stage in the Acropolis Museum. Continue to the ancient Agora—where Athenians gathered to discuss the affairs of the day—and listen to your expert guide bring these timeless ruins to life. Afterwards, be enriched and refreshed with drinks and a tour of the the tour operator–supported non-profit cafe, Shedia Home.
Days 3-2: Athens/Kalampáka
Depart Athens this morning to Kalambaka–home of the famous monasteries of Meteora. Make a short stop to see the bronze statue of King Leonidas, erected in Thermopylae and site of the famous battle with the same name. This afternoon, embark on an unforgettable experience led by a skilled truffle hunter and his loyal dogs. Head into the woods and watch this fascinating process and learn all there is to know about truffles-delicious mushrooms that grow underground. Sample some mushrooms under the shade of centuries-old trees, washing them down with wine then finish up with an early dinner - pasta fittingly prepared with truffles.
Days 4-3: Kalampáka/Delphi
Spend the morning exploring the extraordinary monasteries of Meteora. Built atop sandstone megaliths that rise 1,200 feet (366 meters) from the valley floor, these monasteries offered refuge from hostile attacks during the waning days of the Byzantine Empire. Venture into chapels and courtyards adorned with beautiful frescoes. Take in the panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, which-on a clear day, includes views of Mount Olympus. In the afternoon, continue to Delphi, home to the Temple of Apollo—seat of the fabled oracle of Delphi and considered the center of the world by the ancient Greeks.
Days 5-4: Delphi/Olympia
Explore mystical Delphi–a UNESCO World Heritage Site on a guided tour, then visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi with free time to admire the many artifacts unearthed at the site. Later, travel along the breathtaking Gulf of Corinth, crossing into the Peloponnese via the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, an impressively long multi-span cable-stay bridge. After arrival in Olympia, head out on an orientation walk then enjoy free time for dinner at your leisure.
Days 6-5: Olympia/Náfplio
Step back into ancient history on a visit to the archaeological site of Olympia, including the Temples of Zeus and Hera, and the ancient stadium where the Olympic Games were first held in 776 B.C. After an optional lunch, travel onward to Nafplio for a locally guided walk. Enjoy the highlights of the old town, including the Bourtzi Castle and Palamidi Fortress while sampling local culinary specialties along the waterfront. Complete the day with a gelato from the most famous shop in Greece.
Days 7-6: Náfplio
Enjoy a morning at leisure to explore on your own before an excursion to the Bronze Age city of Mycenae, where the legendary King Agamemnon ruled. Take a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, enclosed within Cyclopean walls, and enter the citadel through the famed Lion Gate–one of Europe’s oldest monumental sculptures. After, head to a regional winery for a wine tasting paired with cheese and mezze plates for dinner.
Days 8-7: Náfplio/Athens
This morning, make a stop at Epidaurus. Visit the first recorded hospital, the Aesklipion, and the still functioning ancient theatre built in the complex with a focus on mental healing. Next, drive north over the Isthmus of Corinth, crossing the famed Corinth Canal as you return to Athens. Set out for an optional farewell dinner and one final evening in Athens.
Days 9-8: Athens
Depart at any time
Prices & Availability
Please select the number of adults and children to see start dates and prices
What's Included
Meals
Breakfasts: 8, Lunches: 1, Dinners: 3Vegetarian options are available on all meals throughout the adventure.Vegetarian options available
Local Guide
GuidedThis adventure is led by a local guide throughout. The main language of this adventure is English. Please contact us for other languages available.
Wifi
Wifi is available during the adventure. In some areas and / or accommodation / transport Wifi may be free.
Essential trip information
Our Important Notes and Packing List cover all essentials, from necessary equipment to inclusions, ensuring you're fully equipped and informed for this extraordinary adventure and more.
Important Notes
1. LOCAL GUIDESIt is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places. 2. LUGGAGEIn Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels, or other public places. We use a number of ferries on this trip; you will need to be able to carry your luggage comfortably when embarking and disembarking, and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. We also have an internal flight with a checked-luggage restriction of 15kg. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.3. INTERNAL FLIGHT REGULATIONDue to strict weight restrictions, plan on packing light for flights. Because of current weight limits and the inability to add on more weight, checked baggage should be no heavier than 15kg, and hand luggage should weigh no more than 6kg.4. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.5. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES NOTE: During high season in Europe (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour.
Departure Tax
Usually included in international air ticket
What to Take
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.) It should also be noted that baggage should adhere to strict airline weight limits - 15kg for checked luggage and 6kg for hand luggage.
Packing List
Documents: • Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border) • Insurance info (required) (With photocopies) • Passport (required) (With photocopies) • Vouchers and pre-departure information (required) • Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies) Essentials: • Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.) • Binoculars (optional) • Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries) • Cash, credit and debit cards • Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights) • Ear plugs • First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking) • Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal) • Fleece top/sweater • Footwear • Hat • Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended) • Locks for bags • Long pants/jeans • Moneybelt • Outlet adapter • Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.) • Reusable water bottle • Shirts/t-shirts • Sleepwear • Small travel towel • Sunglasses • Swimwear • Watch and alarm clock • Waterproof backpack cover • Windproof rain jacket Health & Safety: • Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.) • Hand sanitizer • Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.) Warm Weather: • Sandals/flip-flops • Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended) • Sturdy water shoes/sandals • Sun hat/bandana • Swimwear