Discover the wonders of Greece on an extraordinary journey, blending ancient history with stunning landscapes. Begin in Athens, exploring the legendary Acropolis before venturing to the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora. Along the way, visit iconic sites such as Olympia, Delphi, and Mycenae, where myths and history come to life. Admire grand temples, walk through ancient theaters, and follow in the footsteps of legendary figures. Immerse yourself in Greece’s rich culture, breathtaking coastal scenery, and renowned hospitality for an experience that will stay with you forever.
Upon arrival in Athens, enjoy the expansive city views while transferring to the hotel.
Visit the ancient temples of The Acropolis, which have stood for 2,500 years and dominate the surrounding ancient ruins. Begin by passing through the Propylaea, a grand gateway that serves as the entrance to the Acropolis. Explore the Parthenon, an iconic temple atop the Athenian Acropolis dedicated to Athena, the revered protector of Athens. Also, visit the temple of Athena Nike and a small museum housing exquisite art treasures. Conclude with a visit to the temple of Olympian Zeus, a colossal, ruined temple in the heart of Athens dedicated to Zeus, the king of the Olympian gods.
Experience the striking contrast between ancient Greece’s capital and its modern cosmopolitan counterpart. Witness the Arch of Hadrian, a majestic gateway reminiscent of Roman triumphal arches. Discover the Hellenic Parliament and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, commanding views over Syntagma Square. Explore the vibrant modernity of Athens, including the Presidential Mansion, now the official residence of the President and formerly the Royal Palace. Of course, also visit the historic Olympic Stadium, where the inaugural Olympics took place.
Depart for the Corinth Canal, marveling at its impressive engineering, steeped in mythology crediting Perseus aided by Cyclops, mythical giants with a single eye. Explore the Acropolis of Mycenae, where the ancient ruins, including the iconic “Lion Gate,” Europe’s earliest monumental sculpture, await. Follow paths winding through ancient structures to the palace believed to be Agamemnon’s tomb. Enjoy serene mountain vistas and pine forests en route to the Epidaurus Theatre. It is renowned for its nearly pristine amphitheater, still used for Greek dramas today during the annual Hellenic Festival. Visit the Sanctuary of Asclepius, known for ancient paintings and statues depicting the god of medicine, symbolized by a serpent. Arrive in Olympia.
Explore the archaeological marvels of Olympia, once a revered sanctuary in ancient Greece and renowned as the birthplace of the Olympic Games. These Games symbolized unity and peace across the Greek world. Discover the Fitness Center and the Palestra, once a bustling arena where wrestling was practiced in ancient times. Journey to the Leonidaion, an important shrine, and then to the workshop of Phidias, the master sculptor behind the colossal statue of Zeus housed in the grand temple.
Marvel at the Temple of Zeus, an exemplary specimen of classical Greek architecture. Visit the Olympic Stadium and its grandstand, where chariot races and the pentathlon (later evolving into the Decathlon) captivated audiences. Depart for Delphi.
Experience the breathtaking panoramic terrace amidst endless olive trees. Delphi, revered as the ancient world’s center where heaven and earth met, was believed to be closest to the divine. Legend holds that two eagles sent by Zeus crossed paths here, sanctifying it as a sacred site. Delphi, famed for its oracle and the Pan-Hellenic games, boasts landmarks like the Bouleuterion, Sphinx of Naxos, and its grand theater. Admire the unique architecture of the Temple of Apollo, and visit the Temple of Athena Pronaia with its iconic Tholos and the Fountain of Castalia, believed to embody wisdom from Apollo’s heart. Discover the ancient marvels at the Museum of Delphi. Drive to Kalambaka.
Explore the awe-inspiring monasteries of Meteora, perched atop rocky pinnacles in Thessaly, Greece. Renowned for their breathtaking beauty and historical significance, these monasteries, meaning “suspended in the air” in Greek, are six extraordinary Greek Orthodox complexes. Initially built for defense in inaccessible locations, these monasteries have adapted. Bridges and ladders now allow visitors to access these once-isolated sanctuaries, each housing precious religious artifacts and inhabited by monks or nuns devoted to prayer and icon creation. Visitors must adhere to strict dress codes to maintain sanctity, while silence fosters an atmosphere of reverence and contemplation. Continue to Athens.
Transfer to airport for departure flight.
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