Home >
Tours
>
Europe Tours
> Signature: Greece’s Ancient History of Athens, Meteora & the Peloponnese
Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 10 Day Signature: Greece’s Ancient History of Athens, Meteora & the Peloponnese. Voyage through the classical heart of Greece, from the Acropolis of Athens to the cliff-top monasteries of Meteora. Walk in the footsteps of Olympians, hunt for truffles in ancient forests, and connect with local artisans. Guided by experts, trace the origins of democracy and Western civilization on an expedition defined by history and traditional flavour.
Trip Length
10 Days
Trip Starts
Athens
Trip Ends
Athens
Departures
Mar 2027 to Oct 2027
Countries Visited:
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
National Geographic Signature
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
22
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
EGTANS
Itinerary
Welcome to Greece. Your expedition begins as you touch down in Athens, the ancient capital where the pulse of history beats beneath a modern metropolis. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel to settle in. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers for a welcome reception followed by a delicious dinner at the rooftop restaurant. Gaze out at the illuminated Acropolis glowing golden against the night sky, standing guard over the winding streets of the Plaka old town below.
Accommodation:
Electra Palace Hotel Athens
Included Meals:
Dinner
Included Experiences
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
- Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group: Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.
Set off this morning to wander the ancient Agora, standing where Socrates once spoke and democracy was born, then venture into the vibrant Plaka neighborhood. Visit Shedia Home, a non-profit café supporting the homeless, and participate in a hands-on upcycling workshop before a delicious lunch of fresh local ingredients. Later, immerse yourself in ancient history on an exploration of the New Acropolis Museum to examine the Parthenon frieze up close, then ascend the sacred rock to stand before the Parthenon itself, marveling at the symmetry of the columns against the vivid blue sky.
Accommodation:
Electra Palace Hotel Athens
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Ancient Agora Visit: Explore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.
- Visit to Shedia Home: Take time to relax at Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe providing purpose and employment to over 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. You'll enjoy a drink while one of Shedia's guides recounts the recent history of Greece's financial crisis which has made initiatives like Shedia even more important for those who have found themselves without work and shelter. Your stop here supports their programs - including the cafe, art program, and magazine - all dedicated to supporting the community.
- Acropolis Museum Visit: Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.
Depart Athens for the legendary pass of Thermopylae to stand before the statue of Leonidas, honoring the 300 Spartans who held the line of battle. Continue north as the landscape shifts to the surreal, towering rock pillars of Meteora. After lunch, join a local expert for an off-the-beaten-path exploration away from the crowds. Visit an active monastery, admire 11th-century frescoes in the Byzantine Church of the Virgin Mary, and walk to hidden hermit caves tucked into the cliffs. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Olympus before dinner at a local restaurant, watching the shadows lengthen over the valley.
Accommodation:
Divani Meteora Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Meteora Highlights with Archeologist: Discover the wonders of Meteora through a visit to St. Stephen's Monastery and the historic Church of the Virgin Mary, renowned for its 11th-century artistry. After, take a short walk to the secluded Hermit Caves and take in unparalleled panoramic views of the entire landscape.
Start the day with a presentation about the spiritual architecture of the region then step back 130,000 years at the Theopetra Prehistoric Cave. Guided by an archaeologist, uncover the traces of early human life in this ancient site, seeing footprints of our ancestors. After a local brunch, continue on to the Hermit Caves of Agios Theodosios for a private visit to the secluded religious retreat. After lunch, enjoy free time before venturing into the damp, mossy forests for a thrilling truffle hunt. Follow an expert hunter and their trained dog as they sniff out "black diamonds" in the earth, culminating in a short tasting of these incredible and rare local delicacies
Accommodation:
Divani Meteora Hotel
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Archaeologist- Led Exploration of Theopetra Cave: Led by a professional archaeologist, this immersive journey bridges the gap between prehistory and local tradition through an exploration of the region's most significant sites. You will uncover the ancient secrets of the Theopetra Prehistoric Cave and enjoy an exclusive visit to the secluded Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosios, gaining rare insight into the area’s long human history. This cultural experience is complemented by a series of authentic culinary encounters, from traditional village snacks to a full taverna lunch featuring classic regional specialties.
- Hermit Caves: Step inside the Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosios for a private tour of this secluded rock-hewn sanctuary. You will have exclusive access to explore the ascetic cells and ancient frescoes preserved within the quiet mountainside.
- Truffle Hunting Experience with Dogs: Take part in a truffle hunt with a local guide and their trained dogs. You'll follow the dogs as they use their sense of smell to locate truffles buried in the forest; a rewarding experience that connects you with nature and the joy of the hunt. Then, enjoy a snack featuring the famous truffles.
Travel south, stopping at the Hosios Loukas Monastery to admire its Byzantine mosaics and peaceful courtyards before arriving at Delphi, clinging to the slopes of Mount Parnassus and considered to be the “navel” of the ancient world. Explore the sanctuary with a local guide and walk in the footsteps of pilgrims along the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo. Marvel at the theatre and stadium carved into the mountainside, offering sweeping views of the valley. In the evening, enjoy an open-air barbecue dinner featuring homemade savory pies, perched on a cliff overlooking Greece's largest continuous olive grove.
Accommodation:
Amalia Hotel Delphi
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Guided Hosios Loukas Monastery: Experience the architectural splendor of the UNESCO-listed Hosios Loukas monastery, a premier masterpiece of Middle Byzantine art and architecture nestled on the slopes of Mount Helicon.
- Delphi Orientation Walk: Orient yourself to the dramatic setting of Delphi with an Expedition Leader led walk through its historic streets and cliffside pathways. This brief tour offers a helpful overview of the town's geography and the stunning natural scenery that has inspired visitors for millennia.
- Guided Tour of Ancient Delphi: Visit the ancient city of Delphi, at the base of Mount Parnassos. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes ancient buildings like treasuries, a stadium, a gymnasium, an altar, hippodrome and the Temple of Apollo.
- Temple of Athena Pronaia Photo Stop: Capture the iconic image of Delphi with a brief photo stop at the Temple of Athena Pronaia, home to the famous circular Tholos. This visit offers a stunning perspective of the sanctuary’s graceful columns set against the dramatic, steep backdrop of the Parnassus mountain range.
Journey to Olympia, the UNESCO World Heritage site where the Olympic Games began in 776 BC. Explore the ancient ruins and walk under the archway into the stadium, visualizing athletes standing before the temples of Zeus and Hera. Visit the archaeological museum to deepen your understanding of the site’s significance. In the evening, head to a family-owned olive farm and learn the secrets of harvesting and pressing techniques from the owners before sampling the fresh, peppery oil. Delve into an al fresco dinner of delicious local specialties, surrounded by the silvery leaves of the groves.
Accommodation:
Hotel Europa Olympia
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Guided Visit to Olympia Archaeological Site and Museum: Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, lies in a lush valley filled with symbolic ruins and captivating landscapes. Wander through the ancient olive groves to see remains of the Temple of Hera (today the starting point of the Olympic torch relay), the Temple of Zeus (a model for the development of Doric architecture) and the great Stadium of Olympia. Visit the nearby Archaeological Museum, whose collection spans over 3,500 years of Greek history. Here, find sculptures depicting Hermes and the Infant Dionysus, Zeus and Ganymede, and Nike of Paionios.
- Olive Farm Visit: Go behind the scenes for an exclusive visit to a family-owned estate, where you will meet the owners and discover the time-honored secrets of harvesting and pressing olives. After an expert-led tasting, enjoy a private al fresco dinner featuring regional specialties paired with local wine or beer in a beautifully branded, intimate setting.
Travel to the coastal town of Nafplio, one of Greece’s most romantic destinations with its Venetian architecture and seaside promenades. Board a small boat for a short ride to Bourtzi Castle, a fortress perched on a harbour island that once guarded the city. Stroll among the fortifications before returning to the mainland. Join a guided walk through the narrow, bougainvillea-draped alleyways of the old town, discovering hidden squares and neoclassic mansions before a dinner of Greek delicacies. Finish the evening with a scoop of gelato — a sweet end to a beautiful day by the sea.
Accommodation:
Liberty Hotel of Nafplio
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Nafplio Orientation Walk: Take a short Expedition Leader led orientation walk through the elegant streets of Nafplio, Greece’s first modern capital, to discover its unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Neoclassical charm.
- Bourtzi Castle : Take a short ferry ride to this Venetian landmark - a medieval castle off the coast of Nafpilo. A visit here offers visitors the chance to explore the castle's rooms, and a great views of the city on shore.
- Walking Tour of Nafplio: Explore the highlights of Nafplio's Old Town, from its charming alleys to its impressive landmarks. The walking tour offers perfect views of Bourtzi Castle and Palamidi Fortress, giving you a great overview of the city's unique history.
Set off from the hotel for a visit of the fortified city and open-air museum of Mycenae. Pass beneath the iconic Lion Gate to discover the royal palace, the ancient grave circle, and the monumental Tomb of Agamemnon, feeling the weight of a civilization that inspired Homer’s epics. Next, visit an award-winning winery to meet the owners, learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle, and sample distinct Greek varietals like Agiorgitiko over a delicious gourmet lunch in the vineyard.
Accommodation:
Liberty Hotel of Nafplio
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Guided Tour of Mycenae: Visit the famous Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archaeological site with spectacular ruins and a treasury. Once a major settlement of Greek civilization, Mycenae was occupied during the Neolithic period around 4000 BC, and is linked to the mythology in Homer’s epics the Iliad and the Odyssey.
- Bairaktaris Winery Visit: Experience an exclusive National Geographic Signature moment with a private visit to the Bairaktaris Winery, where you will meet the owners for a personal tour of their storied estate and cellars. This intimate encounter concludes with a guided wine tasting and sampling of local flavours, offering a sophisticated deep dive into the heritage of Greek viticulture.
- Free Time: The evening is yours to explore Nafplio's vibrant waterfront and hidden squares, offering the perfect opportunity to browse the town's artisan boutiques.
Explore the sanctuary of Epidaurus, a healing center dedicated to Asclepius. Marvel at the acoustics of the magnificent ancient theatre, where a whisper on stage can be heard in the back row. Pause at the Corinth Canal to see the engineering marvel connecting the Ionian and Aegean seas, cutting through solid rock. Return to Athens for a guided visit of the National Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s finest collection of Greek antiquities, including the Mask of Agamemnon. In the evening, gather for a family-style farewell dinner, toasting your journey through the ages in the shadow of the Acropolis.
Accommodation:
Electra Palace Hotel Athens
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Epidaurus: Explore the ancient sanctuary of Asklepios, a UNESCO site and the birthplace of organized medicine. See the ruins of the world's first recorded hospital where ancient Greeks sought cures through a combination of physical and spiritual healing, and then the famous, well-preserved ancient theater, still in use today.
- Corinth Canal Visit: Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.
- Guided National Archeological Musuem: Delve into the heart of ancient Greece with a guided exploration of its most iconic artifacts and artistic milestones within the nation's premier archaeological institution.
Your expedition to Greece concludes today. After a final breakfast, transfers are provided to the Athens airport at any time during the day.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Departure Transfer: You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Trip Inclusions
- Explore hidden hermit caves and Byzantine frescoes in Meteora with a local specialist.
- Join a local specialist and trained dog to search for truffles in the forests of Meteora.
- Savor award-winning vintages and a gourmet lunch at a celebrated winery in Nemea.
- Learn the art of pressing olives at a family farm before an al fresco feast.
- Tour the prehistoric Theopetra Cave with an archaeologist to uncover 130,000 years of history.
- Your G for Good Moment: Visit to Shedia Home, Athens
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Athens
- Signature Moment: Archaeologist- Led Exploration of Theopetra Cave, Kalampáka
- Signature Moment: Truffle Hunting Experience with Dogs, Kalampáka
- Your Foodie Moment: Olive Farm Visit, Olympia
- Signature Moment: Bairaktaris Winery Visit, Neméa
- Arrival and Departure Transfers
- Local Guided Tour of Agora
- Guided Tour of Acropolis Museum
- Leonidas Statue Photo Stop
- Meteora Highlights with Archeologist
- Agios Dimitrios Village Brunch
- Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosio Visit
- Hosios Loukas Monastery Visit
- Delphi Orientation Walk
- Delphi Guided Tour
- Temple of Athena Pronaia Visit
- Olympia Archaeological Site Guided Visit
- Leader Led Exploration of Bourtzi Castle
- Nafplio Guided Walk
- Mycenae Open Air Museum
- Epidaurus Exploration
- Corinth Canal Photo Stop
- National Archeological Musuem Guided Visit
- Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout
- Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles
- Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private vehicle, small boat, walking
- National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout
- Hotels (9 Nights)
- 9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: National Geographic Signature
These ultra-premium journeys combine deep cultural immersion with five-star comfort and the authority of National Geographic. Created in collaboration with G Adventures, each experience offers rare access, meaningful connections with communities, and expert insight from leading specialists.
With world-class service, thoughtfully curated inclusions, and unforgettable Signature Moments throughout, these journeys are designed for travelers who seek refined luxury without losing a sense of purpose or discovery.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Sunday
14 Mar 2027
14 Mar 27
Athens
Tuesday
23 Mar 2027
23 Mar 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
18 Apr 2027
18 Apr 27
Athens
Tuesday
27 Apr 2027
27 Apr 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sold Out
Sunday
16 May 2027
16 May 27
Athens
Tuesday
25 May 2027
25 May 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
23 May 2027
23 May 27
Athens
Tuesday
01 Jun 2027
01 Jun 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
13 Jun 2027
13 Jun 27
Athens
Tuesday
22 Jun 2027
22 Jun 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
18 Jul 2027
18 Jul 27
Athens
Tuesday
27 Jul 2027
27 Jul 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
15 Aug 2027
15 Aug 27
Athens
Tuesday
24 Aug 2027
24 Aug 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
19 Sep 2027
19 Sep 27
Athens
Tuesday
28 Sep 2027
28 Sep 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
26 Sep 2027
26 Sep 27
Athens
Tuesday
05 Oct 2027
05 Oct 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
10 Oct 2027
10 Oct 27
Athens
Tuesday
19 Oct 2027
19 Oct 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday
17 Oct 2027
17 Oct 27
Athens
Tuesday
26 Oct 2027
26 Oct 27
Athens
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,499
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Similar Tours
10 Days Antalya Istanbul
Operated By: G Adventures
From
937
Save
325
10 Days Athens Santorini
Operated By: G Adventures
From
4,239
Save
1,060
9 Days Athens Crete
Operated By: G Adventures
From
3,983
Save
816
