Ancient Empires of Greece

Begin your journey in Athens, where a world of ancient myths and intriguing culture awaits. Join your Tour Director and fellow travelers this evening for a welcome drink, before settling in for your two night stay.

This morning, discover the bustling Greek capital with a guided city tour. Explore the city’s mix of ancient and contemporary with your local guide, including a visit to the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, the impressive Panathenaiko Stadium. You’ll also visit many of the city’s ancient wonders, such as the World Heritage-listed Acropolis, the Propylaea, and the Parthenon, just to name a few. Freechoice: Visit the Acropolis Museum, situated overlooking the famed Acropolis offering stunning 360-degree views of the city, and discover the many ancient treasures on display. Alternatively, take a walking tour through Plaka, the oldest district in Athens, and discover everything this charming neighbourhood has to offer, including a taste of local delicacies along the way. Tonight, enjoy a delicious included dinner in a local restaurant. (B/D)

Today travel towards Nafplion, Greece’s historic first capital. You’ll have the opportunity to stop and admire the 23-metre wide Corinth Canal, before continuing to the small village of Epidaurus, where you’ll visit the renowned Great Theatre of Epidaurus, dating back to 4th century BC. This afternoon, arrive in the charming town of Nafplion and discover this picturesque seaside port with a guided city tour. Notice the many Venetian and Ottoman influences that make this city unique, as your guide takes you through the narrow streets of the Old Town, finishing your tour at the imposing Palamidi Fortress. Relax tonight at your hotel, where you’ll enjoy a one night stay. (B)

This morning begins with a visit to the important archaeological site of Mycenae. Learn about the legendary Agamemnon, as you marvel at the fortified ruins where once stood the most powerful kingdom in Greece. As we continue towards Olympia, stop at local winery Skouras Domaine for a wine tasting. Then join a cooking class followed by a delicious lunch in the traditional village of Vytina.

Continue to the small ancient town of Olympia, renowned as the site of the first Olympic Games held over 2,800 years ago. Here we’ll visit the Olympia Archaeological site, home to many extraordinary monuments such as the Temples of Hera and Zeus, and the ancient stadium where the torch of the modern Olympic Games is still lit today. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Archaeological Museum, which proudly displays relics dating back to prehistoric times. Tonight, enjoy an included dinner at a local restaurant before your over night stay. (B/L/D)

Depart today for the mountainside town of Delphi, considered by Zeus to be the centre of the world if ancient Greek mythology is to be believed. Explore significant historical sites such as the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo, and the Archaeological Museum of Delphi. As we head towards Itea for our overnight stay, stop at local honey farm for a tour and olive tasting. Tonight is yours at leisure. (B)

Continue today to the World Heritage-listed site of Meteora. See the natural wonders of 60 million year old rock formations, with incredible Byzantine monasteries dating back to the 14th century balanced high on the rock pillars above. Originally, more than twenty monasteries once hovered high in the mountains, today only six stoically remain. Freechoice: Visit the fascinating Monastery of Rousanou and the Antonite Varlaam Monastery, followed by a panoramic driving tour through the mountains for breathtaking views of this remarkable site, or for those feeling more active, follow the old footpaths monks have walked for centuries on a guided hike, exploring monasteries along the way, some still proudly standing and others in ruins. Tonight you’ll be treated to a home hosted dinner, before your overnight stay. (B/D)

Today we journey back to Athens, as we make our way to the city centre’s highest point, Lycabettus Hill. Take an enjoyable ride on the funicular railway to the peak, and be rewarded with spectacular views across the city. At the top is the setting for our unforgettable farewell dinner. (B/D)

Depart after breakfast. Athens may be the end of your journey but it will be the start of a lifetime of wonderful memories. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. (B)