Grand Tour in Greece
10 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece
Visiting: Athens, Olympia, Delphi, Kalambaka, Thessaloniki
Tour operator:
Tour code:
352573
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Ruins-Archaeology
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the Grand Tour in Greece, a cultural journey through the heart of ancient civilization. Begin in Athens, exploring iconic landmarks like the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum. Travel to the historic sites of Corinth Canal, Epidaurus, and Mycenae, then continue to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Discover the mystical ruins of Delphi, once considered the center of the world, and marvel at the breathtaking Meteora monasteries in Kalambaka. Experience the vibrant city of Thessaloniki, with its rich Byzantine heritage, and visit the picturesque towns of Edessa and Naoussa. Conclude your adventure with a visit to Pella, the ancient capital of Alexander the Great, and the sacred city of Dion. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and delicious meals throughout this unforgettable 10-day journey.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Upon your arrival at Athens airport or Piraeus port (please advise your flight details or ferry details, in order to arrange the pick-up), meet and greet, and transfer to your hotel for check in. The afternoon is free at leisure for exploring this never sleeping city.
Overnight in Athens.
Day 2 : Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Luscious breakfast at your hotel is followed by the exciting Athens city tour which gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Our expert guide will take you to see Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held (shortstop), the Prime Minister's residence guarded by the Euzones in their colorful uniform, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma). On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally the monument that "puts the order in the mind", magnificent Parthenon. The tour ends with a visit to the new Acropolis museum. Return to your hotel in Athens. The rest of the day is free for leisure. Optionally, you can book a half-day excursion to Cape Sounio (not included, optional extra).
Cape Sounio excursion
This unique tour will take you through the coastal road, passing the wonderful beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni & Varkiza to Cape Sounio, where the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand. After visiting the Temple of Poseidon, you have time to walk at leisure on the rocky promontory of Sounio.
(Includes roundtrip shared transportation from/to hotel, shared professional English-speaking guide, entrance fee to Cape Sounio).
End time: 19:30
Overnight in Athens.
Day 3 : Athens – Corinth Canal-Epidarus –Nafplio-Mycenae-Olympia (395 Km – 5.45 Hrs)
Location: Olympia
Accommodation Name: Hotel Europa or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After the delightful breakfast at the hotel, depart today by the coastal road to the impressive Corinth Canal where you will have a short photo stop. Continue the drive on and visit the Theatre of Epidaurus famous for its remarkable acoustics. Then proceed to the Town of Nauplion (short stop) drive on to Mycenae and visit the Archaeological Site and the Tomb of Agamemnon. Then depart for Olympia through Central Peloponnese passing by the towns of Tripolis and Megalopolis. Arrive at Olympia, cradle of the ancient Olympic Games and after the check-in enjoy a dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Olympia.
Day 4 : Olympia – Delphi (215 Km – 3.15 Hrs)
Location: Delphi
Accommodation Name: Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast at your hotel. In the morning visit the archaeological site with the sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium and the archaeological museum. After drive on through the plains of Ilia and Achaia until the magnificent bridge which is crossing the Corinthian Bay from Rion to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque Towns of Nafpactos (Lepanto) and Itea, and once in Delphi, check-in to your hotel. Dinner serves at the hotel.
Overnight in Delphi.
Day 5 : Delphi – Kalambaka (235 Km – 3.15 Hrs)
Location: Kalambaka
Accommodation Name: Hotel Amalia Kalambaka or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Wake up to tasty breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your morning visit of the archaeological site and the museum of Delphi. Depart for Kalambaka, a small town situated at the foot of the astonishing complex of the Meteora, those gigantic rocks that rise steep from the plain of Thessaly. Arrive to Kalambaka, check-in and wrap up the day with a dinner at the hotel.
Overnight in Kalambaka.
Day 6 : Kalambaka – Thessaloniki (230 Km – 2.5 Hrs)
Location: Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mediterranean Palace or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy your breakfast at your hotel and get ready for one of the most exciting sites, Meteora, perched on top of huge rocks, which seem to be suspended in mid-air, stand ageless Monasteries, where you can see exquisite specimens of Byzantine art. Afterward, depart from Kalambaka, drive through the striking plain of Thessaly and the Valley of Tempi, and admire the gigantic figure of Mount Olympos, the highest mountain in Greece, home to the 12 Gods in Greek Mythology. Arrival at Thessaloniki, the second largest and the most vibrant city in Greece, check-in to the hotel and dinner.
Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Day 7 : Thessaloniki
Location: Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mediterranean Palace or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, in the morning visit the city that throughout the era of the Byzantine Empire was the “co-reigning” city, second in population and prestige after Constantinople. See unique sites like the White Tower, Roman Forum, Ottoman Market, St. Demetrius’ Church, and the Byzantine Walls. A short walking tour includes the ruins of the Palace and Arch of Galerius, and a visit to the famous Rotunda built as a temple and transformed into a church, with fine Early-Christian mosaics. The rest of the day is free, to enjoy time in the lively center of the city (dinner and overnight).
Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Day 8 : Thessaloniki – Edessa – Naoussa –Vergina – Veria –Thessaloniki (245 Km – 4Hrs)
Location: Thessaloniki
Accommodation Name: Hotel Mediterranean Palace or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After an energizing breakfast at the hotel, depart in the morning for a unique approach to historical Macedonia. First stop is at picturesque Edessa where you see the town's famous landmark, the Waterfalls. Then proceed to Naoussa, to visit the Aristotle's School, the picturesque site where the great philosopher taught ‘the doctrines of morals and politics' to Alexander the Great and the Macedonian youth. Afterward drive to Vergina (ancient Aigai), to live the experience of a visit to the unique Museum, created in the Great Tumulus covering the royal tombs of Macedonia. See the astonishing findings from the tomb of King Phillip II, Alexander's father, and feel the thrill of the greatest discovery of the 20th century. In only a few miles away is Veria (Biblical Beroea) to visit Saint Paul's Bema, and then stroll through the old Jewish neighbourhood and the colourful market area. A walk in a city where past is present and around. Return to Thessaloniki for dinner at your hotel.
Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Day 9 : Thessaloniki – Pella – Dion – Thermopyle – Athens (575 Km – 6.15 Hrs)
Location: Athens
Accommodation Name: Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with a tasty breakfast at the hotel, after which you drive to Pella, the capital of Alexander the Great. See the exquisite floor mosaics of the 4th century B.C. villas, in situ as well as in the new Museum. Further on continue to the Archaeological Park of Dion (sacred city of the Macedonians, at the foot of mountain Olympos) and afterward, you proceed driving south and through Thessaly, Lamia, Thermopylae (see the Leonidas' Monument) and Thebes, back to Athens, where you arrive in late afternoon. The rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Athens.
Day 10 : Departure Athens
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
Delightful breakfast at the hotel are followed by a big farewell to Greece. At an indicated time you will be transferred to the Athens airport to take your flight to following destinations.
What's Included
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Tour Guide
Operated with English-speaking local guides in each city during sightseeing and excursion from day 2 to 9.
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Accommodation
9 nights' hotel accommodation.
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Meals
9 breakfasts and 6 dinners (from day 3 to 8).
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Transport
Shared transportation in an air-conditioned bus throughout the tour (from day 2 to 9).
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Entrance Fees & Activities
All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Athens City tour (Day 2), Corinth Canal sightseeing tour, Theatre of Epidaurus, Mycenae Archaeological site (Day 3), Olympia sightseeing tour (Day 4), Delphi archaeological site and museum (Day 5), Meteora excursion (Day 6), Thessaloniki city tour (Day 7), Thessaloniki and surrounding sites sightseeing tour (Day 8), Pella, Dion and Thermopylae full-day trip (Day 9).
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Other
Meet & Greet.
What's Not Included
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Flights
Domestic or International flights.
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Drinks
Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise).
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program.
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Camera Fees
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any).
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
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Overnight City Tax
Overnight city tax for the hotel overnights effective from January 1st 2018.
Clients will have to pay the TAX on the spot at the hotels. -
Climate Change Resilience Fee
Climate Change Resilience Fee effective from December 12th 2023.
Requirements
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Greece. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
Please Note
- Day 1: Please advise your flight details or ferry details, in order to arrange the pick-up.
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
- Late check-out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.
- In many hotels in Greece, the triple rooms are a double room with an additional bed or sofa bed.
- Please note that the inbound airport Athens - City hotel transfers are included only as part of the package and if pre and post-night stay is booked as an extra. Otherwise additional transfers should be purchased separately.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Athens:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Day 3 Olympia:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Europa or similar 4*
Day 4 Delphi:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*
Day 5 Kalambaka:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Kalambaka or similar 4*
Day 6, 7, 8 Thessaloniki:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mediterranean Palace or similar 4*
Day 9 Athens:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with shared air-conditioned transfers from/to Athens Airport or Piraeus Port, and shared transportation in an air-conditioned bus throughout the tour from day 2 to 9.
Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights of hotel accommodation in superior 4-star hotels, including Hotel Fresh in Athens, Hotel Europa in Olympia, Hotel Amalia Delphi, Hotel Amalia Kalambaka, and Hotel Mediterranean Palace in Thessaloniki.
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1, 2 Athens:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Day 3 Olympia:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Europa or similar 4*
Day 4 Delphi:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Delphi or similar 4*
Day 5 Kalambaka:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Amalia Kalambaka or similar 4*
Day 6, 7, 8 Thessaloniki:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Mediterranean Palace or similar 4*
Day 9 Athens:
- Superior Hotel Category = Hotel Fresh or similar 4*
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of guide will be provided during the tour?
The tour will be operated with English-speaking local guides in each city during sightseeing and excursions from day 2 to 9.
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What type of accommodation is included in the tour?
The tour includes 9 nights of hotel accommodation in superior hotel categories. Specific hotels include Hotel Fresh in Athens, Hotel Europa in Olympia, Hotel Amalia Delphi in Delphi, Hotel Amalia Kalambaka in Kalambaka, and Hotel Mediterranean Palace in Thessaloniki, or similar 4-star hotels.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 9 breakfasts and 6 dinners (from day 3 to 8).
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes inbound/outbound shared air-conditioned transfers from/to Athens Airport or Piraeus Port and shared transportation in an air-conditioned bus throughout the tour (from day 2 to 9).
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour?
Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included. This includes visits to the Athens City tour, Corinth Canal sightseeing tour, Theatre of Epidaurus, Mycenae Archaeological site, Olympia sightseeing tour, Delphi archaeological site and museum, Meteora excursion, Thessaloniki city tour, and more.
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What should I wear when visiting temples or religious buildings in Greece?
Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts, or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious, or official buildings. Comfortable and light clothing is recommended for traveling in Greece.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package. It is recommended to purchase travel insurance separately.
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Are there any additional fees I should be aware of?
Yes, there are additional fees such as the overnight city tax for hotel overnights effective from January 1st, 2018, and the Climate Change Resilience Fee effective from December 12th, 2023. These fees are to be paid on the spot at the hotels.
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What happens if there are changes in the itinerary due to unforeseen circumstances?
The tour operator reserves the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems, or security reasons.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
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Low Deposit
Destination Services Greece requires a minimum deposit of 30% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 35 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services greece charges.
Up to 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.