Mainland Greece Discovery
Experience Overview
Get lost in colourful cities filled with natural and ancient treasures on this whirlwind tour of mainland Greece. See where democracy began and how life was lived when Zeus called all the shots. Explore ancient ruins and rituals of the past. Unwind in the evening after a big day with a sip of ouzo over a banquet of culinary treats. Yamas!
Highlights
- Uncover thousands of years of civilisation in Athens with a visit to the world-famous Acropolis and the ancient Agora
- Like endless pilgrims before you, visit the home of the Oracle of Delphi in the Sanctuary of Apollo, one of Greece's most important archaeological sites
- Be mesmerised by the magical monasteries of Meteora, an extraordinary site precariously perched on a series of ancient rock pinnacles
- Discover the many flavours of Greek cuisine. There's nothing quite like dining on rich and hearty moussaka or grilled lamb and tzatziki in a traditional taverna as Rembetika music floats around you
Trip Details
Product Code: 3260
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Taxi
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ZMSW
Starts: Athens, Greece
Finishes: Athens, Greece
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (7), Lunch (1),Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,076 ($260 /day)
Itinerary
Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Named after the goddess of wisdom, the birthplace of Western civilisation, Athens has an amazing array of historic sites to explore; a weighty history that spills out over the modern city, represented most dramatically by the ancient Acropolis. There's much to be seen in the ancient capital of Greece, vibrant and refreshed following the 2004 Olympics, yet still retaining so much visible history. After the welcome meeting, perhaps head out for some gyros and ouzo with your new travel companions.
Optional Activities:
- Athens - National Archaeological Museum (15 EUR)
- Athens - Lycabettus Hill - Free
- Athens - Dora Stratou (20 EUR)
- Athens - Numismatic Museum (15 EUR)
- Athens - Day trip to the Saronic Islands (140 EUR)
- Athens - Acropolis Museum (30 EUR)
- Athens - Half day trip to Cape Sounio (55 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning head out to visit the famous Acropolis, one of the Western world's most important historical structures. Start with an ascent to the top of this sacred rock via the towering entrance, the Propylaia. Once inside, encounter the Parthenon – the greatest Doric temple in the ancient world. In the afternoon board a train to cosmopolitan Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. This city especially comes alive in the evening, thanks in part to its large student population, so make sure you hunt down the perfect gyros or some live music.
Included Activities:
- Athens - Acropolis Archaeological Site Visit with Local Guide
- Athens - Acropolis Local Guide
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Relax in the splendour of what is regarded as the cultural capital of the country. Walk along the waterfront to the White Tower, take in the Byzantine churches (like the beautifully frescoed Church of Saint Nicholas the Orphan), Ottoman sites and Roman ruins, and appreciate the wonderful views over the gulf. On a clear day you might even catch a glimpse of the home of the gods, Mount Olympus. If you’d like someone to show you the way, perhaps join an Urban Adventure for a local view. The city is undoubtedly the gastronomic capital of the Greece and its flavours are unique. For 2,000 years it’s been a melting pot of cultures, with eastern spices, French, Balkan and Mediterranean tastes. Seek out the eateries in the area around the agora, where age-old columns and arches brush up against modern apartments and the ancient Rotunda. Don't forget to stop by at NAOMI,an NGO workshop supporting refugees with skill training and learn about the amazing work and the challenges they are faced with today.
Included Activities:
- Thessaloniki - NAOMI Ecumenical Workshop for Refugees visit
Optional Activities:
- Thessaloniki - Museum of Byzantine Culture (8 EUR)
- Thessaloniki - White tower of Thessaloniki (6 EUR)
- Thessaloniki - Thessaloniki water boats to beach (7 EUR)
- Thessaloniki - Visit Historical & Cultural Monuments of Thessaloniki with public Bus "Cultural" Route No 50 (2 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by train and private transfer to Kalambaka (approximately 3.5 hours). Upon arrival embark on on a short orientation walk of town, where your leader will point out amenities and help you get your bearings. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore the scenic area around Kalambaka and Meteora, where the views are stunning whichever way you look. Having two days here allows you to explore at your own pace, discover the history and legends, witness the incredible views of one of the few World Heritage sites listed under both nature and art at different times of the day, and avoid the crowds. Your leader will have suggestions on hand. In the evening, maybe head to a taverna for dinner and stroll the main square for a taste of Thessalian life.
Optional Activities:
- Meteora - Natural history Museum of Meteora (6 EUR)
- Meteora sunset tour (35 EUR)
- Meteora - Digital centre of Meteora Projection (3 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Climb into the heavens, just like monks have done for centuries, towards ancient monasteries precariously placed atop 400-metre-high rock formations. Meteora is home to 24 14th century monasteries that sit at the top of karst pinnacles, though only six are still occupied. They were once only accessed by rope ladders, but thankfully there are now steps. The cliff faces also feature caves where hermits lived an even simpler life than those in the teetering monasteries. The monasteries, which used to be supplied by rope and pulley systems, house woodcarvings, frescoes, paintings, and one even features the skulls of the first founders. You’ll enjoy some great views back over the town. The area makes for incredibly dramatic photos – multi-colour streaked rock, bright green forest, and the pale terracotta of the monastery roofs against the Grecian sky. The mists that can surround the pinnacles make the constructions seem like they’re floating in the air. Hawks drift on the valley thermals looking for prey, and black-frocked priests shuffle silently around.
Included Activities:
- Meteora - Monastery Visits with Local Guide
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel by private transfer to Delphi (approximately 4 hours). On the the way, stop at our favourite camping site where you'll enjoy a tasting of different type of olives, oil and tapenade that's produced on their farm and special to the region. Your lunch will also be included here and enjoy an afternoon of sunbathing and swimming, with a view overlooking the Delphi Valley, a recognised UNESCO World Heritage Site. Then continue to Delphi. Located on the slopes of Mt Parnassos, by a valley of cypress and olives trees, this modern town and ancient ruins overlooks the Gulf of Corinth. The ancient Greeks regarded Delphi as the centre of the world (legend says that Zeus sent two eagles flying from opposite ends of the world and they crossed paths over Delphi), and today it’s one of the country's most inspiring and memorable archaeological sites. On arrival, your leader will take you on an orientation walk of the cliffside town of Delphi. Then, follow your local guide for a guided tour through the amazing archaeological sites and museums. Here you’ll find the famous sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena, which contain numerous monuments, temples, a well-preserved theatre, and the impressive reconstructed Athenian Treasury. The site was also home to the Delphic oracle, said to have spoken for Apollo himself – she sat on a chasm, inhaling vapours from the Earth and entering a trance-like state, her cryptic answers to questions translated by priests. There’s also a mountain-top stadium, which were used for the Pythian Games (an Olympic Games precursor), held every four years as early as 586 BC.
Included Activities:
- Delphi - Archaeological Site & Museum guided tour
- Delphi - local lunch & olive oil tasting with a view of Delphi Valley
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel back to Athens today by bus, arriving in the late afternoon (approximately 3,5 hours). Shop for the perfect souvenir at the Monastiraki flea market or take a relaxing stroll through the Greek national gardens. If you haven’t already, check out the Temple of Olympian Zeus or the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guard. While in the neighbourhood explore the excellent Museum of Athens, Syntagma square with the Parliament building, and the Panathinaiko Stadium which housed the first Olympic games in 1896.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
The trip finishes after breakfast and you are free to depart the hotel at any time. If you would like to stay in the Greek capital we are happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability). Please speak to your travel agent at the time of booking.
Optional Activities:
- Athens - Twilight Athens Urban Adventure (99 EUR)
- Athens - Markets, Ruins & Ancient Athens Urban Adventure (139 EUR)
- Athens - Taste of Athens Urban Adventure (139 EUR)
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Carol - Traveled, October 2023
Wonderful condensed week tour of mainland Greece Small group makes for good interaction and sharing Wonderful selection of major archeological sites, extraordinary geological sites , orthodox monasteries perched on mountains, a vibrant city of Thessaloniki , bustling Athens Tour lead by a wonderful young woman , knowledgable, attentive to all needs Felt safe throughout- a tour not to be missed!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/25/2023
Eleni - Traveled, October 2023
As someone half-Greek who was travelling to discover a little bit about my heritage, the Mainland Greece Discovery was a great intro to Greek history and geography. The trip travels to some absolutely amazing destinations, including the otherworldly setting of Meteora, the sleepy village of Delphi with a history dating back thousands of years, Thessaloniki, the birthplace of Alexander the Great and of course, Athens the country's vibrant capital.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/29/2023
Tracey - Traveled, September 2023
This was an informative and totally enjoyable trip. Travelling with our tour leader Dina was like travelling with a close friend. All in all a joyous experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/29/2023
Sarah - Traveled, September 2023
I had an amazing time on this tour and loved exploring the mainland of Greece. There was plenty to see and do and I didn't feel it was too rushed as there was time to also do your own thing as well as the included activities. Our group leader, Dina, was amazing and she made the tour much more enjoyable as I felt very happy, comfortable and safe. It was nice to explore Greece for the first time this way (also as a solo traveller) and not have to worry or think too much on what to do or how to get around. Amazing memories and friendships made along the way. Would highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/03/2023
Diana - Traveled, September 2023
A wonderful way to explore more than just the Greek islands. We learned so much about the history and culture of the area with a few Greek myths thrown in, loved it. Our guide Dina was exceptional and truly made this trip memorable for us!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/05/2023
Steven - Traveled, September 2023
Mainland Greece tour is a small taste of the beautiful culture, food, history, architecture and geography that is Greece. You WILL fall in love.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Madelyn - Traveled, September 2023
Dina our guide was incredible I can’t thank her enough - made my first overseas trip such an enjoyable experience. I saw so much of Greece and wish I could come back every year! Thanks so much Dina and Intrepid!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/23/2023
Bruce - Traveled, September 2023
Our land trip to Greece with Intrepid was the perfect balance of information provided, options for your physical ability, historical explanations and the right amount of free time. All of that plus an exceptional guide. We will be booking our eighth trip with Intrepid soon.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/16/2023
Rachel - Traveled, September 2023
Such a great trip. I learned something new everywhere we went. The tour leader and tour guides were knowledgeable and enthusiastic. It was my first trip with Intrepid and won’t be my last. I just hope that all my future tour leaders are as great as Maria-Christina.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2023
Patricia - Traveled, September 2023
This tour was a wonderful introduction to some of Greece's must-see sights. Tour Leader MC was exceptional. Loved Meteora and Delphi.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/16/2023
Hemalatha - Traveled, September 2023
Highly recommend this trip !!! Dina our tour leader was phenomenal! Her enthusiasm, depth of knowledge, and eagerness to share it made a huge difference!!She went way and above in organizing group dinners , and everything fun all with a personal touch !!’ I may have be back !!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
James - Traveled, September 2023
A great trip for those interested in history and gastronomy! Dina was an excellent and enthusiastic guide and made sure we got the most out of the trip, from Byzantine monasteries to Baklava!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/14/2023
Sharon - Traveled, August 2023
The Mainland Greece tour revealed some amazing sites that you read about in books, but cannot truly appreciate until you are actually there, like Meteora and Delphi.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/02/2023
Pamela - Traveled, September 2023
This trip shows that there is more to Greece than just Athens and the islands.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/27/2023
Anita - Traveled, August 2023
An excellent trip that I thoroughly enjoyed & I recommend it to anyone who enjoys some history that are mind blowing..& beautiful sights.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2023
Emma - Traveled, August 2023
Highly recommended, a great way to experience the mainland in a short time frame.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/03/2023
Mary - Traveled, August 2023
I really enjoyed my trip because our guide Nikos was fantastic. He is passionate about being Greek and is extremely proud of the history and culture of his country. I learnt so much and hope to return. The trip was very well planned with Meteora being an amazing highlight, especially the Sunset tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/06/2023
Matthew - Traveled, August 2023
If you want to take in the best of Mainland Greece in a short space of time, with culturally enriching experiences, awe-inspiring sights, amazing food and great company, I cannot recommend this tour highly enough.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/19/2023
Delia - Traveled, February 2024
This was my first trip with Intrepid & I am impressed. While the beauty of Greece inspired me, I have a great appreciation for the organization & enthusiasm of our tour leader, Dina, & the responsible tourism that Intrepid promotes. Already researching my next Intrepid trip !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/21/2024
Nick - Traveled, December 2023
Very very good
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 12/26/2023
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