Enticing Greece: A Journey from North to South
11 Days Thessaloniki - Meteora - Volos - Delphi - Athens
Discover the charms of mainland Greece on this 11-day epic trip from Thessaloniki to Athens. Highlighted by six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, this exclusive journey is a distinctive combination of Greece’s ancient wonders, charming medieval hilltop villages, and the modern Greek urban appeal. With chauffeured transportation throughout, you will experience genuine Greek hospitality, savor authentic Greek meals, and sample regional wines.
Day 1 Welcome to Thessaloniki
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the city by our luxury mini-bus. Check in at Hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner.
Day 2 Roman & Byzantine Treasures
Once the capital of the Roman Empire, Thessaloniki boasts spectacular ancient monuments. Explore the city’s fascinating history with your local guide, including a visit to the World Heritage-listed Rotunda and church of Saint Demetrios. After lunch, visit a local Winery and Wine Museum, or alternatively delve into the secrets of the Museum of Byzantine Culture.
Day 3 Legends of Alexander the Great
This morning visit Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, and Vergina, the burial grounds of the famous Macedonian kings. At the city of Veroia, enjoy a delicious meal and visit the Bema of Saint Paul, before crossing the Macedonian land to arrive at Meteora.
Day 4 Clifftop Monasteries of Meteora
This morning you wake up under the pinnacles of Meteora, one of Christianity’s holiest places set in a landscape of rare beauty. After visiting two monasteries, enjoy a traditional Greek lunch at our favorite local restaurant. In the afternoon, travel through the great plain of Thessaly to Volos, the land of Jason and the Argonauts.
Day 5 Mountain of the Centaurs
Experience the natural splendor and cultural richness of Mount Pelion where the ancient Greek gods loved to relax. You will visit the most picturesque villages of the mountain, marvel at majestic views, experience the slow-paced lifestyle, and enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal in a unique setting.
Day 6 Wonders of Ancient Volos
Visit the oldest village in Europe (7,000 BC) and the homeland of mythical Jason (13th century BC). At the Archaeological Museum of Volos marvel at rare finds, ancient Greek painting, and the kitchen of a Roman tavern. Tonight, you will dine at a tsipouro restaurant and experience Volos’ famous gastronomic tradition.
Day 7 Onward to the Center of the World
Today, you will visit the Pan-Hellenic oracle at Delphi and the temple of Apollo which according to the ancient Greeks was at the center of the world. At the Delphi Museum be amazed with some of the most exquisite examples of ancient Greek art including the famous bronze charioteer. Check in to hotel and explore on your own the modern charming village on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
Day 8 Travel to Athens + Hosios Loukas
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel with a spectacular view to the endless olive grove of Amfissa. Today, we depart for Athens and on our way, we visit the monastery of Hosios Loukas (10th century AD), a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the wooded slopes of Mount Helikon. After your arrival in Athens enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 9 The Secrets of the Parthenon
This morning enjoy an in-depth tour of the Acropolis and discover the fascinating details and secrets of the Parthenon that made it one of the world’s most iconic buildings. At the Acropolis Museum marvel at the exquisite ancient Greek sculpture. This evening, we will gather for a farewell dinner of fine Greek cuisine.
Day 10 Enjoy Athens on your own
A free day to take advantage of your hotel’s city-center location in Athens. Our staff will assist you with additional private sightseeing, tickets for cultural events or dining reservations.
Day 11 Farewell Greece
Transfer to the airport and depart Athens.