Golden sunsets, crystal azure seas and ancient ruins are quintessential to the allure of Greece. On this 8 day tour you will discover traces of ancient Greek civilization, explore the scenes that inspired Greek legends and stroll through ancient sites and museums on this fascinating tour. Your journey begins and ends in historic Athens where a city tour transports you back to an ancient time with a visit to the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Olympic Stadium and the Acropolis. You then embark on a relaxing drive along the scenic coastal road to the southern most point of Attica, which affords breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf and the beautiful beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza. Arriving in Cape Sounion you will visit the 5th century B.C. Temple of Poseidon. It offers one of the most breath-taking panoramic views in Greece. Your tour continues with a regular cruise to three legendary Greek islands in the Saronic Gulf: Aegina, which is famous for the beautiful temple of Athina Afaia , Hydra, the beloved island of all painters, with its beautiful pastel colored houses perched on rocks and the picturesque island of Poros, with its blue woodwork and white walls so typical of Greek island architecture. A highlight of Poros are the incredible remains of the Sanctuary of Poseidon. A breath-taking drive across the Peloponnese Peninsula brings you to the ancient city of Mycenae, home to the 3,000 year old Lion Gate. Traveling through the fertile plain of Argolis, you head for Nauplion nestled at the foot of a cliff crowned by the Mighty Ramparts of the Palamidi Fortress. You continue on to Epidaurus to visit the 4th century B.C. theatre, famous for its astonishing acoustics. This tour also allows some leisure time for independent exploration and the opportunity to sample the delicious cuisine and traditional entertainment. Experience the history, beauty, warmth and enduring charm of this magical and legendary country.
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Day 1 & 2 Flight – Arrival in Athens
On your arrival, you will be escorted to your hotel. Our assistant will give you local information and answer to your questions. In the evening you will be welcomed with a local dinner at your hotel.
Day 3 Athens Sightseeing Tour
This tour highlights the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. You will visit Constitution Square (Syntagma) and The House of Parliament. You will pass the Evzones, in their picturesque uniforms, the Presidential Palace and on the way to the Acropolis, the Panathenaic Stadium, where the 1st Olympic games of the Modern Era were held in 1896….. and much more!
Day 4 Athens – Cape Sounion – Athens
Today beings with a scenic drive along the coast to Cape Sounion where the white marble pillars of the Temple of Poseidon stand. The journey back to Athens offers splendid views of the Saronic Gulf and the picturesque islands nearby.
Day 5 Athens – Saronic Island Cruise – Athens
You embark on a one day cruise visiting the lovely islands of Aegina, Poros and Hydra. Highlights include the Temple of Aphaia (Athena) in Aegina, the beautiful 18th & 19th century stone archontika (mansions) of Hydra and the ancient sanctuary of Poseidon in Poros.
Day 6 Athens – Argolis – Athens
This morning take a stunning drive to the Corinth Canal, which connects the Aegean with the Ionian sea. Your first stop will be Mycenaes, the Homeric city of the Atreides. Meaning ‘Rich in Gold’ it is the city of the ancient poets. You will visit the Lion’s Gate, The Cyclopean Walls and the Royal Tombs. After a meal at a local restaurant, you travel on to Nauplion and the Palamidi Fortress and the theatre of Epidaurus.
Day 7 & Day 8
Full day free at leisure followed by a dinner at a Greek Taverna
Your tour ends the next day with a transfer to Athens airport for your return journey home.