Grand Tour of Greece

This morning visit the Archaeological Site with the sanctuary of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Stadium and the Archaeological Museum. Continue via Patras to Rion and across the state-of-the-art new suspended Bridge to Antirion. Pass by the picturesque Town of Nafpactos (Lepanto) before arriving in Delphi. Dinner at your hotel and overnight in Delphi.

This morning visit the Archaeological Site and the Museum of Delphi, once considered the centre of the World. 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. Take a short visit of the village on arrival. Dinner at your hotel and overnight in Kalambaka.

This morning you will head out to visit the 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. Depart from Kalambaka, driving through the striking plain of Thessaly and the Valley of Tempi, and admire the gigantic figure of Mount Olympos, the highest mountain in Greece and home of the 12 Gods in Greek Mythology. Changing bus and continue to Thessaloniki, the second largest and the most vibrant city in Greece. Dinner at your hotel and overnight in Thessaloniki.

Set out after breakfast and 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 from 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 remainder of the day is at leisure, to allow you time in the lively center of the city. Dinner at your hotel and overnight in Thessaloniki.

Depart in the morning for a unique approach to historical Macedonia. First stop at picturesque Edessa where you will see the town's famous landmark, the Waterfalls. Then proceed to Naoussa, to a site of exceptional beauty and importance: 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. Then 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. Only a few miles away is Veria (Biblical Beroea), 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. Dinner at your hotel and overnight in Thessaloniki.

This morning set off and 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. Then proceed and visit the Archaeological Park of Dion (sacred city of the Macedonians, at the foot of mountain Olympos). After the start driving south and through Thessaly, Lamia, Thermopylae (see the Leonidas' Monument) and Thebes, arriving in Athens late in the afternoon.
Note: Accommodation in Athens is not included tonight.

• 24/7 local operator support in Greece
• 6 nights’ hotel accommodation
• Daily Breakfast at hotels
• 6 dinners
• Transportation by air-conditioned deluxe coach
• Sightseeing as per itinerary
• English-speaking licenced guide
• Entrance fees to sites
• Greece Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Government Climate Crisis Resilience Tax - to be paid directly to the hotel on check-out  (ranges from EUR3-EUR10 - rates subject to change without notice)
• Optional tours and excursions
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Travel Insurance (compulsory)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above