13 Day Greece, The Birthplace of Civilization

Welcome to glorious Greece! Arrive in the energetic city of Thessaloniki; transfer to the hotel. Time to rest and relax before tonight’s orientation meeting with your Tour Manager on the wonderful journey in Greece that awaits you, followed by a Welcome Dinner
Overnight: Thessaloniki
Meals: Dinner

Begin your day with a visit to Pella, the center of Alexander the Great's kingdom that became famous when King Archelaos made it the capital. View the site's excavations revealing the grandeur of the ancient Macedonian dynasty. At the Archaeological Museum, you’ll marvel at the phenomenal mosaics portraying mythological scenes that once adorned the city's grand mansions. Then, continue to the picturesque town of Edessa, full of little streams and parks and best-known for its great waterfalls. Enjoy lunch before returning to Thessaloniki. Leisure time for personal discoveries. Perhaps explore the renowned Archaeological Museum with its impressive Ancient Greek, Roman and Byzantine treasures. Tonight, dinner is at a popular restaurant in the historic Ladadika district where you will enjoy some lively Greek music! This landmark area is known for its spirited nightlife and eclectic mix of tavernas, restaurants, and cafes
Overnight: Thessaloniki
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your tour of Thessaloniki starts at the Arch of Galerius (Kamara), one of the most distinctive Roman structures in the city, built as a triumphal monument by the Emperor. On to the iconic 15th century White Tower, once used as a fort, garrison, and prison. Because of its fame as a notorious prison, it was also known as the "Tower of Blood." At the Basilica of St. Demetrios, devoted to the patron saint of the city, you see a superb example of Byzantine religious architecture. Afterward, a closer look at the city's Byzantine walls and panoramic views of Thessaloniki and the Gulf of Thermaikos before departing to the archaeological site of Vergina in Central Macedonia. Considered one the most extraordinary finds of the 20th century, Vergina was the first capital of the ancient kingdom of Macedonia. Visit the Royal Tomb of King Phillip (father of Alexander the Great); view the famous "Vergina Treasures" including gold urns, jeweled wreaths, unique art, ivory, and armor, protected by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. Continue to the town of Kalambaka, nestled at the base of inspirational Meteora for dinner at a local restaurant
Overnight: Kalambaka
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

An unforgettable day! Visit spectacular Meteora with its mystical ancient Byzantine monasteries incredibly perched atop massive pinnacles of rock, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monasteries appear to be suspended in mid-air! These monasteries are indeed an extraordinary achievement and a powerful example of dedication, determination, and courage. Admire exquisite specimens of 16th-century frescoes and the amazing expanse of the Peneios Valley. Following lunch, take a ferry from Igoumenitsa to dazzling Corfu, the second largest Ionian island with its dramatic coastlines, cypress trees, olive groves and miles of wildflowers. On your approach by sea, you’ll be welcomed by the majesty of the famous Old Fortress. Dinner tonight is at the hotel
Overnight: Corfu
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to the luxurious Achilleion Palace in the quaint village of Gastouri, originally built for the Empress of Austria in 1892, widely known as Princess Sisi. The palace, built as a reflection of her love for Greek mythology, was named Achilleion to honor the Greek hero Achilles; view the palace's frescoes, paintings, and stunning neoclassical architecture. Continue to view Pontikonisi a picturesque islet, home of the Pantokrator monastery. Later in the charming Old Town of Corfu (Kerkyra), a walking tour along the cobbled streets takes you past pastel-hued elegant Venetian mansions, French-style flowered squares, beautiful fortresses, and palaces. Linger on your own in the pleasant town, or sit at one of the cafes of the historic Liston arcade to enjoy a refreshing ginger beer or kumquat liqueur. Tonight, dinner together is at a local restaurant in Corfu
Overnight: Corfu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

A morning return by ferry to Igoumenitsa. Then, continue on your route to Preveza, stopping for a refreshing lunch in this town built on the entrance of the Gulf of Amvrakikos. Charming, traditional buildings adorn the port and the historical center while the pedestrian walkways and cobblestone streets with shops and cafés remind you of the islands. In the late afternoon, arrive in the picturesque port town of Nafpaktos. Admire the panoramic views from the 15th century Venetian castle, or explore the scenic harbor with its many restaurants and cafés
Overnight: Nafpaktos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Tour the excavated site of Delphi and the Archaeological Museum, perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Considered one of the most important places in Greek history, its stunning setting and ancient ruins are truly inspirational. Walk the Sacred Way to the imposing 4th century B.C. Temple of Apollo, site of the most important oracle in the classical world. Enjoy lunch at a local tavern before heading back to Nafpaktos
Overnight: Nafpaktos
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In this beautiful wine region of the northwest Peloponnese, visit the Achaia Clauss Winery, one of the largest wineries in Greece, founded in 1861. You'll be charmed by breathtaking views of the gorgeous vineyards, the rugged stone buildings as you sample a few of the local varietals. Continue to Olympia and visit the Magna Grecia Olive Oil Farm where you will have a guided tour on the farming and production of Olives and Olive Oil. Have lunch on the farm, sampling olive oils, wines and local Mediterranean Specialties from family recipes. Dinner tonight at your hotel
Overnight: Olympia
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, visit the sacred Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus and the ancient stadium where the Olympic Games were first held. Visit the Archaeological Museum to view priceless Greek works of art such as the sculpted decoration of the Temple of Zeus, the famous Hermes of Praxiteles and the statue of Nike of Paionios . Enjoy a cooking demonstration, led by a professional chef, who shares his secrets of how to prepare Greece’s fabulous Mediterranean dishes - with tastings, of course! After lunch depart for Nauplion, one of the most beautiful towns in the area of Argolis, which flourished during the Byzantine era. According to mythology, the town was founded by Náfplios, son of the god Poseidon. The walking tour of Nauplion is highlighted by ancient walls, medieval castles, Ottoman fountains and neoclassical buildings with unique architecture. Dinner tonight is at a popular restaurant in the town of Nauplion
Overnight: Nauplion
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

A boat ride takes you across Nauplion Harbor to the island of Bourtzi with its towering fortress castle built by the Venetians in 1473 to protect the city from pirates and invaders from the sea. After a walk on the island, continue to Mycenae, the heartland of Greek mythology. Visit the archaeological site known as the Treasury of Atreus and the Tomb of Agamemnon. This "golden" city of legendary King Atreus and Agamemnon is surely one of the most important archaeological sites of Greece. Arrive in Athens. This evening, dine with your fellow travelers and the company of local university students at a local restaurant with entertainment
Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Today explore Athens - an astonishing living museum! A panoramic drive takes you past the grand 4th century Panathenian Stadium built as a venue for athletic contests, the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch commemorating the Roman emperor. Stand before the gleaming white marble Acropolis, the ancient architectural masterpiece built during the Golden Age of Athens, crowned by the magnificent Parthenon that rises above the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On to the imposing modernist Acropolis Museum that brings together the surviving treasures of the Acropolis, showcasing layers of history by floating above the ruins with the Acropolis visible above. The rest of the day is yours. Be sure to walk to Constitution Square, to catch a glimpse of the colorfully-costumed Evzone guards, outfitted in traditional Greek style. On the last night of your journey in Greece, enjoy a Farewell Dinner at a local restaurant. Kaló taxídi!
Overnight: Athens
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast