11-Night Greece: Mythic and Remarkable

Day 2

Accommodation

Stylish Central Hotel - Athens, Attica

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Ancient Athens

The history of Athens unfolds around the Acropolis. This astonishing temple complex stands guard over the city as it has for thousands of years. Today your local guide will tell you the tales of the Acropolis, including the Parthenon. Dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and military victory, she is the patron of Athens. Her father was Zeus, and her mother, Metis, was a nymph. Then you’ll have free time to explore nearby neighborhoods, the National Archaeological Museum, or settle into a taverna for a great meal and a glass of Ouzo. Breakfast is included.

Athens Trivia:
Q. How old is Athens?
A. Athens is the historical capital of Europe. The home of Plato, Socrates, Pericles, Euripides, Sophocles, and Aeschylus, Athens is one of the world’s oldest cities. Its recorded history spans 3.400 years, and it has been inhabited since the 11th millennium, BC.

Overnight Location

Athens, Attica

On the Map: Motorway A1 is the oldest and most important motorway in Greece. It connects Greece’s largest cities, Athens and Thessaloniki, and passes through many important areas of Greece, in a north-way direction. The full length of the motorway is 346 miles. 

Athens is the southernmost capital on the European mainland, and it is the warmest city in continental Europe. With a population of close to 4 million, it is the 7th largest city in the European Union. It is also one of the world’s oldest cities; recorded history began 3,400 years ago. It is widely considered to be the birthplace of democracy, and has had a tremendous impact in all areas of cultural life and science. 

Day 3

Accommodation

Enchanting Design Hotel - Naxos, Cyclades Islands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Ancient Athens - Astonishing Naxos

After breakfast we go to Naxos. Naxos is rightly called the Queen of the Cycladic Islands, situated in the heady blue waters of the Aegean Sea. It is a haven for culture, gorgeous beaches, and extraordinary cuisine. We happily board a ferry… be amazed by the views and enjoy the slow pace. We dock at the capital, called Naxos Town. Notice how the lush hills hug the shore, while mountains rise above all. Fill your senses with everything that is Greece as you ramble through the town—the cobblestone streets are lit by lanterns. We’ll dine together this evening. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Cyclades Trivia:
Q. Why are the islands called “the Cyclades”?
A.  In the distant past, they were the center of a Bronze Age culture called The Cycladic. This culture was known for its white marble statues. The name Cyclades itself is translated as “encircling islands,” and were called this because they circle the sacred island of Delos. This was the legendary birthplace of Artemis and her brother, Apollo.

Overnight Location

Naxos, Cyclades Islands

On the Map: The Cyclades Islands are located in the Aegean Sea. Naxos, one of the islands, is about 25 miles south of Mykonos, 112 miles southeast of Athens, 53 miles north of Santorini, and 124 miles north of Crete. You can get to Naxos by plane or ferry. With a population of 21,000, the island is about ¼ the size of Maui and 8 times the size of Manhattan. At its widest point, it is about 19 miles. 

The main town, Chora, has a castle, the Apollo Temple ruins, narrow lanes with local shops, and a nice beach. According to Greek mythology, Naxos is the childhood home of Zeus. Naxos has been ruled by the Thracians, Ionians, Athenians, Macedonians, Egyptians, Romans, and the Ottoman Empire. There are over 200 Byzantine churches in Naxos! The island became part of the Greek State in 1832. 

Day 4

Accommodation

Enchanting Design Hotel - Naxos, Cyclades Islands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Astonishing Naxos

Be prepared for gods of the earth as we head to a working, family farm. First, we’ll taste a selection of local cheeses and marmalades—this area is citrus heaven. Next, with the help of our local experts, we will let go and learn to create a traditional Greek lunch. We’ll dine on our creations for a thoroughly joyous experience. After we return to town, the evening is ours to explore. Look for handcrafted goods or enjoy a delicious glass of Citron. Naxos’s signature drink, it is distilled from the fruit and leaves of citron trees. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Naxos Trivia:
Q. Are there special events in Naxos I should know about?
A. Naxos bustles with cultural activity. Traditional festivals and events take place throughout the summer and into September, including the Naxos Festival in Bazeos Tower, and Dionysia with its art, concerts, and theatrical events. The last celebrations of the year are the Wine Festival and the Fisherman’s Festival, both held in September.

Overnight Location

Naxos, Cyclades Islands

On the Map: The Cyclades Islands are located in the Aegean Sea. Naxos, one of the islands, is about 25 miles south of Mykonos, 112 miles southeast of Athens, 53 miles north of Santorini, and 124 miles north of Crete. You can get to Naxos by plane or ferry. With a population of 21,000, the island is about ¼ the size of Maui and 8 times the size of Manhattan. At its widest point, it is about 19 miles. 

The main town, Chora, has a castle, the Apollo Temple ruins, narrow lanes with local shops, and a nice beach. According to Greek mythology, Naxos is the childhood home of Zeus. Naxos has been ruled by the Thracians, Ionians, Athenians, Macedonians, Egyptians, Romans, and the Ottoman Empire. There are over 200 Byzantine churches in Naxos! The island became part of the Greek State in 1832. 

Day 5

Accommodation

Enchanting Design Hotel - Naxos, Cyclades Islands

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Astonishing Naxos

The treasures of Naxos are yours today. Expect amazing food, a mellow feel, and true Greek hospitality. Let yourself get lost in Naxos Town. Explore the Apollo Temple ruins and the Temple of Demeter. Dine out, shop for treasures, go swimming or sunbathing on an endless, golden beach. If you like beach sports, consider windsurfing or kitesurfing. Wander up the causeway to the mysterious Portara. Find a terrace and watch the sun turn indescribable colors as it sinks into the sea. It is said that Dionysus, god of fertility, blessed Naxos with rich land. Enjoy the bounty! Breakfast is included.

Naxos Trivia:
Q. What is the natural side of Naxos known for?
A. Naxos is well known for its long, white sandy beaches, specifically Agios, Prokopios, and Plaka. It also has ideal wind conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing at Mikri Vigla, and Laguna. The quality of local products is terrific, especially for potatoes and cheeses such as arseniko and anthotiro. Tomatoes, olives, olive oil, fruits, honey, wine, and the famous liqueur of Naxos, Citron, are all must-tastes! Naxos is also home to fine marble and Smirida black stone.

Overnight Location

Naxos, Cyclades Islands

On the Map: The Cyclades Islands are located in the Aegean Sea. Naxos, one of the islands, is about 25 miles south of Mykonos, 112 miles southeast of Athens, 53 miles north of Santorini, and 124 miles north of Crete. You can get to Naxos by plane or ferry. With a population of 21,000, the island is about ¼ the size of Maui and 8 times the size of Manhattan. At its widest point, it is about 19 miles. 

The main town, Chora, has a castle, the Apollo Temple ruins, narrow lanes with local shops, and a nice beach. According to Greek mythology, Naxos is the childhood home of Zeus. Naxos has been ruled by the Thracians, Ionians, Athenians, Macedonians, Egyptians, Romans, and the Ottoman Empire. There are over 200 Byzantine churches in Naxos! The island became part of the Greek State in 1832. 

Day 6

Accommodation

Dreamy Beachfront Hotel - Nafplion, Peloponnese

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Astonishing Naxos - Slim Corinth Canal (Greece) - Coastal Nafplio

Today we head west to Nafplio by way of the Corinth Canal. Nafplio is one of the most beautiful towns in the eastern Peloponnese, and one of the most romantic cities in all of Greece. Our route takes us through rolling hills covered with vineyards and mountainous peaks. The Corinth Canal itself is a dramatic triangular shape. At 82 feet wide, it is the narrowest canal in the world. As we approach Nafplio, take a moment to admire Bourtzi Castle. It is a Venetian fortress that appears to float in the middle of the harbor. Check into your hotel and stretch your legs in this village of dreams and dreamers. Breakfast is included.

Nafplio trivia:
Q. Where can I see history in Nafplio?
A. Layers of time and history are all around you in the coastal gem of Nafplio. Ancient walls, medieval castles, monuments, statues, Ottoman fountains, and Venetian or neoclassical buildings will intrigue you. Each has a unique architectural style and beauty.

Overnight Location

Nafplion, Peloponnese

On the Map: It is 85 miles from Athens to Nafplion and the town is situated on the Argolic Coast. The easiest way to get there is by private car or private coach. This coastal city of 15,000 people is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful towns in the Peloponnese. It is 150 square miles in size.

Nafplio has a distinctive mix of Venetian and Classical architecture. The old town is filled with colorful buildings, including some eclectic modernist architecture. The port is not deep enough for heavy ships, making tourism and agriculture the two main sources of income.

Nafplio is quite ancient. Its name comes from Nauplius, the son of Poseidon and Amymone. Some feel the original inhabitants were Egyptians. Due to its location, this seems quite possible. The Peloponnese itself is a peninsula and geographic region in southern Greece. It is connected to the main part of the country by the Isthmus of Corinth land bridge, which separates the Gulf of Corinth from the Saronic Gulf. 

Day 7

Accommodation

Tranquil View Hotel - Gytheio, Peloponnese

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Coastal Nafplio - Byzantine Mystras - Natural Gytheio

This morning is free for you to discover the wonder that is Gytheio. First inhabited in prehistoric times, Heracles and Apollo founded the city, according to Greek mythology. We do know it was the main port of Sparta. Consider climbing to the top of Palamidi Castle. (You can also take a taxi up.) This fortress was built by the Venetians. In eight parts, it climbs the hill and watches over the city. From the top, you are granted a 360 degree view that takes in the town, sea, and lush valley. After lunch, we’ll gather and go to Mystras. This mysterious medieval city, once the Byzantine capital, has plenty of secret spots. As we head back to Gytheio, we’ll have an exceptional time, sharing adventurous tales. Breakfast and Dinner are included.

Gytheio Trivia:
Q. Who founded Gytheio?
A.  It is said that ancient Gythium was founded by Hercules and Apollo—they often appear on their coins and in their legends. In other legends, it seems it was founded by the Phoenicians and was the center of their purple dye trade. The area was a plentiful source of murex, used for its purple color. In classical times, it had an identity of its own, but was dependent on Sparta.

Overnight Location

Gytheio, Peloponnese

On the Map: The distance between Gytheio and Athens is 105 miles as the crow flies, and 172 miles southwest by road.

Gytheio is an ancient town on the eastern shore of the Mani Peninsula, Peloponnese, Greece. It was the seaport of Sparta, which is 25 miles north. According to legend, Paris of Troy and Helen from Sparta spent their first night together here, before leaving for Troy. This set off the Trojan War.  

Gytheio is the largest and most important town in Mani. The Mani Peninsula is a geographical and cultural region in Southern Greece—the people here are said to be descendants of the Spartans. Mani is the central Peninsula of the three that extend south from the Peloponnese. To the east is the Laconian Gulf, and to the west is the Messenian Gulf. It is the mountainous spine of the Peloponnese. There is a beautiful beach, secluded areas, ghostly villages, and wild landforms. 

Day 8

Accommodation

Tranquil View Hotel - Gytheio, Peloponnese

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Natural Gytheio - Mysterious Diros Cave - Historic Areopoli - Natural Gytheio

After breakfast, our local guide will take us to Diros Cave. This is Mother Nature at her surreal best! This subterranean wonder is a maze of bright turquoise water in ponds and rivulets. Ancient lava formations abound in what feels like a vast underground cathedral. After spending time here, we head to picturesque Areopoli, the town made of stone. The traditional architecture, plus towers, offered protection from Turks and pirates. It is truly a charmer. Upon our return to Gytheio choose from an array of seafood restaurants, and enjoy an ouzo, Greece’s beautiful liqueur. Enjoy! Breakfast is included.

Diros Cave Trivia:
Q. Was there ever life inside Diros Cave?
A. Yes! The fossilized bones of panther, hyena, lion, deer, ferret, and the largest hippopotamus bone deposit in Europe have been found inside the cave. Near its natural entrance, ceramics have been found that indicate human presence.

Overnight Location

Gytheio, Peloponnese

On the Map: The distance between Gytheio and Athens is 105 miles as the crow flies, and 172 miles southwest by road.

Gytheio is an ancient town on the eastern shore of the Mani Peninsula, Peloponnese, Greece. It was the seaport of Sparta, which is 25 miles north. According to legend, Paris of Troy and Helen from Sparta spent their first night together here, before leaving for Troy. This set off the Trojan War.  

Gytheio is the largest and most important town in Mani. The Mani Peninsula is a geographical and cultural region in Southern Greece—the people here are said to be descendants of the Spartans. Mani is the central Peninsula of the three that extend south from the Peloponnese. To the east is the Laconian Gulf, and to the west is the Messenian Gulf. It is the mountainous spine of the Peloponnese. There is a beautiful beach, secluded areas, ghostly villages, and wild landforms. 

Day 9

Accommodation

Natural Light Hotel - Olympia, Peloponnese

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Natural Gytheio - Charming Kardamyli - Gorgeous Kalamata - Iconic Olympia

Today we travel deep into the heart of ancient Greece and the peaceful Peloponnese Peninsula. The rhythm of traditional rural life is slow; vineyards roll up hillsides and snow-capped mountains are seen in the distance. It’s here that you can truly feel this land where mythic beasts, heroes, and gods were born. Our first port is Kardamyli, a lovely fishing town. We’ll have free time for lunch in the chief port of Kalamata. Then we’ll savor a traditional tasting at an olive orchard in Olympia—this is a master class in the art of olive oil production! At the end of the day, we’ll have plenty to share over dinner together. Breakfast and dinner are included.  

Olympia Trivia:
Q. Why was Olympia important?
A. Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympic Games, the most important sporting event in antiquity. Beginning in 776 BC, Greeks were united every four years. During that time, hostilities were put aside so all could participate in a spirit of good sportsmanship. Olympia is still a powerful landmark. Mt. Olympus is in today’s Macedonia, but the twelve Greek gods of the Olympic games (Zeus, Poseidon, Hera, Hestia and Demeter, Hades, and later on Apollo, Artemis, Hermes, Athena, Hephaestus, Aphrodite, and Ares) are spectators across the mountains.

Overnight Location

Olympia, Peloponnese

On the Map: Olympia is 164 miles west of Athens, and it is a 3 ½ hour drive. It is about the same distance, but north, from Olympia to Delphi. And, from Gytheio to Olympia it is 120 miles, taking about 2 ½ hours.

The lighthouse of Gythio, the Caves of Diros, and Mavrovouni Beach are on your way. After going inland over verdant mountainsides, the road stretches out to lovely scenic beaches. Located in western Peloponnese, in “the valley of the gods,” Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympic Games.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ancient Greeks’ areas of worship, sports, and symposia centers still remain. These include statues of Hermes, Nike (Victory), and sculptures used to decorate the Temple of Zeus. The temples of the goddess Aphrodite and the god Apollo, are nearby, as is a medieval castle. 

Day 10

Accommodation

Inspired Boutique Hotel - Delphi, Central Greece

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Iconic Olympia - Bayside Nafpaktos - Sacred Delphi

After breakfast, a local guide will take us on a tour of Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games, begun in 776 BC. This event was founded on the same principles as the games work off today: Peace between regions and healthy competition. Wandering these ancient grounds, imagine yourself as a spectator in those games, cheering as the athletes enter the arena. When we’re ready to move on, we go to the seaside town Nafpaktos. This town fuels the senses of those who love both scenic mountains and seas. Atmospheric Nafpaktos has a Venetian Harbor, narrow streets, and a castle perched above the town. Later we arrive at our Delphi hotel. Delphi, called “the navel of the earth” by Grecians, is the center of ancient Greece. Breakfast is included.

Delphi Trivia:
Q. What will I see at Delphi?
A. Greece was at the crossroads of mighty civilizations. These civilizations left behind architecture, settlements, grand art, traces of daily life, nutritional habits, and popular crafts in regions throughout Greece. Because diverse cultures traveled to Delphi, you will see a mosaic of historical, cultural, and artistic expressions left behind by thousands of varied people.

Overnight Location

Delphi, Central Greece

On the Map: The distance from Delphi to Athens is 110 miles and should take about 2 to 2.5 hours on the road. The mountain ways through Delphi are rustic, changing to farmlands as you approach Athens. Delphi is 12 miles from beautiful Itea beaches and located on Greek National Road 48. The road follows the northern slope of a pass between Mount Parnassus to the north and the mountains of the Desfina Peninsula on the south. The Peninsula juts into the Gulf of Corinth. The river Pleistos runs through, from east to west.

Delphi was an ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. Developed in the 8th century B.C., the sanctuary was home to the Oracle of Delphi and the priestess Pythia. They were known throughout the ancient world for divining the future and were consulted before all major ventures—small altars still remain. This UNESCO site, containing statues, theaters, stadiums, and treasuries, is remarkably intact. 

Day 11

Accommodation

Inspired Boutique Hotel - Delphi, Central Greece

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Sacred Delphi- Seaside Itea - Sacred Delphi

We begin this extraordinary day with a uniquely qualified local guide. Our guide will lead us through the site, the secrets, and the sacred stories that live within the mists of time in Greece. Delphi was the center of religion and home to Pythia, the high priestess, or Oracle. The Oracle at Delphi was consulted about all major moves in this crossroads of the western world. The views? Heaven. Next, we head to the glorious beach town of Itea. We’ll savor a local honey-tasting. Close your eyes and inhale. Pure renewal. After our return to Delphi, we’ll gather for a last dinner and share memories of this adventure. Cheers! Breakfast and dinner are included.

Delphi Trivia:
Q. What is the Oracle of Delphi?
A. In ancient times, no important decision was undertaken without consulting the Oracle. Great leaders, politicians, and philosophers came for advice, as did ordinary folks. The prophet, Pythia, was in a trance state while answering questions. Sometimes pilgrims were not sure what her answers, occasionally vague, meant. For example, one general asked if it would be safe to join a military campaign. The answer he received was, “Go return not die in war.” In modern psychology, this sort of answer would give the person room to do what they had intended to do before asking the question!

Overnight Location

Delphi, Central Greece

On the Map: The distance from Delphi to Athens is 110 miles and should take about 2 to 2.5 hours on the road. The mountain ways through Delphi are rustic, changing to farmlands as you approach Athens. Delphi is 12 miles from beautiful Itea beaches and located on Greek National Road 48. The road follows the northern slope of a pass between Mount Parnassus to the north and the mountains of the Desfina Peninsula on the south. The Peninsula juts into the Gulf of Corinth. The river Pleistos runs through, from east to west.

Delphi was an ancient religious sanctuary dedicated to the Greek god Apollo. Developed in the 8th century B.C., the sanctuary was home to the Oracle of Delphi and the priestess Pythia. They were known throughout the ancient world for divining the future and were consulted before all major ventures—small altars still remain. This UNESCO site, containing statues, theaters, stadiums, and treasuries, is remarkably intact. 

Day 12

Daily Itinerary

Sacred Delphi - Breathtaking Arachova - Ancient Athens

This is the final morning of our journey through Greece. We’ll be amazed during our scenic route back to Athens, by way of Arachova. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Parnassus, this is an elegant, must-see town. Back in Athens, our travels are at an end, and we bid farewell to our traveling companions. Breakfast is included today.

As you will be arriving late in the day to Athens, you may want to add a post night in Athens, depending on your flight's departure time. Please let your Destination Expert know so he or she can make your ideal arrangements.

Depart From

Depart from Athens International Airport, Attica

Conclude your holiday and depart from Athens International Airport.