Northern Greece Highlights

Upon arrival at Athens airport or port, we will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in. The remainder of the day is yours to explore this vibrant city at your own pace. You may wish to visit Syntagma Square to experience the city’s lively atmosphere, browse the popular shopping streets of Kolonaki and Ermou, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming alleys of Plaka, Athens’ historic district known for its numerous shops offering souvenirs and local crafts. Overnight in Athens.

After breakfast, we set off through the fertile plain of Boeotia, passing the historic towns of Thebes and Livadeia. Our journey continues to Delphi, via the charming mountain village of Arachova, nestled beneath Mount Parnassus. Upon arrival, we explore the Sanctuary of Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed as the home of the Pythia—the Oracle of Apollo—whose prophecies influenced decisions across the ancient classical world. Following the visit, we drive to Kalambaka, a small town adjacent to the remarkable Meteora rock formations—towering sandstone pillars rising dramatically from the Thessalian plain. After checking into your hotel, you have the remainder of the day at leisure to enjoy this striking setting.

After breakfast, we visit the Meteora monasteries, perched atop towering sandstone pillars. These remarkable structures date back to as early as the eleventh century, with the monastic community reaching its height in the sixteenth century when twenty-four monasteries thrived here. Originally accessible only by ladders that could be retracted for protection, the monasteries are now reached by stairs and contain impressive collections of Byzantine art, frescoes, and ancient manuscripts, alongside breathtaking views. After exploring Meteora, we drive across the vast Thessalian plain and the scenic Tempi Valley, with views of Mount Olympus—the highest peak in Greece and famed in Greek mythology as the home of the gods. In the late afternoon, we arrive in Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest and most dynamic city, where you will stay overnight.

After breakfast, we explore Thessaloniki, a city that was second only to Constantinople in importance during the Byzantine Empire. We visit key landmarks including the White Tower, Roman Forum, Ottoman Market, St Demetrius’ Church, and the Byzantine Walls. A short walking tour takes us to the ruins of the Palace and the Arch of Galerius, followed by a visit to the Rotunda, originally built as a temple and later converted into a church, notable for its early Christian mosaics. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure in the vibrant city centre. Overnight in Thessaloniki.

After breakfast, we set off to explore historical Macedonia. Our first stop is Edessa, renowned for its striking waterfalls formed by the tributaries of the Edesseos River. Next, we visit Naoussa and the ruins of the School of Aristotle, where the philosopher taught political and moral philosophy to a young Alexander the Great and the people of Macedonia. We then continue to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Aigai in Vergina, home to a monumental palace and an extensive burial ground with over 300 tombs dating back to the 11th century BC. Among these is the Great Tumulus, believed to be the resting place of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. Nearby is Veria, known in biblical times as Beroea, where we visit the Bema of Saint Paul before taking a stroll through the old Jewish quarter and the vibrant market area. We return to Thessaloniki in the afternoon for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we drive to Pella, the ancient capital of Macedon and birthplace of Alexander the Great. Here, we visit the Archaeological Museum and explore the remains of 4th-century BC villas adorned with intricate mosaic floors depicting scenes such as lion hunts and Dionysus riding a panther. Next, we continue to the Archaeological Park of Dion, an open-air site at the foot of Mount Olympus that combines rich historical ruins with abundant natural surroundings. In the afternoon, we travel south through Thessaly, stopping at Thermopylae to see the Leonidas Monument, before passing through Lamia and Thebes. We arrive in Athens late afternoon for hotel check-in. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure—perhaps wandering the vibrant streets of the city or savouring traditional Greek cuisine.

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy your final day in Athens at your leisure. You may explore the city independently or join an optional half-day tour to visit the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum, both rich in ancient history and culture (not included). At the designated time, we will transfer you to Athens airport for your onward flight.