Ancient Greece Express

On arrival in Athens, you are met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you time to relax after the journey or explore the city at your own pace.

This morning, we begin our guided city tour of Athens, introducing us to the capital’s most significant landmarks. Our panoramic drive takes us past the Panathinaiko Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games, along with the Zappeion Hall and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. We also see Hadrian’s Arch, Syntagma Square and the Hellenic Parliament, with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier standing outside.

We continue past Schliemann’s House and the elegant neoclassical buildings of the Academy, University and National Library, as well as the Old Parliament, reflecting the city’s more recent history.

We then visit the Acropolis, the enduring symbol of ancient Athens. Here, we explore the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon and the Erechtheion, famous for its Caryatides. Our visit is completed at the Acropolis Museum, where important finds from the Acropolis bring the ancient city to life.

The afternoon is free, allowing you to explore Plaka and the historic centre at your own pace.

Itinerary Alternations - please noteNovember to March: For all Tuesday departures, the 2-day tour to Delphi-Meteora will commence on day 02, and the city tour of Athens will be on day 04.

April to October: For all Wednesday Friday and Sunday departures, the 2-day tour to Delphi-Meteora will commence on day 02, and the city tour of Athens will be on day 04.

Athens - Delphi - Kalambaka. We depart for Delphi, beginning our two-day journey into the heart of mainland Greece. Set on the slopes of Mount Parnassos and overlooking vast olive groves stretching towards the Corinthian Gulf, Delphi was once considered the centre of the ancient world and a place of pilgrimage for centuries.

We explore the archaeological site, visiting the Sanctuary of Apollo and walking along the Sacred Way, where city-states once displayed their offerings. We also see the Temple of Apollo, home of the oracle Pythia, whose prophecies shaped decisions across the ancient Greek world.

After our visit, we continue north through the countryside to Kalambaka, where we arrive for our overnight stay beneath the dramatic rock formations of Meteora.

Kalambaka - Meteora - Athens. Today, we visit Meteora, one of the most striking landscapes in mainland Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Towering sandstone rock formations rise dramatically from the plain, creating a setting that has drawn monks seeking solitude and spiritual retreat for centuries.

We explore this extraordinary area, where historic monasteries are perched high atop the rocks, offering sweeping views across the Thessalian plain and insight into a unique monastic tradition that continues to this day.

In the afternoon, we begin our return journey to Athens, stopping en route at Thermopylae. Here, we see the statue of King Leonidas, commemorating the famous stand of the 300 Spartans against the Persian army. We then continue on to Athens, arriving later in the day.

Athens - Aegina - Paros - Hydra - Athens. We will embark on a full day cruise across the Saronic Gulf, visiting three contrasting islands just off the Athenian coast. Our first stops introduce us to the relaxed island atmosphere and scenic harbour views that define this part of Greece.

On Hydra, where vehicles are not permitted, you may choose to explore the island on foot or take an optional donkey ride through the narrow lanes to see the harbour and the historic Mitropolis. In Poros, you can walk up to the clock tower for views over the yacht marina and across to the Peloponnese.

At Aegina, you may opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town, browse local shops for the island’s famous pistachios, or join an optional excursion to the Temple of Aphaia.

We enjoy a buffet lunch on board the ship, and on the return journey to Athens, we round off the day with music and an introduction to traditional Greek dancing.

Please note: the operation of the one-day cruise is subject to weather conditions and minimum participation during the winter months. In the event of cancellation, an alternative excursion will be offered.

After our final breakfast, depending on your flight time, you may have some time for last-minute shopping, sightseeing or relaxation before being transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Safe Travels!