Greek Odyssey Temples, Tales, and Taverns

Upon your arrival in Athens, we'll arrange for your transfer to the hotel, ensuring a seamless start to your tour. Once settled, you'll have some leisure time to explore the city on your own or unwind after your journey. As you prepare for the adventures ahead, be sure to check the hotel reception boards for important information about the start of your tour. Keep in mind that the group may change as some travellers join or leave at different stages throughout the trip. However, rest assured that the maximum group size will always be maintained. Enjoy your first day in Athens, where rich history meets vibrant city life, and get ready for an exciting journey filled with unforgettable experiences. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We'll begin our day with an enthralling city tour of Athens, guided by a local expert. Our exploration will take us to the Presidential Mansion and the historic Panathenaic Stadium, known as the venue for the first modern Olympic Games. We'll visit the impressive National Library and the lively squares in the city centre. Our tour will also lead us through the modern neighbourhoods that sprang to life after the 2004 Olympic Games, showcasing a blend of Athens' rich history and its dynamic present. The tour will culminate at the iconic Acropolis, though please note that entry fees are not included. As evening approaches, we'll provide you with a transfer to the historic Plaka neighbourhood, famed for its delightful Greek tavernas. Here, you can enjoy the opportunity to soak in the local culture and folklore, creating an unforgettable Athens experience.

Today, we journey into the heart of the Peloponnese, beginning with a short stop at the Corinth Canal. This late 19th-century engineering marvel links the Aegean Sea with the Ionian Sea. As we traverse the mountainous landscapes, our next destination is Tripoli, the capital of Arcadia. Here, we'll pause to explore Aeros Square, a lively area brimming with cafes and restaurants. We then continue to Olympia, home to the ancient Olympic Games first held in 776 B.C. With a local guide, we�ll visit the Archaeological Site, where the Temple of Zeus, the Stadium, Gymnasium, and Arena are among the highlights. Next, we proceed to Patras, Greece's third-largest city, noted for its medieval fortress and the country's largest cathedral. Nearby stands the small church of St. Andrew, a revered pilgrimage site. A delightful dinner will be included, adding to the rich tapestry of experiences throughout the day.

After breakfast, we cross the Rio-Antirrio Bridge, a remarkable feat of engineering that connects the Peloponnese to the Greek mainland. Our first destination is Nafpaktos, nestled on the Gulf of Corinth. Its Venetian fortress, perched above the city, serves as a historical reminder of its past as Lepanto�where Christian and Turkish fleets once clashed, and the famous Cervantes lost his arm. You will have ample free time to wander its scenic harbour and immerse yourself in the charm of the old town. Continuing our drive along the Gulf, we reach Mycenae, an ancient citadel dating back to the 18th century BC and regarded as a cornerstone of European civilization. Entry is included, and following your exploration of the site, you can enjoy lunch at your leisure. Our next stop is the majestic Fortress of Acrocorinth, where admission is included and where you�ll find the remnants of an ancient temple of Aphrodite at its summit. As we press on, we�ll make a short stop at the Corinth Canal before heading back to Athens, arriving in the evening. Our adventure draws to a close, leaving you with cherished memories. Ensure to check your flight times in case an additional night�s stay becomes necessary.