Explore northern Greece in just a week on this 7-day group tour. Begin in the capital, Athens, with guided sightseeing and a visit to the legendary Acropolis. From there, travel to Delphi, revered in ancient Greece as 'the navel of the world'. The journey continues to Kalambaka, a charming town in central Greece, positioned adjacent to the gravity-defying monasteries of Meteora. Stop in Thessaloniki and end in the Bulgarian capital of Sofia, with guided sightseeing and free time.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Athens
Arrive at Athens International Airport and make your own way to the hotel for check in. The rest of today is at leisure in the city.
Please note: This tour is conducted in English. However, depending on the mix of the group, touring may also be bilingual, in one additional language as well as English.
Overnight: Athens
Exploring Athens & the Acropolis
Start the day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel, before we head out on a half-day guided tour of Athens and the Acropolis Museum. During a scenic coach ride, we'll see famous sites like the Greek Parliament and the Panathenaic Stadium. Explore the ancient history of Athens with a walking tour of the Acropolis, where you'll find the impressive Parthenon. Afterward, return to the hotel to enjoy another night in Athens, soaking up the city's lively atmosphere.
Overnight: Athens | Breakfast
Delphi & Kalabaka
Athens - Delphi - Kalabaka. After breakfast, we embark on a comfortable bus ride to Delphi, celebrated for its ancient archaeological wonders. Visit the iconic Temple of Apollo and other historic ruins. Proceed through Central Greece to Kalabaka, situated under the striking rock formations of Meteora. We enjoy an overnight stay in this charming town - dinner is included tonight.
Approximate driving time: 339 kilometres / 3.5 hours.
Overnight: Kalabaka | Breakfast, Dinner
Meteora & Thessaloniki
Kalabaka - Meteora - Thessaloniki. This morning, we visit the UNESCO-listed Meteora Monasteries. Take in the stunning views and explore these Byzantine wonders perched atop cliffs. We then make our way to Thessaloniki, in northern Greece. On an included tour, we visit landmarks such as the White Tower and the Arch of Galerius.
Approximate driving time: 235 kilometres / 2 hours 45 minutes.
Overnight: Thessaloniki | Breakfast
Rila Monastery & Sofia
Thessaloniki - Rila Monastery (Bulgaria) - Sofia. After breakfast and check out, we say goodbye to Greece and begin our journey into Bulgaria. Our first stop is at the Rila Monastery, an architectural and spiritual masterpiece set in the Rila Mountains. As the largest and most renowned Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria, Rila Monastery is famous for its intricate frescoes, stunning architecture, and peaceful mountain environment. There's time for us to explore the monastery before we continue on our way.
Our destination for tonight is Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria. On arrival, the evening is at leisure.
Approximate driving time: 292 kilometres / 3.5 hours.
Overnight: Sofia | Breakfast
Exploring Sofia
Today we embark on a guided tour of Sofia, taking in the city's main highlights and landmarks including the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, St. Sofia Basilica, the National Art Gallery, and the Presidential Palace. After the tour, you'll have plenty of free time to explore the city centre further at your own pace. The final night of the tour is spent in Sofia.
Overnight: Sofia | Breakfast
Sofia
Our tour comes to an end today after breakfast and hotel check out (check out by 11:00). There is no transfer included, so you will need to make your own way to the airport or your next destination. Safe travels!
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room.
Read MoreHotels
In Greece a variety of hotels are used in various locations. The ones listed are examples of some commonly used hotels. We reserve the right to substitute these for ones of a similar standard when necessary.
Ilissos Hotel, Athens
Ilissos Hotel is a 3-star property located in the Koukaki district of Athens, just a 10-minute walk from the Syngrou–Fix metro station and within easy reach of the Acropolis and city centre. The hotel features 91 soundproofed rooms, including single, double, triple, and junior suites, all equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibar, safe, and olive oil-based toiletries. Guests can enjoy a rooftop garden bar with views of the Parthenon, a Mediterranean restaurant, and a daily breakfast buffet. Additional amenities include a 24-hour reception, business center, concierge services, and bicycle rentals.
Alexiou Hotel, Kalabaka
Set within walking distance of the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum, and just 11 minutes from Kalambaka train station, this relaxed hotel offers casual, simply furnished rooms with flat-screen TVs, minibars, and balconies overlooking the Meteora monasteries. Amenities include an airy restaurant, a stylish bar, and a cosy lounge with a fireplace.
Hotel Egnatia, Thessaloniki
Egnatia Hotel is a 3-star hotel situated in the heart of Thessaloniki, within a 10-minute walk of Aristotelous Square and the city's main attractions. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations, all equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast, relax at the stylish lounge bar, and take advantage of 24-hour front desk services. Additional amenities include room service, car rental assistance, and proximity to public transportation, making it a convenient base for exploring Thessaloniki.
Best Western Terminus Hotel, Sofia
Best Western Terminus Hotel is a 4-star hotel located at 154 Hristo Botev Blvd in Sofia, just a short walk from the Central Railway and Bus Stations. The hotel offers a variety of rooms, all equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy a daily buffet breakfast, dine at the on-site restaurant, and utilize amenities such as a 24-hour front desk, business center, and conference facilities. The hotel's central location provides easy access to public transportation, making it convenient for exploring Sofia's attractions.
At a Glance
