8 Days Greece Tour through Ioannina, Meteora and Delphi
SUMMARY
Set off on an unforgettable Greece tour, visiting iconic landmarks from the historic town of Ioannina to the breathtaking Byzantine monasteries of Meteora.
Perched on towering rock formations, these centuries-old monasteries offer a unique glimpse into Greece’s rich spiritual heritage. Continue your journey to the legendary ruins of Delphi, once considered the center of the world in Greek mythology.
Explore this sacred site where ancient oracles foretold the future and immerse yourself in the wisdom of classical Greece.
This tour through Greece blends medieval charm, ancient history, and stunning landscapes, making it the perfect travel experience for history lovers and adventure seekers alike.
TOUR SUMMARY
- Day 1 – Ioannina – Metsovo. Overnight in Kalambaka.
- Day 2 – Meteora. Overnight in Delphi.
- Day 3 – Delphi. Overnight in Athens.
- Day 4 – Athens – Corinth Canal. Overnight in Nafplio.
- Day 5 – Mycenae – Ancient Theater of Epidaurus. Overnight in Nafplio.
- Day 6 – Olympia. Overnight in Athens.
- Day 7 – Visit Athens. Overnight.
- Day 8 – Departure.
ITINERARY
8 Days Greece Tour through Ioannina, Meteora and Delphi
Day 1 : Ioannina – Metsovo. Overnight in Kalambaka.
Arriving in the morning, we begin our tour in Ioannina, a picturesque city located by Lake Pamvotis. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the lake and explore the historic castle.
Don’t miss the vibrant craft market, where local artisans showcase their work. We then take a boat ride to Kyra Frosini, a small island with a tragic history, adding a touch of mystery to your experience.
Afterward, we continue our drive to the charming village of Metsovo, known for its traditional alpine architecture. Here, you can taste the famous local smoked cheese, a delicacy loved by many.
As we head west through the mainland of Greece, we arrive in Kalambaka, home to the breathtaking Meteora rock formations, ready to immerse ourselves in their stunning beauty and rich history.
- Overnight: Kalambaka
Day 2 : Meteora. Overnight in Delphi.
After a short drive, we arrive at the unique Meteora, famous for its Byzantine monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, standing between earth and sky.
These monasteries house remarkable religious and historical treasures. We visit two of the most famous monasteries, starting with the Great Meteoron (Monastery of the Transfiguration of Christ), the largest, oldest, and highest of the remaining six monasteries.
Founded in the 14th century by a monk from Mount Athos, it offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region’s rich spiritual history.
After exploring these awe-inspiring sites, we continue our journey west, arriving in Delphi, an ancient center of culture and spirituality.
- Overnight: Delphi
Day 3 : Delphi. Overnight in Athens.
Revered by the ancient Greeks as the center of the world or “omphalos,” was also a major religious hub. It was here that kings, emperors, and great leaders, including Alexander the Great, sought the advice of Pythia, the oracle, before embarking on important journeys.
During your guided tour, we’ll visit the archaeological site, where you’ll see the impressive Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, the marketplace, and the famous “omphalos,” believed to mark the navel of the Earth. The visit also includes the Delphi Museum, home to remarkable sculptures such as the Charioteer of Delphi.
Afterward, we continue our journey south, traveling through central Greece, and arrive in Athens. Check into your hotel and take some time to explore Plaka, Athens’ charming old town. You may choose to enjoy an optional dinner at a traditional tavern in Plaka, offering a perfect end to your day in the heart of Athens.
Day 4 : Athens – Corinth Canal. Overnight in Nafplio.
Start your Athens sightseeing with a visit to Constitution Square (Syntagma), home to the House of Parliament and the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier. From there, drive along Herodou Atticou Street, where you’ll see the Evzones in their traditional uniform and the Presidential Palace.
On your way to the Acropolis, admire Hadrian’s Arch and visit the impressive Temple of Olympian Zeus. Take a short stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
At the Acropolis, explore the architectural masterpieces of Athens’ Golden Age, including the Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, and the iconic Parthenon.
Complete your tour with a visit to the new Acropolis Museum, which houses incredible artifacts from the site. Afterward, drive west along the highway, stopping briefly at the Corinth Canal before continuing to Nafplio.
Enjoy an overnight stay in either of these picturesque towns.
- Overnight: Nafplion
Day 5 : Mycenae – Ancient Theater of Epidaurus. Overnight in Nafplio.
Today, we begin by visiting the ancient theater of Epidaurus, an incredible 4th-century B.C. site that could seat 16,000 spectators and is renowned for its exceptional acoustics.
Next, we explore the Homeric city of Mycenae, founded around 1300 B.C. and the legendary hometown of King Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks during the Trojan War.
Highlights include the iconic Lions Gate, the massive Cyclopean Walls, and the Royal Tombs.
Afterward, we take a brief stop in Nafplio, Greece’s first modern capital after the revolution, known for its beauty and historical significance.
We then continue our tour through central Peloponnesus, heading towards Olympia, where the ancient Olympic Games were born, and prepare to discover the rich history of this iconic site.
- Overnight: Olympie
Day 6: Olympie. Overnight in Athens
Today, we embark on a guided visit to Ancient Olympia, a place rich in history and tradition. Explore the archaeological site, including the majestic Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, and the iconic Altar of the Olympic Flame.
Visit the Olympic Stadium, with a seating capacity of 45,000, where the first Olympic Games were held in 776 B.C. The tour also includes the Archaeological Museum, home to the famous Hermes sculpture by Praxiteles.
Afterward, we continue our journey through the western Peloponnese, heading to Patras for your ferry departure.
If time allows, we’ll stop at the Achaia Klaus Wine Refinery, one of the oldest in Greece, where you can learn about and sample some of the region’s finest wines before departing.
- Overnight: Athens
Day 7: Visit Athens. Overnight.
In the morning, we depart from the hotel and head to the heart of Athens, where you will have the chance to experience some of the most famous landmarks of ancient Greece.
First, we visit the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and symbol of Athenian democracy. Here, you’ll witness the architectural marvels of the Golden Age of Athens, including the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the iconic Parthenon, a must-see for anyone with an appreciation for history and culture.
The tour continues with a visit to the New Acropolis Museum, where you can explore a wide range of fascinating artifacts and sculptures.
Afterward, we’ll make our way to the Temple of Zeus, dedicated to the king of the gods, offering an impressive view of the city’s ancient past.
Following this, we take a walk through Athens’ charming old town, Plaka, filled with narrow streets, traditional shops, and vibrant cafes. To end the day, we stroll down Ermou Street, known for its fashionable boutiques and lively atmosphere.
In the afternoon, we will enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before spending the night.
- Overnight: Athens
Day 8 : Departure.
After breakfast and accordingly to your flight details, transfer to Eleftherios Venizelos Athens airport for your flight back home.
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