Treasures of Ancient Greece: A Tailor-Made Journey

Arrive in Athens, where you’ll be picked up by your driver for the transfer to your hotel. Take time to settle in before meeting your private guide for a panoramic tour of Athens that includes the marble Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympics, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus—one of the largest ancient temples in the world.

Set out this morning on a private tour of the ancient Acropolis, established by Pericles in the fifth century B.C. Walk among the many temples built upon this rocky outcrop, including the celebrated Parthenon, and learn about the tumultuous history of the hilltop citadel. After your visit, head down to the impressive Acropolis Museum, which houses many of the original artifacts from the site. (B)

Your driver will take you northwest to the site of ancient Delphi, where you will meet your private guide. Explore the ruins, considered the center of the world to ancient Greeks, and hear about the powerful Oracle of Delphi whose proclamations influenced the affairs of state. After your visit, stop by the museum to see some of the extraordinary artifacts unearthed at the site. Then head to the nearby mountain village of Arachova for lunch and some free time before journeying back to Athens. (B)

Today you will transfer west to the small town of Olympia. This journey of approximately three and a half to four hours will take you over the Corinth Canal, a stretch of water connecting the Gulf of Corinth and Saronic Gulf and around the Mainalo mountain range home to one of Greece's ski resorts. This evening, experience the hospitality of Greek culture over dinner with a local Olympia resident in their lovely home. (B,D)

In ancient Greece, the city-states of the Greek Empire were brought together in the same way here at Olympia in an effort to promote peace in a continually warring region. Today, it’s in Olympia that the Olympic torch is lit and begins its journey around the world for the modern Olympic games every four years. Olympia had always held significance to the Greek people as the place where Zeus was said to have fought and defeated his father Cronus. With the inception of the Olympic Games in the 8th century, the site expanded to include a number of temples, training facilities and the stadium which you’ll see today. While the remains of many of the ancient foundations are still visible, visitors have to let their imaginations reconstruct the most famous structure of the site - the colossal statue of Zeus which is regarded as one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, but has been lost to history. After touring the ancient site, you’ll also visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia where many of the archaeological finds are housed, including several significant statues and a variety of artifacts which shed light on the history of the Olympic games. (B)

Cross the Peloponnese peninsula to the Bronze Age city of Mycenae and take a guided tour of this important archaeological site, including its legendary Lion’s Gate and the beehive tomb known as the Tomb of Agamemnon. Stop at a winery for a lunch of local specialities and wine tasting. Then continue to the historic port town of Nafplio for the evening. (B)

Spend the morning in Epidaurus, once a mecca for healing dedicated to the Greek god of medicine, Asclepios. Here, you will find one of the most well-preserved and acoustically perfect ancient theaters in Greece. Later, pay a visit to an olive oil producer and enjoy a tour and tastings. Return to beautiful Nafplio this evening. (B)

Transfer to the Athens airport for a short flight to the island of Mykonos, one of the fabled Cyclades. The rest of the day is yours to explore Mykonos town, stroll the beach, or relax by the pool at your hotel. (B)

Meet your guide this morning and take a short ferry ride to the sacred island of Delos, said to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. One of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, the island was once a hub for trade, culture, and religion. Explore Delos and the vestiges of its once-grand city, including the famous Avenue of the Lions. Return to Mykonos for a leisurely afternoon. (B)

Enjoy a full free day on Mykonos. You may choose to visit the charming town of Hora, go on a hike along the coast, or simply relax and spend time by the beach or the pool. (B)

Meet your private driver for the transfer to Mykonos airport, and continue from Athens on your flight home. (B)