Overview
Get a glimpse of ancient Greece as we discover the wondrous archaeological sites of Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, and Epidaurus. This can be done as a pre-trip extension to our Hiking in the Greek Isles adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Athens, Greece
Arrive in Athens and transfer to your hotel, with the remainder of the day free to relax or explore on your own. Overnight at hotel...Meals on your own
Day 2
Athens / Delphi
From Athens, we head to the stunning archaeological site of Delphi, set on the terraced slopes of Mount Parnassus and encircled by craggy peaks. Delphi is the home of the legendary Oracle of Delphi, the priestess of Apollo, whose prophecies of the future influenced many decisions, from the most advantageous time for farmers to plant their crops to when decisive battles should be fought. After checking into our hotel, and time permitting, we can take a walk to a viewpoint for a spectacular vista of Delphi and its haunting setting. Overnight at hotel...BLD
Driving Time: 3-3.5 hours
Walking Details: 2.5 hours, 900 feet ascent/descent
Day 3
Delphi / Olympia
In the morning, we enjoy a guided tour of Delphi, walking along the Sacred Way up to the Temple of Apollo and beyond to the 4th century BC amphitheater, which once held an audience of 5,000. A path through pine groves leads to the stadium, where we can easily imagine heroics of the Pythian Games, the precursors of the Olympics. After lunch, we head to Olympia, a sanctuary that was the site of the Olympic Games in classical times. Dinner and overnight at hotel...BLD
Driving Time: 3.5 hours
Day 4
Olympia / Nafplion
In the morning we have a guided tour of the archaeological site in Olympia, with its many treasures, Temples of Hera and Zeus, and the Pelopion, an enclosed small mound of sacrificial ashes. Departing Olympia, we head to Vytina village, set on the slopes of Mt. Mainalo (6,516'), for a delicious lunch, then continue to the beautiful coastal town of Nafplion, the first capital city of modern Greece after the Greek Revolution of Independence. This evening we dine at a local restaurant. Overnight at hotel...BLD
Driving Time: 3.5-4 hours
Day 5
Mycenae / Epidaurus
In the second millennium BC, Mycenae was one of the major centers of Greek civilization, a military stronghold that dominated much of southern Greece. After visiting this site, with its fascinating archaeological remains (it was uncovered in 1874 by Heinrich Schliemann, the German archaeologist who also excavated Troy), we continue to Epidaurus, a sanctuary dedicated to the legendary healer Asklepios. Epidaurus was the celebrated healing center of the Classical world, and many recognizable ruins of hospitals and spa areas remain. It is also noted for its stunning theater. The 14,000-seat arena still has near-perfect acoustics—you can hear a coin drop in the orchestra section, even from the highest seat! We return to Athens in the afternoon, where you will meet the other members of your group this evening and enjoy a welcome dinner. Overnight in Athens at hotel...BLD
Driving Time: 3.5-4 hours
