Overview
Experience landscapes rich in ancient history on our enthralling Private Journey in southern Greece, specially designed to bring the best of this land of myth. You'll explore ancient Greece, from the Acropolis to Olympia, site of the original Olympic games, and the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, where the oracle Pythia foretold the future. From the Peloponnesian peninsula, head out to Tinos in the enchanting Cyclades Islands, where you’ll sample authentic Greek food in quaint open-air cafes and tavernas as you walk, hike, swim, and savor the best of idyllic island life, far from the crowds. Day trips bring you to Delos, sacred isle of Apollo, and Mykonos, with its iconic windmills. With a private guide to share the history and culture of this ancient and storied land, days filled with hikes, and evenings savoring authentic Greek food and lovely accommodations, this is a dream Greek odyssey.
Our guides were world-class! Kostas was delightfuls—he has a lifetime of experiences both in Greece and around the world, and shared his stories with ease. His understanding of Greece's history and his enthusiasm for sharing it with the group was truly memorable. Similarly, Katerina was outstanding. She was very flexible, professional and thoughtful. She anticipated our needs and introduced us to parts of Greece that the regular tourists does not see or experience.
— Maury D., Washington, DC
Day 1
Athens / Plaka
Upon arrival in the Greek capital, take a walking tour of the lovely neighborhoods of Plaka and Monastiraki below the striking Acropolis. Cobblestone streets lined with open-air cafes are flanked by ancient sites, immersing you in the wonderful mix of old and new that is Greece.
Athens / Plaka - Day 1
Divani Palace Acropolis
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Athens, GreeceExploring the ancient history of the Parthenon and the museums of Plaka is easy from the Divani Palace Acropolis. Set below the Acropolis, rooms at Divani Palace Acropolis offer modern decor, private balconies, some with views of the Acropolis, and marble details in the bathroom. Begin your day of sightseeing with the breakfast buffet and return in the afternoon to take a dip in the pool or watch the sun set over the Acropolis from the hotel's secret garden bar.
Hotel Grande Bretagne (Optional Upgrade)
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Athens, GreeceBe transcended into a realm of classically inspired Greek architecture and decor at the Hotel Grande Bretagne. With full panoramas of the Acropolis, and close proximity to Syntagma Square, Parliament, Lycabettus Hill, and the original Olympic Stadium, its central location reflects the magnificent beauty of the history while shedding light on regal delights like the hotel’s butler service and access to their incredible rooftop bar and restaurant, overlooking the ancient sites in Athens.
Day 2
Athens / Acropolis
We take a fascinating tour of the Acropolis and the new Acropolis Museum, which offers an incredible look at 2,000 years of Greek history and its extraordinary role in Western civilization. In the afternoon, explore the ancient Agora, the Temple of Zeus—which once housed the statue of Zeus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world—and visit the National Museum before enjoying dinner at one of Athen’s many restaurants.
Athens / Acropolis - Day 2
Divani Palace Acropolis
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Athens, GreeceExploring the ancient history of the Parthenon and the museums of Plaka is easy from the Divani Palace Acropolis. Set below the Acropolis, rooms at Divani Palace Acropolis offer modern decor, private balconies, some with views of the Acropolis, and marble details in the bathroom. Begin your day of sightseeing with the breakfast buffet and return in the afternoon to take a dip in the pool or watch the sun set over the Acropolis from the hotel's secret garden bar.
Hotel Grande Bretagne (Optional Upgrade)
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Athens, GreeceBe transcended into a realm of classically inspired Greek architecture and decor at the Hotel Grande Bretagne. With full panoramas of the Acropolis, and close proximity to Syntagma Square, Parliament, Lycabettus Hill, and the original Olympic Stadium, its central location reflects the magnificent beauty of the history while shedding light on regal delights like the hotel’s butler service and access to their incredible rooftop bar and restaurant, overlooking the ancient sites in Athens.
Day 3
Ancient Corinth / Nafplio
Be transported back to the land of Greek mythology on our hike through ancient Corinth, learning about the city’s astounding legacy. Heading to Nafplio, we discover the first capital of the modern Greek state and possibly the most charming city on the Peloponnesian peninsula. Surrounded by two Venetian castles and straddling dramatic mountain landscape beside the sapphire blue sea, Nafplio is a fascinating crossroads of cultures.
Ancient Corinth / Nafplio - Day 3
Hotel Ippoliti
Days 3 to 4 (2 nights), Nafplio, GreeceBuilt in the 19th century, this neoclassical mansion was transformed into a hotel with stone, leather, and wood interiors complimented by Tuscan furniture and elegant lighting for a stately and comfortable stay. Situated near the edge of the seaport town, it is the ideal location for exploring the city at your leisure.
Day 4
Epidavros / Mycenae
Exploring further, we visit the theater of Epidavros, one of the most famous and ancient theaters in the world, dating back to 340 BC. From Epidavros, we spend time in the “Golden City” of mythical king Agamemnon, who led the infamous expedition against Troy.
Epidavros / Mycenae - Day 4
Hotel Ippoliti
Days 3 to 4 (2 nights), Nafplio, GreeceBuilt in the 19th century, this neoclassical mansion was transformed into a hotel with stone, leather, and wood interiors complimented by Tuscan furniture and elegant lighting for a stately and comfortable stay. Situated near the edge of the seaport town, it is the ideal location for exploring the city at your leisure.
Days 5-6
Olympia
We visit the famed birthplace of the Olympic Games since 776 BC. Venture through the archaeological site and museum and marvel at its fascinating history. We then sample wine at the Merkouri Estate, a 140-year-old olive grove and vineyard that produces world-famous Peloponnesian olive oil and high quality wine.
Olympia - Days 5-6
Europa Hotel
Days 5 to 6 (2 nights), Olympia, GreeceThe charming Europa Hotel is a perfect base from which to explore Ancient Olympia and surroundings, putting you mere minutes from the famed stadiums and temples of this incredible site. Europa’s simple rooms offer balconies overlooking the pool and its blooming gardens. The gardens, filled with roses, fruit trees, and herbs, make a wonderful setting for a glass of wine in the evening or a meal of mezze, grilled meats, and locally grown vegetables. In the morning enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast buffet of homemade jellies, breads, and eggs.
Days 7-8
Arachova / Delphi / Tinos, Cyclades Islands
Heading northwest into the mountains, we reach Arachova, a lovely town cradled by the slopes of Parnassus Mountain. The next day finds us exploring the archaeological museum and the haunting remains of the temple of Apollo where the famous oracle Pythia gave her prophecies. On Day 8, we return to Athens and ferry to Tinos, an unspoiled island in the Cyclades.
Arachova / Delphi / Tinos, Cyclades Islands - Days 7-8
Leto Hotel Delphi
Day 7 (1 night), Delphi, GreeceSet right next to historic Delphi, the brightly colored building of Leto Hotel is a welcoming sight, and it becomes even more welcoming the moment you step inside. The owner, Penny, is a great host, and guestrooms are simple and comfortable, with private balconies and views of the courtyard or a quite street. Free WiFi is provided throughout the hotel, and there is a good breakfast selection. There is also an inviting lounge bar with a fireplace and TV.
Hotel Voreades
Days 8 to 11 (4 nights), Tinos, GreeceThis 9-room boutique hotel is in a traditional stone-built house on the beautiful island of Tinos near the old port. The hotel has all the modern comforts plus quiet, tidy rooms with wonderful views. Views are also great from the breakfast veranda overlooking the harbor. It’s a short walk to the port and to the lively center of the main part of Tinos Island. The Voreades is family-run and friendly.
Days 9-10
Delos / Mykonos
From the village of Falatados, hike to Livada Beach, a secluded, sun-swept cove unfurling into the turquoise waters. The next day finds us on a fun boat tour where we will visit Delos, the sacred isle of Apollo, and Mykonos, with its iconic windmills.
Delos / Mykonos - Days 9-10
Hotel Voreades
Days 8 to 11 (4 nights), Tinos, GreeceThis 9-room boutique hotel is in a traditional stone-built house on the beautiful island of Tinos near the old port. The hotel has all the modern comforts plus quiet, tidy rooms with wonderful views. Views are also great from the breakfast veranda overlooking the harbor. It’s a short walk to the port and to the lively center of the main part of Tinos Island. The Voreades is family-run and friendly.
Day 11
Isternia / Tinos
From Isternia, we hike to Pyrgos, with its enchanting white-walled houses with brilliant blue roofs. We explore the museum of marble art, learning about ancient methods of stone carving before continuing on to Panormos Bay for a refreshing swim.
Isternia / Tinos - Day 11
Hotel Voreades
Days 8 to 11 (4 nights), Tinos, GreeceThis 9-room boutique hotel is in a traditional stone-built house on the beautiful island of Tinos near the old port. The hotel has all the modern comforts plus quiet, tidy rooms with wonderful views. Views are also great from the breakfast veranda overlooking the harbor. It’s a short walk to the port and to the lively center of the main part of Tinos Island. The Voreades is family-run and friendly.
Day 12
Departure
We take the morning boat to Rafina Port and continue to Athens where we conclude our journey.
Greece Private Journey
