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
Itinerary at a Glance
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Day 12
Departure
We take the morning boat to Rafina Port and continue to Athens where we conclude our journey.
Greece Private Journey
