Igoumenitsa Trip Overview
This Peloponnese and Greece mainland off-season discovery 19 days (18 nights) round tour from Igoumenitsa will pass through places that on UNESCO World Heritage list and on the UNESCO Tentative List.
The tour will visit Parga castle, we will walk in Arta museum, see Mesolongi sea lake, climb on steps of Nafpaktos castle and touch statue of Cervantes, walk in Patras fortress and pray in St Andrew cathedral, walk in site of Olympic Games Ancient Olympia, walk the steps of old fortresses in Pylos and Methoni, explore archaeological site Messene, visit famous Sparta and medieval fortified town Mystras, touch stones of ancient civilization in Mycenae, wonder on Corinth canal, visit old Hosios Loukas UNESCO monastery, ask Delphi oracle and see the place of the feat of Leonidas, visit unique UNESCO complex of monasteries in Meteora, and on the way back see mountain town Metsovo with famous winery, ancient Ioannina castle and Dodoni archaeological site included in UNESCO Tentative List.
Additional Info
Duration: 19 days
Starts: Igoumenitsa, Greece
Trip Category: Multi-day & Extended Tours >> Multi-day Tours
Explore Igoumenitsa Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Igoumenitsa, Greece, Greece
This Peloponnese and Greece mainland off-season discovery 19 days (18 nights) round tour from Igoumenitsa will pass through places that on UNESCO World Heritage list and on the UNESCO Tentative List.
The tour will visit Parga castle, we will walk in Arta museum, see Mesolongi sea lake, climb on steps of Nafpaktos castle and touch statue of Cervantes, walk in Patras fortress and pray in St Andrew cathedral, walk in site of Olympic Games Ancient Olympia, walk the steps of old fortresses in Pylos and Methoni, explore archaeological site Messene, visit famous Sparta and medieval fortified town Mystras, touch stones of ancient civilization in Mycenae, wonder on Corinth canal, visit old Hosios Loukas UNESCO monastery, ask Delphi oracle and see the place of the feat of Leonidas, visit unique UNESCO complex of monasteries in Meteora, and on the way back see mountain town Metsovo with famous winery, ancient Ioannina castle and Dodoni archaeological site included in UNESCO Tentative List.
Itinerary
Day 1: Corinth Canal / Ancient Corinth / Palaia Epidauros
Stop At: Corinth Canal, Isthmia, Loutraki 201 00 Greece
In the morning, we start the journey picking you up at the hotel, airport or marina you have selected. We leave Athens and pass by the Corinth Canal to enjoy splendid views over the Saronic Gulf.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos), Argous 105 Ancient Korinthos village, Corinth 200 07 Greece
After, we will drive toward Ancient Corinth, home to one of the most beautiful ancient temples in Greece! We will visit the impressive Archaeological site, one of the best testimonies of ancient Greek architecture, and its fascinating museum. Admission not included.
The imposing Temple of Apollo, a Doric-style temple dedicated to Apollo, is actually a great example of a peripteral temple (one with a portico made of columns) and was supported by 38 columns, though today, only seven are still in place.
After visit this beautiful site with its temples, fountains and other fascinating buildings and structures dating from the 10th century BC, we will have lunch in a local tavern.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Palaia Epidavros, Palaia Epidavros, Argolis Region, Peloponnese
Next, we will head toward Palaia Epidauros, a small and lovely Peloponnesian town. It is built in the same place where was located the ancient city of Epidauros, on top of and surrounding a small peninsula between two bays, on the coast of the Saronic Gulf.
There, we will have accommodation for one night. Right after the check-in process, you will have time for yourself.
Duration: 3 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 2: Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus (UNESCO) / Argos
Stop At: Argos, Argos, Argolis Region, Peloponnese
After touring the home of mythical Agamemnon, we head on to Argos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. We will take you to the ancient Hellenistic theater (320 BC) that is one of the largest architectural developments in Greece and, one of the largest ancient Greek theaters.
The Nemean Games, part of the Panhellenic Games collective, migrated to Argos and remained there for a while. These games were held at the Argos Theater as the primary venue.
Nearby from this site is Agora, Roman Odeon, and the Baths of Argos.
Larissa was the ancient and medieval acropolis of Argos, located on the top of a high rocky hill of the same name, within the city’s boundaries. Later, an imposing castle was built on the site of the ancient acropolis.
The location was fortified since prehistoric times and remained a powerful fortress through the classical period and the Middle Ages until the 19th century. Admission not included.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: The Great Theatre of Epidaurus, Ethniki Odos Isthmou Archaias Epidavrou, Epidavros 210 52 Greece
After, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Epidaurus. It is well-known for its sanctuary as well as its theater (which is in use today and considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture).
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Epidaurus Archaeological Museum, Asklepieion, Epidavros 210 52 Greece
The museum provide interesting information about the site and keep masterpieces of art.
Duration: 45 minutes
Stop At: Sanctuary of Asklepios, Epidavros 210 52 Greece
Today, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Epidaurus. It is well-known for its sanctuary as well as its theater (which is in use today and considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture). The Sanctuary of Asklepios was the most celebrated healing center of the Classical world. Admission not included.
After visit this vast archaeological site with its temples and hospital buildings dating from the 4th century, we will have a lunch in a local tavern.
Duration: 3 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 3: Archaeological Sites of Mycenae (UNESCO) and Tiryns (UNESCO)
Stop At: Mycenae, Mycenae, Argolis Region, Peloponnese
After breakfast, we will leave to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mycenae which dates from between the 14th and 13th century BC when the Mycenaean civilization was at its peak of power, influence and artistic expression.
Here is located the famous Lion Gate, the sole surviving monumental piece of Mycenaean sculpture, as well as the largest sculpture in the prehistoric Aegean. Besides, It is the only monument of Bronze Age Greece to bear an iconographic motif that survived without being buried underground, and the only relief image which was described in the literature of classical antiquity, such that it was well known prior to modern archaeology.
Also, the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae is the place that was mentioned by Homer as Mykene. Admission not included.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Tiryns, Nafplio Greece
After touring the home of mythical Agamemnon, we will head on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tiryns, an archaeological site known from the beginning of the Bronze Age. The Mycenaean acropolis with Cyclopean walls, was one of the most important centers of the Mycenaean world, and in particular in Argolis. Its most notable features were its palace, its cyclopean tunnels and especially its walls, which gave the city its Homeric epithet of “mighty walled Tiryns”. It is also known as the location from which mythical hero Heracles performed his 12 labors. Excavations show that the hill was inhabited from at least 2500 BC. Admission not included.
Later, we will return to Nafplio. There, you will have time for yourself and be able to enjoy the city’s vibe to the fullest.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 4: Nafplio / Sparta
Stop At: Nafplio, Nafplio, Argolis Region, Peloponnese
Nafplio, a rich and vibrant city, is the proud home to three impressive Venetian fortresses that currently are on the UNESCO Tentative List.
First, we will visit the Palamidi fortress, a 18th-century Venetian fortification, that overlooks the whole city. When the Venetians retook Nafplio and made it the capital of their Kingdom of the Morea, the city was strengthened by building the fortress of Palamidi, which was in fact the last major construction of the Venetian empire overseas.
Next, we will take you to the Akronafplia fortress formed the walled town of Nafplio from antiquity to the end of the 15th century, when the Venetians built the lower town of Nafplio.
And finally, in one of the little boats that drop anchor at the dock, we also will visit the Bourtzi, a 15th-century island Venetian fortress located in the middle of the harbor of Nafplio in the Argolic Gulf, and which along with Palamidi, is considered one of the landmarks of Nafplio. Admission not included.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Sparta, Sparta, Sparta Municipality, Laconia Region, Peloponnese
After sightseeing Nafplio fortresses, we will go ahead toward to the famous Sparta, a prominent city-state in ancient Greece, where we will have accommodation for one night.
Sparta was unique in ancient Greece for its social system and constitution, which configured their entire society to maximize military proficiency at all costs, and completely focused on military training and excellence.
We are going to visit Sparta’s archaeological site, where a number of monuments and features survive from different ages of the ancient capital city. Admission not included.
After touring the Acropolis of Sparta, we will see the famous statue of King Leonidas along with the Roman and Byzantine Baths.
Due to its extensive and prominent history, the name Sparta is a world-renowned symbol of heroism and sacrifice balanced by a simple, austere way of life.
The evening, as usual, is free for you to relax and have a look around the area independently.
Duration: 2 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 5: Archaeological Site of Mystras (UNESCO)
Stop At: Archaeological Site of Mystras, located 5 km from the town of Sparta, Mystras, Sparta Municipality Greece
This day will be spent in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mystras, the “wonder of the Morea”, which was built as an amphitheater around the fortress erected in 1249. Reconquered by the Byzantines, then occupied by the Turks and the Venetians, the city was abandoned in 1832, leaving only the breathtaking medieval ruins, standing in a beautiful landscape.
The impressive and vast archaeological site of Mystras consists of a medieval castle and the fortified settlement that encloses a museum, picturesque monasteries, stunning churches, charming chapels, houses and palaces within its walls. Admission not included.
Next, we will enjoy lunch in a local tavern, and then we will hit the road to the impressive Monemvasia where we will have accommodation for one night. There, in the evening, you will have free time to eat and explore the twisting streets, sophisticated atmosphere and enjoy the impressive views.
Duration: 4 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 6: Monemvasia / Mani Peninsula
Stop At: Monemvasia, Monemvasia, Monemvasia Municipality, Laconia Region, Peloponnese
This day we will start the same earlier as the previous one, since a bit of a walk will be needed to reach the main entrance to the imposing Monemvasia, which lies on a big rock at sea connected to land by a causeway.
The town walls and many Byzantine churches remain here from the medieval period. A whole town of manors, a net of cobbled streets and charming squares unfolds before your eyes.
The main road, that fits only pedestrian and donkey traffic, starting from the entrance passes the many restaurants, bars, shops and more that are housed within preserved buildings.
From that point starts the road to the upper side of the town. Although it is a steep climb the view at the top is very rewarding. For those who feel fit enough, we can climb to the large top of the plateau and enjoy the breathtaking views from it and visit the beautiful Church of Agia Sophia located right there.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Mani Peninsula, Mani Peninsula, Laconia Region, Peloponnese
After touring one of the best preserved castle towns in Greece, we will hit the road to travel a little further toward to Mani Peninsula, known not only for its traditional dense stone-built settlements and impressive towers but also for the dramatic landscapes, where we will have our one night’s accommodation.
Duration: 3 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 7: Mani Peninsula / Kardamyli / Kalamata
Stop At: Mani Peninsula, Mani Peninsula, Laconia Region, Peloponnese
The idyllic scenery of Mani Peninsula, graced with plenty of sunshine, and where you can see and enjoy dashing old tower villages, impressive caves, byzantine churches, beautiful beaches and unique local gastronomy.
Steeped in history, the area sees charming medieval villages, beautiful beaches and fishing ports, as well as the nearby peaks of Profitis Ilias in the Taygetus Mount (the highest mountain of the range), surrounding it. Let yourself be taken by the wild beauty of the rocks next to the sea.
After finish our sightseeing in the stunning Laconian Mani, we will continue our road to Messenian Mani. The area is filled with beaches.
Duration: 2 minutes
Stop At: Kardamili, Kardamili, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
In the Iliad, Homer cites Kardamyli as one of the seven cities offered by Agamemnon to Achilles as a condition to rejoin the fight during the Trojan War.
The charming older town includes a medieval castle and outworks, and the imposing church of Saint Spyridon. Many of the buildings of Old Kardamyli, were built by the Venetians and feature a mix of traditional Greek and Venetian design.
Kardamyli, one of the oldest settlements in the Peloponnese, sits at the foot of the Taygetus Mountain range on the coast of the Messenian Bay and it is the departure point of many mountain trails, some of which lead to the peak of Mount Taygetus.
The tombs of the Dioskouri, Castor and Pollux (the Gemini twins) are believed to be near a hiking trail just above the old town. Admission not included.
Duration: 3 hours
Stop At: Kalamata, Kalamata, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
Next, we will go to the beautiful and lively Kalamata, the second most populous city of the Peloponnese peninsula, for one day accommodation. Kalamata is a lively city holding a strong cultural and historic past.
There, we will do sightseeing and later you will have time to enjoy the city that sits between the sea and mountains, at the foot of the majestic and impressive Taygetus Mountain range.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 8: Archeological site of ancient Messene / Koroni
Stop At: Messene 240 02, Greece
Yesterday, we spent exploring Kalamata’s main historical and cultural sights as well its amazing gastronomy.
Today, the day will be partially spent in the vast and impressive Archaeological Site of Ancient Messene, currently in the UNESCO Tentative List.
Nestled in the fertile foothills of Mount Ithomi, it is quickly becoming one of the most exciting archaeological sites in Greece.
Notable for its outstanding circuit walls, the Arcadian gate and the eight surviving towers among others.
The important remains such as temples, powerful defensive walls, the stadium and the theater are in splendid condition.
Admission not included.
Duration: 3 hours
Stop At: Koroni, Koroni, Pylos-Nestor, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
After touring this stunning site, we will go ahead to Koroni, a picturesque and colorful seaside town. There we will have one night’s accommodation. Koroni’s Castle is currently in the UNESCO Tentative List. You will be delighted with its insular atmosphere!
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 9: Methoni
Stop At: Methoni, Methoni, Pieria Region, Central Macedonia
Right after breakfast, we will explore Methoni, a lovely coastal town. It is a real gem not only because its ancient history and fine golden sandy beaches but also because it houses an impressive medieval castle currently in the UNESCO Tentative List. Admission not included.
The Venetian castle of Methoni occupies the whole area of the cape and the southwestern coast to the small islet that has also been fortified with an octagonal tower and is protected by the sea on its three sides.
After touring this large medieval defensive fortification, we will go to check you in for one night’s accommodation. Then, the rest of the day will be spent independently, as you want. Here, you will have a fine relaxation time, amazing views, tasty local cuisine and peaceful strolls as you explore the town on your own.
Duration: 4 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 10: Pylos / Giolova
Stop At: Pylos, Pylos, Pylos-Nestor, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
After breakfast, we will leave for Pylos, built in the shape of an amphitheatre on the Bay of Navarino, which has a long history, having been inhabited since Neolithic times. The well-kept Niokastro Castle (1572), one of two castles guarding the strategic Bay of Pylos, features museums, exhibits, a beautiful church, views and more. Admission not included.
Duration: 3 hours
Stop At: Gialova, Gialova, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
Next, we will visit the charming Gialova, a largely touristic village with plenty of restaurants and bars. In addition to the village beach to the south of the pier, a 1.5 kilometre-long sandy protected beach known as Divari starts at Gialova and continues west to Old Navarino castle.
The beach is actually a narrow bar separating the sea waters of the Bay from the brackish waters of Gialova Lagoon, a Natura 2000 site of major importance. It is the only location in Europe where the African chameleon is found. Immediately to the north of Old Navarino castle is the famous Voidokilia Beach.
Next, we will go to our last destination for the day: Olympia, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will have our one night’s accommodation.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 11: Archeological site of Olympia (UNESCO)
Stop At: Olympia, Olympia, Elis Region, West Greece
Today in the morning, we will go to the well-known Olympia, a lovely town on the Peloponnese peninsula, famous for the nearby archaeological site (an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site) of the same name, which was a major Panhellenic religious sanctuary of ancient Greece, where the ancient Olympic Games were held. In addition to temples, there are the remains of all the sports structures erected for the Olympic Games, which were held in Olympia every four years beginning in 776 B.C.
The archaeological site is a major tourist attraction, and has two main museums: one of them devoted to the ancient and modern games while the other one, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia (one of the prime museums of Greece), presents the long history of the most celebrated sanctuary of antiquity, the sanctuary of Zeus, where the Olympic Games were born. Admission not included.
Duration: 5 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 12: Patras / Rio
Stop At: Patras, Patras, Achaea Region, West Greece
Right after breakfast, we will do our sightseeing in and around the city. We will visit the beautiful medieval Castle of Patras (where you will have breathtaking views of the city and the Ionian Sea) and the impressive Cathedral of Saint Andrew (a place of pilgrimage for Christians from all over the world since the relics of the Apostle Saint Andrew and the cross on which he was martyred are kept in a special shrine here), among other sights. Definitely, Patras is a place where entertainment, history and culture mingle together to create a popular destination. Admission not included.
Duration: 6 hours
Stop At: Rio Castle, Rio 26504 Greece
Next, we will continue our itinerary in Rio, home of а well-kept medieval seafront fortress. This lively town stretches along the southeastern coast of the Gulf of Patras. Besides, you will enjoy splendid views of the famous Rio-Antirrio Bridge from the seafront. Admission not included.
Later, we will take road toward to the beautiful beach town of Nafpaktos where we will have one night’s accommodation. After the check-in procedure, you will have time to take a rest or have a stroll independently to see the buzzing atmosphere of the city.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 13: Nafpaktos / Messolonghi / Oiniades
Stop At: The Venetian Castle of Nafpaktos, Montain, Naupactus 303 00 Greece
Today, we will explore Nafpaktos, one of Greece’s most beautiful beach towns, located on a bay on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth. It will charm you with its traditional character, peaceful atmosphere and lush green landscape.
The city is blessed with a rich and an interesting history: the Battle of Lepanto took place here. The greatest writer in the Spanish language and one of the most famous Spanish writers, Miguel de Cervantes fought in the Battle of Lepanto and you will see a statue in his honor. His novel Don Quixote is the most-translated book in the world, after the Bible. It is considered the best work of fiction ever written.
The picturesque port, the lovely castle built on the top of the hill offering great panoramic views of the majestic Ionian Sea and the blue flag beaches provide the main attraction. Lots of things to see and do! Admission not included.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Missolonghi 302 00, Greece
After our sightseeing in Nafpaktos, we will leave for the peaceful Messolonghi, proud home to a beautiful lagoons complex, classified as a national park. The site is important for breeding, staging and wintering waterbirds and exhibits a considerable degree of endemism in plant and fish species.
The National Park of Messolonghi-Etoliko Lagoons is not only one the most important wetlands in the Mediterranean, protected by the Ramsar Convention and included in the Natura 2000 network, but also one of the richest natural fish production centers of the country.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Oiniades, Greece
Next, we will drive to Oiniades (named after the ancient town of Oeniadae that was situated on the west bank of the Achelous River) to visit the theater of Oeniadae, currently in the UNESCO Tentative List and built on a steep hillside. The monument is architecturally unique and features excellent acoustics. It has a horseshoe-shaped plan and preserves 27 rows of seats. Three building phases have been identified, mostly connected to restructuring of the stage building, the earliest phase of which is dated to the mid-4th c. BC. Admission not included.
Later, we will drive toward to Arta, recognized in ancient times as Ambracia (a Corinthian colony), where we will have one night’s accommodation.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 14: Arta / Dodoni
Stop At: Arta, Arta, Arta Region, Epirus
Today, we will explore Arta, well-known for the beautiful medieval stone bridge over the Arachthos River, for the remains of the ancient Ambracia scattered all over the city, for its well-preserved 13th-century Byzantine castle and for its many Byzantine churches such as the metropolitan church of Panagia Paregoretissa, built about 1290. The Archaeological Museum of Arta is a fascinating museum. It is located by the river, close to the historical bridge. The museum’s exhibition spans a wide time period, from the Paleolithic up to the Roman period. The majority of exhibits belongs to the Hellenistic era, an era that coincides with the highest economic and civil growth in the heyday of Ambracia, at which time the city was the capital of Epirus. Admissions not included.
Duration: 3 hours
Stop At: Dodoni Sanctuary and Theatre, Ioannina 455 00 Greece
Later, we will drive toward to the site of Dodoni is located in a narrow valley at the foot of Mount Tomaros. This ancient city was a major site of religious importance for Ancient Greece. It was mostly known for its oracle, which is the oldest Hellenic oracle in the country. The theatre of Dodona, built in the early 3rd c. BC, is currently in the UNESCO Tentative List. It is one of the largest theatres in Greece, with a capacity of approximately 15,000-17,000 spectators. Admissions not included.
After visit the archaeological site with its Acropolis, the theatre and the stadium among other noteworthy monuments, we will go to Ioannina, a university town, for a one night’s accommodation.
Duration: 2 hours
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 15: Ioannina / Metsovo
Stop At: Ioannina, Ioannina, Ioannina Region, Epirus
Ioannina, the Epirus’ capital, is a charming city that has a lot to offer!
Today, we will start the itinerary with a nice stroll around the historic centre, touched by plenty of cultures and with Christian, Muslim and Jewish influences. Taverns and restaurants where you can sample the best of local cuisine, together with cafes, bars and shops line the streets.
Then, to better understand the unique history of the city, we will head to the fascinating museums (a must-see!) that lie within the Castle of Ioannina, built in 528 AD. It is the oldest Byzantine fortress in the country. Admissions not included.
Ioannina, beautiful and lively, is definitely a year-round destination!
Duration: 3 hours
Stop At: Metsovo, Metsovo, Ioannina Region, Epirus
After we have done our sightseeing in Ioannina: a stroll in the old town, wander around the castle, a boat ride on Lake Pamvotida (if you feel like it), or take a relaxing walk by the lake, we will drive toward to Metsovo, a scenic mountain village in the north western Greece and a popular destination, where we will have one night’s accommodation.
In the evening, as usual, is free for you to relax and have a look around the area independently. You will enjoy a lot this destination since Metsovo is one of the most famous and charming traditional villages in Greece!
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Katogi Averoff Winery, Metsovo 44200 Greece
We will take a walk in the cobbled streets of Metsovo and visit the famous Katogi Averoff Winery.
You will enjoy a guided tour (“a unique, rich initiation into the world of wine, the rich history of Katogi and its winemaking process”) and (if you want) an awesome wine tasting experience in the cool ambiance of the cellars. Admissions not included.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 16: Meteora (UNESCO)
Stop At: Meteora, Meteora, Trikala Region, Thessaly
Right after breakfast, we will visit the imposing and extraordinary Meteora, a fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In a region of almost inaccessible sandstone peaks, monks settled on these gigantic rocks from the 11th century onwards. Twenty-four of these monasteries were built, despite incredible difficulties, at the time of the great revival of the eremitic ideal in the 15th century.
Their 16th-century frescoes mark a key stage in the development of post-Byzantine painting. Six stunning Orthodox monasteries remain in place, still home to a small number of monks and nuns. Built by monks looking for absolute solitude, these monasteries offer mesmerizing views over the plains.
The impressive and ancient monasteries of Meteora, perched atop massive boulders, are a must see! Admissions not included.
Duration: 5 hours
Stop At: Kalambaka, Kalambaka, Trikala Region, Thessaly
After spending the day enjoying and exploring this holy place surrounded by stunning scenery and unique atmosphere, we will drive to Kalampaka, a lovely and vibrant town that illuminate the cliffs of Meteora at night, for a one night’s accommodation.
As usual, after the check-in you will have time to explore this cheerful place, enjoy the atmosphere, taste the gastronomy, go shopping and more by yourself.
Duration: 1 hour
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 17: Meteora (UNESCO)
Stop At: Meteora, Meteora, Trikala Region, Thessaly
Today, we will continue visiting the amazing clifftop monasteries of Meteora since each one of them not only has different opening hours but also is closed on different day of the week. So, it is impossible to see them all in one day. Truth is, Meteora is an amazing experience, so better to enjoy without rush. Admissions not included.
Duration: 4 hours
Stop At: Loutra Ipatis, Loutra Ipatis, Phthiotis Region, Central Greece
Later, we will drive toward to the peaceful Loutra Ypatis located in Phthiotis Region, Central Greece. This small but nice spa town, built on the northern slopes of Iti Mountain, is popular among Greeks since just north of the town, hot springs gushes over a waterfall and down into a cascade of natural pools. Loutra Ypatis is a pretty little town with a laid back atmosphere where you can take nice strolls.
Here, we are going to have one night’s accommodation. Right after the check-in, you will have free time to relax, enjoy the atmospheare, explore the area and taste the local cuisine by yourself.
Duration: 30 minutes
No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.
Day 18: Thermopylae / Archaeological Site of Delphi (UNESCO)
Stop At: Thermopylae, Thermopylae, Phthiotis Region, Central Greece
Today, we will visit Thermopylae (Hot Gate) a place where a narrow coastal passage existed in antiquity and where the heroic and worldwide known warrior King Leonidas I and his brave 300 Spartans, resisted against the 250, 000 Persian soldiers of King Xerxes I. The famous Battle of Thermopylae, which occurred in 480 B.C., was really monumental and one of the most epic battles in the Greek-Persian War. This battle, the most astonishing and unequal, is a landmark in the World’s history. Walk on the sacred site of one of the most memorable battles in history and a timeless symbol of heroism is quite an experience! Admissions not included.
Duration: 1 hour
Stop At: Delphi, Delphi, Phocis Region, Central Greece
Next, we will leave for the impressive Archaeological Site of Delphi, an major UNESCO World Heritage Site, set at the foot of Mount Parnassos. The Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi is home to the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Considered the center of the world in ancient times, Delphi was the cultural and religious hub of the Hellenic civilization. Admissions not included.
Later, we will drive to the modern Delphi, one of the most picturesque Greek towns and located very close to the ancient site of Delphi. After the check-in for one night’s accommodation, you are free to explore by yourself this popular tourist destination. There are plenty of restaurants, taverns, bars and shops. You will enjoy the vibe of this lovely place!
Duration:
