Glories of Greece - Small Group, Summer

Glories of Greece - Small Group, Summer

44 Views
7 Days From

$3634

$3452

Glories of Greece - Small Group, Summer

7 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece

Visiting: Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $3634 $3452 Barrhead discount: -$182

NB: Prices correct on 22-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Glories of Greece - Small Group, Summer" tour and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Greek history and culture. Begin your journey in Athens, where you'll explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus with a Local Expert. Wander through the charming streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods." Travel to Thermopylae to honor the legendary Spartan warriors, and marvel at the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora. Discover the ancient wonders of Delphi and Olympia, where the Olympic Games originated. In Mycenae, walk through the Lion Gate and explore royal tombs. Experience the vibrant seaport town of Nafplio and cross the impressive Corinth Canal. Throughout your journey, enjoy authentic Greek dining experiences and a special cooking demonstration in Olympia. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights, all while supporting sustainable travel practices.

Highlights

  • Athens: Explore the Acropolis and admire the Parthenon with commanding views of the city.

  • Stroll through the ancient streets of Plaka, known as the "Neighborhood of the Gods."

  • Visit the Leonidas Monument at Thermopylae, dedicated to the brave warrior and his 300 Spartans.

  • Discover the remarkable monasteries of Meteora, teetering on towers of rock.

  • Walk the Sacred Way in Delphi to the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle once spoke.

  • Explore the Archaeological Site of Olympia, home of the ancient Olympic Games.

  • Visit the ruined city of Mycenae and walk through the Lion Gate.

  • Cross the Corinth Canal, a rock-cut channel dividing the Peloponnese from mainland Greece.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Athens

Location: Athens

Accommodation: Divani Palace Acropolis, NEW Hotel, Athens Marriott Hotel

Accommodation Name: Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott

Meals Included: Dinner

Venture back to a time when great philosophers roamed the halls of the Agora and gods vied for supremacy. Embark on an unforgettable exploration of ancient myths and legends in the vibrant capital of Athens. Upon arrival, your Local Host will meet you and escort you to your hotel, where you can settle in and relax or explore the City of Violet Crown. This evening, join your Travel Director for dinner, savoring local cuisine paired with wine while getting to know your fellow travelers.

Day 2: Athens, City Of Gods

Location: Athens

Accommodation: Divani Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka., Grand Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka.

Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Begin your journey into ancient Greece today, where the history of this remarkable civilization comes to life. Explore Athens with an Insight Choice experience. Choose to visit the city's renowned ancient sites with a Local Expert, or venture into the dynamic Plaka neighborhood, guided by your Travel Director. Next, venture to Thermopylae, the mountain pass where King Leonidas and his Spartan warriors made their legendary stand against the Persians in 480 B.C. Pay tribute at the memorial honoring their courage before continuing to your hotel in Kalambaka for a delicious dinner crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Day 3: The Pinnacles Of Meteora Relaxed Start

Location: Meteora

Accommodation: Divani Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka., Grand Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka.

Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora, Kalambaka, Grand Meteora, Kalambaka

Meals Included: Breakfast

With your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora, meaning 'suspended in the air.' The massive pinnacles of smooth rock are ancient, yet could also be the setting for a science fiction tale. Visit one of the monasteries, that adds to the strange and beautiful landscape and enjoy stunning views over the Peneios Valley. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Why not explore with a relaxed walk on the nature trails? Alternatively, you may wish to visit the Natural History Museum.

Day 4: The Sacred Way And Onto Olympia

Location: Delphi

Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Olympia., Olympion Asty

Accommodation Name: Amalia Olympia, Olympion Asty

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel south, stopping at the foothills of Mount Parnassus. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still perfectly intact after thousands of years. You'll approach the Temple of Apollo, where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her enigmatic ‘words,' rumoured to have successfully predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Your travels continue to Olympia, where dinner will be served at your hotel.

Day 5: Ancient Olympia

Location: Olympia

Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Olympia., Olympion Asty

Accommodation Name: Amalia Olympia, Olympion Asty

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

It's all in the name. Ancient Olympia is the site where the Ancient Olympic Games began in 776 B.C., in dedication to Zeus. See the ruined Temple of Zeus that was built to honor the ruler of the gods. Continue your exploration through time to the athletes gymnasium and the Ancient Stadium of Olympia with its characteristic arch. The start and finish points for the sprint track are still marked by stones and there is time to capture your own memory, with a photo at the starting line. In the evening, join a local chef who will share with you their passion for local ingredients and high-quality products with an entertaining and immersive cooking demonstration, showcasing classic Greek cuisine. Experience authentic Greek regional flavors, as you savor dishes prepared for your dinner.

Day 6: Mycenae And Nafplio

Location: Athens

Accommodation: Divani Palace Acropolis, NEW Hotel, Athens Marriott Hotel

Accommodation Name: Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens, Athens Marriott

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today you leave the town of Olympia and begin your journey back to the Greek capital. Stop for a visit at the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones, used to build the city walls. Travel to the elegant town of Nafplio known for its beautiful architecture, colorful shops and vibrant cafes. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you meet Maria and her daughter to learn about the ancient techniques of hand weaving. Your journey continues, following the shores of the Saronic Gulf to pass the Corinth Canal, dividing the Peloponnese and mainland Greece, before arriving in Athens. In the evening, enjoy a hearty dinner in true Greek style with good company.

Day 7: Depart Athens Relaxed Start

Location: Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning after breakfast, your Grecian odyssey comes to an end. Take a complimentary transfer to Athens Airport for your onward journey.

What's Included

  • Local Expert Guided Tours

    Explore Athens, Thermopylae, Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, and Nafplio with a Local Expert.

  • Authentic Dining Experiences

    Enjoy local specialties and regional flavors in Athens, Olympia, and other locations.

  • Accommodation

    Stay at selected hotels such as Divani Palace Acropolis, New Hotel, Athens Marriott, Divani Meteora, and Amalia Hotel Olympia.

  • Transportation

    Travel in a luxury, air-conditioned coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Receive personal radio headsets for freedom during visits to famous highlights.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    All hotel and restaurant tips are included, along with taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

  • Baggage Handling

    Bags are carried and delivered to your hotel door.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi where available.

  • Airport Transfers

    Transfers are available at scheduled times for flights as per the itinerary start and end dates.

  • Dining Summary

    Includes 5 dinners and 6 breakfasts.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    International and domestic flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.

  • Optional Activities

    Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Visa fees and any related travel documentation are not included.

Dining Summary

  • 5 Dinner (D)
  • 6 Breakfast (B)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxury, air-conditioned coach.

Insight Experiences

  • Olympia: Join a local chef who will share their passion for local ingredients and high-quality products. Learn how to make tzatziki and other regional dishes during a fun and immersive cooking demonstration.

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style and comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned 40-seat coach, featuring double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and the convenience of scheduled airport transfers, ensuring a seamless journey throughout your Grecian adventure.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at the Divani Palace Acropolis, NEW Hotel, and Athens Marriott in Athens, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Divani Meteora and Grand Meteora in Kalambaka. In Olympia, relax at the Amalia Hotel Olympia or Olympion Asty, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the Glories of Greece tour?

    The tour includes a visit to a traditional hand weaving workshop in Nafplio, where you can learn about ancient techniques. Additionally, there is a cooking demonstration in Olympia where a local chef will showcase classic Greek cuisine.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Meteora?

    In Meteora, you will visit one of the centuries-old monasteries with a Local Expert. The area is known for its massive pinnacles of smooth rock, creating a stunning landscape. You will have time to enjoy the views over the Peneios Valley and explore the nature trails.

  • How does the tour incorporate Greek history and culture?

    The tour includes visits to significant historical sites such as the Acropolis in Athens, the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, and the Archaeological Site of Olympia. You will also explore the ancient streets of Plaka and learn about the history of Mycenae with a Local Expert.

  • What dining experiences are offered on the tour?

    The tour offers authentic dining experiences, including dinners in historic neighborhoods of Athens and Olympia, where you can indulge in local specialties and regional flavors.

  • What is the significance of the Corinth Canal on the tour?

    The Corinth Canal is a rock-cut channel that divides the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. It is a significant engineering feat and a highlight of the journey back to Athens.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily

02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Jacqueline Thornberry  

Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Kathryn Ronca  

Enchanting Canyonlands

08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Patrick Ong  

Italian Intermezzo

12-Jan-2023

This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

Feefo Trusted Reviews

Save on this tour

Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!

Send me one now.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Saturday

Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025
$3634 $3452

Barrhead discount: -$182

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Why book with Barrhead?

protected icon

Fully Protected

All our holidays are fully financially protected.


Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

search icon

Range

Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.


We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.


Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.

award icon

Expert Knowledge

We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.


Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.

atal icon

Trusted Agent

Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.


Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.


We look after you every step of the way.


Similar Tours