Greece Undiscovered - Classic Group, Winter

Greece Undiscovered - Classic Group, Winter

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15 Days From

$4847

$4392

Greece Undiscovered - Classic Group, Winter

15 Days Starting in Athens, Greece and ending in Chania, Greece

Visiting: Athens, Thessaloniki, Ioannina, Nafpaktos, Delphi, Nafplio, Heraklion, Rethymno, Chania

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

W952M19

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $4847 $4392 Barrhead discount: -$455

NB: Prices correct on 14-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Greece with the "Greece Undiscovered - Classic Group, Winter" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the ancient wonders of Athens, where you'll explore the iconic Acropolis and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, to the vibrant city of Thessaloniki, renowned for its rich history and delectable cuisine. Discover the legendary sites of Thermopylae and Delphi, and wander through the picturesque villages of Metsovo and Ioannina. Delight in the Venetian charm of Nafpaktos and the archaeological marvels of Mycenae. The tour culminates on the enchanting island of Crete, where you'll explore the historic towns of Heraklion, Rethymno, and Chania. Travel in comfort aboard a luxurious coach, enjoy authentic Greek dining experiences, and gain insights from local experts as you uncover the cultural treasures of Greece.

Highlights

  • Thessaloniki: Explore the historical city and its cuisine with a Local Expert.

  • Athens: Ascend the Acropolis to admire the Parthenon and see the Temple of Athena Nike.

  • Thermopylae: Visit the Leonidas Monument dedicated to the Spartan warrior and his 300 soldiers.

  • Metsovo: Discover the traditional village on the picturesque mountainside.

  • Ioannina: Cruise to the island of Ioannina and explore the old town and museums.

  • Delphi: Walk the Sacred Way to the Temple of Apollo with a Local Expert.

  • Nafpaktos: Visit the Venetian town, site of the Great Sea battle of Lepanto.

  • Chania: Explore the fusion of Venetian and Ottoman archaeology in the old town.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome To Athens

Location: Athens

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

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

Meals Included: Dinner

Ancient civilizations dating back to 2700 BC, Greece has lured the most curious of travelers for centuries. Your Insight host meets you at the airport and transfers you to your hotel where you have time to settle in. Begin your time on Greece Undiscovered joining your Travel Director and fellow travelers over a delightful evening of Greek favorites and wine.

Day 2: The Glorious City Of Athens

Location: Athens

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

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

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sites so iconic they will leave you spellbound, starting with the Acropolis, one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world. Crowning the top is the Parthenon, visible from almost everywhere in the city. View the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held, Hadrian’s Arch, Temple of Zeus, Parliament building, the tomb of the unknown soldier and the trilogy of Athens. Then hug the Athenian coast to the town of Glyfada for a fascinating MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the first Turtle sanctuary in the Mediterranean, the Glyfada Turtle Rehabilitation and Rescue Center (Archelon). Meet the care team and learn about the work being done to help injured turtles, protect the species and create awareness on the importance of protecting these majestic animals. This evening, choose to join an optional dinner experience in lively Psiri.

Day 3: Ancient Dion And Onto Thessaloniki

Location: Thessaloniki

Accommodation: Electra Palace, Thessaloniki

Accommodation Name: Electra Palace, Thessaloniki

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Embark north from Athens to the mountain pass and battle site of Thermopylae. Learn how at this very spot King Leonidas led his Spartan army, along with fellow Greek soldiers, into battle against the Persians in 480 B.C. See the memorial dedicated to Leonidas and his Spartans as you pay homage. Your next stop is the archaeological park of Ancient Dion located at the foot of Mount Olympus, the mythical home of the 12 Greek Gods illuminated by your Local Expert. Hear the insightful stories and myths of this fascinating site also known as the city of Zeus. This afternoon’s destination is the City of Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece. After settling in, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant with northern Greek cuisine and wine.

Day 4: Thessaloniki, The Foodie Capital

Location: Thessaloniki

Accommodation: Electra Palace, Thessaloniki

Accommodation Name: Electra Palace, Thessaloniki

Meals Included: Breakfast

From ancient archaeological sites to contemporary art exhibitions, the port city of Thessaloniki is yours to discover today on your Greece tour with Insight Choice. Explore with a Local Expert, walking the quaint narrow streets of the old town or “Ano Poli” to take in views of the city below. Spot the landmark White Tower, the Rotunda Monument and the beautiful church of Saint Demetrius. Or, indulge your foodie side exploring Thessaloniki city while sampling local delicacies with your Travel Director. On your walking tour of Thessaloniki’s markets, sample local delicacies such sesame rings, fragrant cheeses, cured meats and the famous bougatsa - a creamy custard and filo pastry dessert. Conclude your excursion with the stroll along the harbor enveloped in a sea breeze and views of the white tower.

Day 5: Vergina, Metsovo And Onto Ioannina

Location: Ioannina

Accommodation: Du Lac, Ionannina

Accommodation Name: Du Lac, Ioannina

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Full of curiosities, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vergina – historically known as Aigai – is a treasure trove of important remains including a monumental palace and burial ground with more than 300 tumuli. Your Local Expert reveals the excavations and the tomb where Alexander the Great’s father Philippos is believed to be buried. Continue your discovery at the Polycentric Museum of Agaia where you can peruse artifacts of the life, culture and history of the Kingdom of Macedonia. Culinary delights await as you visit the traditional mountain town of Metsovo, famous for its cheese and grilled meats as well as stone architecture. Stroll at your leisure and perhaps sample some of the local fare before arriving at your hotel in the lakeside town of Ioannina for dinner.

Day 6: Picturesque Ioannina

Location: Ioannina

Accommodation: Du Lac, Ionannina

Accommodation Name: Du Lac, Ioannina

Meals Included: Breakfast

The town of Ioannina will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. Delve into its history as you walk inside the castle walls of the old fortified city, the Kastro, punctuated with ancient towers. From striking architecture to natural beauty, view the beautiful lake Pamvotis before hopping on a local boat cruising to the island of Ioannina. The optional cruise is a car-free escape that invites you to stroll quiet streets, see the Ali Pasha Museum and the Monastery of Saint Nicholas of Philanthropinoi. Live the good life and perhaps treat yourself to freshly made baklava.

Day 7: Venetian Town Of Nafpaktos To Galaxidi

Location: Nafpaktos

Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Delphi.

Accommodation Name: Amalia Hotel Delphi.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

The site of the Great Sea battle of Lepanto, scenery and history are revealed on your visit to the Venetian town of Nafpaktos. Begin your discovery exploring the sights and insights where the 1571 Battle of Lepanto in the bay of Nafpaktou marked the victory of the Spanish Empire and their European allies against the Ottoman Empire. The Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes even played a role in the battle and lost his left hand. Nafpaktos Port, once used to defend the city, is now home to gorgeous private yachts. Admire the yachts, an old lighthouse and two statues depicting the Greek national hero Anemogiannis and Cervantes. Continue your travels to Galaxidi en route Delphi, your home for the next two nights on your Greece tour, where you’ll unwind sampling local dishes at a restaurant.

Day 8: Delphi With A Local

Location: Delphi

Accommodation: Amalia Hotel Delphi.

Accommodation Name: Amalia Hotel Delphi.

Meals Included: Breakfast

No visit to Greece is complete without a trip to Delphi. Ascend the Sacred Way of Delphi, once lined with offertory temples, with your Local Expert. Pass the Parian marble Treasury of the Athenians and Polygonal Wall, with its interlocking stones still intact after thousands of years. Approach the Temple of Apollo where for 14 centuries the mysterious Oracle of Delphi breathed her ‘words,' rumored to have predicted events related to the Argonauts expedition and the Trojan War. Continue to embrace all things local with a visit to the hand-selected family-run Moka honey farm for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience that advances Global Goal 15: Life on Land. Taste the rich thyme honey – known to be one of the most nutritious in the world – freshly collected from the hive and get up close to the unique biodiversity of the area under the guidance of passionate beekeeper Nikiforos.

Day 9: Onto Nafplion

Location: Nafplio

Accommodation: Ippoliti Hotel, 3Sixty, Nafplio, Castellano, Nafplio

Accommodation Name: Ippoliti, Nafplio, 3Sixty, Nafplio, Castellano, Nafplio

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

With the impressive Rio Andirio cable span bridge - one of the longest in Europe - guiding your journey, travel to the Peloponnese. The flavors of the wine making region of Nemea delight your palate over a winery tour and tasting with a light pairing lunch. Relaxed and ready for more sights and insights, arrive in Nafplio – the first capital of modern Greece. Your Travel Director reveals the sights of Nafplio on an orientation walk taking you past Neoclassical buildings with cascading bougainvillea, boutiques, restaurants and cafes, the first parliament of Modern Greece and the central square where locals and visitors gather. As the sun sets, the Venetian castle of Palamidi lights up the town.

Day 10: The Beauty Of Nafplio

Location: Nafplio

Accommodation: Ippoliti Hotel, 3Sixty, Nafplio, Castellano, Nafplio

Accommodation Name: Ippoliti, Nafplio, 3Sixty, Nafplio, Castellano, Nafplio

Meals Included: Breakfast

Classical Greek culture is revealed on your visit to the ruined city of Mycenae with a Local Expert. Gain insight into these ruins of the two of the greatest cities of the Mycenaean civilization which defined and shaped classical Greek culture and are linked to Homer’s the Iliad and the Odyssey. Walk through the Lion Gate, visit the royal beehive-tombs and see the giant Cyclopean stones used to build the city walls. Continue your exploration of the ancient world visiting the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus, one of the best-preserved amphitheatres in Greece. Built in the 4th century BC, the Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus was once a sacred healing center that attracted people who sought treatment by the resident priests. Today, the theater is best known for its excellent acoustics due to the steps’ “acoustic traps” and is still in use for theatrical performances. Before returning to Nafplio, stop at a local olive oil factory to learn about the olive oil making process while tasting extra virgin olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet.

Day 11: The Big Island Of Crete, Heraklion

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation: Megaron, Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Megaron, Heraklion

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Rich in history and natural beauty, Crete lives up to its name, “the island of the gods.” Travel to Athens crossing the mighty engineering feat, the Corinth Canal, for your flight to Crete, your home for the next four nights. In the town of Heraklion, take an orientation walking tour viewing sites such as the ‘Koules’ fortress, Venetian Loggia, Morosini Fountain, Basilica of St Mark, Churcof Agios Titus, medieval monastery of St Catherine and the Cathedral of Agios Minas. You’ve surely worked up an appetite and Cretan cuisine is traditionally considered some of the best in Greece. This evening, try some of the local dishes accompanied by the “fiery” local drink raki.

Day 12: Heraklion History With A Local

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation: Megaron, Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Megaron, Heraklion

Meals Included: Breakfast

Ancient ruins, sea, sand and sun, the island of Crete has lured historians and travelers just like you. Get up close and personal exploring the Minoan Palace of Knossos, the largest of the surviving Minoan palaces. Cited as the birthplace of the first civilization of Europe - the Minoans - you’ll uncover ancient treasures including the Central Court, Throne Room, Grand Staircase and fresco of the ‘Prince of the Lilies.’ Perhaps imagine the Cretan legend of the Minotaur who lived in the Labyrinth and was slain by Theseus. Further your discovery of the island and its past on a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion with a Local Expert for an insightful background to the history and culture of Crete. You’ll see more treasures from the Palace of Knossos, astounded by the incredible details in pieces from thousands of years ago.

Day 13: Rethymno And Onto Chania

Location: Rethymno

Accommodation: Samaria, Chania

Accommodation Name: Samaria, Chania

Meals Included: Breakfast

One of the best-preserved medieval towns in Greece and one of the most beautiful towns in Crete, Rethymno will enchant the most curious of travelers. Take a walking tour of the city. Follow a cobbled alleyway lined with bougainvillea to a charming café and step through a stone arch to a courtyard dotted with olive trees. View the 16th-century Venetian fortress overlooking Rethymno town. While the fort was penetrated on day-22 of the Turkish siege, you can still admire the bastions, ramparts and underground munitions vaults. Conclude your visit with a look at the quaint lighthouse before arriving in Chania for the night.

Day 14: Chania, The Old Town

Location: Chania

Accommodation: Samaria, Chania

Accommodation Name: Samaria, Chania

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

A fusion of Venetian and Ottoman archaeology, delve into the history of the town of Chania with your Local Expert. Visit the most important monuments of the old town and the Ottoman district of Splantzia. Stroll through bustling Splantzia Square with a bohemian vibe evident in the local cafés and shops and view the Church of Agios Nikolaos in the current Plateia 1821. Then explore the Jewish district with the famous Etz Hayyim synagogue, the only surviving and functioning in Crete. Stroll along the beautiful harbor and perhaps stop at the one of the many cafes on the quayside for a well-earned rest. This afternoon you have the option for a dramatic finish to your tour with a cruise in the waters of the Cretan coast (summer departures only). This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner in a traditional Cretan restaurant.

Day 15: Farewell Greece

Location: Chania

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sadly, all good things must come to an end. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the Chania airport for your onward flight.

What's Included

  • Meals

    The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 6 dinners.

  • Local Expert Guides

    Explore various historical sites with the guidance of local experts.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Personal radio headsets are provided to ensure you don't miss any commentary from your local expert.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    All hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you don't have to worry about tipping.

  • Porterage

    Porterage is included, with your bags being delivered to your hotel door.

  • Insight Flourish

    From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.

  • Wi-Fi

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

  • Airport Transfers

    Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.

  • Luxury Coach

    Travel in comfort on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

  • Hand Sanitizer

    Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Dinner in Psiri

    An optional dinner experience in lively Psiri is not included.

  • Flights Outside Scheduled Times

    If your flights are outside the scheduled times, or you have booked additional nights' accommodation, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

  • Optional Cruise in Chania

    An optional cruise in the waters of the Cretan coast (summer departures only) is not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach featuring double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Enjoy complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi, and scheduled airport transfers if your flights align with the itinerary start and end dates.

Accommodation

Stay in comfort at a variety of well-appointed hotels including Divani Palace Acropolis, New, Athens Marriott in Athens, Electra Palace in Thessaloniki, Du Lac in Ioannina, Amalia Hotel Delphi, Ippoliti, 3Sixty, Castellano in Nafplio, Megaron in Heraklion, and Samaria in Chania.

Dining Summary

  • 6 Dinner (D)
  • 14 Breakfast (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

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.

Insight Experiences

  • Vergina: Visit the UNESCO-protected site of the ancient city of Aigai (modern name Vergina) and its new archaeological Museum, see the monumental palace and burial ground.
  • Nafplion: Meet an expert sommelier at a Nemea winery and learn about the evolution of Greek wine making, dating back to antiquity. After touring the winery, sample some of the delicious and elegant Greek wines, expertly paired with piquant local cheeses and tasty cured meats.
  • Heraklion: While in Crete, enjoy your guided visit to the Palace of Minos at Knossos.

Tasting

  • Nafplio: Stop at a local olive oil factory to learn about the olive oil making process while tasting extra virgin olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet.

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.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour to support sustainability?

    The tour includes visits to the Mediterranean's first turtle sanctuary in Athens and a family-run Moka honey farm in Delphi. These experiences support United Nations Sustainable Development Goals related to life below water and life on land.

  • What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy authentic dining experiences such as indulging in local specialties in Athens, savoring a Cretan feast in Heraklion, and toasting the culmination of your travels with dinner in true Greek style in Chania.

  • What are some of the historical sites visited during the tour?

    The tour visits several historical sites including the Acropolis in Athens, the archaeological park of Ancient Dion, the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vergina, the ancient city of Mycenae, and the Minoan Palace of Knossos in Crete.

  • How does the tour incorporate local culture and cuisine?

    The tour offers opportunities to explore Thessaloniki's cuisine, sample local delicacies in Thessaloniki's markets, and enjoy a winery tour and tasting in Nemea. Additionally, you can experience Cretan hospitality with a local feast in Heraklion.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides travel in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi are also available, along with scheduled airport transfers if your flights align with the itinerary.

  • 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

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  • 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.

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