Delphi

Arachova - The journey begins at the charming village of Arachova, where visitors can enjoy the scenic views and capture some memorable photos.

The Tholos of Delphi - The Tholos of Delphi is one of the ancient structures within the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia in Delphi. This circular temple, known as a tholos, is situated alongside other ancient foundations of the Temple of Athena Pronaia, all located less than a mile east of the main ruins at Delphi, in the modern Greek region of Phocis. The tholos is part of the Delphi UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Delphi Archaeological Museum - The Delphi Archaeological Museum is one of Greece’s foremost museums and a popular destination. Managed by the Greek Ministry of Culture, it was established in 1903 and has undergone several reorganizations. The museum showcases discoveries from the Panhellenic sanctuary of Delphi, spanning from the Late Helladic (Mycenean) period to the early Byzantine era. With fourteen rooms on two levels, the museum primarily exhibits statues, including the renowned Charioteer of Delphi, architectural elements like the frieze of the Siphnian Treasury, and ex-votos dedicated to the sanctuary of Pythian Apollo, such as the Sphinx of Naxos.

Temple of Apollo - Explore the Delphi archaeological site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Greece’s most iconic locations. In ancient times, it was a sacred precinct that served as the seat of Pythia, the major oracle consulted for significant decisions throughout the ancient classical world.

The Temple of Apollo, dedicated to the god of music, harmony, light, healing, and oracles, held the most significant position in the Delphic Panhellenic Sanctuary. The structure with the partially restored colonnade visible today dates back to the 4th century BC; it is the third temple built on the same site. The famous oracle, the Pythia, operated within the temple, chosen according to one tradition due to a sacred chasm beneath the site emitting vapors, which the Pythia inhaled. Some ancient writers claim that the Pythia then entered a state of delirium, uttering inarticulate cries, which were interpreted into ambiguous oracles by the priests.

Delphi - After exploring the site, there will be free time for shopping and enjoying lunch at a traditional Greek tavern in Delphi village before continuing the journey to Meteora.

Meteora - In the late afternoon, after a three-hour drive, the group will arrive at Meteora. The driver will drop guests off at their hotel for some rest and will pick them up the next morning to continue the tour.

Meteora and Thermopylae

Meteora - At their peak in the sixteenth century, there were 24 monasteries at Meteora in Greece, established to serve monks and nuns following the teachings of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Much of the architecture of these buildings is Athonite in origin. Today, six monasteries are still functioning, while the others are mostly in ruins. Perched on high cliffs, they are now accessible by staircases and pathways carved into the rock formations.

The monasteries are breathtaking at first sight and hold great cultural and natural significance. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore three of the monasteries.

Please dress modestly. Women are advised to wear long skirts and long sleeves. If needed, skirts will be provided upon entry.

Meteora - Enjoy free time for lunch at a traditional Greek tavern with friends and family or go shopping in Kastraki, a picturesque village near Meteora.

Leonidas Monument - On the return journey to Athens, there will be a stop at the battlefield of Thermopylae to admire the statue of King Leonidas.

Leonidas was a king of the Greek city-state of Sparta and played a significant role in the Second Persian War, leading the allied Greek forces in a last stand at the Battle of Thermopylae (480 BC) while attempting to defend the pass from the invading Persian army. He died in the battle and became legendary as the leader of the 300 Spartans. Although the Greeks lost this battle, they succeeded in expelling the Persian invaders the following year.

Athens - The group will return to Athens late in the afternoon.

• Private transportation
• Road tolls
• On-board WiFi
• In-vehicle air conditioning

• Entry/Admission - Archaeological Site and Museum of Delphi
• Licensed tour guide
• Accommodation (option for hotel reservation upon request)
• Food and beverages
• Gratuities

Embarking on a two-day excursion from Athens, we’ll first journey north to reach the revered Delphi location, home to the Temple of Apollo, an archaeological museum, and the Tholos. As an archaeological marvel acknowledged by UNESCO, Delphi stands out as one of Greece’s most symbolic sites. After indulging in our lunch break, we journey forth to finally make our way to Meteora in the late afternoon.

On the second day, we’re set to tour the monasteries at Meteora, a location that has earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, crafted between the 14th and 19th centuries. A joyous meal at a genuine Greek tavern awaits us post which we’ll forge ahead on our tour to reach our final destination, the legendary Thermopylae battlefield. The battlefield is famed for the conflict between the Persians and Spartans and is home to the grand statue of King Leonidas. Our return to Athens is timed for the late afternoon.

• This is a private tour, οnly your group will participate.
• Your personal driver will pick you up and return you to the same place or at the point you prefer.
• Our drivers are not official tour guides, but they are knowledgeable and can provide fascinating commentary in fluent English. Although they will not enter the archaeological sites with you, they can answer all of your questions about the places you visit with this tour.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.