Athens, Levadia, Arachova, Delphi, Kalambaka, Meteora

REGION OF CENTRAL GREECE - REGIONAL UNIT OF VIOTIA - Beginning in Athens, the journey will take travelers through Sterea Ellada, the Region of Central Greece, until reaching Delphi. Known locally as Ρούμελη (Roúmeli), this region is one of Greece’s thirteen administrative areas. It covers the eastern half of the traditional Central Greece region, including the island of Euboea. It borders Attica and the Peloponnese to the south, West Greece to the west, and Thessaly and Epirus to the north. Lamia serves as its capital. Geographically, it is divided into East and West by the southern part of the Pindos mountain range. The route will pass through Theves, Livadia, and Arachova, culminating in a visit to the archaeological site at Delphi!

Arachova - A Cosmopolitan Greek Mountain Experience, Arachova has evolved from a quiet village known for folk art into a vibrant destination often called the ‘Winter Mykonos’ by Greeks.

Situated on Mt Parnassos, Arachova has become a favored spot for winter sports and relaxation. At an altitude of 973 meters, its proximity to Athens makes it a bustling weekend retreat during the winter months for city dwellers seeking a break in the invigorating mountain air. Discover why this place is so cherished by following in their footsteps.

Cosmopolitan Arachova, with its lively tavernas, bars, and restaurants, offers endless entertainment, where patrons often dance on tables and invite others to join in. Beyond the weekend and holiday fun, Arachova maintains a cosmopolitan allure throughout the year.

Delphi - Nestled at the base of Mount Parnassos is the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, the most renowned oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was considered the world’s center. According to mythology, it was here that Zeus’s two eagles, sent from the universe’s ends to find the world’s navel, met. For centuries, Delphi was the cultural and religious hub and a symbol of unity for the Hellenic world. Delphi’s history dates back to prehistory, initially sacred to Mother Earth and guarded by the serpent Python, who was slain by Apollo. Cretans, accompanied by Apollo in dolphin form, built his sanctuary here after arriving at Kirrha, Delphi’s port. This myth was celebrated in plays during various Delphic festivals, such as the Septerion, Delphinia, Thargelia, Theophania, and the famous Pythia, which honored Python’s death with musical and athletic competitions.

Temple of Apollo - Among the impressive ruins on the southern slopes of Parnassos mountain is the Temple of Apollo. This temple, dedicated to the god of music, harmony, light, healing, and oracles, held a prominent position in the Delphic Panhellenic Sanctuary. It is a grand Doric temple that has endured through the site’s turbulent history, undergoing several incarnations before reaching its current ruinous state, dating back to the 4th century B.C. Initially built around the 7th century B.C. by legendary architects Trophonios and Agamedes, it was reconstructed after a fire in the 6th century B.C. with contributions from across Greece and foreign emperors, overseen by a noble Athenian family.

The temple was destroyed by an earthquake in 373 B.C. and rebuilt for the third time in 330 B.C. by architects Spintharos, Xenodoros, and Agathon from Corinth.

Tholos of Athena Pronaia - The tholos of the sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, visible from above, is perhaps the most iconic monument at Delphi and the most significant building of this small sanctuary. Situated between the later temple of Athena and the Treasury of Massalia, this circular building of unknown purpose is a masterpiece of Classical architecture. It is believed to be linked with chthonic cults, although Pausanias, who saw its ruins in the second century AD, did not refer to it as a temple.

According to Vitruvius, this impressive structure was erected in 380 BC, designed by architect Theodoros of Phocea or Phocis, who even authored a book on its construction. The tholos is a synthesis of Classical architectural styles. It rests on a three-stepped podium, with twenty Doric columns of the outer peristyle supporting a Doric frieze of triglyphs and metopes with relief decoration. Inside the cella were ten engaged Corinthian columns.

Thessaly - Next, the journey continues through Thessaly, a region of stunning beauty with mountains, rivers, beaches, the popular Plastira Lake, Tempi valley, and the unique Meteora, Greece’s most photogenic spiritual site. Archaeological sites, Byzantine monasteries and churches, traditional settlements, and ski resorts enhance Thessaly’s natural beauty, making it a popular holiday destination. Mt Pelion, towering above the city of Volos, is breathtaking year-round.

Volos, the city of the Argonauts, is known for its tsipouro tavernas, found in every corner. Just a few kilometers west lie Sesklo, Europe’s oldest settlement dating back to 6,000 BC, and Dimini, Greece’s most significant prehistoric settlement and one of the most important of the New Stone Age worldwide.

Kalambaka, Meteora, Byzantine Monasteries, Athens

Kalambaka - Kalambaka, with a population of 12,000, is located at the base of the extraordinary geological phenomenon of the giant cliffs of Meteora. For millennia, people sought refuge on Meteora’s steep cliffs and surrounding areas, finding clean water, abundant food sources, and shelter. The oldest known human settlement in the area dates back 130,000 years and was discovered in the prehistoric cave of Theopetra, just 4km from modern Kalambaka.

Kalambaka’s history spans over 3,000 years! A Greek inscription on one of the town’s old churches (Saint John the Baptist) attests to an ancient Greek settlement named Aiginion, thriving in the 4th century BC. Historical records mention the town’s Byzantine name as Stagi, when it became a significant Byzantine Empire center.

Kastraki - Kastraki, located in western Meteora, is amphitheatrically built among towering cliffs and is a municipal district of Kalambaka. Its history is lost in time.
In the eastern part, there is the old picturesque district of the village and above the spindle, small but impressive because of the form and the support position. It is mainly the base of climbers coming from different parts of the world, to admire the wonderful landscape formed by the towering rocks. Kastraki has an important local tradition, customs, and folk songs, which all have a uniqueness. The impressive landscape with canyons, plateaus, and the ghostly figures of “sacred rock” pops up through the lush landscape and strives, as if to touch the heavens. Today the village has been declared with the entire region of Meteora Monument and World Heritage by UNESCO, while it has grown into a wonderful place for recreation with camping, taverns, and guest houses, offering pleasant relaxation.

Meteora - The Meteora is a rock formation in central Greece hosting one of the largest and most precipitously built complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries, second in importance only to Mount Athos. The six monasteries are built on immense natural pillars and hill-like rounded boulders that dominate the local area.

Meteora monasteries; the miracle of Greece. A few kilometers northwest of the town of Kalabaka, the impressive rocks of Meteora are rising from the plains of Thessaly one of the most amazing places in Greece. Many centuries ago, on these gigantic rocks with the breathtaking landscape reaching heights of more than 600 meters, it was formed one of the most important monastic communities of Greece.

In 1988, the Meteora monasteries have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List and the Meteora-Antichassia area is part of the Natura 2000 network hosting some rare species of birds and flowers.

The Great Meteoron Holy Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Saviour - The Great Meteoro (Grand Meteor), also known as the Holy Monastery of the Metamorphosis (Transfiguration of Christ), is a male monastery and is the oldest and largest of all the monasteries of Meteora.

The foundation of the Monastery of Great Meteoron is the starting point of the organized life at Meteora. On the most imposing rock, it occupies a commanding position among the monastic complex of Meteora.

It’s the largest and most formal of the extant Meteora Monasteries as its name implies. Founded shortly before the middle of the 14th century by Saint Athanasios the Meteorite, who was also its first founder and the first to organize a systematic monastic community.

St. Stephen’s Monastery - St. Stephen was inhabited by monks in the late 12th century. The assembly of the building of the monastery which was founded in the 14th century completed in the 15th and 16th century. First founder of the monastery is the monk, later abbot of it Antonios Kantakouzenos. Antonios in the opinion of some researchers was the son of the Serbian Despot of Epirus Nikephoros II (1359) and a descendant of the great Byzantine family. Secondly, the founder is Monk Philotheos “ex Sklatainas”, which is referred to as the renovator of St. Stephen.

Theophilos erected a new the old, now Catholic, built the cells and other facilities of the monastery. During his days(1545) the monastery became stavropegic and retained this privilege of 1743. In 1798 a new church was built dedicated to Saint Charalambos, who in the 17th century was referred to as the second patron of the monastery. In the 18th and 19th century for the first time several buildings and the abbey was built and took the form it has today.

Holy Monastery of Saint Nicholas Anapafsas at Meteora - Saint Nicholas Anapafsas Monastery
The beginning of the monastic life on the rock of Anapafsas is placed in the 14th century and the name of the monastery is probably due to its old founder. The monastery was renovated in the first decade of the 16th century.
The construction and installation of the monastery (tall rectangular building with successive levels) adapted to the capabilities of the very small area of the plateau of the rock in which it was built. Going up you see the small chapel of St. Anthony and the crypt, where previously stored codes and heirlooms. On the walls of the chapel remains frescoes of the 14th century. On the next floor is built the church of the monastery, a small single room, almost square space preceded by a large enough in relation to the church narthex (lite). Upstairs are the old bank of the monastery, which was restored and today serves as the official residence (hostel), the ossuary, and the renovated, since 1971, the church of St. John the Baptist.

Varlaam Monastery - The monastery Varlaam owes its name to the hermit-anchorite Varlaam, who first inhabited the rock in the 14th century. The history of the monastery begins substantially from the early 16th century when the rock settled and organized their priory by the Ioannina brothers Theophanes and Nektarios Apsaras, descendants of the old continent Byzantine family.

The Apsaras in 1518 renovated fundamentally the chapel of the Three Hierarchs, which was built on the site of the original Catholic monastery that was built by Varlaam, in 1536 built the winch tower, and in 1541 built the present church dedicated to All Saints.

In 1627 the chapel of the Three Hierarchs was rebuilt in place of the Old Catholic who had built the Apsaras and in 1637 was decorated by the artistic crew of John priest and children, who came from Kalabaka.

The monastery is distinguished in spiritual prosperity and its participation in national struggles in recent years.

Holy Trinity Monastery (Agia Triada) - The monastery of the Holy Trinity was made in 1488 by a monk named Dometios. But sources reveal its existence since 1362. The oldest building phase of the monastery is represented by the current church, which was built as we learn from the inscription in the year 1475/6 and is dedicated to the Holy Trinity.

The frescos of the church were made by the painter and priest named Antonios and his brother Nicholas, in 1741. The Catholic exonarthex was built in 1689 and decorated in 1692. In 1682, with the expenses and trouble of Hieromonk Damaskinou, Jonah and Partheniou, the chapel of St. John the Baptist were built and decorated.

Visitors to reach the monastery must cross a pedestrian path downhill until the foot of the cliff and then climb 145 carved steps. Northwest of the building complex of the monastery, behind the church, the visitor arrives at the highest point of the rock, from the balcony you can enjoy a rare view of the other monasteries and the Meteora rocks.

Holy Monastery of Rousanos - Saint Barbara - The rock referred to as Rousanou was inhabited from the early 16th century, while the monastery was founded in the 14th century. But the monastery took its present form in the 16th century when the brothers Ioasaf and Maximus from Epirus and the abbot of the monastery of Great Meteoron, the ruined church that was dedicated to the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ.

The Catholicon that was built by the two brothers from Giannena in 1545, and decorated with frescoes, is dedicated to this day to the Transfiguration but also honored in the memory of Santa Barbara. The monastery became a refuge for persecuted individuals and families during the various historical vicissitudes of the nation. During the 19th century, the monastery declined and slowly fell into a hermitage for the monks of the monastery Varlaam. Today, after its restoration, in 1980, by the Archaeological Service, it operates as a nunnery.

Thermopylae - Thermopylae is a place in Greece where a narrow coastal passage existed in antiquity. It derives its name from its hot sulfur springs. In Greek mythology, the Hot Gates is one of the entrances to Hades. The Battle of Thermopylae was conducted in 480BC among the Greeks and the Persians at the same time the Naval Battle of Artemision took place. The Persian Army led my Xerxis to reache the passageways of Thermopylae. The Greeks have chosen this strategic spot to face the Persian attack. Xerxis has commanded Leonides, the leader of the Greek Army to surrender his armory but he replied ‘Come and Get them’. For two days, the Greeks fought heroically. On the third day, Efialtes betrays the Greeks, showing the Persians the passageway so as to get to the backside of the Greeks. So, the Persian Army surrounds the Greeks. Leonides remains at the site of the battle along with 300 Spartans, 700 Thespieis, and 400 Thivaious, loyal to his homeland laws. He falls dead from Persian arrows.

Leonidas Monument - Why did the battle of Thermopylae become one of the most world-famous battles? Thermopylae battle is a perfect example of selflessness, sacrifice, and obedience to the laws of the country. The resistance in the passage is a result of hard military training, better gear, and strategic use of the land in order to multiply the defense abilities.

Where is the Thermopylae Memorial? The passage of Thermopylae (that literally means “Hot Gates”) doesn’t exist anymore since the mud deposition made by the Spercheios river moved the beach and the sea a few kilometers away. Near Thermopylae, next to the national road connecting Athens to Thessaloniki there is a memorial statue of King Leonidas and his soldiers with an inscription saying:

“Ὦ ξεῖν’, ἀγγέλλειν Λακεδαιμονίοις ὅτι τῇδε κείμεθα, τοῖς κείνων ῥήμασι πειθόμενοι”, which means: “Stranger, tell Spartans that we lay here, staying faithful to Sparta’s laws.”

Attica - You will be traveling through Attica, a journey” in 6,000- year history, the land that gave birth to ideas and arts, has created and shaped what we call today the western civilization. Today, a visit to Attica offers visitors a unique experience. A “journey” in its 6,000-year history, including the chance to see renowned monuments and masterpieces of the art of antiquity and the Middle Ages, and the architectural heritage of the 19th and 20th centuries. Here lies Athens, the capital of Greece, the busiest city of the country with the most prominent archaeological site and symbol of the country, the world-famous sacred rock of the Acropolis.

Attica is home to some of the world’s most important and fascinating museums and archaeological sites, testimony to its long and prominent role in world history. Festivals featuring ancient Greek drama, as well as performances, sports, or culinary events are organized throughout the year, spellbinding the audience. Then travel towards Peloponnese!

• Air-conditioned vehicle transportation tailored to group size
• Complimentary bottled water
• Expert English-speaking tour driver
• Exclusive private tour for your group
• Included breakfast

• Entrance fees to the archaeological sites and museum
• Food and drinks
• Gratuities
• English-speaking licensed tour guide (We can arrange for a tour guide for you with an extra cost)

Highlights Of The Magical Delphi, Impressive Meteora, Legendary Thermopylae 2d
-Blessed Lucas Byzantine monastery
-The town of Delphi, the museum and the archaeological site of Delphi with the temple of Apollo
-The suspended rocks of Meteora with the breathtaking Byzantine monasteries on top of them
-The town of Kalambaka by the feet of Meteora Rocks
-Thermopylae, the famous Hot Gates of the ancient Years.
-Scenic drive through the picturesque and hospitable countryside
-English-speaking driver. A guide is available on request
-Pickup and drop off from Athens hotels or Piraeus cruise terminal

• Sunscreen and hats are recommended for visits during the summer months
• Duration time is approximate and may vary based on local traffic and conditions
• While the local operator does its best to ensure sites are open before travel, they are not responsible for short-term closures
• A moderate amount of walking is involved; comfortable shoes are recommended
• Important note: You will have a professional English-speaking driver with good knowledge of the history and culture of Greece, to guide you till you enter archaeological sites and museums according to the program. Tour drivers are not licensed to companion you inside the archaeological sites and museums. If you’d like to have one, we can arrange it for you at an additional cost. Licensed by the state tour guides are freelance and it is subject to availability on bookings day!
• Athens Airport transfers: arranged on request!
• How many monasteries can I see in one day? Before we answer this question we have to specify that everything should be taken into account. It depends on how fit you are, the transportation and time available, weather conditions, etc. Most people are able to visit between 2 to 4 monasteries per day. The few visitors who visit all 6 of them within one day are missing out on a magical, more slow-paced adventure. We recommend at least 2 days’ stay in Meteora.
• What is the Entrance fee for the monasteries? In each monastery, there is an entrance fee of 3 euros per person. Kids up to 12 years old don’t pay entrance fees in the monasteries.
• Is there a dress code to enter a monastery? Appropriate clothing for everyone is required to enter the monasteries. Sleeveless clothing and shorts over the knee for men are prohibited and you‘ll be denied access if dressed that way. For ladies skirts and shawls are available to borrow or buy at the entrance of monasteries in case they don’t have such clothing to cover themselves.
• Should I take the car to drive to monasteries or is better to use other means? There are many reasons not to want to drive while exploring Meteora like if you’re not confident driving on the opposite side of the road, your spouse is a terrible copilot and you just want to have fun instead of arguing; or if you want to enjoy the scenic road and not to feel stress about the narrow and curvy roads. Lack of parking space outside the monasteries is an especially frequent phenomenon during the pick period in the summer. So joining one of our tours might save you a lot of headaches and unwanted distractions.
• We suggest that you have your admission tickets pre-purchased as there is a chance not to find availability, please note that we can buy the tickets for you in advance -under a small service fee.

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