DESCRIPTION:

Discover the heart of Europe’s oldest city. Journey three thousand years back in time to see some of the seminal sites of the Classical world and learn about the modern Mediterranean. An odyssey awaits: Discover Olympia, birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, follow the Panathenaic Way in Athens from the Acropolis to Agora, travel to the sacred sites of Delphi and the Sanctuary of Eleusis, the incredible finds of Vergina at Philips’ tomb, legendary Mycenae, and take in the breathtaking landscapes, Greek delicacies, and drink that Greece offers. From the arts to philosophy and mathematics, many roots of modern civilization began in ancient Hellas. Between the Mediterranean beaches bathed in sunlight, ancient ruins teeming with legend and villas bursting with local charm, falling in love with Greece is a sure-thing.

Begin in Thessaloniki, founded in 315 BC, a fascinating city with a wonderful mix of the old and the new. Then head to Vergina, the first capital of Macedonia, where the tomb of King Philip II was unearthed. Among other sites, visit a burial ground with more than 300 tumuli, some dating to the 11th century BCE. One of the royal tombs is Philip’s, who conquered all the Greek cities, paving the way for his son Alexander and the expansion of the Hellenistic world. Visit Pella, the remains of the former capital of Macedonia from the 5th century. Drive south to Dion, an important religious center for worshipping the Gods of nearby Mount Olympus. Continue to Delphi, on the slopes of Mt. Parnassus. Declared by Zeus as the center of the world, Delphi has a long and glorious history, spectacular ruins, and awe-inspiring vistas. Dedicated to Apollo, pilgrims bearing gifts came to ask advice of its oracle, Pythia. Drive along the coastal road past picturesque villages and seaside resorts, arriving in Olympia. Explore Olympia, one of the most important sanctuaries of antiquity and the birthplace of the great Olympic Games in 776 BCE. Visit charming towns, ancient amphitheaters, Also, visit Mycenae, home of legendary King Agamemnon; its magnificent ruins include the Palace, Treasury, the tomb of Queen Clytemnestra and Lion’s Gate. Visit the ancient site of Corinth and enjoy wine tasting in one of the region’s excellent wineries. And of course, tour Athens' most spectacular classical sites: The Parthenon, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Royal Palace, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the exciting new Acropolis Museum. 

CONSIDER:

It is also possible to customize a trip to Greece that would include some of the ancient sites in this program, and combine them with a trip to the Greek islands and a journey into its food and current culture. Learn how to prepare a Greek meal. Float on translucent waters and visit grand churches. Learn to appreciate Greek varietals of wine along and how to use delicious feta in meal preparation. Recline on a white sand island beach then share a meal with a local family. In small villages - hidden gems - feel the soul and taste the history of Greece.

OPTIONAL EXTENSIONS & ADD-ONS:

Continue your unique journey in Crete, the southernmost and largest island in Greece, where snow-capped mountains, rolling hills and varied coastline set the stage for rich culture and a dramatic past. Or consider a cruise around the Greek islands.

Please contact CuriOdyssey Travel for more details.

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL:

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Greece; specifically May, June, September and October. Conditions are perfect between Greek Easter and mid-June, when the weather is pleasantly warm in most places and beaches and ancient sites are relatively un-crowded..