7-Day Grand Tour: Olympia, Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki

Discover Greece’s Ancient Marvels in Just One Week

This 7-day Grand Tour of Greece offers a comprehensive journey through some of the country’s most iconic archaeological and cultural sites. Priced at $1,400.46 per person, the trip is designed for those eager to experience Greece’s classical history without the hassle of planning. Departing from Athens, the tour visits Olympia, Delphi, Meteora, and Thessaloniki, making for a well-rounded exploration of Greece’s legendary past.

The tour includes round-trip transport, select meals, guided visits, six nights of accommodation, and entrance fees to major museums and archaeological sites. It’s a recommended experience by 91% of past travelers and comfortably booked around 232 days in advance, indicating strong interest among travelers seeking a thorough yet manageable itinerary. While the days are packed, the tour is ideal for history buffs and mythology enthusiasts who want a detailed view of Greece’s ancient sites.

Key Points

• Includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Meteora and Delphi
• Guided tours led by knowledgeable guides, some with archaeological backgrounds
• All major entrance fees and select meals included for convenience
• Six nights of accommodation in comfortable hotels
• Transport and hotel pickup included at designated start points
• Suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness due to walking and site exploration

From the Corinth Canal to Ancient Theatres: The Starting Line

The tour begins at the Corinth Canal, where travelers see the iconic bridge connecting Attica with the Peloponnese. This quick stop offers a dramatic view of the narrow waterway, with free admission. It’s a perfect introduction to Greece’s inventive engineering and strategic importance in antiquity.

Next, the guide leads you to Mycenae, home to the renowned Lions Gate and the cyclopean walls. Here, visitors can explore ruins of Agamemnon’s Palace and the Tomb of Agamemnon with an included entrance fee. The site takes about 90 minutes and provides a tangible connection to the legendary Greek hero.

The day wraps up at the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, famous for its harmonious acoustics and well-preserved structure. Visitors spend about an hour here, taking in the impressive architecture and imagining ancient performances.

Exploring Olympia: The Birthplace of the Olympic Games

On the second day, the tour heads to Olympia, where the stadium of the ancient Olympics remains a compelling reminder of Greece’s athletic heritage. The archaeological site is visited for approximately one hour, showcasing ruins of temples, the gymnasium, and other sports facilities.

The Archaeological Museum of Olympia follows, where the bronze statue of Iniochos and other artifacts highlight Greece’s artistic achievements. Visitors spend about an hour exploring exhibits that illuminate the history of the games and local worship.

The Sacred Sites of Delphi: The Heart of Ancient Greece

Day three takes travelers to Delphi, one of Greece’s most important archaeological sites. The stops include Tholos of Athena Pronaia, a beautifully preserved temple that can be explored in 30 minutes. The Temple of Apollo then becomes the main focus, with a 90-minute guided visit to its archaeological remains.

The Delphi Archaeological Museum completes the day, where the bronze statue of Iniochos and other relics are on display. The museum visit lasts about an hour, offering insights into the spiritual and cultural significance of Delphi as the “navel of the world.”

Meteora Monasteries and Spectacular Views

On day four, the tour visits the breathtaking Meteora, famous for its monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. The guide leads you through two monasteries, allowing roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes to admire the architecture and panoramic views. Entry to these monasteries is free, but the experience feels like stepping into a spiritual landscape shaped by nature.

After visiting Meteora, the group switches buses for a scenic drive to Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city. The transition marks a shift from the religious serenity of Meteora to the vibrant urban atmosphere of Thessaloniki.

The Rotunda and Thessaloniki’s Architectural Highlights

Back in Thessaloniki on day five, the tour begins with a visit to the Rotunda, a unique site that has served as both a temple and church. The site is very close to the starting point, and visitors spend about one minute admiring its Early-Christian mosaics.

The day’s exploration emphasizes Thessaloniki’s diverse history, with the Rotunda being a key architectural landmark. The city’s blend of ancient, Byzantine, and modern influences makes it a captivating stop.

Discovering Edessa’s Waterfalls and the Macedonian Royal Tombs

Day six is dedicated to exploring Edessa, known for its beautiful waterfalls. The stop lasts about one hour, providing a chance to enjoy these natural spectacles for free.

Next, the tour visits the Museum of the Royal Tombs of Aigai (Vergina), home to the tombs of the Macedonian Royal family, with an included one-hour admission. The site offers a rare glimpse into Macedonia’s royal history, with artifacts dating back to Alexander the Great’s era.

The day continues with visits to Naoussa, famed for Aristotle’s School (free entry, about one hour), and Veroia, where walking through the old Jewish neighborhood and market area offers cultural insights. Both sites are accessible and free of charge.

Final Day: The Sacred Town of Dion and Ancient Pella

On the last day, the tour explores the Dion Archaeological Park, an ancient Macedonian town with ruins spanning about an hour. Visitors then visit the Archaeological Museum of Pella, Alexander the Great’s former capital, with an hour allocated for exploration.

The journey concludes at Thermopylae, where travelers see Leonidas’ monument, a short 10-minute stop. This poignant site offers a chance to reflect on Greece’s historic battles and heroism.

Logistics and Comfort: Transport, Accommodation, and Group Size

The tour employs air-conditioned vehicles for comfortable travel between sites. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off at selected hotels, ensuring ease of logistics. The group size is capped at 40 travelers, maintaining a balance between social interaction and personalized attention.

Accommodation spans six nights, with options for breakfast and dinner (optional), providing a good base to relax after busy days of sightseeing. The start point is at Amalia Hotel Athens, with the tour beginning promptly at 8:30 am.

Practical Considerations: Dress Code, Physical Fitness, and Additional Fees

Visitors should be prepared for a moderate physical activity level, with walking involved at all sites. A dress code applies when visiting places of worship and certain museums; knees and shoulders must be covered, and sleeveless tops or shorts are not permitted.

An environmental fee of 10 euros per room per night starting 1/4/2025 is payable directly at the hotel. Also, an extra city tax of 10 euros per room per night applies.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The comprehensive itinerary covers Greece’s most celebrated sites in a manageable timeframe, with guided tours that enhance understanding of each location. The inclusion of select meals, entrance fees, and accommodation adds value, while the expert guides—some with archaeology backgrounds—bring history to life.

The flexibility of optional meals and the fact that the tour is booked widely in advance shows strong demand. Past reviews praise the guides’ knowledge, the quality of hotels, and the overall organization, making it a reliable choice for those wanting a deep dive into Greece’s archaeological treasures.

Greece in a Nutshell: Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This 7-day Grand Tour suits history lovers and mythology enthusiasts who want a broad overview of Greece’s most important sites. It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with a packed schedule and walking moderate distances. The emphasis on professional guides and cultural insights makes it a particularly enriching experience.

On the other hand, those seeking more leisure or flexibility might find the tight schedule challenging. Nonetheless, travelers who want a well-organized, informative, and value-packed overview of Greece’s ancient landmarks** will find this tour offers a solid, trustworthy experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers transportation, six nights of accommodation, entrance fees to archaeological sites and museums, select meals (breakfast and dinner), and guided tours.

Are airport transfers included?
No, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off at selected hotels only; airport transfers are not part of the package.

How many stops are there each day?
The itinerary varies, with 2-3 stops per day, ranging from short visits like the Corinth Canal to longer explorations at sites like Olympia and Delphi.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The tour requires moderate physical fitness and involves walking at archaeological sites, so it is best suited for travelers who can manage these activities comfortably.

Can I join the tour without meals?
Yes, meals are optional; breakfast and dinner are included, but you may choose to skip them if preferred.

What is the maximum group size?
The group is limited to 40 travelers, ensuring a balance of group dynamics and guided attention.

When should I book this tour?
It is recommended to book about 232 days in advance due to high demand and the need to secure accommodations and guides.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days before the start of the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than that are non-refundable.

How experienced are the guides?
Many guides are highly knowledgeable, with some having backgrounds as archaeologists, enhancing the quality of storytelling and site explanations.

Is there anything I should bring or prepare?
Wear comfortable shoes, adhere to the dress code for religious sites, and be ready for some walking and sightseeing in varied weather conditions.

This 7-day Greece Grand Tour offers a detailed experience of the country’s most renowned historic sites, combining professional guidance, cultural insights, and convenient logistics for an enriching adventure across Greece’s ancient landscape.