4-Day Tour of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora

A 4-day tour of Greece that covers some of the country’s most iconic archaeological sites and breathtaking landscapes, this experience offers an excellent balance of history, scenic views, and comfort. Priced at $784 per person, it includes entry fees, 3 nights at 4-star hotels, meals, and a licensed guide. The tour departs from Athens and moves through Peloponnese to Meteora, making it ideal for travelers with limited time who want to see Greece’s highlights.

A key strength of this tour is its comprehensive itinerary, which visits Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi, and Meteora. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, with a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 140 reviews. However, travelers should be aware of long drives—Greek roads can be winding—and the group size, which can be larger than expected, as some reviews note.

Key Points

• Includes entrance fees, hotel stays, meals, and a licensed guide for a smooth experience.
• Visits major UNESCO-listed sites like Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi, and Meteora.
• Duration of 4 days offers a compact yet thorough introduction to Greece’s highlights.
• The hotels are 4-star, with Wi-Fi on the coach and at the hotel.
• Guides like Joy, Xenia, and Helen are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and warmth.
• Long drives are part of the experience, with some reviews mentioning scenic but windy roads.

You can check availability for your dates here:

From Athens to the Corinth Canal and Mycenae

Starting at Hotel Amalia Athens at 8:30 AM, the tour heads west along Greece’s scenic coast. The first stop is the Corinth Canal, where travelers enjoy striking views of the waterway connecting the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Next, the guide leads a guided tour of the archaeological site of Mycenae, legendary for its rich history linked to King Agamemnon.

The Mycenae visit lasts about an hour, giving enough time to see the famous Lion Gate and other artifacts. Afterward, there’s free time for lunch, allowing flexibility for personal preferences. The journey continues to Epidaurus, renowned for its perfectly preserved ancient theater with remarkable acoustics. Visitors can explore the theater in a guided tour, appreciating its impressive limestone cavea.

Exploring Nafplio and the Scenic Drive to Olympia

Following Epidaurus, the tour makes a stop in Nafplio, the first capital of Greece in 1829, offering free time for exploration. Travelers can stroll through the charming streets or enjoy a quick coffee. The group then departs for Naupplia, before crossing the Corinth Canal once more, this time heading south.

By late afternoon, the journey reaches Nafpaktos as the tour continues toward Olympia. The arrival involves an overnight stay at a hotel with options for dinner and breakfast included. Olympia is celebrated as the most famous sanctuary of ancient Greece, hosting the Olympic Games in honor of Zeus. The visit to the archaeological site and museum allows travelers to see treasures such as the bronze statue of Charioteer.

The Magical Site of Delphi at Mount Parnassos

On the third day, the tour ventures to Delphi, regarded as the centre of the ancient world. Situated at the foot of Mount Parnassos, Delphi’s sanctuary and oracle are incredibly significant in Greek history. The guide leads a guided tour of the archaeological site, highlighting the Temple of Apollo and other ruins, while the museum displays notable artifacts including the Charioteer bronze statue.

The site’s location offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a memorable stop. Travelers have the opportunity to explore Delphi’s cultural heritage, which was a symbol of unity for the Hellenic world for centuries. The evening is spent in Kalambaka, preparing for the visit to Meteora the following day.

Visiting Meteora’s Monasteries and Rocky Landscape

Meteora is the highlight of the final day, often praised for its stunning rock formations and historic monasteries. The name “Meteora” means “suspended in air,” perfectly describing the monasteries perched atop towering cliffs. The UNESCO World Heritage site includes 24 monasteries, with only a few still active.

The guided tour at Meteora involves visiting the most important monasteries, where strict dress codes apply—men must wear long trousers and women dresses or skirts. Visitors can observe the monks’ way of life and admire the panoramic views from the monasteries. The tour provides ample photo opportunities, and the experience leaves a lasting impression of Greece’s spiritual and natural grandeur.

More Great Tours Nearby

Scenic Drive through Thermopylae and Return to Athens

On the last day, the route passes through Thermopylae, famous for the battle of the 300 Spartans. A photo stop allows travelers to appreciate this historic site. The journey then continues, with some long drives along Greek roads that can be winding but scenic, back toward Athens.

The tour concludes around 7:00 PM at Hotel Amalia Athens, having covered extensive ground over 4 days. The included Wi-Fi keeps travelers connected, and meals and hotel stays are designed to provide comfort after days packed with sightseeing.

Practical Details and Tips for Travelers

This tour is ideal for those who want a well-organized overview of Greece’s highlights with professional guides. The group size can be larger, which might affect the experience for those seeking intimacy. The hotels are 4-star but some reviews mention that room quality may decline slightly each night.

Travelers need to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and long clothing for Meteora monasteries. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or young children, given the walking involved and restrictions at religious sites. The tour runs in English and French on Mondays, with other days in English only.

Final Thoughts on the 4-Day Greece Highlights Tour

This 4-day guided journey offers a practical way to see key archaeological sites and scenic landscapes, perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time. The experienced guides and well-chosen accommodations receive high praise, making the experience both educational and comfortable.

While long drives are part of the program, many find the scenery and historical insights well worth the travel time. This tour suits travelers eager to explore Greece’s cultural treasures without sacrificing comfort. For those interested in history, mythology, and stunning vistas, it provides a balanced and rewarding itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned bus with an experienced driver, including Wi-Fi on the coach.

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $784 per person, which includes all entrance fees, hotel stays, meals, and guided tours.

How many nights are spent in hotels?
There are 3 nights at 4-star hotels, with breakfast and dinner included.

Are food and drinks included?
Breakfast and dinner are included, but lunch and drinks are not. Some stops for lunch offer local cuisine, but quality varies.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or young children under 1 year, due to the walking and site restrictions.

When does the tour run?
It departs from Hotel Amalia Athens at 8:30 AM. The tour runs in English and French on Mondays, and in English only on other days.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, and long pants are recommended. Be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure.

Are guide explanations engaging?
Yes, guides like Joy, Xenia, and Helen are praised for their knowledge, storytelling, and personality, making the sites much more interesting.

Can I customize the experience?
The tour is a fixed itinerary, but there is free time between visits for personal exploration.

What is Meteora like?
Meteora features spectacular rock formations and monasteries, with strict dress codes and magnificent views that make it a standout highlight.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, Wi-Fi is provided on the coach and at the hotel for convenience and sharing your journey.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby