10 Day Best of Greece Tour, Olympia, Meteora, Delphi & Santorini

Exploring Greece in 10 days has never been easier or more personalized than with this comprehensive tour from Private Tours Greece. Priced at $4,766.73 per person, it covers Athens, Olympia, Meteora, Delphi, and Santorini, offering a mix of historic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and stunning island scenery. With nine nights of accommodation, private transport, guided visits, and ferry tickets, the tour is designed for travelers seeking a seamless, luxury experience that leaves all planning to specialists.

One notable advantage is its fully private approach, making it ideal for those who prefer an intimate journey through Greece’s most iconic destinations. The tour’s reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, breathtaking views, and excellent logistics, making it a strong choice. A key consideration is that the tour is best suited for travelers comfortable with some walking and outdoor sightseeing, especially during stops at archaeological sites and natural landmarks.

Key Points

• Includes 9 nights of accommodation, private transport, and guided tours across Greece.
• Visits major UNESCO-listed sites such as the Acropolis, Meteora Monasteries, and Olympia.
• Luxury experience with hotel stays, ferry rides, and select meals included.
• Customizable and private, with flexibility in stops and sightseeing.
• Highlights include ancient ruins, stunning rock formations, and vibrant island scenery in Santorini.
• Tour duration is 10 days, with most bookings made 97 days in advance.

Fully Guided Tour of Greece’s Historic Landmarks

This 10-day tour offers a carefully curated journey through Greece’s most famous archaeological and natural sites. Starting from Athens, the tour combines private guided visits to landmarks such as the Acropolis and its museum, with scenic drives and visits to lesser-known but equally captivating locations like Nafplio and Nafpaktos. The experience balances structured sightseeing with moments of leisure and local flavor, such as olive oil and honey tastings in Olympia.

The tour is designed for travelers who want to leave all logistics to experts, with hotel, transit, and tour arrangements included. The itinerary emphasizes seamless transitions between destinations, allowing for an enriching, stress-free experience. Travelers will appreciate that the tour is a private activity, meaning all stops and activities are tailored to the group’s pace and interests.

Highlights of the Greek Mainland: Corinth, Nafplio, and Olympia

The journey begins with a morning pickup in Athens, heading along Greece’s mainland coast. The first stop is Corinth, where visitors can explore the ancient market and see the Bema of Apostle Paul. The Canal of Corinth and the Diakofto Cog Railway through Vouraikos Canyon provide striking natural scenery, with the railway being one of the most beautiful train rides in the Balkans.

Next, the tour visits Nafplio, a charming seaside town, where options include climbing the Palamidi Castle or visiting the Bourtzi Fortress by boat. The exploration continues with a visit to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, renowned for its exceptional acoustics, and the archaeological site of Mycenae, famous for the Lion Gate and Cyclopean Walls. This segment combines scenic views, ancient history, and local culture, offering a well-rounded introduction to Greece’s classical heritage.

Journey to Olympia and the Role of Ancient Greece

The tour spends significant time in Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visitors explore the archaeological site, including the temple of Zeus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the stadium where the ancient Olympics took place. The Olympia flea market offers a chance to sample Greek olives, wine, and olive oil, with free tastings that highlight local flavors.

A highlight is a visit to Klio’s Honey Farm, where guests enjoy hand-made desserts infused with honey. The afternoon includes a scenic drive to Naupactus, a picturesque seaside town with a Venetian Castle, providing a relaxing stop before heading to Delphi for overnight. This segment balances archeological exploration with local culinary experiences.

Discovering Delphi’s Ancient Oracle and Scenic Villages

In Delphi, visitors explore the ancient town famed for the oracle of Apollo, visiting the Temple of Apollo, the Ancient Theatre, and the museum filled with artifacts from the site. The tour includes a stop at the traditional winter village of Arachova, known for its cozy cafes and local crafts, perfect for a break before heading to Kalambaka.

Arriving in Kalambaka, the small town at the foot of Meteora’s towering rock formations, offers a chance to witness the breathtaking sunset over the monasteries perched atop cliffs. The natural beauty of Meteora’s UNESCO-listed monasteries is an unforgettable sight, setting the tone for the next day’s exploration.

Visiting the UNESCO-Listed Meteora Monasteries

The Monasteries of Meteora are a major highlight of this tour. The guide leads groups through The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro, the largest and most historic, along with the Monastery of St. Stephan. These monasteries, built on gigantic rocks, are renowned for their suspended-in-the-air appearance and their historical significance.

The tour allows time for photos and exploration of the monastic architecture, along with a visit to the Leonidas Monument as the journey continues. Travelers can expect to see one of Greece’s most awe-inspiring natural and cultural sites, with an emphasis on history and scenic views.

Athens’ Ancient and Modern Attractions

Back in Athens, the tour includes a private guided visit to the Acropolis, highlighting the Parthenon and Erechtheion. The Acropolis Museum complements this with a collection of artifacts from the ancient site, explained by a knowledgeable guide.

The tour also features a panoramic city tour of Athens’ landmarks, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Temple of Olympian Zeus, Syntagma Square, and the Old Parliament. This rundown showcases Athens’ historic and modern significance, ending with free time in Plaka for exploring old mansions and tasting local street food.

Santorini: From Port to Sunset

The journey from Piraeus port to Santorini involves a fast ferry, included in the tour. Once on the island, travelers enjoy three days of leisure and guided activities, with optional excursions available.

The highlight is a Santorini cruise visiting Palea Kameni’s hot springs, with options to swim and explore volcanic beaches like Red Beach and White Beach. The cruise culminates in a spectacular sunset in Oia, one of the most iconic sights in Greece. The optional day tour includes visits to Megalochori Village, Perissa Beach, and the Prophet Elias Monastery, offering panoramic views and photo opportunities.

Practical Details and Logistics

This fully private tour includes hotel accommodations, private car with an English-speaking driver, and guided visits to major sites. Ferry tickets from Athens to Santorini are included, and the tour offers pickups and drop-offs at hotels and ports.

Most travelers book this tour 97 days in advance, indicative of its popularity. The tour also features select meals, including a honey farm visit with local desserts, and wine and olive oil tastings in Olympia. The tour ends in Fira, Santorini, but arrangements can be made to conclude in Athens if preferred.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour

This 10-day Greece itinerary suits travelers seeking a luxurious, guided experience that combines historic sites with island scenery. It’s ideal for those who prefer private transportation and tailored sightseeing, with an interest in classical archaeology, scenic landscapes, and Greek culture. The tour is also well-suited for travelers who appreciate organized logistics and want to avoid the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The premium accommodations, guided visits, and included ferry tickets provide good value for those wanting a comprehensive and hassle-free Greek adventure. The tour’s positive reviews emphasize knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and excellent organization, making it a reliable choice for a memorable trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though some sites involve walking and steps, such as in Nafplio or on Meteora.

Are meals included?
Select meals are included, and there are opportunities for tastings like wine, honey, and olive oil in Olympia, but not all meals are covered.

Can the tour be customized or ended in Athens?
Yes, arrangements can be made to finish the tour in Athens instead of Santorini.

What is the maximum group size?
This is a private tour activity, so only your group participates, providing a personalized experience.

Is there any physical difficulty involved?
Some stops, such as climbing Palamidi Castle or walking through archaeological sites, may require moderate physical activity.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 97 days ahead, so early planning is recommended to secure availability.

This 10-day Greece tour offers a carefully balanced experience of history, culture, and natural beauty, all with the comfort of private transport, guided insights, and luxury accommodations. It appeals most to those who want a thorough yet personalized exploration of Greece’s most celebrated landmarks and islands.