BEST 3-Day CLASSICAL GREECE: Corinth Epidaurus Olympia Delphi

Explore Greece’s Classical Highlights in Just Three Days

This 3-Day Classical Greece Tour from Athens offers an in-depth look at some of Greece’s most renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites. Priced at $1,714.71 per person, the tour provides a comprehensive journey across the Peloponnese and central Greece. It includes two nights of carefully planned accommodations and the flexibility of a private guide, making it ideal for travelers seeking an intimate and personalized experience.

What sets this tour apart is the rich itinerary packed into just three days. The private setup ensures a relaxed pace and the option to customize specific site visits, thanks to an archaeological guide available upon request. For those wanting a taste of Greek history without rushing, this tour balances iconic sights with charming local towns and scenic drives.

While the itinerary is intense, with visits to Ancient Corinth, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi, and Nafpaktos, it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a busy schedule. The tour’s highlight is the combination of major archaeological sites with picturesque villages, all accessible with transportation provided. A key consideration is that entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly.

Key Points

• Private 3-day tour from Athens that covers Greece’s UNESCO-listed sites
• Includes accommodations for two nights in boutique or 4-star hotels
• Optional 3-course lunch upgrade available with the Platinum Package
• Expert English-speaking driver and flexible itinerary to tailor your experience
• Visit iconic sites like Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and Delphi
• Comfortable transportation in luxury Mercedes vehicles, group discounts available

Starting with the Corinth Canal and Ancient Corinth

The tour begins in Athens, moving south to the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering with a dramatic history. The 20-minute stop offers ample time to admire the canal’s impressive width and learn about its complex past, from ancient times to modern construction.

Shortly thereafter, the group explores Ancient Corinth, one of Greece’s most influential city-states. Here, visitors walk through well-preserved ruins, including temples, markets, and fountains. While admission to Ancient Corinth is not included, the site offers a vivid glimpse into Classical Greek and Roman life.

This stop is ideal for those interested in ancient urban life, but note that a one-hour visit leaves some exploring for later. The site’s proximity to local cafes makes it convenient for a quick refreshment break before heading further into the Peloponnese.

The Magnificent Ruins of Mycenae and the Theatre of Epidaurus

Next, the tour visits Ancient Mycenae, a fortress famous for its Lion’s Gate and the legendary palace of Agamemnon. The 1.5-hour stop allows ample time to walk through the 20-foot-thick city walls, explore the throne room, and marvel at the Treasury of Atreus with its impressive corbelled roof. The site’s significance in Greek civilization makes it a must-see, and the on-site museum displays artifacts from excavations.

Following Mycenae, the tour continues to Epidaurus, home to a UNESCO-listed sanctuary of Asklepios. The highlight here is the Theatre of Epidaurus, renowned for its exceptional acoustics, which visitors often test by speaking or singing from the stage. The 1.5-hour visit includes viewing the temple and the theatre, both dating from the 4th century BC.

Both sites are not included in the entrance fee, but the experience of walking through ancient ruins with a knowledgeable driver and optional guide enhances the visit.

Scenic Lunch in Nafplio and the Drive to Olympia

After a morning of exploration, the journey continues to Nafplio, Greece’s charming former capital and a medieval port city. The lunch break here features views of the Venetian castle of Bourtzi, adding a scenic backdrop to a leisurely meal. Visitors can explore the artistic streets, craft shops, and boutique stores of this historic town.

Post-lunch, the group travels through olive groves and countryside roads to the Rion-Antirion Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridges globally. This impressive structure marks the crossing from the Peloponnese back to mainland Greece, a striking example of modern engineering.

The drive concludes with a visit to Nafpaktos, a Venetian port village renowned for its untouched medieval charm, 15th-century castle, and peaceful seaside ambiance. The 1.5-hour stay offers a perfect opportunity for photos and a relaxed walk along the harbor.

Ancient Olympia and the Road to Delphi

The second day kicks off at Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. The 3-hour visit covers key highlights such as the Temple of Zeus, the stadium, and the workshop of Phidias. Visitors step into the site where the original athletes trained and competed, walking through the ruins where the Olympic flame is still lit today.

Post-Olympia, travelers cross the Rion-Antirion Bridge again to reach the west coast, where the Nafpaktos and Galaxidi stops provide scenic and cultural contrast. Galaxidi stands out as a seaside village with cafes, narrow streets, and a welcoming atmosphere. Here, travelers can enjoy local cuisine and stroll along the waterfront, making for a peaceful evening before heading to Delphi.

Discovering the Ancient Sanctuary of Delphi

Day three features an extensive exploration of Delphi, one of Greece’s most iconic archaeological sites. The 4th-century BC temple of Apollo is the focus, where the Oracle of Delphi once delivered prophecies. Visitors see the theatre, treasury buildings, and temples of Athena and the Gymnasium.

The site’s amphitheater and sacred springs offer atmospheric ruins, with panoramic views across the landscape. The modern Delphi Museum houses important artifacts, including the Naxos Sphynx, twin Kouroi, and the Bronze Charioteer, pieces that highlight the site’s artistic and religious significance.

This visit allows for a deep appreciation of Greece’s spiritual and cultural history, with the flexibility of optional guided tours available for an even richer experience.

The Byzantine Charm of Hosios Loukas Monastery

On the final day, the tour includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Hosios Loukas Monastery, set in lush countryside on the slopes of Mount Parnassos. The monastery, over 1100 years old, features remarkable architecture and well-preserved frescoes. The peaceful setting and historical artistry make it a meaningful stop for those interested in Byzantine culture.

Visitors have about one hour to explore the monastery’s structures and art. The optional visit can be omitted if travelers prefer to spend more time in Delphi or Arachova.

Picturesque Arachova and the Final Return to Athens

The tour concludes with a stop in Arachova, a vibrant mountain town famous for its local crafts and spectacular views of the olive-filled Pleistos River valley. Here, travelers enjoy authentic Greek cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere, away from more crowded tourist areas. This one-hour stop is ideal for a final taste of Greece’s culinary and cultural delights before heading back to Athens.

The journey back is scenic, with coastal roads providing a picturesque backdrop to the last leg of the trip, ending in the Greek capital with memories of a well-rounded exploration of Greece’s classical and scenic treasures.

The Tour’s Strengths and Practicalities

This private tour provides a comfortable and personalized experience with luxury vehicle options such as Mercedes Sedans, Minivans, and Sprinters. The driver is an experienced guide, with the option to add licensed archaeological guides at specific sites for in-depth knowledge.

Accommodations are arranged in minimum 4-star or boutique hotels, and breakfasts are included to start each day energized. The lunch upgrade allows for a three-course meal at selected restaurants, adding culinary enjoyment to the historical journey.

Entrance fees are not included, so travelers should budget for these additional costs. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants being able to engage comfortably, and service animals are allowed.

Final Thoughts on the 3-Day Classical Greece Tour

This tour offers a well-structured itinerary that captures Greece’s most celebrated archaeological sites and scenic towns within a manageable schedule. The private format enhances flexibility and comfort, making it ideal for those who value personalized service and in-depth site visits.

Highlights like Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and Delphi are complemented by the charming stops at Nafpaktos, Galaxidi, and Arachova. While the experience involves some walking and site entrances are additional, overall it provides a comprehensive and enriching overview of classical Greece.

Travelers who appreciate expert driver-guides, scenic drives, and cultural sites will find this tour a rewarding way to see Greece’s highlights. It is especially suited for those with an interest in history, archaeology, and Greek mythology, seeking a balance of guided insight and personal exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance fees included in the tour?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price. Budget for these additional expenses.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the private nature of the tour allows you to request tailoring of certain site visits, especially if guided archaeological guides are added.

What is the vehicle type used for transportation?
A luxury Mercedes E-Class Sedan, Minivan, or Sprinter depending on your group size is used, offering comfort and style.

Is lunch provided during the tour?
Lunch can be added with the Platinum Package, which includes a 3-course meal at a local restaurant, or you can choose to organize your own.

How experienced are the guides and drivers?
The driver is an experienced guide and speaks English; additional licensed archaeological guides are available upon request for more detailed insights.

What kind of hotels are included?
Minimum 4-star or boutique hotels are arranged for your two-night stay, with breakfast included.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
Most travelers can participate, but some site walking and uneven surfaces could require moderate mobility.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance of the start time.

Can I include Meteora in this tour?
Yes, with extra travel time, it’s possible to visit Meteora on request, often by modifying the second day schedule.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book this tour about 123 days in advance, securing availability for popular dates.