8 Day Tour in Delphi, Meteora & Tour in Santorini from Athens

Explore Greece in Comfort with an 8-Day Private Tour

This 8-day package in Greece offers an engaging journey through some of the country’s most iconic locations, all at a price of $3,486.59 per person. Designed for travelers seeking a mix of history, breathtaking scenery, and island beauty, this tour includes accommodation with breakfast, private transfers, and guided visits to remarkable sites. The tour departs from Athens, with a well-balanced itinerary that covers Athens, Delphi, Meteora, and Santorini, making it ideal for those who prefer a curated experience without the hassle of planning.

A key strength of this tour is its private car and driver, which ensures a personalized pace and flexibility at each stop. While entrance fees and some meals are at your own expense, the inclusion of guided tours and transportation offers excellent value. Based on glowing reviews, travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and the ease of seamless logistics. However, it’s worth noting that some sites, like Delphi and Meteora, have additional entrance fees, and the tour involves quite a bit of travel, so it suits those comfortable with full days on the move.

Key Points

• Private guided experience ensures personalized attention and flexible pacing
• Visits include three UNESCO World Heritage sites: Delphi, Meteora, and Santorini
• Accommodation and breakfast are included, offering comfort after busy sightseeing days
• The tour features fast ferry rides from Athens to Santorini and back, saving travel time
• It’s specifically suitable for travelers who want to combine history, culture, and stunning landscapes
• Not included: entrance fees for Delphi and Meteora, other meals, and local guides in Greece (available at extra cost)

Starting Your Journey from Athens Airport

The tour begins at Athens International Airport, where a driver waits holding a sign with your name. This seamless pickup service eliminates stress upon arrival, with a direct transfer to your hotel. After settling in, travelers have free time to explore the historic center of Athens, perhaps wandering the charming Plaka area or relaxing at local cafes. This approach offers a gentle start before the busy sightseeing days ahead.

Visiting the Acropolis and the Museum in Athens

On the second day, the tour takes you to the Acropolis, one of Athens’ most famous landmarks. The private driver transfers you to the site, where a guide leads you through key monuments such as the Parthenon, Theatre of Dionysus, and the Porch of the Caryatids. The visit lasts around two hours. Following this, the Acropolis Museum is explored, featuring artifacts from the ancient site displayed over the archaeological excavations beneath a glass floor—an intriguing feature that highlights Greece’s careful preservation efforts.

The guided tour of Athens’s historic core is designed to give a rundown, including sights like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Panathinaiko Stadium. The stadium, famous for hosting the first modern Olympic Games, offers a panoramic view of Athens and is free to visit. Afterward, you can choose to continue exploring or relax in the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.

A Day in Delphi: Myth and History

Day three offers an enriching trip to Delphi, one of Greece’s most significant archaeological sites. The journey starts early from Athens, with a stop in the picturesque mountain village of Arachova, known for its local specialties such as pastries and cheeses. The Delphi archaeological site features notable temples, including the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the nearby Castalia Spring.

The Delphi Archaeological Museum showcases artifacts from the site, giving insight into the ancient oracle’s history. The monuments and ruins here highlight Greece’s ancient religious traditions. While entrance fees are not included, the site’s historic atmosphere and scenic mountain surroundings make this stop memorable. The day also includes a scenic drive through Greece’s rugged landscape before heading to Meteora in Kalambaka.

Witnessing the Monasteries of Meteora at Sunset

Arriving in Kalambaka in the late afternoon allows for a stunning sunset over Meteora’s rock formations. The unique landscape features massive cliffs topped with cloistered monasteries, some still active today. The sight is captivating—monasteries perched atop towering rocks create a surreal scene, especially as the sun dips behind the formations.

The evening offers free time to explore the town or relax at your hotel. The next day, the tour includes a more detailed visit to the monasteries, giving guests the chance to appreciate their architectural styles, frescoes, and religious artifacts. This UNESCO World Heritage site is celebrated for its dramatic scenery and spiritual history.

Exploring Meteora’s Monasteries and Cultural Heritage

Day four involves a four-hour guided tour of Meteora’s monasteries. The guide explains how monks established these retreat spots centuries ago for worship and refuge, and discusses their ongoing spiritual significance. Visitors walk along pilgrimage paths and enjoy panoramic views of the Pindus Mountains.

Most monasteries remain active, and some open for visits where visitors can see ancient frescoes and artifacts. The tour’s focus on both architecture and history provides a deep appreciation for Meteora’s place in Greece’s cultural landscape. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes, as walking along uneven paths is involved, and be prepared for some religious customs.

Day in Thermopylae and the Drive to Santorini

En route to Piraeus Port on day five, a brief stop at Thermopylae offers a chance to see the famous Leonidas statue and reflect on the legendary Spartan stand against Persian forces. This quick visit adds a historical dimension to the trip before the group boards the ferry at 07:00 onwards to Santorini.

The ferry ride lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with free time upon arrival for guests to settle into their accommodations. The transfer service from the port to the hotel ensures smooth logistics. This day marks the transition from mainland Greece’s historical sites to the stunning island scenery of Santorini.

Discovering Santorini’s Cliffside Charm

On day six, a local driver in Santorini takes guests to their hotel, freeing up the rest of the day for leisure. The island’s signature cliffside villages, like Oia and Fira, offer panoramic views of the caldera and volcanic islands. Many visitors enjoy relaxing at perched cafes, sipping local wine, and shopping for souvenirs amid whitewashed streets.

Optional activities include a Palea Kameni cruise with visits to hot springs and volcanic sand beaches. This cruise, which costs extra, lasts about six hours and features onboard BBQ and a sunset viewing in Oia—a picture-perfect way to experience Santorini’s natural and cultural beauty.

Santorini’s Volcanic Hot Springs and Scenic Cruises

The optional Palea Kameni cruise offers a chance to bathe in therapeutic hot springs and explore volcanic islands like Aspronisi and Indian Rock. The cruise stops at the Red Beach, known for its vibrant volcanic sand, and White Beach, accessible only by boat. The journey includes stunning photo opportunities of the caldera and the island’s volcanic landscape.

Guests can enjoy an onboard BBQ buffet, featuring fresh seafood and grilled meats, making the cruise both scenic and delicious. Watching the sunset from Oia caps off the day, turning the whole experience into a memorable highlight of the trip.

Returning to Athens and Final Departure

On day seven, guests have free time in Santorini before transferring to the port for the noon ferry back to Athens. The ferry ride takes around 5 hours, after which a driver meets guests at Piraeus port for a transfer to their Athens hotel. The last day involves a one-hour transfer to Athens Airport, concluding the trip.

This flexible schedule allows for relaxing final hours in Santorini or last-minute shopping, without feeling rushed. The private transfer service ensures a smooth end to the journey, with clear logistics and minimal stress.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour

This 8-day private Greece tour suits travelers eager to experience top UNESCO sites, spectacular landscapes, and island charm without the stress of independent planning. The inclusion of guided visits and private transportation offers comfort and flexibility, especially for those who value personalized service.

The tour is particularly recommended for history enthusiasts, scenic lovers, and couples or small groups seeking a curated experience. Since entrance fees for some sites are not included, visitors should budget for those separately. The pace involves quite a bit of travel, making it best for active travelers comfortable with full days.

Final Thoughts on the 8-Day Greek Adventure

This tour provides a rundown of Greece’s most famous highlights, blending cultural, historical, and scenic attractions with the comfort of private transportation and well-chosen accommodations. The guided visits to Athens, Delphi, and Meteora deepen understanding of Greece’s ancient heritage, while the Santorini cruise and island exploration add a relaxing, scenic dimension.

While the tour covers many must-see sites, it also involves additional costs for entrance fees and optional activities, so travelers should plan accordingly. The glowing reviews emphasize the professionalism of the guides, the breathtaking views, and the seamless organization—making it suitable for those who want a well-structured, memorable Greek vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The price covers accommodation with breakfast, private car and driver for mainland excursions, and ferry tickets to and from Santorini.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Delphi and Meteora are not included in the package price. These are paid separately at the sites.

How long are the ferry rides?
The ferry from Athens to Santorini departs at 07:00 and arrives at 11:45, lasting about 4.5 hours. The return trip on day seven takes approximately 5 hours.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but some sites involve walking on uneven terrain. It’s ideal for those comfortable with full days of sightseeing.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, allowing for some flexibility. Additional local guides are available at extra cost, which can enhance the experience.

What should I bring for the Meteora monasteries?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking along paths and stairs. Modest clothing may be required for monastery visits.

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, a driver meets guests at Athens International Airport upon arrival, ensuring easy transfer to your hotel.

What is the tour’s cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before the start are not eligible for a full refund.

Who is the tour provider?
This experience is operated by Private Tours Greece, known for professional, personalized service.

Would this tour suit someone interested in local food?
While meals are not included, the tour provides opportunities to explore local neighborhoods and shop for regional products, especially in Arachova and Santorini.