2 Days Private Tour: Delphi & Meteora

Explore Greece’s UNESCO Sites with Ease on a Private 2-Day Tour from Athens

The 2 Days Private Tour: Delphi & Meteora offers travelers a chance to visit two of Greece’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites without the hassle of arranging transportation or navigating the roads themselves. Priced at $613.20 per person, this around two-day experience is perfect for history, archaeology, and culture enthusiasts eager to see Delphi’s ancient sanctuary and the monasteries of Meteora.

With round-trip transportation included and the option for pickup from Athens, the tour delivers comfort and convenience, ensuring you maximize your time at each destination. The private nature of the trip means you set the pace and focus on what interests you most, all while avoiding crowded group tours. The only additional expense is admission tickets to some sites, offering flexibility in how much you want to explore.

This tour has garnered a perfect 5.0 rating from 53 reviews, with 100% recommending it. The positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and personalized experience that make it stand out. Keep in mind, this is suited for those comfortable with a fair amount of walking and outdoor exploration, especially at Meteora. It’s an excellent choice for history buffs and adventure seekers who want a comprehensive, tailored experience of Greece’s famed landmarks.

Key Points

• Private 2-day experience covering Delphi, Meteora, Thermopylae, and nearby towns
• Round-trip transport from Athens included for hassle-free travel
• Expert drivers with deep historical knowledge provide a personalized service
• Visits to UNESCO sites like Delphi’s ancient sanctuary and Meteora monasteries
• Flexible pacing for those who want to explore at their own speed
• Additional admission fees apply at some sites, tickets are separate expenses

Starting the Tour with Scenic Views of Greece’s Landscape

The tour begins at 8:00 am with hotel or port pickup in Athens, ensuring a smooth start. The first impressions come from the driving route, offering panoramic views of olive groves and Greek mountains. The drive along the national highway takes you past Lamia, Trikala, and Karditsa, providing glimpses of rural Greece before reaching the town of Kalabaka, the gateway to Meteora.

The initial stretch is designed for comfort, with private transport and bottled water provided. Travelers appreciate the personalized service and a driver who’s well-versed in Greece’s history and geography, setting the tone for a relaxed yet enriching journey.

Discovering Delphi’s Sacred Sanctuary and Museum

The first major stop is Delphi, a famous sanctuary dedicated to Apollo that once served as the navel of the ancient Greek world. The site’s scenic mountain location offers breathtaking views and a sense of tranquility. Visitors explore the Temple of Apollo, where the oracle’s prophecies were delivered, and the ancient theater and stadium, which are just as evocative today.

Adjacent to the ruins is the Delphi Archaeological Museum, home to famous statues like the Charioteer and the Gold Ivory statue, which highlight Greece’s artistic mastery. While admission to these sites is not included in the tour price, the one-hour stop allows plenty of time to appreciate the archaeological treasures and enjoy the panoramic mountain views.

After exploring Delphi, travelers enjoy a lunch break in the current village, overlooking the Fokis Mountains. This offers a chance to taste local cuisine and soak in the serene landscape before continuing the journey.

Scenic Drive through Greek Countryside to Kalabaka

Post-lunch, the tour continues with a drive through the Greek countryside, avoiding the main highways for a more authentic experience. The route takes in smaller towns and villages, giving insight into rural life. The drive culminates in Kalabaka, a picturesque small town dominated by the looming meteoric rocks of Meteora.

Travelers often comment on the beautiful scenery and the relaxed pace of the drive, which contrasts with the busier tourist spots. Upon arrival, there’s time to walk around Kalabaka, enjoy a local dinner, and settle into the hotel for the night.

Exploring the Monasteries of Meteora from Different Perspectives

On the second day, the focus shifts to the spectacular monasteries perched on towering rocks. Starting early, the tour visits the Roussanou Monastery, famous for its unique vantage points of the surrounding cliffs. The pathways and viewpoints offer amazing photo opportunities and a sense of the monasteries’ remote, spiritual atmosphere.

Next is the Holy Monastery of Agios Stefanos, notable as one of the few female monasteries in Meteora with frescoed walls dating back to the 16th century. The interior and exterior views reveal both religious art and natural beauty.

The Great Meteoron Monastery, the largest and most famous in the complex, is a must-see. With its size and historical significance, visitors get a deep sense of the monastic life that has persisted here for centuries. The free admission allows plenty of time for reflection and photography.

Visiting the Historic Battlefield of Thermopylae

The tour then travels to Thermopylae, known for the legendary 300 Spartans who faced the Persian army. The battlefield is a brief stop but impactful, with a monument of Leonidas standing prominently. The 15-minute visit emphasizes the heroic stand that has shaped Western historical consciousness.

Adjacent is the Kainotomiko Kentro Thermopylae, where a 3D film provides an immersive look into the battle’s events and significance. This offers a visual and emotional connection to Greece’s ancient military history.

Sunset and the Leonidas Monument at Thermopylae

The Leonidas statue, facing the battlefield, provides an iconic photo opportunity, especially near dusk. Travelers find the scenery and the monument’s symbolism particularly moving. The short 10-minute stop completes the historical perspective of the day, emphasizing Greece’s resilience.

Final Relaxation in Kamena Vourla before Heading Back to Athens

On the return journey, the tour makes a relaxing stop in Kamena Vourla, a coastal town renowned for its seaside views. Here, travelers enjoy a traditional Greek lunch by the sea, offering fresh local dishes and a chance to unwind after two days of exploration.

Finally, the drive back to Athens concludes around 6:00 pm, with drop-off at your accommodation or port. The private vehicle ensures a comfortable, stress-free end to the experience.

The Value and What Sets This Tour Apart

The private aspect of the tour means you avoid the crowds and can customize your pace at key sites like Meteora. The knowledgeable drivers are praised for their deep understanding of Greece’s history and their friendly service, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

The balance of archaeological, historical, and scenic stops offers a well-rounded view of Greece’s cultural heritage. The optional additional expenses for site tickets give flexibility, and the hotel or port pickup simplifies logistics.

While the tour is priced at $613.20 per person, many reviews highlight the high quality of service, the stunning scenery, and the expert guidance as well worth the investment. However, travelers should be prepared for long walks at Meteora and some site entrance fees.

Suitable Audience for This Tour

This 2-day private trip is best suited for adults and older children comfortable with walking and outdoor sites. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts eager to explore Greece’s ancient and religious sites with personalized attention. The tour appeals to those who prefer flexible pacing and comfort, especially given the private transport and knowledgeable guides.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Journey through Greece’s Historical Heartland

The 2 Days Private Tour: Delphi & Meteora provides a comprehensive, comfortable, and informative experience of Greece’s most celebrated landmarks. The private nature allows for a personalized visit to sites often crowded on larger group tours, and expert drivers enhance the journey with local insights.

This tour offers stunning scenery, rich history, and cultural depth in just two days, making it a highly recommended option for those wishing to maximize their time in Greece. While it involves some additional costs for entrance tickets and long drive times, the personalized service and flexibility make it particularly appealing.

Travelers who want a well-organized, engaging, and scenic tour of Greece’s most iconic sites will find this experience rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfort, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see Greece’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour price covers transportation by private vehicle, hotel or port pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and the services of professional drivers. Admission tickets to sites are not included.

How long does each day last?
The tour begins at 8:00 am and concludes around 6:00 pm on the second day, with time allocated at each stop for sightseeing, meals, and rest.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around archaeological sites and monasteries, some of which entail uneven or steep pathways. Travelers should be comfortable with outdoor walking.

Are guides available on-site?
The drivers are not licensed guides and do not accompany visitors inside sites. There is an option to hire a licensed guide for an additional cost.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, it allows for some flexibility in pacing and site visits, depending on your preferences and interests.

What is the weather typically like?
Weather can vary; travelers should be prepared for sun and heat in summer or rain and cooler temperatures in winter.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included in the tour price, but stops at local restaurants provide opportunities for lunch and dinner.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, camera, and hiking poles if needed, especially for Meteora.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made more than 24 hours in advance are fully refundable; cancellations less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made through the provider, Olive Sea Travel, via the website or contact email listed above.