Athens: 5 Days in Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki & Macedonia

Key Points

• Five-day guided tour exploring central Macedonia, Delphi, Meteora, and Thessaloniki
• Includes visits to famous archaeological sites like Delphi and Vergina Museum
• Travel in a luxury, air-conditioned van with WiFi onboard for comfort and convenience
• All accommodation, breakfast, and dinner included; lunch and drinks are extra
• Guided by knowledgeable, English-speaking guides with a focus on history and culture
• Suitable for travelers interested in Greek history, Byzantine art, and ancient ruins

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Discover Greece’s Central Macedonia and Iconic Sites in Five Days

This 5-day guided tour offers a comprehensive journey through some of Greece’s most celebrated landmarks, from the ancient oracle at Delphi to the soaring monasteries of Meteora, and the vibrant streets of Thessaloniki. Priced at $977 per person, the tour combines comfort, expert commentary, and immersive sightseeing, making it ideal for history enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.

The experience is designed to cover seven thousand years of Greek history, with carefully curated stops and knowledgeable guides leading the way. The tour departs from central Athens, traveling in a luxury, air-conditioned van that ensures a smooth, relaxing journey. With breakfast and dinner included, travelers can focus on exploring without worrying about meals, although lunch and drinks are not included.

While the itinerary is packed with highlights, the tour’s pace and physical requirements are suitable for most travelers able to walk and stand for periods. It is especially well-suited for those looking for an organized, informative trip that covers both archaeological marvels and scenic landscapes.

What’s Included in the Tour Package

The tour package features overnight accommodations, guides, transportation, entrance fees, and WiFi on the bus. These inclusions create a seamless experience, allowing travelers to focus on the sights without logistical concerns. The guides are fluent in English and provide detailed commentary on the history and significance of each location.

The meals included are breakfast and dinner, with the latter served in the evenings after full days of exploration. The entrance fees for sites like Delphi, Vergina Museum, and the Archaeological Park of Dion are covered, ensuring no surprise expenses during sightseeing.

Travelers should note that the tour does not include lunch or drinks, and an overnight stay tax between €1.50 and €10 per night must be paid at check-in. The WiFi availability on the bus helps stay connected and share moments from the trip.

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The meeting point is at Leoforos Vasilisis Amalias 22, with travelers advised to arrive 15 minutes early. The tour begins at a flexible time, so checking current availability is recommended. The five-day schedule provides a structured yet relaxed pace, balancing sightseeing, travel, and leisure.

The tour concludes back at the starting point in Athens late on the final day, after visiting Mount Olympus, the Valley of Tempi, and the Leonidas Monument in Thermopylae. This arrangement makes it easy for travelers to plan their onward journey or return to Athens.

Exploring Delphi: The Oracle and Ancient Ruins

The journey kicks off on Day 1, as the group drives through the fertile plains of Beotia, passing towns such as Thebes, Levadia, and Arachova. Upon reaching Delphi, the highlight is the archaeological site, famously known as the oracle of the ancient world.

Visitors explore the temples, theatre, and treasury buildings, gaining insights into Greece’s spiritual and political life thousands of years ago. The guide shares details about the site’s history and significance, making this stop a highlight for those interested in ancient Greece. After the visit, the group departs for Kalambaka, the town at the foot of Meteora, for dinner and overnight.

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Meteora Monasteries: Byzantine Art Amongst the Rocks

On Day 2, the tour visits the Meteora complex, renowned for monasteries perched atop gigantic rock formations. These Orthodox monasteries offer stunning views and feature remarkable examples of Byzantine art.

The tour provides an opportunity to see exquisite religious frescoes and iconography housed within the monasteries. The setting’s natural beauty and spiritual history make this stop a memorable experience. After exploring Meteora, the group heads to Thessaloniki for the night.

Discovering Thessaloniki’s Byzantine Heritage

The third day focuses on Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city, known for its Byzantine history. The tour covers key sites such as the White Tower, Roman Forum, Ottoman Market, St. Demetrius Church, and the Byzantine Walls.

A short walking tour introduces the ruins of the Palace and the Arch of Galerius, along with a visit to the famous Rotunda—a structure originally built as a temple, later transformed into a church, featuring stunning Early-Christian mosaics. The rest of the day is free for travelers to enjoy the lively city center, cafes, and local shops.

Exploring Macedonia: Vergina and Ancient Burying Grounds

On Day 4, the journey continues into Macedonia, starting with a visit to Edessa to see its notable waterfalls. Next, the trip proceeds to Naoussa, where the site of Aristotle’s School is located—an important place where Aristotle taught ethics and politics to Alexander the Great and other Macedonian youth.

The tour’s highlight is the Vergina Museum, built around the Great Tumulus containing the royal tombs of Macedonia, including King Philip II’s tomb and Alexander the Great’s father. Visitors encounter astonishing artifacts and mosaic floors from 4th-century B.C. villas.

Continuing to Veria, the group visits Saint Paul’s Bema and strolls through the old Jewish neighborhood and market area. The day ends with a return to Thessaloniki for the night.

Pella, Mount Olympus, and the Final Day Highlights

The fifth day begins with a visit to Pella, the ancient capital of Alexander the Great. The site features exquisite floor mosaics from 4th-century B.C. villas and the new Museum showcasing archaeological finds.

Next, the tour visits the Archaeological Park of Dion, a city sacred to the Macedonians, situated at the base of Mount Olympus, home of the 12 Greek gods. This site offers a glimpse into worship practices and ancient Macedonian culture.

On the return journey to Athens, travelers pass through the Thessaly Plain and the Valley of Tempi, with a photo stop at the Leonidas Monument in Thermopylae. The tour concludes late in the afternoon back in Athens, ready for travelers to reflect on a week immersed in Greek history and landscapes.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Greek Heritage Journey

This 5-day tour provides a practical way to see key archaeological and historical sites across central Macedonia. The expert guides enhance each stop with insightful commentary, making complex histories accessible and engaging. The luxury transportation and included meals contribute to a comfortable, hassle-free experience.

While the itinerary covers many highlights, travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule with some walking and standing. The tour offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, scenic views, and historical knowledge, making it well-suited for anyone keen to deepen their understanding of Greece’s past.

This tour offers good value for the price, especially considering the all-inclusive nature, high-quality guides, and carefully selected sites. It’s an excellent choice for those with limited time but a deep interest in Greek history, from ancient oracles to Byzantine monasteries and Macedonian kings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and standing at archaeological sites, and it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and a camera are recommended. Professional cameras are not allowed.

Are meals included?
Breakfast and dinner are included in the package. Lunch and drinks are not included.

What is the cancellation policy?
Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Does the tour operate in languages other than English?
The tour guide speaks English, and the experience is designed for English-speaking travelers.

How long is the total duration of the tour?
The tour lasts 5 days, with departures and arrivals at the central Athens meeting point.

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