JOURNEYS: DISCOVER MAINLAND GREECE (9 Days – Athens to Athens)

ourneys: Discover Mainland Greece is an immersive 9-day small-group tour exploring the heart of mainland Greece’s history, landscapes, and flavours. Starting and ending in Athens, this National Geographic-style journey includes expert-led discovery of the Acropolis, ancient sanctuaries, dramatic rock-top monasteries of Meteora, classical sites such as Delphi and Olympia, and charming towns like Nafplio. Along the way you’ll enjoy unique experiences including a truffle-hunting adventure, local wine tasting with mezze, and insightful cultural moments blending archaeology, cuisine, and nature.

Tour Program

Day 1 – Athens
Arrive at any time and make your way to the joining hotel in Athens.

Day 2 – Athens
Explore Athens with an expert archaeologist guide: the iconic Acropolis and the Parthenon, then walk through the ancient Agora. Visit a community café supported by G Adventures for drinks and insights into local life.

Day 3 – Athens → Kalampáka (Meteora)
Depart Athens and travel to Kalampáka. En route, stop at Thermopylae to see the Leonidas statue and then enjoy a truffle-hunting experience led by a local expert.

Day 4 – Kalampáka → Delphi
Visit the panoramic Meteora monasteries perched atop sandstone pillars, then continue to Delphi, once considered the center of the ancient world for its Oracle of Apollo.

Day 5 – Delphi → Olympia
Guided tour of Delphi and its archaeological museum, then travel along the Gulf of Corinth to Olympia, home of the original Olympic Games.

Day 6 – Olympia → Nafplio
Visit the archaeological site of Olympia including the temples of Zeus and Hera. Continue to Nafplio, a beautiful seaside town, for a locally guided walk through its old town and harbour area.

Day 7 – Nafplio
Free morning followed by a guided visit to the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae enclosed within its ancient walls. Enjoy a wine tasting with cheese and mezze at a regional winery.

Day 8 – Nafplio → Athens
Stop at Epidaurus, famous for its ancient theatre and healing sanctuary, then cross the Corinth Canal back to Athens. Optional farewell dinner in the evening.

Day 9 – Athens (Departure)
Depart Athens after breakfast; the tour ends.

Included

Guided Ancient Athens tour with an archaeologist
Truffle-hunting experience with wine and pasta dinner near Kalampáka
Guided visits to Meteora, Delphi, Olympia, and Mycenae
Epidaurus visit and entry where specified
Wine tasting with cheese and mezze plates in Nafplio
G for Good Moment: Tour of Shedia Home and lunch in Athens
Thermopylae visit at the Leonidas statue
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
8 nights hotel accommodation (standard)
Meals included: 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 3 dinners

Excluded

International flights to/from Greece
Airport transfers
Optional activities not listed under included
Personal expenses, travel insurance, visas, and gratuities

Important Notes

Small group adventure with a maximum of approximately 16 travellers (average of 12).
Some walking and light hiking may be involved at archaeological sites and mountain monasteries.
Accommodation is in comfortable hotels selected for location and experience.
Transport includes private vehicles, taxis, and walking segments as required.
The itinerary blends guided experiences with free time for independent exploration.