12-day Mainland Greece discovery tour

Athens

Day 1: Welcome to Athens

Welcome to the Greek capital! Upon your arrival into Athens, transfer to your accommodation and settle down after your travels.

You'll have the rest of the day free to begin exploring and finding your bearings in this fascinating city: explore iconic sites such as the Parthenon and National Archaeological Museum, or shop for souvenirs and local products at the vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market, before enjoying a welcome dinner. Overnight in Athens.

Athens - Delphi

Day 2: The archaeological sites of Delphi

In the morning, explore the charming streets of the Plaka district in Athens, known for its Neoclassical architecture, vibrant atmosphere and quaint shops. Then, pack your bags to begin your journey to Delphi, approximately two hours and 30 minutes' drive. Take time to visit the grounds of the Archaeological Site of Delphi, home to the famous Oracle of Delphi, before exploring the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Stop to take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains as you go, and come dinnertime, sit down for traditional Greek cuisine at a local taverna. Overnight in Delphi.

Delphi - Meteora

Day 3: The monasteries of Meteora

Depart from Delphi and travel to Meteora, known for its complex of monasteries built atop impressive rock formations. Enjoy a hike across this surreal UNESCO World Heritage Site, exploring the six monasteries perched atop rock pillars as you go. Don't forget to stop to marvel at the breathtaking sunset views from designated viewpoints. Come dinner, settle down in a local restaurant to sample regional delicacies, before your overnight stay in Meteora.

Meteora - Zagori

Day 4: Into the heart of Zagori

Today, pack your packs and embark on a journey from Meteora to Zagori, a stunning and remote region nestled deep in the heart of the Pindus Mountains in Epirus. Take leisurely walks or scenic drives through the lush landscapes of Zagori, stopping along the way to explore some of the 46 traditional villages collectively known as the Zagorohoria. In the evening, pause at a family-run taverna for a warm and weloming dinner - a wonderful way to end a day in the great Greek outdoors. Overnight stay in Zagori.

Zagori

Day 5: A day of outdoor exploration

Today, you'll wake up to a wonderful itinerary of outdoor adventures! Explore the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, which descends as far down as 1,350m and stretches out as wide as 2,500m. Then, experience the staggering beauty of the Voidomatis River as you cross its crystal-clear waters on foot or by kayak. After a day of exertion, you'll love indulging in authentic Greek cuisine for dinner, before an overnight stay in Zagori.

Zagori - Olympia

Day 6: The ancient wonders of Olympia

Today, get ready to embark on a journey from Zagori to Olympia - certainly one of the most iconic stops on your itinerary across the Mainland Greece. Take a guided tour of the archaeological site that hosted the first Olympic Games, soaking up the historic grandeur of this unforgettable destination and learning about how these games became an integral part of ancient Greek society. Visit a local taverna for dinner, savouring delicious Greek flavours before enjoying an overnight stay in Olympia.

Olympia - Pylos

Day 7: Journey to the coast

From Olympia, today you'll make tracks for the coastal town of Pylos. Along the way, stop to explore the Archaeological Site of Ancient Messini, some of the best-preserved ancient ruins of the Peloponnese, dating back to the Bronze Age.

Settle down for a while in Pylos, from where you can take time to visit the charming neighbouring village of Gialova. Take a boat or kayaking trip at Navarino Bay and enjoy relaxing on beautiful sands. Tuck into fresh seafood at a local taverna overlooking the sea, before bedding down for an overnight stay in Pylos.

Pylos

Day 8: At leisure in Pylos

You'll spend today at leisure, steeped in the coastal delights of Pylos and its surroundings - there is much to uncover and enjoy! You could visit the village of Methoni with its breathtaking castle and 14-arch stone bridge, or perhaps enjoy an afternoon at the unique omega-shaped Voidokilia Beach.

Stay close to home with a leisurely stroll through the charming heart of Pylos, enjoying its picturesque harbour, cafes and local shops; if time allows, don't miss an opportunity to tour the Mycenaean Palace of Nestor, right on the outskirts of town. Come dinnertime, indulge in fresh and wholesome cuisine at a traditional taverna - the seafood here is not to be missed. Overnight in Pylos.

Pylos - Monemvasia

Day 9: A scenic trip to Monemvasia

Today, depart from Pylos and travel onward to Monemvasia. On your journey, make a few stops to explore stone-made villages such as Kardamyli, Limeni, and Areopolis in the Mani region. If time allows, you could even take a boat trip through the cave network of Diros, exploring its stunning chambers filled with stalactites.

Continue your journey to Monemvasia, a medieval town filled with cobblestone streets and historic sites. Pay a visit to the Monemvasia Castle, where the panoramic views of the Aegean Sea are especially beautiful during sunset. Settle down for dinner at a local seaside restaurant, before an overnight stay brimming with tranquillity.

Monemvasia

Day 10: Explore sites steeped in history

Take a drive to Mystras today, to explore its UNESCO-listed grounds and uncover a rich Byzantine heritage. Explore age-old ruins and churches, all set in superb surroundings; namely, the Holy Church of Agia Sophia is not to be missed.

After a morning of wonder and history, you'll return to Monemvasia to relax for a while on the beach and enjoy dinner by the waterfront. Overnight in Monemvasia.

Monemvasia - Nafplio

Day 11: At leisure in Nafplio

Today you'll travel from Monemvasia to Nafplio, an utterly scenic coastal city and one of the country's most romantic destinations.

Stroll along its cobblestone alleys and soak up the history of its old town, discovering local cafes, restaurants and artisan shops as you go. For one last chance to unwind, make for Nafplio's pretty beaches lapped by clear waters. Finally, enjoy your favourite Greek dishes on your last evening in Greece, ahead of an overnight stay in Nafplio.

Nafplio - Athens

Day 12: Farewell, Greece!

It's time to say goodbye to Greece! Today, you'll return to Athens International Airpot in time for your departure flight. If time allows, en-route you may be able to visit the Ancient Theatre at the Asclepieion of Epidaurus - a wonderful way to end your trip on a high note.

Have a safe journey home, and make sure to visit again soon!