Classical Greece

Day 1  Athens    
Arrive into the fascinating city of Athens and pick up your car at the airport. After settling into your hotel, why not head out to the National Archaeological Museum? Containing the richest collection of Greek artifacts, it is often considered one of the most important museums in the world and well worth a visit for lovers of history. Afterwards, perhaps head up via funicular to the highest point in Athens at the nearby Lycabettus Hill for breathtaking panoramas.

Day 2  Athens    
This morning, opt to visit the magnificent Acropolis, avoiding the midday heat and crowds. Begin with the Acropolis Musuem, where you can discover the findings of this ancient site and admire the original statues and artifacts. Continue to the Acropolis itself where you will see the Parthenon, a masterpiece of ancient Greek architecture and temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. You will also be able to admire the Erechtheion, the temple of Athena Nike and the Propylaea gateway. Later, enjoy a gentle wander through the central Plaka neighbourhood, perhaps picking up souvenirs and savouring delicious food at a traditional taverna. From Plaka, you are ideally positioned to make your way up Philopappos Hill for beautiful sunset views.

Day 3  Athens to Delphi    
Today, drive north to the heart of ancient Greece: Delphi, where the incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site perches dramatically on Mount Parnassus. After settling into your nearby hotel in Delphi town, make your way to the archaeological site, believed to be the centre of the world by the ancient Greeks. The most impressive monuments to see include the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theatre of Delphi and the Delphi Stadium. The Delphi Archaeological Museum is also worth a visit to see the artifacts that offer insight into the daily lives of those who lived here. After an active day, unwind in the town of Delphi with a delicious evening meal and drinks. Make sure to choose somewhere with views over the Gulf of Corinth for some truly mesmerising vistas.

Day 4  Delphi to Olympia    
This morning, leave Delphi behind and drive through the Peloponnese region to Olympia, famed for hosting the very first Olympic games in 776BC. This afternoon, why not relax and enjoy your local surroundings with a visit to a nearby winery? Alternatively, explore the modern town, visit the many museums, shop for souvenirs, and dine in traditional tavernas.

Day 5  Olympia    
This morning, beat the crowds and opt for an early morning visit to the archaeological site of Olympia. Wander through the ruins of the ancient stadium, the temples of Zeus and Hera, the Palaestra and the Gymnasium. Afterwards, make sure to visit the Archaeological Museum, housing many significant artifacts inside. Later, relax with another afternoon in the town, or alternatively, why not head out of the centre to one of the beautiful nearby beaches?

Day 6  Olympia to Costa Navarino    
Drive south to stunning Costa Navarino, where turquoise waters meet coastal dunes and winding hills. Spend the next couple days at your hotel in total relaxation, enjoying dips in the pool or sea, unwinding at a spa or partaking in watersports.

Day 7  Costa Navarino    
Continue to enjoy the unspoilt bliss of Costa Navarino. For those keen to see more of Greece’s ancient wonders, there are various sites close by to explore in your car. Discover the nearby Palace of Nestor, a major Mycenaean complex from the 13th Century BC, the picturesque setting of Methoni Castle or the Peristeria Archaeological Park, home to the impressive Mycenaean tombs. Alternatively, lap up the coastal scenery and embrace the well-earned down time.

Day 8  Costa Navarino to Nafplio    
Drive to Nafplio, a scenic coastal city famed for its fortresses, charming old town and for being Greece’s first capital following independence from the Ottoman Empire. Spend this afternoon wandering the winding streets of the Venetian old town and visiting the archaeological museum located within the town. If you have time, it is well worth hopping on a short boat ride to the historic Bourtzi Fortress. This evening, enjoy dining along the atmospheric waterfront overlooking the harbour.

Day 9  Nafplio    
Today, opt to climb the 999 steps (or drive) to the impressive Palamidi Fortress where you will be met with breathtaking panoramic views over Nafplio and the bay. After exploring this historical site, why not drive to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus? Located within the Sanctuary of Asklepios, it is considered one of the most perfect ancient Greek theatres for its acoustics and appearance. Alternatively, opt for more time on the beach with many stunning beaches just on your doorstep for a perfect end to the holiday.

Day 10  Nafplio    
Drive back to Athens and drop off your car at the airport in time for your onward travels.