Greece: Mainland and the Peloponnese

Admire the ancient city of Athens in Greece, where millennia-old history and contemporary culture connect. Although the hilltop Acropolis complex is Athens’ showstopper attraction, there are significant archaeological sites and architectural wonders scattered across town with museums to match. Athens’ hip neighborhoods offer modern dining experiences paired with Greek wine, eclectic entertainment, vibrant street art, and a plethora of artisanal boutiques. The bustling Agora central market offers glimpses into local life, and the Monastiraki flea market is full of surprises. The atmospheric Plaka charms with pretty lanes and the historical Syntagma Square is good for people-watching. Between marble stoas and avant-garde cultural centers, picnics at botanical gardens, and sunsets from rooftop bars, there is plenty to uncover. Lycabettus Hill offers 360-degree vistas of the cityscape, while Attica’s wilderness is ideal for hiking and nature experiences. Day trips from Athens bring you to a string of scenic beaches, and the busy Pireas port is your gateway to the Greek islands!

Nafplio is a romantic city that enjoys a waterfront location overlooking the Argolic Gulf in the eastern Peloponnese of Greece. It serves as a convenient base to explore the numerous archeological sites, historic buildings, and industrial-style recreational spaces in the region. Owing to its strategic position, Nafplio was the first capital of modern Greece, with three imposing castles and fortresses across town speak to its medieval history. Out of these, the Palamidi Fortress offers panoramic vistas of Nafplio, the oldest of the castles, Akronaflia, boasts Bronze Age gates and once held the entire city within its walls, while Bourtzi on an islet is illuminated every night. In the atmospheric Old Town, Venetian architecture, neoclassical buildings, and Ottoman fountains charm visitors navigating the narrow cobblestone streets. The unique Kombloi Museum offers an insight into Greece’s favorite pastime of using amber worry beads! Visit the small sandy beaches and fishermen tavernas dotted along the coast to soak in the summer vibe. Also visit the marble-paved Syntagma Square that houses an impressive museum, and enjoy a sunset stroll along the Arvanitia Promenade like locals do.

Monemvasia was once a prosperous trading center of medieval Greece. Today the town showcases its Byzantine, Ottoman and Venetian histories, which happily co-exist with its modern avatar. Monemvasia is located on a small island off the Peloponnesian coast. It is linked to the mainland by a historic causeway, which is still the only way to get to the island. Monemvasia’s old fortified gateway leads to a charming warren of cobblestoned streets that wind their way up and down town. The narrow alleyways are lined with lovely little boutiques, shops and cafés, with the occasional church spire towering over the old world landscape. Another fortified gate leads to the upper town, which is a sprawling Byzantine era fort or kastro, with crumbling stone walls overlooking the Aegean Sea. The 13th century Church of St. Sophia, perched atop a sheer cliff, is definitely worth a visit.

Medieval castles and a fairytale setting make Monemvasia the perfect destination to explore on your own. Located off southeastern Peloponnese coast, this atmospheric island is entirely carved from sea rock for a natural camouflage. Note the elegance of the stone mansions and Byzantine architecture as you stroll through the complex of fortifications, churches and mansions that make up the Castle of Monemvasia. Look out for the graceful contours of the Church of Christ Elkomenos and learn more about the history of Monemvasia at the Archaeological Museum, housed in a former mosque. Make your way to the top of the Castle for stunning vistas of the sea and later visit the Church of Agia Sofia, built in the Byzantine style as early as the 12th century. On your way down the cobblestoned paths of the Old Town, pause at boutique stores and cafes as you bask in the atmosphere of medieval romance. Late afternoons are perfect to lounge on Monemvasia’s fine sand beaches or take in a leisurely swim after which it is time to unwind with some local Malvazia wine at a traditional taverna. (Duration: Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Entrance Fees & Meals are not included; Fitness Level: Easy)

Dimitsana is a medieval mountain village, built across two hills in Arcadia. On a walk along the cobbled paths, you will come across a historical library, churches and the open-air Water Power Museum. Other local attractions include an open amphitheater and the square with a statue of Patriarch Gregory V. Find charming dark-grey stone houses and restored mansions with red-tiled roofs – typical examples of Gortynia’s architecture. Enjoy peaceful evenings with a long stroll the main road, lined with cafes and shops selling traditional products. The southern side of the village offers magnificent views of the Megalopolis plain and Taygetus. Summers are ideal for hikes, and winters offer plenty of skiing opportunities. The Lousios river also offers a range of activities, including rafting.

Nestled amid spectacular central Peloponnese Mountains, the medieval city of Dimitsana is a delight to discover on your own. Start at the historic village center, marked by narrow cobblestone alleys and quaint public squares. Browse through the galleries of the Town Library and the Ecclesiastical Museum, which narrate heroic tales of the city’s role in the early 19th century Greek Independence movement. Make your way to the Open Air Water Power museum, where carefully restored, spring-fed water mills showcase the natural hydraulic engineering of pre-industrial societies. Here, shaded groves bordered by a mountain spring make for the perfect setting to enjoy a leisurely afternoon stroll. On your way back, take in the incredible sight of ancient monasteries perched on near-vertical mountainsides. Back in the city, settle down at a traditional taverna to treat yourself to a well-deserved cup of coffee or local Malvazia wine as you savor the beauty of the Arkadian landscape. (Duration: Full Day; Self-explore Activity; No Guide; No Transfers; Entrance Fees & Meals are not included; Fitness Level: Easy)

Galaxidi has often been described as an island in the mainland, because the best way to reach it is by boat. The pretty little resort town is tucked into the Gulf of Corinth, marked by a seafront hillock, cobblestone lanes and beautiful harbors. A must-visit destination in town is the Nautical and Historical Museum, which celebrates Galaxidi’s legacy as a major shipping center. The town’s maritime history is preserved in its many neoclassical houses too, especially in the ‘captains’ houses’ (kapetanospita). The town also boasts of two ports. The older is nicknamed Hirolakas or ‘Widows’ Port,’ after grieving wives who would wait in vain for their seamen husbands to come home. The second port features a lovely promenade lined with popular seafood restaurants, bars and cafés. Secluded little coves along the sea are perfect for swimmers, often near terrace bars overlooking the sea. For many travelers, Galaxidi also serves as the gateway to Delphi, Amfissa and the northern coast of the Gulf of Corinth.

Take a tour of the Delphi temple and museum and explore its fascinating heritage. A charming walk through the town takes you to the archeological site of Delphi, where you are welcomed by your private guide. Take in breathtaking views of Mount Parnassus as you begin your walk to the Temple of Apollo. Arrive at the site of the Oracle, where the high priestess Pythia would reveal the secrets of the Gods and the destinies of men, determining the course of events in the ancient world. Continue your walk through heritage sites that take you to the world famous Delphi museum. Housing priceless artifacts from the archeological site of Delphi and its surroundings, this museum is a living monument to the grandeur of the Classical Age. Learn more about the significance of the exhibits, among which the life-size bronze statue of the 'charioteer' is the most well-known. End your tour with a deeper understanding of the central role that Delphi and its temple played in the history of ancient Greece and the western world. (Private Activity; Duration: 2-3 hrs; Time: 0900 hrs; Tour includes private guide & entrance tickets; Fitness level: easy; Guests are requested to bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat & water)

Meteora is a spectacular complex of hilltop Eastern Orthodox monasteries located in Central Greece. Perched on lofty sandstone pinnacles rising above the Thessalian plain, these centuries-old buildings with hidden hermetic caves and manicured garden terraces, are wonders of architecture and engineering. Home to Byzantine artifacts, prized manuscripts, well-preserved frescoes, and old pulley systems, the six sanctuaries afford panoramic vistas of the lush Peneas valley and the Pindos Mountains beyond. In addition to being a pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians, Meteora attracts outdoorsy travelers who want to soak in the serenity of the natural surroundings. Enjoy hiking excursions on steep ancient footpaths, rock climbing on the unique geological formations, and camping adventures in scenic landscapes around. Keep an eye out for the endangered Egyptian vultures that are a symbol of Meteora! The atmospheric Kastraki village below is popular for traditional Greek cuisine, while the neighboring Kalambaka town is highlighted by the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum.

Admire the ancient city of Athens in Greece, where millennia-old history and contemporary culture connect. Although the hilltop Acropolis complex is Athens’ showstopper attraction, there are significant archaeological sites and architectural wonders scattered across town with museums to match. Athens’ hip neighborhoods offer modern dining experiences paired with Greek wine, eclectic entertainment, vibrant street art, and a plethora of artisanal boutiques. The bustling Agora central market offers glimpses into local life, and the Monastiraki flea market is full of surprises. The atmospheric Plaka charms with pretty lanes and the historical Syntagma Square is good for people-watching. Between marble stoas and avant-garde cultural centers, picnics at botanical gardens, and sunsets from rooftop bars, there is plenty to uncover. Lycabettus Hill offers 360-degree vistas of the cityscape, while Attica’s wilderness is ideal for hiking and nature experiences. Day trips from Athens bring you to a string of scenic beaches, and the busy Pireas port is your gateway to the Greek islands!