The Best of Greece
10 Day Extensive Tour
Visit Greece.  She has earned great respect borne of centuries of sacrifice.  Sense the surge of this great countries' past. Through its halls have marched poets, architects, philosophers, conquerors and explorers. They built great city states which grew, through the myriad twists of fate, into a mighty empire.

Day 1   We arrange the flight to Athens, Greece. Thus begins a superb adventure.

Day 2   A warm welcome to Athens. Transfer to hotel and step out for a casual stroll this evening.

Day 3   Step back into history with our guided tour of the marvels of ancient Athens. Athens, in the region of Attica, is characterized by pinewoods and the thyme-covered slopes of mount Parnes, Hymettus and Pentelico. The flat topped Acropolis dominates the city and is crowned by the Parthenon. Adjacent are Hadrian’s Arch, Theater of Dionysius, Roman Forum and the Tower of the Winds (water clock). On the far side is the Odeon of Herod Atticus which is a superb theater which features open-air plays to this day. We’ll also see the Royal Palace, the Temple of Zeus and the National Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Later stroll Syntagma Square and the National Garden. Enjoy time for bargain shopping and strolling in the Plaka that surrounds the Acropolis.

Day 4  Athens-Cruise. Transfer to Faliron Pier to board our cruise ship. This morning, we sail to Aegina where we can optionally enjoy a visit to the Temple of Aphaia. Once an ancient commercial port, Aegina today, is more famous for pistachio nuts. Our next port of call is the enchanting little harbor on the Isle of Poros. Luncheon is served aboard ship and we are off to Hydra. This island is an artist's and photographer's delight. Evening will find us sailing back into port. Spend a warm evening wandering the meandering streets of the Plaka.

Day 5 Nauplio. Our classic land tour leads us north past typical Attic villages set in thick pinewoods. Pass sheltered bays to the wondrous Corinth Channel and the archeological sight of Mycenae, which sits in a boulder-strewn ravine. The Citadel here dates to 1200 BC. Homer wrote that this city was "rich in gold and well built". Walk under the famed Lions Gate and into the Royal Grave Circle. We are next treated to a visit to the theater of Epidaurus, famed for its acoustics. Travel to Nauplio, a lovely Greek town. Throw a coin in a Turkish fountain.

Day 6  Olympia. Board our motor coach for the drive to Olympia via Tripolis and Megalopolis. Visit the sight where the Olympic games were first played (776 BC) and where the Olypmic torch is lit. It is hard to believe that in ancient times only men were allowed to participate. We’ll learn of the interesting uniforms worn by athletes of the day. Also visit the sanctuary of Zeus, the stadium and the Museum of the Olympic Games.

Day 7  Drive through the port of Patras to Rion. Cross the Corinth Channel to Antirion later arriving at Delphi. Walk the Sacred Way, visit Castalia Spring and see where the Oracles once held court. Cultism thrived here in the ancient world. See the Sanctuary of Athena and the Museum here.

Day 8  After breakfast our tour continues North through the towns of Amphissa, Lamia and Trikala to Kalambaka for a visit to the stunning Meteora Monasteries. The buildings atop the rock spires are beyond belief with their panoramic views of the Plain of Thessaly. You will not forget these. Overnight in the Kalambaka area.

Day 9  Athens. Noon departure to Athens via Thermopylae and Kamena Vourla. In Thermopylae, learn of the great Spartan victory over Xerxes and his overwhelming Persian force. Arrive in Athens for dinner.

Day 10  Flight from Athens Home. Can't wait to get those photographs developed.

Please call for a customized program and prices.