The Heart of Ancient Greece

The Heart of Ancient Greece

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12 Days From

$3372

$3203

The Heart of Ancient Greece

12 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece

Visiting: Athens, Corinth, Nafplion, Archaeological site of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Monemvasia, Archaeological site of Ancient Sparta, Kalamata, Olympia, Delphi, Kalabaka, Mount Olympus

Tour operator:

Cox & Kings

Recommended For:

50 plus, Couples, Singles

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 18

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:
English
Private Available:

Request A Private Tour

From:
$3372
$3203 (USD) including Flights from the UK The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$169

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Considered the birthplace of western civilisation, Greece's influence still resonates today in the fields of architecture, science, engineering and philosophy. Incorporating the classical sites of Olympia, Delphi, Mycenae and Epidaurus, and the extraordinary rock formations of the Meteora region, this tour also explores Greece's magnificent scenery, ancient ruins, monasteries and the man-made marvels of the Corinth Canal.

Highlights

  • Wine tasting in Nafplion

  • Visit the little-known medieval town of Movemvasia

  • Olive oil museum & tasting in Mystras

  • Join a truffle hunt in Meteora

  • Stay in 4- & 5-star accommodation

  • Small group size - maximum 18

Places You'll See

The Heart Of Ancient Greece

The Heart Of Ancient Greece

The Heart Of Ancient Greece

The Heart Of Ancient Greece

The Heart Of Ancient Greece

The Heart Of Ancient Greece

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Fly To Athens

Location: Athens

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Electra Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: No Meals

Morning flight from London (regional connections available) to Athens with Aegean Air. Transfer to the Electra Hotel (or similar) for 1 night. Welcome drink.

Day 2 : Athens - Corinth - Nafplion

Location: Athens, Corinth, Nafplion

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Amalia (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Morning tour of Athens, including Syntagma Square, Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Zeus and the Panathenaic Stadium. Finish at the Acropolis to view the Parthenon and visit the museum. Leave Athens and visit the Corinth Canal. Continue to Nafplion, with a stop at a local winery for a tasting. Stay at the Hotel Amalia (or similar) for 2 nights.

Day 3 : Nafplion - Mycenae - Epidaurus

Location: Nafplion, Archaeological site of Mycenae, Epidaurus

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Amalia (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive to Mycenae, the seat of King Agamemnon, who led the Greek armies against Troy. Visit the Lion’s Gate, the Cyclopean Walls and the Royal Tombs. After lunch, depart for Nafplion, a picturesque town nestling at the foot of a cliff. Continue to Epidaurus to visit the fourth-century theatre. Return to Nafplion.

Day 4 : Nafplion - Monemvasia

Location: Nafplion, Monemvasia

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Kinsterna Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel to Monemvasia. Visit the olive oil museum en route and learn about the history and culture of the olive and its production in Greece. Continue to Monemvasia a medieval fortresstown. Take a walking tour including the castle, perimeter walls, old mansions and churches, connected by narrow cobbled lanes. Time at leisure before dinner in the castle. Stay at Kinsterna Hotel (or similar) for 1 night.

Day 5 : Sparta - Kalamata

Location: Archaeological site of Ancient Sparta, Kalamata

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Filoxenia Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning travel to Sparta, the land of King Leonidas and the legendary Spartan soldiers. Continue to Mystras and visit the remains of the castle and old town. Stay at the Filoxenia Hotel (or similar) in Kalamata for 1 night.

Day 6 : Kalamata - Olympia

Location: Kalamata, Olympia

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Europa Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Depart for Olympia, visiting an olive oil farm en route. Stay overnight in Olympia at the Europa Hotel (or similar).

Day 7 : Olympia - Delphi

Location: Olympia, Delphi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Amalia Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

Visit the archaeological site of Olympia including the museum, stadium and Sanctuary of Olympian Zeus. Continue to Delphi. Stay 2 nights at the Amalia Hotel (or similar).

Day 8 : Delphi

Location: Delphi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Amalia Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast

A full day to enjoy the archaeological site and museum at Delphi, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Visit the Athenian Treasury, the Temple of Apollo and the museum containing masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture.

Day 9 : Kalambaka

Location: Kalabaka

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Travel to Kalambaka and visit the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum. Take part in a demonstration of truffle hunting with dogs, followed by a snack of mushroom and truffle pasta. Stay at the Divani Meteora Hotel (or similar) for 2 nights.

Day 10 : Kalambaka

Location: Kalabaka

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Divani Meteora Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Full-day visit to the remarkable Meteora monasteries, built high on rocky outcrops.

Day 11 : Mount Olympus - Athens

Location: Mount Olympus, Athens

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Electra Hotel (or similar)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Depart from Kalambaka and transfer to the Archaeological Park of Dion, a sacred city of the Macedonians at the foot of Mount Olympus. The long route back to Athens passes through the striking Plain of Thessaly, with its bucolic panoramas, and the Vale of Tempe. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Athens’ ancient Plaka district. Stay at the Electra Hotel (or similar) for 1 night.

Day 12 : Fly To London

Location: Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Transfer to Athens airport and fly to London.

What's Included

  • Small group size - average 12 people (max 18)

  • 4- & 5-star accommodation

  • Direct international flights with Aegean Air or easyJet

  • Flexible ¡V extensions, room & flight upgrades available

  • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles

  • Experienced local tour manager

  • 11 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 6 dinners

  • Guided sightseeing & entrance fees

  • Welcome drink

What's Not Included

  • Country Entry Visas

  • Tipping and Gratuities

Check out our Q&As

  • Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?

    Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms.



  • Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?

    We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.

  • What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?

    Superior: Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere.

  • Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?

    Yes. We only work with passionate local guides who have a firm grasp of English – so they can answer all your questions and offer invaluable insight into your destination.

  • Are flights included in this tour?

    All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do so, the cost will be deducted from the tour price.

  • What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?

    If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.

  • Are all entrance fees included in the price?

    Yes. Quoted prices include all entrance fees.

  • What is the maximum group size?

    All Cox & Kings group tours have a maximum group size of 18 and average just 14 guests. Travelling in such a small group allows you to make stronger and deeper connections with fellow travellers.

  • What is the difference between a 'single' supplement and 'sole' supplement?

    A 'single' traveller is someone occupying a single room while travelling with one or more other people, for example a single person travelling on a group tour. A 'sole' traveller is someone travelling on their own. As a single traveller on a group tour (except those in the SoloTravellers collection), please check the single supplement price. If you wish to add an extension to that tour, please th

  • When will I get my tickets?

    Travel documents will be sent approximately two weeks prior to departure (third party suppliers' policies may vary), unless your booking is made within six weeks of departure, in which case final documents will be sent as soon as possible.

  • When do I need to pay my final balance?

    Final payment must be made no less than 75 days before departure.

  • Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?

    Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms. The Solo Travellers collection of small group tours is specially created to include accommodation based on single occu

  • Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?

    We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.

  • Do your prices include flights?

    All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. Australasia and Canada holidays do not include international flights so that you may benefit from the best prices at the time you choose to book, taking advantage of major seasonal variations and short term special offers. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do

  • What is a non-exclusive escorted group tour?

    The vast majority of our group tours are exclusive to Cox & Kings clients. However, there are a few exceptions where holidaymakers who booked their tour with another travel company travel in the group.

  • When will I get a detailed itinerary?

    If you are travelling on a group tour, you will receive a detailed itinerary with your travel pack. If travelling on a private basis, you will receive your detailed itinerary with your confirmation invoice.

  • What are the four tour categories

    ***LUXURY These are our most comfortable tours and will usually feature 5-star deluxe accommodation throughout*** ***SUPERIOR Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***STANDARD Simpler in emphasis, these itineraries typically feature 4-star or good 3-star accommodation throughout, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***DISCOVERY Best suited to the hardier traveller, these tours typically include some quite basic accommodation, possibly longer and rougher road journeys and, in some cases, more strenuous activities, such as trekking***

  • Do I need inoculations?

    Many of our destinations have recommended health precautions, which you can read about in our regional documents and health pages. However, we recommend that you contact your doctor who will be able to give you professional advice, arrange any vaccinations and give advice on malaria protection. Alternatively, visit the NHS website for more information.

  • What happens if a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers? Will it be cancelled?

    If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.

Reviews from Travellers on this Tour

Steven  

Well looked after before and during

We were well looked after before and during our va

We were well looked after before and during our vacation. Top class accommodation and guides.

Suzie  

Delighted Customers!

My partner and myself have been regular travellers

My partner and myself have been regular travellers for over 20 years and up to now been loyal to a rival company. After an incident with them, we decided to change loyalty and try C&K. Was absolutely a good move. For the past couple years I have spoken to Sabastian Gittany, what a delight to be able to speak to the same consultant! I was immediately impressed with the service, he was extremely helpful, polite and nothing is too much trouble. Sabastian has an immense knowledge through his own travel experiences, which in turn helped us to ensure we booked the right holiday for us. As a result of the excellent service we received from Sabastian we have booked 4 holidays for 2022, the first being Egypt Nile Cruise, which he tailored and with lots discussions finally created an itinerary for us, so we are delighted.

Yvonne  

Great itinerary and great service

Great itinerary and great service from Cox & Kings

Great itinerary and great service from Cox & Kings. I will definitely use them in the future.

Jessica  

Knowledgeable Staff and Excellent Service

Knowledgeable staff and excellent service that 'go

Knowledgeable staff and excellent service that 'goes the extra mile'. I have been on several holidays through Cox and Kings over the last 20 years and have always been more than satisfied.

Haig  

Exceptional Service

I have frequently used Cox and Kings and they neve

I have frequently used Cox and Kings and they never disappoint. They organise whatever I want and the great thing about their group tours is that they always include some free time. Other companies tend to pack far too much in to their schedules. I have found everyone I have ever dealt with keen to provide the best possible service.

Paul  

A Relaxed Way to Book a Holiday

Sue and I have travelled with Cox & Kings a number

Sue and I have travelled with Cox & Kings a number of times and have always booked direct with them. For this latest trip, I again contacted them direct and spoke to their travel advisor for the chosen area for a tailor-made holiday. I found him empathetic, knowledgeable and understanding of my requirements. An initial itinerary was prepared which after due consideration and discussion was cheerfully amended and agreed on. There was no pressure put on me and I found it, as usual, a good experience. Holiday now booked and I am looking forward to the trip.

Read all 6 reviews

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Dates & Availability

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Friday - Tuesday

May 03, 2024 - May 14, 2024
$3622 $3441 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$181 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Sold Out

Friday - Tuesday

Sep 06, 2024 - Sep 17, 2024
$3872 $3678 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$194 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Sep 20, 2024 - Oct 01, 2024
$3747 $3381 (USD)

Operator discount: -$188 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$178 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Oct 04, 2024 - Oct 15, 2024
$3497 $3322 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$175 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Oct 18, 2024 - Oct 29, 2024
$3372 $3203 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$169 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

May 02, 2025 - May 13, 2025
$3747 $3560 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$187 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

May 23, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
$3747 $3560 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$187 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025
$3747 $3560 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$187 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Jun 27, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
$3747 $3560 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$187 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
$3747 $3560 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$187 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Sep 19, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025
$3622 $3441 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$181 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
$3622 $3441 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$181 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Friday - Tuesday

Oct 17, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
$3622 $3441 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$181 (USD)

Including UK Flights

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Cox & Kings requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cox & kings charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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