Classical 5-Day Tour To Magical Greece With Zakynthos Island
Discover the Hidden Treasures of Greece: Olympia, Zakynthos Island, Delphi, and Meteora
Are you looking for a unique and captivating travel experience that will leave you in awe of ancient history and natural beauty? Look no further than the stunning destinations of Olympia, Zakynthos Island, Delphi, and Meteora in Greece. These hidden gems offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes that will make your trip unforgettable.
Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
Destinations: Corinth, Epidaurus, Nafplion, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphi, Meteora, Athens, Corinth
Region: Peloponnese, Central Greece, Thessaly, Attica
Accommodation: Olympia, Zakynthos, Delphi, Meteora
Tour Language: English
Age Range: 1 to 99 year old
Available: All Year Round
Departures: Daily
Itinerary of the Classical Greece Tour
- Day 1: Athens or Port of Piraeus – Corinth Canal – Epidaurus – Nafplion – Mycenae – Olympia
- Day 2: Olympia – Kyllini Port – Zakynthos island
- Day 3: Zakynthos island
- Day 4: Zakynthos island – Delphi – Meteora
- Day 5: Meteora – Thermopylae – Athens
- The five days tour includes the major archaeological sites of Central Greece and the Peloponnese Peninsula
- You will be driving along the picturesque and beautiful countryside in Greece
- You will visit Zakynthos island with its blue skies, beach tavernas, turquoise sea, the buzz of cicadas, and the scent of pine and herbs
- Visit the Beach of Shipwreck (Navagio) and the famous blue caves in Zakynthos
- You will get to visit the important sites of Epidaurus, Mycenae, Nafplion and Delphi, Meteora as well as Olympia, the original birthplace of the Olympic Games
- You will see the largest bridge in Europe, in a 20 minutes cruise from Rio to Antirio
- The private tour will pick you up from your hotel in Athens or cruise ship in the Port of Piraeus
- Your driver will be an experienced, English-speaking tour driver who will drive you safely during your private 5-day tour
Embark on a journey through the antiquities of Classical Greece and uncover the wonders of Zakynthos island. Dive into the history of this ancient civilization and soak in the breathtaking landscapes of Zakynthos, known for its cliff diving and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Immerse yourself in the beauty and history of this enchanting destination for a truly unforgettable experience. If you wish to see the best of Greece, you should not miss the chance for our Classical Greece Tour, which is a 5 days private tour in Greece including the majestic island of Zakynthos.
Olympia: The Birthplace of the Olympic Games
Nestled in the serene Peloponnese region of Greece, Olympia is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Walk in the footsteps of ancient athletes in the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and the ancient stadium where the first Olympic Games were held. Immerse yourself in the rich history and mythology of this sacred site, and don’t forget to visit the fascinating Archaeological Museum to see artifacts from the ancient games.
Zakynthos Island: Paradise on Earth
Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs, Zakynthos Island is a paradise for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. Explore the iconic Shipwreck Beach, swim in the mesmerizing Blue Caves, and spot loggerhead sea turtles at Laganas Bay. Don’t miss the chance to visit the picturesque mountain villages and taste the delicious local cuisine while enjoying the laid-back island vibes.
Delphi: The Navel of the World
Perched on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, Delphi is a mystical archaeological site that was once considered the center of the world in ancient Greek mythology. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, the ancient theater, and the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia while soaking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Delphi is also home to the renowned Delphi Archaeological Museum, where you can see artifacts dating back to the 8th century
Meteora: Spiritual Significance
In addition to its natural beauty, Meteora holds great spiritual significance for many. The monasteries served as centers of religious worship and contemplation for centuries, drawing pilgrims and seekers from far and wide. Today, visitors can still experience the peaceful and meditative atmosphere of these ancient sites, gaining insight into the spiritual practices of the monks who once called Meteora home.
Unveiling the Mystical Beauty of Peloponnese: A Hidden Gem in Greece
Our adventure begins bright and early, whether you choose to depart from Athens or the Port of Piraeus. As you embark on your scenic drive along the coast, get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking views of the Aegean and Ionian Seas merging. The beauty of these two seas coming together creates a captivating sight that will leave you in awe.
Enriched Historical Insights: Our knowledgeable driver will provide us with valuable information about Corinth and the Corinth Canal. This will enhance our understanding and appreciation of the historical significance of this iconic waterway. The Corinth Canal, completed in 1893, is a 6.4-kilometer-long and 21.4-meter-wide canal that connects the Gulf of Corinth with the Saronic Gulf.
Epidaurus and its Ancient Theater
Continuing on our private tour, we will reach Epidaurus and its legendary ancient theater, famed for its impeccable acoustics and remarkable preservation.
The theater of Epidaurus, constructed in the 4th century BC, is set in a picturesque location surrounded by lush greenery. This historical site serves as a cultural hub during the summer, hosting theatrical plays and music concerts.
Don’t miss your chance to experience these wonders firsthand with us.
Nafplion, the first Capital City of Modern Greece
As you embark on the private tour, you will soon find yourself deep in the charming town of Nafplion, once the esteemed capital of Greece. Here, you will indulge in a delightful lunch and have the opportunity to meander through the town’s quaint cobblestone lanes, leading you to charming small shops and a magnificent seaside promenade. From here, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the majestic fortress of Mpourtzi, as well as the surrounding towns of Argolis.
Nafplion served as the capital of the First Hellenic Republic and the Kingdom of Greece from 1821 to 1834. And that’s not all; your tour will also take you to the top of the town’s crowning jewel, the fortress of Acronafplia, where you can capture stunning photos of Nafplion, the Palamidi fortress, the fortress of Mpourtzi, and the entire splendor of the Argolic Gulf.
Mycenae, Olympia
After visiting the charming city of Nafplion, your journey will continue to the ancient city of Mycenae.
Exploring the ancient site of Mycenae offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of King Agamemnon and his family. The Royal Tombs and Cyclopean Walls provide a unique insight into the grandeur of this ancient civilization. The Lion’s Gate stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the time. Visiting the Museum of Mycenae allows for a deeper understanding of the artifacts and treasures unearthed from this archaeological site, bringing the past to life for visitors.
As the afternoon approaches, you will make your way to Olympia, where you can enjoy a relaxed evening and spend the night at your leisure.
Overnight in Olympia.
Olympia: Uncover Olympia’s Past
Explore Ancient Olympia
On the second day, prepare to be awestruck by the archaeological site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Visiting the remnants of the original north wall of the stadium where ancient athletes once raced allows you to step back in time and connect with the rich history of the Olympic Games. Exploring the Archaeological Museum and the Olympic Games Museum further enhances this experience, offering a deeper understanding of the cultural significance and legacy of this historic sporting event.
Here you will experience the first Olympic game…
… the 200 meters run where the marble starting blocks are still in position. So get ready and run! Although secluded near the west coast of the Peloponnese, Olympia became the most important religious and athletic center in Greece. After our visit to Olympia, we’ll go ahead to Kyllini Port in order to embark on the ferry that departs approx 03.15 PM to reach Zakynthos island. We’ll arrive at the port of Zakynthos approx 04.15 PM (almost after 1 hour). Drive and check-in at your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Explore the center of Zakynthos and enjoy dinner at a traditional tavern. Overnight in Zakynthos.
Day 3: Dreamy Zakynthos Awaits
Zakynthos: Island Gem
In the morning drive to Zakynthos Marina in order to embark on the local traditional cruise ship (boat) as it’s one of the best ways to explore the island. The cruise departs at 09:00 AM and returns approx 05:00 PM. Enjoy the crystal clear waters of the Ionian ocean with the exceptional blue sky till we have the first stop at the Blue Caves. These caves have a magical turquoise shade that changes into the emerald green where the rays of the sun hit the water and it changes color. The next stop of our cruise is famous around the world Shipwreck (Navagio). When entering the cove the beauty it beholds is breathtaking with deep clear blue waters. Here we’ll spend 1 1/2 hours in order to enjoy a refreshing swim. Our program continues with a 10 min photo stop at Porto Vromi, then our boat pulls up next to the Agalas Caves and the Keri Caves for a reasonable amount of time to admire the beauty of nature. Our next stop will be at Turtle Island. Here you will have the chance to take beautiful photos as you will have enough time to experience the whole gulf of Laganas and Kalamaki that are full of turtles swimming in the seawater. The Turtles are huge but so friendly that you can swim along with them safely. Our next major swim stop is in the area of St Nickolas, Basilikos where the boat anchors for approx an hour. Swimming is only possible by diving off. In the afternoon at about 05.00 PM, we’ll return to the Marina. Drive back to your hotel. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Zakynthos.
Zakynthos: Zakynthos Adventure Awaits
Explore Zakynthos Island!
Breakfast and drive to the port, embark on the ferry that departs at 08.00 AM in order to reach Kyllini port after 1 hour approx at 09.00 AM. We’ll drive towards Patras in order to cross Rion – Antirion, in a short 20-minute cruise to admire the largest bridge in Europe and the longest cable-supported bridge in the world with a continuous deck of 2,250 meters, that connects the Peloponnese Peninsula with Central Greece, and have a short break while cruising. From there we’ll drive along the coastal road in order to reach Delphi and to admire the picturesque seaside of the way!
On our way, we’ll stop at Galaxidi, a beautiful seaside small town on the water, where you can have lunch and enjoy the scenery. After lunch, drive and visit ancient Delphi (which was believed to bethe center of the known world).
Visit the archaeological site of Delphi…
At the archaeological site of Delphi, visitors can explore the famous sanctuary of God Apollo. This is where the god gave his oracles, influencing the events and lives of those seeking advice.
The Museum of Delphi is a treasure trove of ancient Greek art, showcasing remarkable statues like the Naxian Sphynx and the bronze Charioteer. These masterpieces offer a captivating glimpse into the artistic prowess of the ancient world. A visit to this museum promises a rich cultural experience, immersing visitors in the beauty and history of Greece’s artistic heritage. You will also visit the Temple of Apollo and the temple of Athens Pronea in Gymnasium, which is one of the highlights of Delphi.
The tour then will drive you towards Kalambaka through Central Greece, which is a small town resting at the feet of the Suspended Rocks of Meteora and the Monasteries of Meteora.
You will be reaching Kalambaka late in the afternoon, so you can enjoy your dinner and evening (free).
Overnight at Kalambaka or Kastraki village.
Meteora: Explore Meteora’s Majesty
Majestic Monasteries: The monasteries of Meteora are perched on towering rocks, creating a breathtaking sight. Their unique location adds to their allure, making it a must-see destination.
Enchanting Blend of History and Scenery: The beauty of this destination lies in its fascinating history and breathtaking views. The rich historical background adds depth to the stunning landscapes, creating a truly mesmerizing experience for visitors. The Meteora monasteries, constructed in the 14th and 15th centuries, hold UNESCO World Heritage status. Their distinctive architecture and stunning vistas attract visitors seeking a glimpse into history and natural beauty.
Once we’ve explored the monasteries, we’ll stop for a delicious lunch in Kalambaka before making our way back to Athens. As we traverse the scenic route, we’ll also pass through Thermopylae, known as the Hot Gates, where the legendary clash between the Spartans and Persians took place in 480 BC (Battle of Thermopylae).
Historical Significance: The Battle of Thermopylae symbolizes courage and sacrifice. King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans fought bravely against overwhelming odds, showcasing the power of determination in the face of adversity. This legendary last stand has inspired countless tales of heroism and resilience throughout history.
Conclusion of Classical Greece Tour* Return to Athens: As the day winds down, our Classical Greece tour comes to an end with a return to Athens. You will have the choice to be dropped off at your hotel or any other preferred location in the late afternoon.
Tour Type
- Shore Excursion – Private tour
- Activity level: Moderate
Included in the tour
- Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes-Benz vehicle or similar appropriate for the size of your group
- Your tour will be accompanied by a professional English-speaking driver or escort possessing in-depth knowledge of Greece’s history and culture. They will provide insightful commentary throughout the journey, guiding you until the entrance of archaeological sites and museums. However, please note that drivers are not licensed to accompany you inside these venues.
- If you desire a licensed state tour guide to escort you within the archaeological sites and museums, providing comprehensive insights and explanations, we can gladly arrange one for an additional cost. These licensed guides are freelance professionals, and their availability is subject to your tour date.
- When a licensed tour guide or English-speaking tour escort accompanies a group, the professional driver may not necessarily speak English fluently. Their role is focused on providing safe transportation.
- Pick up and drop off at your hotel in Athens. Extra charge for hotels outside Athens.
- Pick up and drop off at Piraeus Port or Athens Airport.
- Pick up and drop off at our terminal: Leof. Andrea Siggrou 37, 117 43 Athens, Greece.
- Accommodation is based according to availability (for multiple-day tours only)
- Road tolls and all local taxes
Excluded from the tour
- Wine tasting fee (for wine tours)
- Olive oil tasting fee (for olive oil tasting tours)
- Optional Gratuities
- Food and beverage
- Your private chauffeur/guide will discuss a program best suited to your interest and mobile abilities. Option for a professional tour guide with a state license at an extra cost. Read more for the Differences between a Tour Guide and a Tour Driver
Cancellation Policy
Additional info
- Dress Code: When visiting religious sites, shoulders and knees must be covered out of respect for the cultural norms.
- Please review our Terms & Conditions and Frequently Asked Questions
- Upon booking, an electronic voucher will be emailed to you containing our contact information, tour details, and all necessary instructions. This voucher serves as your ticket and proof of purchase. Please present a printed or digital copy of the voucher on the day of your tour to redeem your activity.
- City Tax for Hotel Stays: Effective from January 1st, 2018, a City Tax for hotel overnights is applicable and not included in our excursion rates. Clients will need to pay this tax directly at their hotel upon check-out. The amount per room is as follows: 5-star hotel: €4/overnight || 4-star hotel: €3/overnight || 3-star hotel: €1.50/overnight
- Opening Hours and Entrance Fees for Archaeological Sites and Museums in Greece
- Entrance Fees for Children from Non-EU Countries: Starting November 1st, 2019, children aged 6 and above from non-European Union (non-EU) countries will be required to pay the full entrance fee for Museums and Archaeological sites. For children from EU countries, the existing rates remain in effect. However, it is crucial to have their passports readily available to prove their nationality.
Persons with Disabilities
- Due to uneven surfaces, certain sites are not recommended for persons with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair. Such sites are the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, Mycenae, Delphi and Meteora
- In all cases, we recommend comfortable flat-solid walking shoes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
