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Historical Tours & Trips in Greece

Step back in time and learn the secrets of ancient times on a historical tour of Greece. With 352 adventures, you're sure to visit the best historical places packed full of stories from days long ago.

250+ Historical tour packages in Greece with 5,517 reviews

Sailing Greece - Mykonos to Athens Tour

Sailing Greece - Mykonos to Athens

Had an amazing time. Can’t recommend it enough. Good balance of relaxing and adventure.

Sailing Greece - Athens to Mykonos Tour

Sailing Greece - Athens to Mykonos

One of our favourite vacations ever. We got to sail the Greek Islands on a 51-foot mono-hull and enjoyed every minute

Greece Classic Tour Tour

  • In-depth Cultural

Greece Classic Tour

Travel to/from Athens + link taxi were great. The tour itself was good but demanding - about 12 hours each day, either visiting a venue of travelling (not a little of which had to be in evening darkness at this time of year). Tour guide had truly encyclopaedic knowledge of each of the sites visited.

Athens, Santorini & Mykonos with 3 Guided Tours | SemiPrivate  | 10 Days Tour

  • Island Hopping

Athens, Santorini & Mykonos with 3 Guided Tours | SemiPrivate | 10 Days

We had a wonderful time visiting Greece. Dilimar from Travel Zone was great to work with from the beginning and very accommodating when I asked for a couple of changes to our Itinerary. The only complaint that I have is after we arrived, we found that our tours in Mykonos and Santorini were rescheduled on the last day instead of the first day. If they had been scheduled as originally planned, I may have revisited some of the places that we stopped at. All in all though Travel Zone did a great job. Nice hotels, all pickup and drop offs on time and the tour guides at each stop were excellent.

The Labyrinth of Crete Tour

The Labyrinth of Crete

Everything was very well organised and the tours we made were very interesting or in beautiful nature. The guides were excellent, very kind, very helpfull and widely documented about history and special items in nature and agriculture. Darrel, the Safari driver had the real and right skills to drive on difficult paths. He was a lovely man, who told us really everything and again , he helped us with all kinds of things. My son, who is disabled , got all the help he needed, also from the passengers. The hotel was outstanding. The Sea was at our feet, the service was super and the food could’nt Be any better! For the tours we had to Be picked up in the other hotel “Creta Maris” . That was too far way for my disabled son. In the evening after a very busy day in 30° , we had to return on foot to our hotel which was really Difficult. Thomas,my son and me, we couldn’t visit the cave of Zeus. It’s far too difficult for a disabled person. I think you should have told us this, in advance. Now it was a disapointment. Our room in the hotel was too far from the dining room, again difficult for Thomas and it was quiet steep for him. But thes are little details , as we were so happy with this beautiful and relaxing journey! Congratulations Tourradar and Tui as well! Martine and Thoms

Greek Island Explorer (10 Days) Tour

Greek Island Explorer (10 Days)

I LOVED this tour, 3 days in each place was perfect to get to know them and do what you want! Our tour guide Kiki from Costsaver was phenomenal and when I had my back give out, she went to the ER in Santorini with me and helped me a lot BC she knew Greek and I didn’t! Santorini was my favorite! Would definitely visit Greece again!

Cultural Athens & Island Hopping Mykonos - Santorini (Self-guided) Tour

Cultural Athens & Island Hopping Mykonos - Santorini (Self-guided)

We had to cancel our trip, and the team behind our trip was very helpful and very speedy in their responses. We received a full refund, and that will be used for our new trip.
  • €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Greece Discovery Tour Tour

Greece Discovery Tour

Guide was terrific! Much less guided touring than we were led to believe.

Exploring Crete Tour

Exploring Crete

Well organized tour and much sightseeing and activities! Thanks !

Best of Greece (Santorini Extension, 11 Days) Tour

  • Sightseeing

Best of Greece (Santorini Extension, 11 Days)

  • €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Premium Greece Tour

Premium Greece

Highlights of Greece Tour - 8 Days Tour

  • Christmas & New Year

Highlights of Greece Tour - 8 Days

This tour was well-organized and overall was a great time. The tour company really made everything easy for us. I wish there was a bit more guidance for the days when there weren’t tours, but we also really enjoyed being able to do our own thing.

Greek Island Hopper Tour

Greek Island Hopper

Trip and your guid was beyond my expectations. Thank you

Greek Island Escape Tour

Greek Island Escape

Paradisial Peloponnese (All Inclusive & Guided In-Depth Tour) Tour

  • Wine tasting

Paradisial Peloponnese (All Inclusive & Guided In-Depth Tour)

Outstanding, George was amazing and did an excellent job of coordinating everything down to the last detail, great restaurants and amazing food, xcellent motor coach and wonderful hotels, outstanding guide Babis who knew everything, and Andrea our driver was really great as well!

What people love about Historical Tours in Greece

Regions in greece.

  • Mainland Greece (183)
  • Greek Islands (96)
  • Athens Santorini & Mykonos (85)
  • Aegean Islands (83)
  • Cyclades Greece (76)
  • Peloponnese Islands (45)
  • Central Greece (25)
  • Northern Greece (18)
  • Mykonos (18)
  • Santorini (6)

Travel Styles

  • Greece Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Best 10 Day Greece Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • Best 10 Greece Vacation Packages 2024/2025
  • 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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Experience Greece Archaeology & History Tours & Activities in Greece

For anyone with the slightest interest in the past, Greece has an incredible history that spans many thousands of years. But it is the archaeology of the last four millennia, the sites of the Minoans, Romans, Arabs, Latin Crusaders, Venetians, Slavs, Albanians and Turks, that the country is better known. From the breath-taking site of Delphi in the mountains of mainland Greece to the fanciful reconstruction of Knossos on the island of Crete, there are tours and cruises that take in these and many more iconic ancient and historic sites of Greece.

Disclaimer: for some of the following tours , not all,  we may earn a commission for introducing you. This commission is taken off the advertised price, it is never added to your account.

Multi-Day Tours of Archaeology & History Sites in Greece

history tours of greece

2-Day Trip to Meteora from Athens by Train

Although the UNESCO listed monasteries of Meteora can be visited from Athens in a day by train, why not take an overnight trip to Kalambaka. With two days you can visit all six monasteries. Enjoy a sunset and a dawn in this inspiring geological landscape, while staying in a 3/4* B&B. The price includes transport, accommodation and a guide, but not meals.

The medieval monastery of Meteora seemingly hanging on rocks in the landscape.

2-Day Trip to Meteora from Thessaloniki by Train

Enjoy a two-day excursion to see the dramatic geological landscape that is the setting for the UNESCO listed monasteries of Meteora. Take the train to Kalambaka from Thessaloniki, and stay overnight in a 3/4* hotel. With two days you will visit all six monasteries. The price includes all transport, overnight accommodation and your guide, but meals are not included.

history tours of greece

4-Day Tour of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi & Meteora

From Athens take a 4-day trip to explore five of Greece’s most popular archaeological and historical sites. After a photostop at the Corinth Canal, visit the ancient city of Mycenae, and second the ancient settlement of Epidaurus with its impressive Hellenic theatre. Spend time in Nafplio, Modern Greece’s first capital city, before heading to Olympia and Delphi.  From there head to Meteroa.  Accommodation, breakfast and dinner, transport and a guide are included.

A view down a deep valley with the ancient theatre at Delphi in the foreground.

5 of Greece's Historical Giants

Starting in Athens, this 4-day itinerary takes you on a journey to five of the finest archaeological and historical sites in Greece. With other landmarks along the way. The five are: the prehistoric Bronze Age site of Mycenae; the Classical sites of Epidaurus, Olympia and Delphi; as well as the breathtakingly situated Eastern Orthodox monasteries at Meteora.

history tours of greece

5-Day Trip in Mykonos & Santorini from Athens

These may be two of the most visited islands in Greece, but going to each allows you to see two of the most spectacular archaeological sites in Greece. On Santorini visit the Mycenaean site of Akrotiri, covered by volcanic ash in the 17th century BC. While on Mykonos take a ferry to the island of Delos, an important sacred site in Classical Greece.

Sunset behind the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, Greece.

7-Day Grand Tour of Greece: from Prehistory to Modern Times

A perfect tour of Greece that includes all the major sites, from Prehistory to the classical period, the Roman and Byzantine Empires, the Crusades, and on into the history of the modern period. The itinerary takes in such must-see sites as Corinth, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki, to name a few.

history tours of greece

Ancient Greece tours - 6 unique itineraries

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The tour to Greece was a pleasant surprise for me! Perfect organisation, pleasant team, amazing landscapes and cultural sites!

Discover the Greek mythological sites with our unique tours of Ancient Greece. Whether you're a history buff or not, these fascinating itineraries will immerse you in enchanting culture and majestic heritage.

How to plan a tour of ancient Greece

Must-see ancient sites in greece, ancient greece tour #1: epirus and athens: the ancient sites, ancient greece tour #2: cultural and natural sites of athens and the peloponnese, ancient greece tour #3: explore classical greece: self-drive motorhome trip, ancient greece tour #4: along the coast of crete: from heraklion to platanias, ancient greece tour #5: athens: city of the gods, ancient greece tour #6: an odyssey adventure in ancient greece, let us craft your ancient greece tour, tailor-made travel itineraries for greece, created by local experts.

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

10 days  / from 2632 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

9 days  / from 2226 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

10 days  / from 2012 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

Planning a tour of Ancient Greece is an exciting challenge, offering a journey through history, culture and breathtaking scenery.

Start by exploring the rich history of this ancient civilisation. Explore iconic sites such as Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Mycenae, Epidaurus and the Minoan palace of Knossos in Crete. Your itinerary should be carefully considered, taking into account the length of your trip, your budget and the optimum time to visit.

When travelling, book flights to major Greek cities and accommodation in advance. Also, be sure to research travel options within the country.

Want to avoid the hassle of planning? Contact our Greece travel experts - they will create a unique itinerary in full accordance with your desires and preferences.

Ancient Greece, detail of ancient street, Plaka district, Athens, Greece

Ancient Greece, Plaka district © Shutterstock

It's no secret that Greece is a treasure trove of ancient civilisation. It is one of the places on earth that allows you to travel back in time and be in awe of the greatness of ancient history. You can explore the country's ancient treasures endlessly, but below we've compiled the places you certainly don't want to miss.

In Athens , the past looms large – literally, in the shape of the mighty Acropolis that dominates almost every view, as well as on every visitor’s itinerary. For all too many visitors, this is a city that happened two-and-a-half thousand years ago. 

Yet modern Athens has been transformed in the twenty-first century; home to over four million people, it’s the vibrant capital of the nation and a place full of interest.

The historic associations and resonance of Olympia, which for over a millennium hosted the most important Panhellenic Games, are rivalled only by Delphi or Mycenae. It is one of the largest ancient sites in Greece, spread beside the twin rivers of Alfiós (Alpheus) – the largest in the Peloponnese – and Kládhios, and overlooked by the Hill of Krónos.

The monasteries of the Metéora are indisputably one of the great sights of Greece. These extraordinary buildings, perched on seemingly inaccessible rock pinnacles, occupy a valley just north of Kalambáka. Metéora means “suspended in mid-air”, while kalabak is an Ottoman Turkish word meaning cliff or pinnacle. 

Arriving at the town, you glimpse the closest of the monasteries, Ayíou Stefánou, firmly ensconced on a massive pedestal; beyond stretches a forest of greyish pinnacles and stubbier, rounded cliffs. 

Epidaurus Epidavros Theatre, Greece © Shutterstock

Epidaurus Epidavros Theatre, Greece © Shutterstock

Peloponnese

The cultural riches and natural beauty of the Peloponnese can hardly be overstated. This southern peninsula – technically an island since the cutting of the Corinth Canal – seems to have the best of almost everything Greek. 

Ancient sites include the Homeric palaces of Agamemnon at Mycenae and of Nestor at Pýlos, the best preserved of all Greek theatres at Epidaurus, and the lush sanctuary of Olympia, host to the Olympic Games for a millennium. 

It’s easy to understand why the ancients considered Delphi the centre of the earth, especially given their penchant for awe-inspiring sacred spots. Framed on all sides by the soaring crags of Parnassós, the site truly captures the imagination, especially in spring, when wildflowers cloak the precipitous valley. 

But more than a stunning setting was needed to confirm the divine presence. Sanctity, according to Plutarch, was confirmed through the discovery of a rock chasm that exuded strange vapours and reduced supplicants to incoherent – and undoubtedly prophetic – mutterings.

Knossos is the largest and most important of the Minoan palaces, and the most visited. The mythological home of King Minos and the Minotaur dates from the second millennium BC, and its labyrinthine interconnected rooms and corridors provide a fitting backdrop to the legend.

Convinced to go? Browse our fully customisable Greece itineraries for more inspiration.

The Bridge of Arta is an old arched stone bridge that crosses the Arachthos river in the west of the city of

The Bridge of Arta, west of the city of Arta in Greece © Shutterstock

Our tour of Athens and ancient sites offers an eight-day introduction to classical Greece, starting in Athens. On the first day , you will arrive at Athens Airport and transfer to the city centre, after which you will have free time to explore Athens.

On the second day , you'll head north-west to Epirus, where you'll visit the historic sites of Arta, including a medieval bridge and Byzantine church, before reaching Ioannina on Lake Pamvotida.

Day three is dedicated to exploring Janina Castle and Lake Pamvotida, visiting historic sites and taking a boat trip. The fourth day is dedicated to discovering the diverse ecosystems of the Zagori region.

Day five includes a visit to the ancient sanctuary and oracle of Zeus in Dodona, before travelling to Parga on the Ionian coast. Day six includes an excursion to Kassope, Necromanteion and the banks of the Acheron River.

Day seven is a tour of the Roman city of Nicopolis. On day eight , you will return to Athens for a leisurely tour of the city before concluding your journey.

Ruins of Dodona, Epirus, northwestern Greece © Shutterstock

Ruins of Dodona, Epirus, northwestern Greece © Shutterstock

Check this Ancient Greece itinerary.

  • Arrival at Athens airport & private transfer to your apartment
  • A walking food tour or bike exploration of the city
  • Overnight in Athens
  • Self-driving road trip to the northwest of Epirus region
  • Discovery of historical sites in Arta (Ambaracia)
  • Lunch in a traditional tavern
  • Check-in and overnight stay in Ioannina
  • Morning exploration of Ioannina city
  • Visit to Ioaninna Castle
  • Walk around Lake Pamvotida wit possibility of a boat trip
  • Local food and wines sampling in a traditional vineyard in Zitsa
  • Overnight in Ioannina
  • Day trip to the Zagori region
  • Exploration of the villages of Zachorochria
  • Dinner in a local taverna
  • Stunning views of the Vikos Gorge
  • Morning visit to the sanctuary of Zeus in Dodona
  • Drive through the mountains of Paramythia towards Parga
  • Leisure time at Parga beach
  • Overnight in Parga
  • Visit the ancient city of Cassope
  • Stop in Necromanteion and discover the door to Hades
  • Explore the banks of the Acheron River
  • Take a guided boat ride with mythological narration
  • Taste local seafood specialities at the beach of Ammoudia
  • Visit Nicopolis, the Roman City of Victory
  • Get amazed by the Theatre, the Odeon, the Stadium and the Nymphaeum
  • Explore the Archaeological Museum of Nicopolis
  • Half-day at leisure in Athens
  • Transfer to the airport and departure

Ready to embark on an adventure? Book your trip now .

The Statue of Leonidas of Sparta in Greece © Shutterstock

The Statue of Leonidas of Sparta in Greece © Shutterstock

This 8-day tour of Ancient Athens and the Peloponnese begins with arrival in Athens, one of the world's oldest cities, and transfer to a hotel in the city centre.

Itinerary overview

The second day includes a tour of the Acropolis and Athens city centre. 

On the third day , you will hire a car and head south, visiting the Corinth Canal, Mycenae and Nemea for wine tasting. You will then travel to the ancient city of Sparta.

Day four includes exploring Mystras, Alepotripa, the Vlihada Caves and Areopoli. Day five continues with a visit to ancient Messene, Pylos, Voidokylia beach and the traditional watermill of Kyparissia.

Day six is a visit to Chlemoutsi Castle, the honey farm at Olympia, the ancient Olympic site and the beach. On the seventh day , explore Langadia and Loutraki, famous for its thermal spa, before returning to Athens.

On the eighth day , you will have free time to explore Athens, concluding your journey of cultural and culinary treasures.

The Corinthian Canal in Greece © Shutterstock

The Corinthian Canal in Greece © Shutterstock

  • Arrival at Athens Airport and transfer to your hotel
  • Free afternoon to explore the city
  • Private guided tour of the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum
  • Exploration of downtown Athens
  • Visit to the vibrant Central Food Market of Varvakios Agora
  • Dinner with an olive oil tasting experience
  • Self-drive towards south
  • Stop at the Corinth Canal
  • Uncovering the historical site of Mycenae
  • Wine-tasting experience in Nemea
  • Discovery of Sparta
  • Overnight in Pikoulianika Village
  • Morning tour of the medieval city of Mystras
  • Boat-trip through a maze-like network of Alepotripa and Vilchada caves
  • Exploration of Aeropoli town
  • Discovery of the archaeological site of Messene
  • Tour of Pylos, a beautiful seaside town
  • Exploration of the beaches of Voidokilia Bay
  • Overnight in Katakolo
  • Visit to the Chlemousti Castle
  • Organic honey tasting in Olympia
  • Uncovering the Ancient Olympia
  • Tour of Langadia mountain village
  • Tasting of Greek coffee and local sweets
  • Relax at Thermal SPA in Loutraki
  • Dinner in a restaurant overlooking the Corinthian Bay

Feeling curious? Take a step forward and book this trip now .

Monastery perched on a rock in Meteora, Greece © Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock

Monastery perched on a rock in Meteora, Greece © Sergey Novikov/Shutterstock

This 15-day Greece motorhome road trip will take you to Athens, the city of legends and some of the most fascinating classical sites, such as Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and the man-made marvels of the Corinth Canal and Byzantine monasteries of Meteora.

Starting on your first day in Athens, the journey continues with a city tour on day two . Day three marks the start of your RV adventure as you head south, visiting the Corinth Canal, Nemea and Nafplio.

On day four you'll have a free day at a campsite. Day five is a visit to the archaeological site of Mycenae.

Day six - explore Mistras and Sparta. Day seven is another free day at the beach and day eight is an excursion to the Laconian region of Mani.

Day nine includes an introduction to ancient Messene and olive oil tasting. Day ten is a visit to Ancient Olympia and an organic honey farm.

On the eleventh day , you will travel to Nafpaktos, Galaxidi and Delphi. On the twelfth day , you will explore Delphi and visit Arachova.

On the thirteenth day , you will travel to Meteora via Domokos. The fourteenth day is dedicated to exploring the monasteries of Meteora.

On the fifteenth day , the journey will end with a return to Athens with a visit to the Thermopylae Monument.

Ruins Athina Pronaia Temple in Delphi, Greece © Shutterstock

Ruins Athina Pronaia Temple in Delphi, Greece © Shutterstock

  • Arrival in Athens
  • Athens tour
  • Corinth Canal, Nemea, Nafplio City and Epidaurus
  • Overnight at campsite
  • Free day at the campsite
  • Explore Mycenae and Mout Parnon
  • Explore Mystras and Sparta
  • Free day at the beach
  • Mani region tour
  • Exploring Ancient Messene and enjoy an Olive Oil Experience in Messinia
  • Ancient Olympia and a visit to an organic honey farm
  • Visit a wine estate, Nafpaktos, Galaxidi and Delphi
  • Morning hike in an ancient footpath, Delphi and Arachova
  • From Delphi to Meteora
  • Between the 'floating rocks' and the monasteries of Meteora
  • From Meteora to Thermopylae and Athens for the departure

Excited to discover? Waste no time and book this trip now .

Chania at sunny summer day, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock

Chania at sunny summer day, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock

Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique, 10-day self-drive tour of Crete .

Day one begins with your arrival at Heraklion Airport, where you'll hire a car and set off to explore the vibrant seaside town of Heraklion.

On day two , you'll head to the mythical Palace of Knossos. Day three is a day of relaxation on the beach or an optional historical excursion.

On the fourth day , you drive west to Rethymno and on the way you can visit the Archaeological Museum of ancient Eleutherna. Day five is dedicated to the romantic medieval town of Rethymno.

On the sixth day , you will travel to the picturesque town of Chania.

Day seven is dedicated to exploring the old town of Chania. The eighth day is a day of relaxation on Platanias Beach, while the ninth day offers a choice between a beach holiday and two excursions.

On the tenth day , the journey comes to an end: you return to Heraklion Airport, hand over your hire car and fly home.

Knossos Palace ruins. Heraklion, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock

Knossos Palace ruins. Heraklion, Crete, Greece © Shutterstock

Check this 10-day tour of Ancient sites in Crete.

  • Arrival at Heraklion Airport
  • Self-drive to the hotel by rental car
  • Heraklion exploration on foot
  • Overnight in Heraklion
  • Visit to the palatial complex of Knossos
  • Exploration of the nearby archaeological museum
  • Afternoon visit to a local winery
  • Relaxing day at the beach or private historical tour
  • Departure from Heraklion towards Rethymno
  • Visiting the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Eleutherna and the Monastery of Arkady along the way
  • Stop in the village of Kapsaliana for a traditional Cretan cuisine and local wine tasting
  • Overnight in Rethymno
  • Exploration of the romantic medieval town of Rethymno
  • Visit a local bakery for "fyllo" pastry leaves and syrup sweets
  • Dinner at a local restaurant, located in a Venetian building
  • Departure from Rethymno towards Chania
  • Stop for Agios Pavlos Beach with it's magic sand dunes along the way
  • Visit to Preveli Lake on the way
  • Overnight in Chania
  • Exploration of the old town of Chania
  • Visit to Miaouli Beach
  • Discover the city's museums
  • Relaxing at the Platanias Beach
  • Overnight in a beach resort in Platanias
  • Relaxing at the Platanias Beach, Falasarna Beach or Balos Beach
  • Departure from Heraklion airport

Acropolis Museum, Athens © Shutterstock

Acropolis Museum, Athens © Shutterstock

This 4-day Tour of Ancient Athens will immerse you in the rich history and modern charms of the Greek capital. On the first day, after arriving at Athens Airport, you will be able to explore the centre of Athens at your leisure.

Day two will begin with a guided tour of Athens' historic centre, leading to the iconic Acropolis. A private guided tour of the Parthenon and the New Acropolis Museum awaits you.

Day three focuses on modern Athens with a visit to the Old Parliament building and the City Museum. You will stroll the market streets, shop in Kolonaki and savour Greek cuisine. In the afternoon you will enjoy a luxurious sunset cruise on the Athens Riviera.

On the fourth day, you will have free time to explore Athens before your departure, which will mark the end of this unforgettable journey.

Acropolis Parthenon Athens, Greece © Shutterstock

Acropolis Parthenon Athens, Greece © Shutterstock

Check this comprehensive, 4-day tour of Ancient Athens.

  • Arrival at Athens Airport & transfer to your hotel
  • Private tour to famous Greek wine bars or the most authentic, traditional Greek tavernas of Athens
  • Walk around Athen's historical centre: visit the Syntagma Square, the Parliament Building and the National Gardens
  • Private guided tour of the Parthenon and the New Acropolis Museum
  • Free-time in the afternoon to explore downtown Athens
  • Romantic dinner at a gourmet restaurant overlooking the Acropolis Hill
  • Morning visit to the Old Parliament building and the Museum of the City of Athens
  • Exploring the market streets of Evripidou, Aiolou and Ermou
  • Authentic Greek lunch
  • Afternoon all-inclusive, luxurious catamaran cruise
  • Leisure day in Athens

Striving for unforgettable memories? Book this trip now to create unforgettable moments.

Greece Olympia, ancient ruins of the important Philippeion in Olympia, birthplace of the olympic games © Oleg Znamenskiy/Shutterstock

Ancient ruins of the important Philippeion in Olympia © Oleg Znamenskiy/Shutterstock

Learn the secrets of Greek mythology with this self-drive Ancient Greece itinerary which takes you on a real adventure.

Your adventure begins in Athens, where you'll hire a car and set off to explore the vibrant city. Day two focuses on Athens' iconic landmarks.

On the third day , you'll travel to Rethi, where you'll enjoy activities such as horse riding and archery. Afterwards, you'll spend the night in a treehouse overlooking the mountains in the village of Feneos.

On the fourth day , you will hike through the forest of Foloi, following in the footsteps of the mythical hero Hercules. Day five is dedicated to Ancient Olympia.

Days six and seven include hikes to the Cave of Coricia and the sanctuary of Delphi. You will then sail through the port of Rafina to the island of Naxos.

On the eighth day , you will climb Mount Zas, and visit a marble quarry and wine tasting. On the ninth day , you will travel to Delos, Mykonos and the famous Portara before finishing your journey on the tenth day and flying home from Naxos.

Mykonos with famous windmill © Shutterstock

Mykonos with famous windmill © Shutterstock

Check this 10-day Greece tour.

  • Free time to get a feel of the city
  • A guided tour of the Acropolis & the Parthenon
  • Visit to the New Acropolis Museum
  • Visit the temple of Poseidon in Sounio
  • Enjoy the sunset views of the Aegean sea in Sounio
  • Morning drive to Rethi
  • Horse-riding across the mountains and in the forest in Rethi
  • Drive towards Feneos village
  • Overnight stay in a tree-house in the forest in Feneos with breathtaking views
  • Morning drive towards the forest of Foloi
  • Hike on Mount Erymanthos
  • Cross the waterfalls of Nemutha
  • Drive towards ancient Olympia for an overnight stay
  • Morning exploration of Ancient Olympia
  • Departs towards Galaxidi for sightseeing and an overnight stay
  • Departure towards Delphi
  • Hiking adventure to the Corycian cave
  • Following a path towards the Sanctuary of Delphi
  • Delphi exploration
  • Departure towards Thermopylae for an overnight stay
  • Morning visit to Thermopylae museum
  • Departure towards Rafina & speedboat tour to Naxos
  • Overnight stay in Naxos
  • Climbing the Mount of Zas
  • Visit to the ancient marble quarries of Apollo
  • Wine tasting in the local winery
  • Another overnight in Naxos
  • Day cruise to the small island of Delos
  • Continue with a boat trip to Mykonos
  • Return to Naxos for an overnight stay 
  • Transit to airport and departure

Inspired? Talk to local Greece travel experts or browse our fully customisable Greece itineraries and start planning your perfect trip.

You might also want to read up on the  best things to do in Greece and get yourself The Rough Guide to Greece .

The Rough Guides to Greece and related travel guides

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Travel advice for Greece

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Greece

  • Culture and Etiquette in Greece
  • Eating and drinking in Greece
  • Getting around Greece: Transportation Tips
  • How to get to Greece
  • Travel Tips Greece for planning and on the go
  • Best time to visit Greece
  • Crete Itinerary - how to spend 5, 7, 10 or 14 days in Crete
  • How to get from Athens to Crete

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written by Olga Sitnitsa

updated 31.10.2023

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Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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  • 7-Day Ancient Greece Tour

Explore Ancient Greek History, Mythology, and Architecture

Embark on a week-long journey through the mythological landscape of mainland Greece with a carefully-crafted itinerary. Starting and ending in Athens, spend 7 days exploring the historical sites and marvelous castles of the Peloponnese region. This tour is perfect for people who are keen on ancient Greek history, mythology, and architecture.

This tour is private and can be tailored specifically for you. We can include any activities that interest you, adjust the duration of the tour to accommodate your schedule, and much more.

from US$3,119 each(2 per room) *

History and culture enthusiast

All the year

Domestic flights included, international on request

Cancellation Policy:

100% Refund 22 Days before Arrival

* The price is based on a private tour for 2 people during the low tourist season : Apr.-Oct.15 -Nov.10

7 Days Greece Tour Map (Suggested Route)

Ancient greece private tour (suggested route).

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Suggested itinerary for inspiration.

Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful Greece tour for you.

  • Upon arrival at Athens Airport, you will be met by our local driver representative and transferred to your hotel in Athens.
  • The rest of the day is free for you to begin to explore this romantic city on your own.
  • Start your day by visiting the city center, including a stop at Syntagma Square to watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Hellenic Parliament.
  • Then, explore Hadrian's Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium before heading to the Acropolis, famous for hosting the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
  • Discover the Acropolis , a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views of Athens. The Parthenon, a well-preserved and iconic structure, stands out.
  • Wrap up the day with a visit to the Museum of the Acropolis to complete the tour.
  • In the morning, we'll drive you to Peloponnesus with a short photo stop at Corinth canal where there are stunning views.
  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus, which houses the historical roots of early European medicine. Don't miss the impressive acoustics of the well-preserved Theatre of Epidaurus from the 4th century BC.
  • Next you will visit another UNESCO World Heritage Site, ancient Mycenae (dated at around 1300 BC), the hometown of Agamemnon, leader of the Greeks in the Trojan War.
  • Start your morning with a guided tour of Ancient Olympia. Explore the temples of Hera and Zeus, the Olympic flame altar, and the ancient stadium where the first Olympic games were held in 776 BC. Don't miss the archaeological museum , home to renowned works like the statue of Hermes and the infant Dionysus of Praxiteles.
  • Next, experience the authentic flavors of the land of Greek by tasting the extra-virgin olive oil, olives, and wines produced at a local farm.
  • We will continue driving on the west of the peninsula of Peloponnesus, crossing the suspended bridge over Corinth Bay to arrive at Delphi for a night's stay.
  • Delphi city, deemed by ancient Greeks as the center of the world, was a significant religious hub. Our tour of the archaeological sites will encompass the Temple of Apollo, a theater, a market, the renowned Omphalos, and the Delphi Museum showcasing impressive sculptures spanning a thousand-year history.
  • Continue to Amfissa, where Greece's last manual bell-maker will show you how livestock bells have been forged by hand for centuries.
  • Then we'll drive through central Greece until we arrive in Kalambaka for an overnight stay.
  • In the morning, there will be a short drive to Meteora. There, we'll visit two Byzantine Monasteries (there are many steps to climb) standing between the earth and the sky atop huge rocks and containing historical and religious treasures.
  • Before we leave magnificent Meteora behind, we will continue on to visit the Natural History Museum and Meteora Mushroom Museum .
  • On the way to Athens, we could also stop at the Leonidas Monument in Thermopylae, which commemorates the battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC.
  • Time to say farewell to Greece past and present. Your private driver will escort you to the airport after breakfast.

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Price includes.

*Price from US$3119  per adult

*The price is based on two adults in 4-star hotels during the low tourist season(Apr.-Oct.15 -Nov.10). We can offer an even more competitive price for groups of 4 or more people. (tour code: gh-gr-3)

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Greece small group escorted history tour

Our 21 day s mall group tour explores the land of great philosophers , myths, and legends. We will learn about the culture and heritage of modern Greece whilst exploring and learning Athens, which only found independence in its uprising from the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century.

From A$13,475 AUD

Departing Apr, Sep, May

tours of greece

  • 1. See Corinth and the Corinth Canal.
  • 2. Explore Delphi and its Oracle.
  • 3. Explore The Greek Millionaires’ Islands, once home to shipping tycoons such as Onassis and Niarchos.
  • 4. In Athens explore the place where Western Civilisation began: the Parthenon and its museum.

Greece small group escorted history tour itinerary

  • Departure Dates

Greece Small Group Tour

Odyssey Traveller's 22-day Greece small group tour begins and ends in Athens. This Greece tour explores the wonders of the Ancient World and is designed for seniors and mature-aged travellers.

Greece (Greek: Ελλάς, Hellas) is located in sun-drenched southern Europe, on the southernmost tip of the Balkan peninsula. It has extensive coastlines and hundreds of inhabited islands in the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and Mediterranean Sea . Greece is famous for giving birth to democracy, for its ancient culture that has had a significant influence on the world, and for its mountainous mainland and the blue waters of its idyllic island beaches.

Ancient Greece laid the foundation for many of the empires that followed. As we know, the Romans imitated Greek engineering and architecture. In addition, Greece gave the world great literature and thought via its playwrights, historians, and philosophers. Ancient Greece also made major contributions to the sciences, notably via Pythagoras and Archimedes.

On this fully escorted guided tour, we visit various destinations in Greece with our Program Leader and tour guide and wonder at what remains of its ancient civilisation whilst exploring its ancient ruins, monuments, and natural beauty. On our excursions, we will also sample the best of Greek cuisine.

Greece Small Group Tour Highlights & Itinerary

On our trip to Greece, we explore the birth of Western civilisation and mythology. As such, we experience first-hand the icons and heritage of Ancient Greece . This guided tour of Greece is fully escorted, with a program leader for the duration. Together, we draw on the knowledge of local experts and historians to understand the historic townships we visit. In doing so, we deepen our knowledge of the culture and heritage of modern Greece.

During the 22 days of our educational sightseeing tour, we stop in 9 different locations, staying between 1 to 4 nights in each. The small group tour commences in Athens. Several of these locations go well beyond the usual tourist route. As such, we will have the chance to explore areas where few other tourists venture on their Greek vacation. This is particularly true of the Kalamata region.

This journey also takes travellers into the mountainous interior and the rugged coastline of the Peloponnese . Here, we see the diversity of the Greek isles. We experience the fertile Ionian island of Corfu , with its rugged mountains. Afterwards, we take in the rocky sun-drenched island of Mykonos . Finally, the group visits the Island of Delos in the Aegean. In addition, we also visit the ancient cities of Corinth, Delphi , and Olympia . Each of these is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, protected for their cultural value. There will also be ample time in Athens to discover the ancient Acropolis and Acropolis museum, as well as the Parthenon.

This tour is paired with the Odyssey Traveller program to Turkey . We also offer a tour of the Eastern Mediterranean Islands , which visits Santorini , Crete , and Cyprus .

You can learn more about Greece with Odyssey's country profile, where all other tour departures are listed as well. For more details on this tour, click the ‘Top 5’ or ‘Itinerary’ buttons above! If you’re keen to experience this tour, please call or send an email. Or, to book, simply fill in the form on the right hand side of this page.

You may also wish to visit these external links on Greece to extend your knowledge and understanding:

  • Is the Greek financial crisis over at last? - The Economist explains
  • Syntagma Square - Athens Survival Guide
  • Biggest Cities In Greece - WorldAtlas.com

Erechtheion in Acropolis of Athens, Greece

Day 1: Athens

Accommodation: Novotel Athens or similar.

Upon arrival in Athens we will make our way to the hotel individually. Our tour begins with a welcome meeting with our Tour Leader at the hotel, followed by dinner.

Athens is the home of the Acropolis and ancient archaeological sites, such as the Plaka with its mix of neoclassical, Turkish, and Greek island architecture. Athens features a mixture of classical Greek, Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern architecture.

Ringed by mountains and conveniently located near Piraeus (its Mediterranean port), Athens epitomises both ancient and modern Greece. Here we are introduced to Greek history as we experience this ancient city. We will learn about the influence of past civilisations and experience the many examples of ancient monuments which give testimony to the richness of the Ancient Greek culture.

Day 2: Athens

Today we learn about Greek history and culture with a visit to arguably the city’s most famous archaeological site, the Acropolis, dominated by the Parthenon. We also view the city’s major icons, including Constitution Square and the Plaka, with its medieval town and Byzantine monuments. The evening is free for us to explore the city at leisure.

Day 3: Nafplio

Accommodation: Agamemnon Hotel or similar.

We depart Athens and and cross the famous Corinth Canal to the virtual island of the Peloponnese . We overnight in the beautiful port town of Nafpolio. There will be time to wander through the Old Town cobblestone alleys and admire the neoclassical buildings.

Day 4: Kalamata

Accommodation: Hotel Messinian Bay or similar.

Today we experience Epidaurus, famed for its UNESCO World Heritage Listed theatre, arguably the most outstanding in the ancient world. We then continue to Mycenae, site of the Lion Gate and Agamemnon’s tomb. We then continue to our base in the Peloponnese, the city of Kalamáta, where we will have dinner at the hotel.

Kalamáta, the most important city in the Peloponnese, has been occupied by the Franks, Angevins, Venetians, Byzantines, and Ottoman Turks. The area played an important role in the struggle for Greek independence. Its location enables convenient exploration of the southern Peloponnese and allows us to learn about the rich history and independent people of the southern Peloponnese.

Day 5: Kalamata

Today we have a full day’s field trip to ancient Sparta , which was at the height of its power between the 8th and the 4th centuries BC, and Byzantine Mystras, with its many churches and Despots’ Palace.

Day 6: Kalamata

A full day’s field trip takes us from the Acropolis of Sparta to the 13th century BC Palace of the Mycenaean King Nestor. We then skip forwards through more than a millenia of western history to visit Venetian port of Methroni, followed by the the stylish town of Pylos, dominated by its medieval castle and fine natural harbour. We finish the day with dinner at our hotel.

Day 7: Kalamata

Today we explore the spectacular natural phenomenon of The Diros Caves, as well as the coastal villages and outstanding scenery of the Mani Peninsula. Dinner is again provided at the hotel.

Day 8: Olympia

Accommodation: Amalia Hotel or similar.

En route to the northern edge of the Peloponnese, we learn about the local production of wine and famed Kalamata olives at the Mercury Estate.The Mercury family is one of Greece’s most respected vintners. We learn about the production of cava in the wine cellar and small private museum and taste the Ktima Mercuris vintages. After we take a walk through the vineyards, we travel to Olympia, ancient home of the Olympic Games, to visit the Olympia Archaeological Museum and the Courbertin Monument. We will have a group dinner at our new hotel.

Day 9: Corfu

Accommodation: Hotel City Marina or similar.

We start our day with a short introduction and tour of Patras, the largest town in the Peloponnese and second port of Greece. We visit St. Andrew’s Church, dedicated to Patras’ patron Saint. The town of Patras was converted to Christianity by St. Andrew during the reign of Nero. From here we cross the new Rio-Antrio Bridge over the the Gulf of Corinth back to mainland Greece. We travel north to the Island of Corfu . Our journey takes us past Mesolongi, where Byron’s heart is buried, Agrinio, and the traditional market town of Arta, before we board our ferry at Igoumenitsa to Corfu. We will finish the day with a meal at the hotel.

Day 10: Corfu

Today we visit we will have a tour of the main sights of Corfu Town. We take a guided walk through the city, where we learn how it has enjoyed unspoiled renovation since many of its finest buildings were destroyed in World War II.

The island of Corfu , located in the Ionian Sea between Italy and the west coast of mainland Greece, is renowned as a popular tourist attraction. Its history reflects Western European influence with occupation since the 14th century by Venetians, French, and British. It is verdant with olive groves, mountains, and woodlands, providing a setting for picturesque scenery. Corfu’s massive forts and fine buildings reflect the architectural styles of Venetian, French, and British occupation, and we learn about the island’s place in European history. Today’s field trip allows us to explore some of the island villages such as scenic Palaiokastritsa with its 17th century monastery.

Day 11: Corfu

This morning we will have a guided tour of Palaiokastritsa, including its famous Monastery. On the way back to Corfu Town we will stop off at Achilleion Palace.

Day 12: Kalambaka

Accommodation: Hotel Kosta Famissi or similar.

After a return ferry to the mainland, we travel via the Ottoman stronghold of Ioannina into the mountainous heartland of Greece. Here we enjoy a short city tour and visit to the Island. We then continue to the mountain town of Metsovo before arriving at our hotel in Kalambaka for dinner.

Day 13: Kalambaka

Accommodation: Hotel Kosta Famissa or similar.

From the vicinity of Kalambaka we visit two of the ancient Meteoran monasteries, among the most memorable sights of mainland Greece. These monasteries, perched precariously on rock pinnacles, have been used by religious communities since the late 10th century. In previous times access was by ladder or rope, but roads and pathways provide better access today. Here we learn about their ancient origins and history and observe their rich collections of frescoes and icons.

Day 14: Arachova (near Delphi)

Accommodation: Hotel Ellinion Thea or similar.

En route to Delphi we pass the typical market town of Lamia before stopping at Thermopylae – the place of the hot springs – the location of Leonidas of Sparta’s famous resistance against Xerxes I, which has since become one of the defining stories of the classical era.

Day 15: Arachova (near Delphi)

Believed by the Ancient Greeks to be the centre of the earth, Delphi is set on the slopes of Mount Parnassos. One of the most important religious centres in Greece, it is here that the Ancients consulted the “Oracle” at the sanctuary of Apollo. The rocky slopes, strewn with ruins, where olive, pine, and cypress tenuously seek out an existence, add to the mysterious aura which pervades the area, providing one of the most impressive experiences in Greece. Here we learn about the cultural significance of Delphi as we experience this ancient site.

Our field trip today visits UNESCO World Heritage Listed Delphi Archaeological Site and Museum with its famous bronze Charioteer. There will be some free time to explore ancient Delphi.

Day 16: Mykonos

Accommodation: Hotel Petinos or similar.

Today we will board our ferry in Rafina to Mykonos , where there is free afternoon allocated for to enjoy the town at your leisure. We will meet back at the hotel for dinner in the evening.

Day 17: Mykonos

Mykonos is one of the major islands of the Cyclades. With its blue-domed Orthodox churches, white-washed villages and windmills, it is the archetypal postcard image of Island Greece. The island was under Venetian rule for many centuries, but flourished as a self- sufficient society under the community of Mykonians. The island once attracted a considerable number of European writers, intellectuals, and painters, but now is regarded as one of the glitziest islands of Greece. We explore the island and learn about its history. We also include a field trip to UNESCO World Heritage Listed Delos, with its famous Lion Terrace. There will be free time this afternoon in Mykonos to explore Mykonos town and island.

Day 18: Mykonos to Athens

We have a morning at leisure in Mykonos town, a maze of dazzling white alleys, fisherman’s dwellings, and convoluted streets, nooks, and crannies designed to confuse 18th and early 19th century pirates. Today the town’s layout has the same effect on visitors and getting lost in Mykonos town is all part of the experience. We may like to explore the Folk Museum with its collection of ceramics, embroidery, and Mykonian textiles plus the nearby 16th century Vonis windmill or visit the asymmetrical hodgepodge of 4 chapels which make up the oldest church in Mykonos – the Paraportiani – and stroll through Little Venice with its arcaded Venetian houses built to the water’s edge.

In the afternoon we transfer to Athens, in time for dinner at the hotel.

Day 19: Athens

Today we explore the National Archaeological Museum. It is the largest museum in Greece and one of the world’s great museums. Although its original purpose was to secure all the finds from the 19th century excavations in and around Athens, it gradually became the central National Archaeological Museum and was enriched with finds from all over Greece. Its abundant collections, with more than 11,000 exhibits, provide a panorama of Greek civilisation from the beginnings of Prehistory to Late Antiquity.

The museum is housed in an imposing late 19th century neoclassical building, which was designed by L. Lange and remodeled by Ernst Ziller.

Day 20: Athens

After a morning at leisure we have an afternoon’s field trip to Cape Sunion, Homer’s “sacred headland,” dominated by the Temple of Poseidon. Our included dinner is at a local restaurant at the Cape.

Day 21: Athens

Accommodation: Novotel Athens or similar

Today we explore sights of Athens at leisure and perhaps have the opportunity to explore the small tavernas of the Plaka. Tonight we take a coach to a local restaurant, where we will have a lively farewell meal surrounded by local music and entertainment.

Day 22: Athens

The tour concludes after breakfast in Athens.

  • Group size is limited to a maximum of 18 participants.

Includes / Excludes

What’s included in our Tour

  • 21 nights of hotel accommodation.
  • 21 breakfasts and 12 dinners.
  • Transport, ferry travel and field trips as indicated.
  • Applicable entry fees and services of local guides.
  • Services of a Tour Leader.
  • Service charges and gratuities.
  • Detailed tour information booklet.

What’s not included in our Tour

  • International airfare and departure taxes.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance.
  • Items of personal nature such as laundry and telephone calls.

Participants must be able to carry their own luggage, climb and descend stairs, be in good health, mobile and able to participate in 3-5 hours of physical activity per day, the equivalent of walking / hiking up to 8 kilometers per day on uneven ground.

08 September 2024

Ends 29 September 2024 • 22 days

Change departure date

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Reading List Download PDF

A brief history of greece.

Christos Visvardis

From the Neolithic Period to today's economic crisis, via Ancient Athens, the Persian Wars, Alexander the Great, the Byzantine Empire and two world wars, this book narrates the history of Greece with all the significant events that shaped it.

The Oxford History of Greece & the Hellenistic World

John Boardman (Editor), Jasper Griffin (Editor), Oswyn Murray (Editor)

From the epic poems of Homer to the glittering art and architecture of Greece's Golden Age, to the influential Roman systems of law and leadership, the classical Greek world established the foundations of our culture as well as many of its most enduring achievements.

Now, in this vivid volume, readers can embrace the spirit of the classical world, from the eighth to the first centuries B.C., a period unparalleled in history for its brilliance in literature, philosophy, and the visual arts. This work also treats the Hellenization of the Middle East by the monarchies established in the area conquered by Alexander the Great. The editors, all celebrated classicists, intersperse chapters on political and social history with sections on literature, philosophy, and the arts, and reinforce the historical framework with maps and historical charts. Moreover, the contributors--thirty of the world's leading scholars--present the latest in modern scholarship through masterpieces of wit, brevity, and style. Together with hundreds of excellent illustrations, these entries provide both a provocative and entertaining window into our classical heritage.

A Concise History of Greece (Cambridge Concise Histories)

Richard Clogg

Now re-issued in a third, updated edition, this book provides a concise, illustrated introduction to the modern history of Greece, from the first stirrings of the national movement in the late eighteenth century to the present day. The current economic crisis has marked a turning point in the country's history. This third edition includes a new final chapter, which analyses contemporary political, economic and social developments. It includes additional illustrations together with updated tables and suggestions for further reading. Designed to provide a basic introduction, the first edition of this hugely successful Concise History won the Runciman Award for the best book on an Hellenic topic published in 1992 and has been translated into twelve languages.

The Rise and Fall of Classical Greece

Josiah Ober

Lord Byron described Greece as great, fallen, and immortal, a characterization more apt than he knew. Through most of its long history, Greece was poor. But in the classical era, Greece was densely populated and highly urbanized. Many surprisingly healthy Greeks lived in remarkably big houses and worked for high wages at specialized occupations. Middle-class spending drove sustained economic growth and classical wealth produced a stunning cultural efflorescence lasting hundreds of years.

Why did Greece reach such heights in the classical period--and why only then? And how, after "the Greek miracle" had endured for centuries, did the Macedonians defeat the Greeks, seemingly bringing an end to their glory? Drawing on a massive body of newly available data and employing novel approaches to evidence, Josiah Ober offers a major new history of classical Greece and an unprecedented account of its rise and fall.

Ober argues that Greece's rise was no miracle but rather the result of political breakthroughs and economic development. The extraordinary emergence of citizen-centered city-states transformed Greece into a society that defeated the mighty Persian Empire. Yet Philip and Alexander of Macedon were able to beat the Greeks in the Battle of Chaeronea in 338 BCE, a victory made possible by the Macedonians' appropriation of Greek innovations. After Alexander's death, battle-hardened warlords fought ruthlessly over the remnants of his empire. But Greek cities remained populous and wealthy, their economy and culture surviving to be passed on to the Romans--and to us.

A compelling narrative filled with uncanny modern parallels, this is a book for anyone interested in how great civilizations are born and die.

Modern Greece: What Everyone Needs to Know

Stathis Kalyvas

When Greece's economic troubles began to threaten the stability of the European Union in 2010, the nation found itself in the center of a whirlwind of international finger-pointing. In the years prior, Greece appeared to be politically secure and economically healthy. Upon its emergence in the center of the European economic maelstrom, however, observers and critics cited a century of economic hurdles, dictatorships, revolutions, and more reasons as to why their current crisis was understandable, if not predictable. The ancient birthplace of democracy and countless artistic, literary, philosophical, and scientific developments had struggled to catch-up to its economically-thriving neighbors in Western Europe for years and quickly became the most seriously economically-troubled European country following a fiscal nosedive beginning in 2008. When the deficit and unemployment skyrocketed, the resulting austerity measures triggered widespread social unrest.

The entire world turned its focus toward the troubled nation, waiting for the possibility of a Greek exit from the European Monetary Union and its potential to unravel the entire Union, with other weaker members heading for the exit as well. The effects of Greece's crisis are also tied up in the global arguments about austerity, with many viewing it as necessary medicine, and still others seeing austerity as an intellectually bankrupt approach to fiscal policy that only further damages weak economies.

In Modern Greece: What Everyone Needs to Know®, Stathis Kalyvas, an eminent scholar of conflict, Europe, and Greece combines the most up-to-date economic and political-science findings on the current Greek crisis with a discussion of Greece's history. Tracing the nation's development from the early nineteenth century to the present, the informative question-and answer format covers key episodes including the independence movement of the early nineteenth century, the massive ethnic cleansing in Turkey and Greece following World War I, the German occupation in World War II, the following brutal civil war, the conflict with Turkey over Cyprus, the military coup of 1967, democracy at long last, and the country's entry into the European Union.

Written by one of the most brilliant political scientists in the academy, Modern Greece is the go-to resource for understanding both the current crisis and the historical events that brought the country to where it is today.

Greece: A Short History of a Long Story, 7,000 BCE to the Present

Carol G. Thomas

Greece: A Short History of a Long Story presents a comprehensive overview of the history of Greece by exploring the continuity of Greek culture from its Neolithic origins to the modern era.

~ Tells the story of Greece through individual personalities that inhabited various periods in the lengthy sweep of Greek history ~ Uses an approach based on recent research that includes DNA analysis and analyses of archaeological materials ~ Explores ways in which the nature of Greek culture was continually reshaped over time ~ Features illustrations that portray the people of different eras in Greek history along with maps that demonstrate the physical sphere of Greece and major events in each of the periods

The Full Catastrophe: Travels Among the New Greek Ruins

James Angelos

A transporting, good-humored, and revealing account of Greece’s dire troubles, reported from the mountain villages, idyllic islands, and hardscrabble streets that define the country today

In recent years, small Greece, often associated with ancient philosophers and marble ruins, whitewashed villages and cerulean seas, has been at the center of a debt crisis that has sown economic and social ruin, spurred panic in international markets, and tested Europe’s decades-old project of forging a closer union.

In The Full Catastrophe, James Angelos makes sense of contrasting images of Greece, a nation both romanticized for its classical past and castigated for its dysfunctional present. With vivid character-driven narratives and engaging reporting that offers an immersive sense of place, he brings to life some of the causes of the country’s financial collapse, and examines the changes, some hopeful and others deeply worrisome, emerging in its aftermath. A small rebellion against tax authorities breaks out on a normally serene Aegean island. A mayor from a bucolic, northern Greek village is gunned down by the municipal treasurer. An aging, leftist hero of the Second World War fights to win compensation from Germany for the wartime occupation. A once marginal group of neo-Nazis rises to political prominence out of a ramshackle Athens neighborhood.

The Full Catastrophe goes beyond the transient coverage in the daily headlines to deliver an enduring and absorbing portrait of modern Greece.

Athens, Acropolis - Greek Islands

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Tours of Ancient Greece

Unveiling the wonders of ancient greece: luxury tours and transfers.

Tour Category Information Table

Introduction

Ah, ancient Greece—land of gods, philosophers, and olive groves. But how do you unveil its wonders in style? Enter ancientgreecetours.com, your go-to for luxury ancient Greece tours. Buckle up; this is your golden ticket to an epic Greek adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Luxury tours offer the best of both worlds: personalized experiences and hassle-free logistics.
  • Late spring and early fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Private Day Tours

Love exclusivity? A Private Day Tour is your jam. Imagine having the Acropolis all to yourself!

Benefits of Private Day Tours

  • Personalized itinerary
  • Private guide
  • Flexibility

Real-life Example

Visiting the Acropolis with a personal guide lets you dodge the crowds and relish each historical nugget.

Multi-day Tours

Can’t get enough of Greece? Opt for a Multi-day Tour . A week in the Peloponnese? Yes, please!

Advantages of Multi-Day Tours

  • Deeper cultural immersion
  • Variety of experiences
  • Time to relax and absorb

Imagine a week-long journey through the Peloponnese, exploring ancient ruins and indulging in local cuisine.

  • A multi-day tour can range from 3 to 14 days, depending on what you want to see and do.

Classical Tours

Crave the classics? A Classical Tour is your time machine to ancient Greece. Think Delphi, Olympia—the works!

Highlights of Classical Tours

  • Iconic historical sites
  • Expert guides
  • Rich cultural narratives

Walking in the footsteps of Socrates and Plato in Athens brings the musings of these ancient philosophers to life.

  • Classical tours offer the most authentic way to engage with ancient Greek history.

Biblical Tours

For the spiritually inclined, Biblical Tours are a revelation. Ephesus, Patmos—you name it!

Significance of Biblical Tours

  • Deepen faith through travel
  • Explore historical churches
  • Learn from expert religious guides

Tracing Apostle Paul’s journey in Corinth gives a new dimension to the biblical narratives.

Wine Tasting Tours

Wine and Greece—a match made in Dionysian heaven. Discover this on a Wine Tasting Tour .

Wine Tasting Experiences

  • Local vineyards
  • Expert sommeliers
  • Unique Greek wines

Savoring Assyrtiko in Santorini’s vineyards is an oenophile’s dream come true.

  • Costs can vary, but luxury tours often include expert guides in the package.

Wine Tasting in Athens at Sunset

Wine Tasting in Athens at Sunset

Island Hopping Tours

Sun, sea, and the Greek islands. An Island Hopping Tour is an Instagrammer’s fantasy.

Allure of Greek Islands

  • Stunning beaches
  • Crystal-clear waters
  • Laid-back vibe

Relaxing in Mykonos with the azure sea as your backdrop—now that’s a holiday!

  • Comfortable and light clothing for the day, and a light jacket for the evening.

Day Tours & Multi-Day Experiences

Want variety? Opt for a blend of day tours and multi-day packages. Think history, adventure, and culture, all rolled into one.

  • Booking at least three months in advance is advisable for the best experience.

Guided Group Tours

Friends make everything better! Guided Group Tours add a social sprinkle to your Greek escapade.

Benefits of Guided Group Tours

  • Shared experiences
  • Social engagement

Imagine exploring ancient theatres in Epidaurus with fellow history buffs.

Luxury Transfers

Want to arrive in style?Friends make everything better! Luxury transfers in Athens offer the epitome of comfort.

Luxury Transfer Features

  • Comfortable vehicles
  • Professional drivers
  • Seamless logistics

Picture an effortless airport transfer in a plush private car, ready to whisk you away.

Whether it’s the ancient ruins or the sun-kissed beaches, ancientgreecetours.com has a journey for you. Ready for your own ancient Greece tour? It’s time to stop reading and start traveling!

Embark on your own epic Greek adventure today! Choose your perfect tour and let ancient Greece unveil its wonders just for you.

Most Popular Tours

Private Tour of Argolis & Corinthia From Athens

Private Tour of Argolis & Corinthia From Athens

Private Tour of Ancient Olympia & Isthmus Canal From Athens

Private Tour of Ancient Olympia & Isthmus Canal From Athens

Private Tour of Classical Athens & Cape Sounion

Private Tour of Classical Athens & Cape Sounion

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Fit for the gods

From the coasts of the Mediterranean to the top of Mount Olympus, Greece is a place grand enough for mythical gods and friendly enough for travelers alike. Uncover its ancient ruins and relics and take in an iconic landscape of whitewashed homes. This is only the beginning of the endless wonders you’ll find when you first set foot on Greek soil.

history tours of greece

Destination Must-See's

Greece ms1

This is the most spectacular destination in the Mediterranean and holds the most prehistoric settlement in the region. The ancient town of Akrotiri was once destroyed and consequently preserved by a volcanic eruption around 1450 B.C. The excavation site of this city is known as the “Minoan Pompeii.” But perhaps the island’s greatest draws are its vineyards, whitewashed chapels, volcanic cliffs, and famous wines of Santorini.

Greece ms2

Known as the “whitewashed jewel of the Cyclades islands” or the “Island of the Winds,” it is said that the island was formed from the petrified bodies of giants killed by Hercules. It also gets its name from the grandson of Apollo - “Mykonos.” In the island’s capital town you will find the church, town hall, castle, the Archaeological, Folklore, and Maritime Museums, and a shopper’s paradise – Matoyianni Street.

Greece ms3

Athens is the capital city of Greece and the historical capital of Europe. It is home to many celebrated ancient monuments including the imposing Acropolis, the ruins of the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Olympic Stadium, and Hadrian’s Gate – the symbolic entrance to the city. It also has the charming Plaka neighborhood which has been without interruption since antiquity.

Greece ms4

One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the “Valley of the Gods.” Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B.C. You can walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium, witness amazing sculptures at the museum, or even attend one of the many festivals held throughout the year.

Destination Must-Do's

Greece md1

Meteora Monastery:

Over 600 years ago Byzantine monks chose to build their monastic community atop limestone rock “towers” that extend nearly 900 feet into the air, making them virtually inaccessible. It is one of the greatest monuments in the world, and is the most important monastic center in Greece. You can climb these rocks and travel the paths hidden behind the massive rocks.

Greece md2

Delphi ruins:

Delphi was regarded as the center of the world and had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. The site includes two sanctuaries dedicated to Apollo and Athena, and other buildings that were mostly intended for sports. The earliest finds in Delphi date back to 4000 B.C. from the Korykeion Andron, a cave where the first rituals took place. The ruins are filled with an enormous amount of history and beauty.

Greece md3

Greek Olive Farm:

Olives and olive oil are staples of the Mediterranean diet, and Greece is a major grower and producer of olive products. A visit to a Greek olive farm can provide a taste of Greek culture and serve as a window into everyday life in the country. Tours, tastings, meals, and cooking classes hosted at olive farms are all wonderful options on the table when venturing into Greece’s countryside.

Greece md4

Travel back in time with a visit to Athens’s old city – the Plaka. The hilly cobblestone streets are lined with historic buildings housing small shops, sidewalk cafes and family-owned restaurants making this neighborhood Athens’ crowned jewel. The neighborhood comes alive at night. The alleyways fill with music and dancing and locals and visitors alike dine on their favorite traditional dishes.

Expert Advice

diana

Getting around is easier than you would expect. Greeks can speak English enough to assist travelers, and street signs are in both Greek and English.

Greece e2

Much of your trip may focus on the ancient past yet I suggest you also take time to explore the vibrant traditions that still live in today’s Greek culture.

Greece e3

Greece is a welcoming destination year-round. Consider visiting October through May to beat the summer bustle, and with Greece’s 250+ days of sunshine in an average year, don’t forget your sunglasses.

Featured Tours to Greece

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Exploring Greece and Its Islands featuring Classical Greece, Mykonos & Santorini

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The Balkans: From Coastal Croatia to Legendary Greece

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Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos, & Crete

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The Essential Archaeology of Greece

The Essential Archaeology of Greece

The foundations of modern western civilisation.

Classical History and Archaeological Tours

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Tour introduction.

The remains of countless cities, fortifications, temples and monuments, scattered throughout Greece, stand testament to a long and vibrant past: many enjoy a worldwide reputation while some await discovery by the more inquisitive. Our selection of sites are representative of the major periods: Mycenaean, Archaic and Classical and in themselves are some of the most important in Attica and the Peloponnese. Our expert historian, Dr Rita Roussos , a veteran of many an archaeological project and former lecturer of Archaeology and Art History at the American University of Athens, will narrate, explain, interpret and analyse each of the sites of antiquity that we explore, many of which are still under excavation. Whilst in the present we will enjoy colourful Greek culture and sample some fabulous cuisine.

Our bases for the tour are two delightful five-star hotels: one with stunning views over Nafplion’s old town and harbour, the other with amazing vistas over Athens and the Acropolis and yet within easy walking distance of the Plaka. Both boast well-appointed swimming pools and al fresco dining. For that extra bit of comfort and style you might wish to spend a little extra and book a superior room or even a suite.

Homeric and Ancient Greece! Evocative times that resonate through the centuries: the little known Mycenaean civilisations of the Iliad and the Odyssey; the Archaic age that saw the rise of city states such as Athens and Sparta and the fateful war with Persia; the Classical era during which Athens and Sparta vied for supremacy; the Hellenistic which saw the spectacular rise of upstart Macedonia. Greece is an enduring and irresistible lure to those who are interested in antiquity, for the Greeks were the founders of so many of those ideals which we commonly think of as peculiar to the West. From travellers like Cyriac of Ancona ‘father of archaeology’, who journeyed there over five and a half centuries ago recording inscriptions and describing the monuments he saw, to Heinrich Schliemann and his quest to prove the historical accuracy of the Iliad and Aeneid, the Hellenic adventure was and is of profound significance for the history of the world.

  • With expert  Dr Rita Roussos
  • Mycenaean, Archaic and Classical periods
  • 5 star hotels

"Fair Greece! Sad relic of departed worth! Immortal, though no more; though fallen great"

Lord Byron, Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage

Day 1 – Depart

Fly from London to Athens and transfer to our hotel in Nafplion for 4 nights.

Day 2 – Mycenae and Tiryns

Mycenae is one of the most important palatial centres of the late Bronze Age in Greece. The famous Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus, the largest of the beehive tombs outside the walls of the city, are the most notable of its ancient remains. Tiryns is another excellent example of the Mycenaean civilization. Its impressive walls, built of stones even larger than those of Mycenae, are up to 8 m thick and 13 m high.

Day 3 – Epidauros and Nafplion Archaeological Museum

Drive east to the Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidauros. This centre of healing attracted thousands of visitors and facilities were built to accommodate them - hostels, gymnasium and, of course, a theatre. Designed for a capacity of c13,000 spectators, Epidauros theatre is in an excellent state of preservation. In the afternoon we return to Nafplion to visit the Archaeological Museum, housed in an impressive Venetian building constructed in 1713 to serve as the storehouse for the Venetian fleet.

Day 4 – Messene

Drive south to explore the large but unfrequented site at Messene, the political, economic, religious and artistic centre of the Messenes. Still undergoing excavation, the site comprises a large theatre, an agora, a vast Sanctuary of Asclepius and the most intact and impressive of all ancient Greek stadiums.

Day 5 – Corinth and Acropolis Museum, Athens

Corinth is on the narrow isthmus between the Saronic and Corinthian gulfs connecting the Peloponnese to the rest of Greece. Although it is now split by the Corinth Canal, for over a millennium it was rarely out of the limelight in the ancient world. Continue to Athens and check-in to our hotel for the next 3 nights. Evening visit to the spectacular Acropolis Museum.

Day 6 – Athens Acropolis, Agora

Explore the four major standing structures on the Acropolis: the Propylaia, Temple of Athena Nike, Erechtheion, and Parthenon and from there view where St Paul preached to the early Christians. The aesthetics of the architectural elements of the Parthenon are breathtaking even in a ruinous state. In the afternoon we visit the Agora where Athenian citizens gathered to conduct their business.

Day 7 – Delphi

Possibly one of the most beautiful classical sites in Greece, situated high on the slopes of Mount Parnassos, Delphi was the spiritual centre and symbol of unity in classical Greece for hundreds of years. At its heart is the Sanctuary of Apollo where the Oracle was consulted on all major decisions. The vast site also includes other important elements: the Treasury and Castalian Spring along with a theatre and the stadium where the Pythian Games were held.

Day 8 – Return. Fly from Athens to London.

2-day Optional Extension

Day 8 – National Museum Athens, Kerimeikos Cemetery

Displaying the world's finest collection of ancient Greek art, the National Museum’s light and airy exhibition space is packed with awe-inspiring bronze and marble statues, such as the Poseidon of Cape Artemision, and intricately crafted gold jewellery and weaponry, including Agamemnon's golden death mask. We spend the morning here and in the afternoon visit the little-frequented, but fascinating, site of the cemetery of ancient Athens at Kerimeikos.

Day 9 – Thorikos, Brauron and Sounion

A day exploring sites in the beautiful Attica area. Thorikos, where recent excavations have discovered the largest underground mining network yet found in this region of the Aegean; the early sacred site of Artemis at Brauron where, every four years, Athenians processed from the sanctuary on the acropolis in Athens; and the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion, famously immortalised by Byron who carved his name into one of its columns.

Day 10– Return

Fly from Athens to London.

Recommended Reading List

  • A Brief History of Ancient Greece
  • Events That Changed Ancient Greece
  • Greece: An Oxford Archaeological Guide
  • Greek Archaeology
  • Guide to Greece: Central Greece
  • Guide to Greece: Southern Greece: Southern Greece v. 2 (Classics)
  • Sanctuaries and the Sacred in the Ancient Greek World
  • The Archaeology of Athens
  • The Greek and Roman Myths: A Guide to the Classical Stories

Photo Gallery

  • Mycenae Lions Grave
  • Napflio Castle
  • Corinth Canal

The Essential Archaeology of Greece

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13 best greece tours: acropolis, meteora & more.

Visit Greece's islands and historic sites on one of these highly recommended excursions.

The Best Greece Tours

White architecture in Santorini island, Greece. View of Oia town at sunset.. Summer travel and vacations concept

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Explore everything from Greece's ancient history to beautiful beaches to caldera vistas on a guided tour. Many say a sunset tour in Santorini is an incredible experience.

Greece has plenty to offer travelers from the ancient remains in Athens to the picturesque beaches on Crete to the iconic white buildings that dot Mykonos . With more than 200 islands to explore, making a choice of what to see can be dizzying. That's where a guided tour comes in. In-the-know locals can help guide you to some of the best sights Greece has to offer. Using both traveler opinion and expert input, U.S. News gathered a selection of the best tours available in Greece.

Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises – Diamond Cruise

Price: From 230 euros (roughly $250) Duration: 5 hours

Several travelers call this tour the highlight of their Santorini vacation. Reviewers also praise Sunset Oia Sailing Cruises' friendly crew and the delicious lunch served on board. On the Diamond luxury catamaran cruise, up to 20 travelers will make stops at Hot Springs, Red Beach and White Beach (the lunch spot) for swimming and snorkeling. Along the way, you'll cruise by Aspronisi and Indian Rock, among other sights. The final stop is at the caldera for some photo-ops.

The five-hour trips depart year-round at either 9:30 a.m. or 2:45 p.m. (the afternoon sailing is a sunset cruise). Tickets for both cruises start at 230 euros (about $250) per person. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included, as well as a barbecue lunch, alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks, use of towels, bathrooms and showers. Gratuity for your crew is extra. Alternatively, the Platinum Cruise offers a similar itinerary at a slightly lower price.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Chat Tours – Delphi & Arachova

Price: From 88 euros (about $96) Duration: 10 hours

The Delphi Oracle was one of the most important fixtures in ancient Greece. The Greeks not only considered it the literal center of the world, but also traveled from all over to visit the Oracle and its priestess of Apollo – Pythia – to learn of the future. Chat Tours takes travelers to this famous site and the neighboring museum to learn all about its history and see plentiful artifacts. The tour also includes a scenic drive through both Arachova and Livadeia. Tourgoers say they enjoy the experience of this Delphia & Arachova tour and are impressed with the archaeology around the site.

Tickets start at 88 euros (about $96) for adults with discounts available for children. For an additional fee, you can add lunch. Trips run daily from April through October; they operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday from November to March. Tours last about 10 hours. Pickups from select Athens hotels begins at 7:30 a.m. Chat Tours runs several other day outings in Athens and also operates a few multiday Greece tours.

Rhodes Sea Lines – Sun & Sea All Inclusive Chilling Cruise

Price: From 45 euros (about $49) Duration: 3 hours

As the tour's name implies, Rhodes Sea Lines' Chilling Cruise is all about relaxation. For three hours, you'll get to lounge on the company's boat while the crew takes you to some of Rhodes' most beautiful inlets. There are also ample opportunities to swim and snorkel as you admire views of the Greek islands. Tour-takers urge future travelers to take the cruise, saying it was one of the best things they did on their vacation in Greece. They also appreciate the alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks and fresh fruit available.

Tours, which are capped at 28 passengers, depart at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. daily. Tickets start at 45 euros (approximately $49) per person. Transportation from your hotel is available on request. Rhodes Sea Lines also runs a trip to Lindos and another to Symi.

View & Book Tickets: Rhodes Sea Lines

Santorini Wine Adventure – Daytime Tour

Price: From 140 euros (about $153) Duration: 4.5 hours

During this 4.5-hour outing, travelers will sample as many as 12 different wines at three separate Santorini wineries. Tastings predominantly feature white wines (including those made from Assyrtiko, a grape native to the island), but you may also sample a few reds and some sweet varietals. In addition to wine tastings, you'll enjoy a tour of a volcanic vineyard. Travelers appreciate the ample snacks along the way – several say they didn't go hungry – as well as the informative guides. An added bonus is the small group size: only eight to 10 people can join.

Tours depart around 9:30 a.m. Monday through Saturday from May through October. Tickets start at 140 euros (around $153) per person. For an additional 10 euros (about $11), you can take this tour around sunset. Ticket fees include round-trip transportation from your accommodation. Santorini Wine Adventure also offers a few private wine-themed excursions throughout Greece.

View & Book Tickets:  Option 1 | Option 2

history tours of greece

Athens Walking Tours – Athens City Tour, Acropolis & Acropolis Museum Tour

Price: From 120 euros (about $131) Duration: 5.5 hours

When you purchase this tour, you'll have the option to get skip-the-line tickets to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum , which means you'll breeze by other visitors waiting in line. At the Acropolis, you'll see the monuments, incredible views of the city and ancient temples. The Acropolis Museum houses numerous artifacts discovered at the Acropolis. Plus, you'll get a morning tour of the city to see the Hellenic Parliament, the changing of the guards and the National Garden, among other sites. Travelers enjoy the tour, noting that visiting the Acropolis with a guide makes the trip much more interesting than if you had stopped here on your own itinerary.

This 5.5-hour tour operates year-round and departs at 9:30 a.m. Tickets including entrance fees to the attractions start at around 120 euros (about $131) for adults. Children may receive reduced or free admission. Tickets without attraction entry fees start at 67 euros (around $73). Athens Walking Tours also runs tours of the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum individually, among other options.

View & Book Tickets:  Viator | GetYourGuide

Odyssey Boat Kos – Kos-3 Island Cruise

Price: Adults from 28.50 euros (about $31); kids from 15 euros (about $16) Duration: 7 hours

Tour-takers routinely call this trip "amazing." They say the friendly staff, delicious lunch and interesting stops on three Greek islands make for a great day. The seven-hour tours depart Kos at 10 a.m. and return around 5:15 p.m. The first stop is Kalymnos and its town of Vathi, where you can explore its shops. The next stop, Plati, allows you to jump off the boat to swim in turquoise waters. The final stop is Pserimos to check out its small town or relax on the beach. Along the way, you'll also be served lunch and drinks.

Tickets start at 28.50 euros (about $31) for participants 12 and older, and 15 euros (around $16) for children ages 3 to 11. Children younger than 3 are free of charge. These Greece tours depart daily, usually from May through October.

Meteora Thrones Travel & Tourism Center – Authentic Hiking Meteora Tour

Price: Adults from 26 euros (about $28); kids from 19 euros (around $21) Duration: 4 hours

Meteora – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – has been home to monasteries since the 11th century. The monasteries sit atop towering sandstone formations and are awe-inspiring to visit. On this four-hour hiking tour, you'll trek about 5 miles among the great rocks. You'll also get to visit the interior of one of the monasteries. (Keep in mind: Visiting the monastery will cost an additional fee. Attire-wise, all visitors must wear shirts with sleeves and women are required to wear knee-length or longer skirts to enter. Men should wear shorts that hit below the knee, or long pants.) Hikers rave about the sites and say the guides are knowledgeable.

Tickets start at 26 euros (about $28) for adults and 19 euros (around $21) for children ages 4 to 12. Transportation to the site is included. Tours run daily starting at 9 a.m. and will pick you up at your hotel in Kalabaka or Kastraki, which sit about 220 miles northwest of Athens. Staying in Athens? Meteora Thrones also runs a train tour to Meteora that departs from Athens.

Alternative Athens – Athens Highlights Mythology Tour

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $71); kids from 52 euros (about $57) Duration: 4 hours

Chances are, you've heard a Greek myth or two in your lifetime. During this tour with Alternative Athens, you'll have a chance to learn about some of the most famous myths, including stories of Theseus and the Minotaur, as well as gods and goddesses like Zeus, Athena, Aphrodite, Dionysus and more. As your guide spins tales, you'll see the Theatre of Dionysus, the Acropolis and the Agora, among other famous sites. Travelers say the tour is great for all ages and compliment the guides for their masterful storytelling.

Tickets start at 65 euros (around $71) for adults and 52 euros (approximately $57) for children ages 6 to 17; kids 5 and younger can enjoy the tour for free. Entry fees to the temples are not included in your ticket. Tours depart daily at 8:30 a.m. and are offered in either English or French. You'll meet at the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Alternative Athens runs other outings in the city, including a street art tour, shopping tours and food tours.

The Best Greece Tours

Visit Meteora – Meteora Sunset Tour

Price: From 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 4 hours

Travelers say seeing Meteora's majestic formations in the glow of the sunset is a must-do activity. Tourgoers took incredible photos and were thankful for the air-conditioned bus. Not only will you see the sunset over Meteora, but you'll also have the opportunity to visit a monastery, see the Kalabaka Byzantine Church and see the hermitages of Badova. Note: You will need to pay a small additional fee on-site to enter the monastery and the church, and modest clothing is required.

Tour tickets start at 35 euros (roughly $38) with discounts available for couples, families and children. The four-hour tour runs daily. Exact departure times vary based on the time of year to coincide with the sunset. Pickups are available from both Kalabaka and Kastraki. Visit Meteora offers a wide range of Meteora tours, including multiday adventures.

Santorini Day Tours – Santorini Catamaran Tour with Greek Meal and Hotel Transfers

Price: Adults from 150 euros (about $164); kids from 80 euros (about $87) Duration: 5 hours

Cruise the Aegean Sea, feast on a Greek meal and swim in Grecian waters on this catamaran outing with Santorini Day Tours. You'll sail near the Red and White beaches, snap photos of the Santorini coastline and swim in volcanic waters. (Note: The company recommends wearing a dark-colored swimsuit, as the waters near the volcano contain elements that may dye fabric.) Travelers compliment the gregarious staff and delicious food.

Trips depart April through October at 9:30 a.m. daily. Tickets for the five-hour tours start at 150 euros (about $164) for adults and 80 euros (about $87) for kids ages 4 to 10; children 3 and younger travel free. Tickets cover pickup from your hotel, drinks (including wine and beer), use of snorkeling equipment, lunch and use of towels, but does not include gratuity for your guide. Santorini Day Tours also runs land-based tours of the island as well as an Atlantis-themed tour.

Athens Walks – Athens Gourmet Food Tour

Price: Adults from 69 euros (about $75); kids from 40 euros (about $44) Duration: 4 hours

Samples of Greek coffee, wine, olive oil and doughnuts (loukoumades) – among other tastings – wow foodies who take this walking tour. The tour-takers also praise the savvy guides. Tours begin in Monastiraki Square. From here, your guide will lead you to local spots for food and drink samples. One stop is a specialty deli where you'll have the option to purchase cheese, olives, oils and other delights to take home. In total, you'll spend about four hours tasting your way through Athens.

Tickets start at 69 euros (about $75) for adults with discounts available for teens and children. Tours generally depart Monday through Saturday at multiple times each day. Athens Walks also operates tours of the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum and the Parthenon , among others.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide 

Abba Travel & Rentals – North Zante Full Day Tour

Price: Adults from 60 euros (about $66); kids from 35 euros (about $38) Duration: 6 to 9 hours

Discover Zakynthos on this tour that explores both land and water. The day begins in Bochali, a small northern village, then stops at two beaches for photos. The second leg of the tour takes you to Agios Nikolaos Port where you'll board a glass-bottom boat to tour the Blue Caves then journey to Shipwreck Beach for a swim. You'll make additional stops at Greek villages and an olive oil factory before returning to your accommodations. Travelers say this outing was a great addition to their vacation. Others called it "perfect."

Fees start at 60 euros (about $66) for tour-takers 12 and older and 35 euros (about $38) for children ages 3 to 11. Tours depart daily, though departure times vary – they can leave as early as 8 a.m. Trips last six to nine hours. Abba Travel & Rentals also runs a trip to the southern part of Zakynthos.

Naxos Sailing – Rina Cave & Small Cyclades

Price: From 110 euros (about $120) Duration: 10 hours

This tour has three different routes, and the route you take depends on both your preferences and the ocean conditions on the day of departure. The first option takes travelers to Kalados Bay for swimming and a meal prepared by a local chef. The second option takes tourgoers to Iraklia or Schinoussa to explore the villages there. The third choice is a trip to the Koufonisia islands to see impressive sea-made tunnels and Pano Koufonisi's towns. No matter which route is chosen, all tours begin with a visit to the sea caves at Rina. Reviewers say they enjoy not only the scenery, but also the opportunity to help sail the boat.

Tours run from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, departing from and returning to Naxos. Tickets start at 110 euros (around $120) per person. Keep in mind: The company owns one boat, so you may travel with people who chose a different tour. In this instance, the company says it will run the most popular tour choice (weather permitting).

View & Book Tickets: Naxos Sailing

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  2. Classical Greece

    Day 3 - Athens. Set out to visit the city's most important sites on a guided tour that includes the 5th-century B.C. Acropolis and the Parthenon, the renowned Acropolis Museum, and a walk through Hadrian Street and the Plaka district.View a magnificent collection that spans many centuries of art at the Benaki Museum of Greek Culture.During a free afternoon, discover the ancient sites ...

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    A perfect tour of Greece that includes all the major sites, from Prehistory to the classical period, the Roman and Byzantine Empires, the Crusades, and on into the history of the modern period. The itinerary takes in such must-see sites as Corinth, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi, Meteora, Thessaloniki, to name a few. Book now with GetYourGuide.

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    Delve into Greece's rich history on this 4-day tour from Athens. Discover the UNESCO-listed classical sites of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and Delphi; and pay a visit to Meteora to explore its spectacular rocktop monasteries. Take a guided walking tour at each site to learn about its past, and visit other top sights, such as the Corinth Canal.

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    Delve into Greece's rich history on this 4-day tour from Athens. Discover the UNESCO-listed classical sites of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, and Delphi; and pay a visit to Meteora to explore its spectacular rocktop monasteries. Take a guided walking tour at each site to learn about its past, and visit other top sights, such as the Corinth Canal.

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    Olympia: One of the most well-known tourist destinations in Greece, Olympia is located in the western Peloponnese, known as the "Valley of the Gods.". Surrounded by beautiful scenery from the Arcadian Mountains, it is home of the first Olympic Games that were held in 776 B.C. You can walk through the ruins of the ancient Olympic stadium ...

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