Best of Classical Greece

Historic Thessaloniki, Vergina, Kalambaka, and Delphi with ancient capital of Athens. Optional day cruise to the Saronic Islands

Overview

from$3799Tour + Flights from$2999Tour Only 9days

price per person, double occupancy,* based on Nov 13, 2025 departure from NYC

$300 Instant Savings. Expires Jan 9, 2025.* All prices reflect savings.

$199 deposit. Lock in your spot for less.^††

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Style	Small Group TourTravel with a small, intimate group of no more than 16 likeminded travelers (and often much fewer), escorted by an English speaking guide and/or tour manager for some or all of your journey. (Some exceptions, including special promotional packages, may accommodate up to 30.) More of these packages Dedicated tour escorts & guides throughout
Departures	March – November 2025	Group Size	16 travelers max
Themes	Active, History & Culture
Activity Level	Moderate
What to Expect	This moderately paced, escorted tour includes a reasonable amount of walking, sometimes on uneven terrain, and requires an average level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the trip. This tour also includes long scenic drives between destinations and may have limited rest stops.
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Come along and bask in the magic and history that encompasses Greece. Start your adventure in historic Thessaloniki where you'll be surrounded by the influences of Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and modern Greek presence throughout this northern city. Then, travel along to Vergina and marvel at the site of Aigai, the capital of the Macedonian Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After, journey south and visit three extraordinary Greek destinations: Kalambaka, Delphi and Athens. From visiting the spectacular Monasteries of Meteora in the summits of isolated rocky pinnacles in Kalambaka, exploring the ruins of the Temple of Apollo in Delphi, wandering along the bustling streets of Athens and enjoying the outdoor cages, streets bazaars, and ancient ruins, and traveling along the coastal roads to admire the temple of Poseidon in Cape Sounion, you'll be in awe of the history, myth, and wonders that Greece holds. End your perfect trip with an optional day cruise to the picturesque island of Hydra, one of the Saronic Islands, where you will enjoy a relaxing day marveling at the stone houses dotting the coast while sipping on traditional Greek coffee.

With flights, hotels, meals, fully guided tours and more, you'll experience the absolute best of classical Greece, all at an affordable, Friendly Planet price.

Package includes

Flights
Coach
Transfers
Hotel
Meals
Guides

Round trip flights from New York (JFK or EWR) including taxes & fees
All ground transportation and transfers
7 nights at superior hotel accommodations
13 Meals: 7 breakfasts & 6 dinners
Comprehensive touring program including entrance fees
Professional English-speaking tour director and guides

Optional add-ons

Flights from other cities are available. Request pricing when making your reservation.
Full day cruise with lunch to the Saronic Islands

Why you'll love it

See the influence of Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and modern Greek civilizations in Thessaloniki during a panoramic city tour.
Tour ancient Aigai, Macedonia’s first capital city comprised of palace ruins, ancient sanctuaries and royal tombs that date as far back as 340 B.C.
Marvel at the monasteries of Meteora, perched high on the peaks of towering rock formations.
Explore the sacred ruins of Delphi, site of the sanctuary of Apollo Pythios, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the Temple of Apollo.
Stroll through Plaka, a historic neighborhood of Athens that blends eastern and western influences.
Visit the Acropolis, an ancient citadel containing the remains of several buildings of great architectural and historic significance including the Parthenon, the Propylaea Gateway, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
Enjoy stunning views of the Aegean Sea during a fascinating excursion to Cape Sounion, the location of the Temple of Poseidon, one of the major monuments of the Golden Age of Athens.
Explore Athens independently or join an optional Saronic Islands Cruise.

Itinerary at a Glance

1 Depart USA
2 Arrive Thessaloniki, Greece
3 Thessaloniki & Vergina
4 Thessaloniki & Kalambaka
5 Kalambaka & Delphi
6 Delphi & Athens
7 Athens & Cape Sounion
8 Athens
Optional Excursion: Full day Saronic Islands Cruise, $150
9 Athens/USA

Dates & Prices

Instant Savings: Get $300 off if you book by Jan. 9, 2025!

Dates & Prices, with flights per person, double occupancy*, including Instant Savings discounts
2025 DEPARTURES
Dates	Regular Price	Instant Savings	Your Price
Departs U.S.: Thu, Mar 20, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Mar 28, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Mar 20 – Mar 28	$4349	–$300	$4049	Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Apr 24, 2025 Finishes: Fri, May 2, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Apr 24 – May 2	$4599	–$300	$4299	Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, May 29, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Jun 6, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! May 29 – Jun 6	$4849	–$300	$4549	Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Jul 31, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Aug 8, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Jul 31 – Aug 8	$4599	–$300	$4299	Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Sep 4, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Sep 12, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Sep 4 – Sep 12	$4699	–$300	$4399	Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Oct 9, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Oct 17, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Oct 9 – Oct 17	$4499	–$300	$4199	Select
Departs U.S.: Thu, Nov 13, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Nov 21, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Nov 13 – Nov 21	$4099	–$300	$3799	Select

Dates & Prices, tour only per person, double occupancy*, including Instant Savings discounts
2025 DEPARTURES
Dates	Regular Price	Instant Savings	Your Price
Starts: Fri, Mar 21, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Mar 28, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Mar 21 – Mar 28	$3549	–$300	$3249	Select
Starts: Fri, Apr 25, 2025 Finishes: Fri, May 2, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Apr 25 – May 2	$3799	–$300	$3499	Select
Starts: Fri, May 30, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Jun 6, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! May 30 – Jun 6	$4049	–$300	$3749	Select
Starts: Fri, Aug 1, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Aug 8, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Aug 1 – Aug 8	$3799	–$300	$3499	Select
Starts: Fri, Sep 5, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Sep 12, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Sep 5 – Sep 12	$3899	–$300	$3599	Select
Starts: Fri, Oct 10, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Oct 17, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Oct 10 – Oct 17	$3699	–$300	$3399	Select
Starts: Fri, Nov 14, 2025 Finishes: Fri, Nov 21, 2025 Book by Thu, Jan 9, 2025 (midnight ET) to get the Instant Savings! Nov 14 – Nov 21	$3299	–$300	$2999	Select

If you want a few extra days to explore on your own, we may be able to arrange for you to stay later than the scheduled dates, including extra hotel nights and separate airport transfers, for an additional charge. Ask us about prices and availability when (or after) you book. More information Want to extend your trip?

Options & Fees

Best of Classical Greece
Rooming Selection
Double Occupancy	included
Single Occupancy
Mar 20, 2025; Jul 31, 2025; Nov 13, 2025	$729
Apr 24, 2025; May 29, 2025; Sep 4, 2025; Oct 9, 2025	$799
Optional Excursion
Full day Saronic Islands cruise with lunch	$150

TRANSFER FOR PASSENGERS BOOKING TOUR ONLY
Optional Airport Transfers¹
Arrival Transfer: Thessaloniki airport to hotel	$45
Departure Transfer: Hotel to Athens airport	$60

1. Price based on a minimum of two passengers.

So that we can offer you the best deals, our packages are, like most hotels and cruises, priced based on double occupancy rooms or cabins. We charge solo travelers an extra fee to cover the extra costs of single occupancy rooms or cabins. (Consider: if you booked a $200/night hotel room solo, you would pay the $200 yourself; but if a couple booked the same room, each one would pay only $100.) But you only pay extra for the rooms or cabins, nothing else, including meals, sightseeing, tips, etc. Why are single rooms more?

Flights & Departure Cities

Departure Airports
New York City (NYC)¹	included

1. NYC departures will be from either JFK or EWR based upon availability.

This package includes round-trip flights from the city listed above.

Want to fly from another city? We can arrange flights from most major cities. Ask us for a quote for flights from your preferred city when (or after) you book, and we'll get back to you with the price and availability within 3 business days. Of course, you can also book your own flights. More information

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Depart USA

Check in for your overnight flight to Greece

Day 2 Arrive Thessaloniki, Greece

Arrive in Thessaloniki, Greece
Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel for check-in
Enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel

Capsis Bristol Boutique Hotel or similar Dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Arrive this evening in the northern city of Thessaloniki, the second largest in Greece and an important seaport throughout the centuries. After customs formalities, you will be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in. Join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at the hotel.

Day 3 Thessaloniki & Vergina

Discover the influence of Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and modern Greek presence throughout the history of Thessaloniki
Visit Vergina, the site of Aigai, the ancient capital of the Macedonian Kingdom, and a UNESCO World Heritage site
Admire the palace and burial site of Philip II, father of Alexander the Great

Capsis Bristol Boutique Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, set out on a panoramic tour to discover the city of Thessaloniki. Drive along the waterfront via Nikis Avenue, passing by the White Tower, a cylindrical fortification built by the Ottoman Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent in the 16th century. Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki, containing a vast collection of Greek art and artifacts from prehistoric times, through the classical period and the Macedonian Empire up to late antiquity. Later, drive by the Palace of Galerius and the Galerius Arch archaeological site, built during the 4th century B.C. See the nearby 4th century A.D. Rotunda monument. Admire the view of Thessaloniki from the Old Town and the City Walls. Stop at the Basilica of Hagios Demetrios, a 7th-century A.D. Byzantine church. This Basilica, the Rotunda, and other Byzantine churches in Thessaloniki constitute a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This afternoon, drive inland to Vergina, the site of Macedonia’s first capital city, Aigai. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is comprised of palace ruins, ancient sanctuaries, and tombs that date as far back as 340 B.C. Among the archaeological discoveries that have been excavated at this site is the tomb of King Philp II, father of Alexander the Great. See the city walls, the sanctuary of Eukleia, and the sanctuary of the Mother of the Gods. Among the monumental tombs that have been excavated at this site is the tomb of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. Return to Thessaloniki and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Day 4 Thessaloniki & Kalambaka

Visit the remote Meteora Monasteries

Hotel Amalia Kalambaka or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

This morning, depart south for Kalambaka and visit one of the most spectacular Monasteries of Meteora, perched upon the summits of some steep and isolated rocky pinnacles, which rise above the almost flat valley of the Pinios River, 5 miles beyond Kalambaka. The monastic history of Meteora dates back to the 11th century A.D. when the Greek Orthodox monks constructed inaccessible eagle's nests in the crannies of these rocks, four of which are still occupied. Continue to your hotel in Kalambaka for dinner.

Day 5 Kalambaka & Delphi

Tour the ancient ruins of Delphi
See the Temple of Apollo and the site of the famed Oracle of Delphi

Amalia Hotel Delphi or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After breakfast, continue south to explore the ancient site of Delphi, located on the slopes of the breathtaking Mount Parnassus. The site is believed to have been sacred since at least the Bronze Age. Here lay the ruins of the sanctuary of Apollo Pythios, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the Temple of Apollo. The site’s museum contains masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture, including the famous bronze Charioteer. According to legend, the shrine was originally guarded by the she-dragon Pytho; however, the she-dragon was killed by Apollo, who then took over the Oracle. In antiquity, Delphi was regarded as the center of the world, and the Oracle would provide vague answers to visitors’ questions about the future.

Continue to your hotel in Delphi for dinner and overnight.

Day 6 Delphi & Athens

Journey to Athens

Royal Olympic Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

After a leisurely breakfast, drive to Athens, the exciting modern capital of Greece. Check in to your hotel near the Plaka (Old Town). Athens, the birthplace of Western Civilization, was once hailed as the Paris of the Mediterranean. Today, it is a bustling modern city, a colorful tapestry of Eastern and Western influences, full of outdoor cafes, pedestrian streets, parks and gardens, street bazaars, dilapidated mansions, and ancient ruins. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 7 Athens & Cape Sounion

Enjoy a tour of the city of Athens
Admire the impressive Acropolis, museum and visit the Parthenon
Visit the temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion

Royal Olympic Hotel or similar Breakfast

Full Day Itinerary

See the striking contrast between breathtaking monuments of a glorious past and elegant modern structures during your tour of Athens. Begin the day with a photo stop at the Panathinaikon Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Drive past the Roman Temple of Olympic Zeus, the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, and the National Library. Continue past the National Garden, Hadrian's Arch, St. Paul's Church, the Parliament House, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Catholic Cathedral, the Old Parliament Building, Constitution (Syntagma) Square, and the Russian Orthodox Chruch to reach the Acropolis, the crowning beauty and glory of Ancient Athens, with its many monuments atop its rocky base.

Visit the Acropolis, including the Propylaea Gateway, the Temple of Athena Nike, the awesome Parthenon, and the Erechtheion, with its Porch of Maidens. Walk past the Herodion and Dionysos Theater to visit the New Acropolis Museum, a marvel of architecture with an entire exhibition of the glory of Ancient Athens.

This afternoon, travel along the coastal road past countless coves and the beautiful beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza to Cape Sounion. Dominated by the spectacular Temple of Poseidon, the sanctuary at Sounion is one of Attica's most important archaeological sites. Although evidence suggests that the site dates back to prehistoric times, the sanctuary was first mentioned in Homer's Odyssey, where Menelaoshis returned from Troy to bury his helmsman, Phrontes Onetorides. Learn about this area's rich history as you take in stunning views of the Aegean on this fascinating excursion. Return to Athens.

Day 8 Athens

Enjoy the day at leisure in Athens
Alternatively, join an optional excursion to the Saronic Islands
Join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner in a local restaurant

Royal Olympic Hotel or similar Breakfast & dinner

Full Day Itinerary

Enjoy the day at leisure to explore the Greek capital.

This evening, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Optional Excursion: Full day Saronic Islands Cruise, $150

Early this morning, head to the Flisvos Marina to board a cruise to Hydra, Poros, and Aegina islands. On the island of Hydra, stroll the stone streets by foot or donkey, which is considered the main form of transportation on Hydra! Marvel at the traditional stone houses dotting this quiet, laid-back island where the past comes alive. Stop by one of the little seafront cafeterias where the owner himself pours you a cup of traditional Greek coffee or refreshing lemonade.

Back on the boat, enjoy lunch at the main lounge while you sail to Poros island. Enjoy a stroll through the village of Poros and admire its citrus trees and windmills.

Continue sailing to the island of Aegina, your last port of call. This island was a maritime power dating back to the 7th century B.C. Historic houses and temples blend in with modern life on this island. Stroll the island independently before re-boarding and sailing back to Athens.

Day 9 Athens/USA

This morning, bid farewell to Greece as you board your flight back to the USA
Arrive in the USA later today

Breakfast

Hotels

Capsis Bristol Boutique Hotel

Deluxe

Situated in the city's heart, this boutique hotel enjoys a central location close to major attractions, shopping areas, and dining options. Guests can easily explore famous landmarks such as the White Tower, Aristoteles Square, and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the city's bustling streets and cultural sites.

More information

Hotel Amalia Kalambaka

First Class

Located on a 14-acre property just a few minutes away from the town of Kalambaka, the Amalia Hotel Kalambaka boasts extensive gardens and beautiful views of the Meteora Rocks. The hotel’s 173 comfortable, well-lit guestrooms feature air conditioning, heating, complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibar, in-room safe, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. The Theopetra Restaurant, located on the ground level of the hotel next to the beautiful gardens, features an American buffet breakfast, a-la-carte lunch and offering Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. The cozy Polythea Restaurant faces the internal gardens, and is decorated in shades of blue. The Café overlooking the swimming pool features fresh juices, refreshing drinks and cocktails as well as a snack menu that you can enjoy by the pool, or if you prefer, inside by the fireplace. The Piano Bar offers live music in a cozy atmosphere boasting a large fireplace where you can enjoy your drinks. The hotel features a large outdoor swimming pool in a beautiful setting.

More information

Amalia Hotel Delphi

First Class

Superbly located on a mountain slope at the foot of Mount Parnassus, the Amalia Hotel Delphi enjoys a breathtaking view of the green valley below stretching all the way down to the sea and the picturesque ports of Itea and Galaxidi. The Amalia Hotel is also conveniently located near the museum and archaeological sites of Delphi, considered by the ancient Greeks to be the center of the world.

More information

Royal Olympic Hotel

Deluxe

This 5-star, family-run hotel is located directly opposite the Temple of Zeus and the National Garden, overlooking the Acropolis and a short walk to the new Acropolis Museum.

More information

In the unlikely event that a particular hotel is not available, a similar or better hotel may be substituted.

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Trip Details

What should I know before I go? We've compiled a comprehensive checklist, including information on how to pay your balance due, flights & transfers, packing & luggage, and more.
Do I need a visa or other documents? Are there any entry requirements? Please review the visa & entry requirements.
Can I make changes to my trip? Want to upgrade your seats? Depart from another city? Stay a few extra days? Something else? Just ask!
Can I bring my kids? Are there any age restrictions? To book this package, you must be 18 or older. Your traveling companions must be 8 or older at time of travel.
Should I purchase travel insurance? Yes! We recommend you purchase travel insurance to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. For your convenience, we offer a plan provided by Travelex Insurance Services.
What's the fine print? Review the terms & conditions for this package.
What should I know about Greece? Check out our guide for practical travel tips, the best time to go, videos, and more.