Greece with Toldinstone

For dinner you will try Greek cuisine. Dinner is included at a local taverna with set menu consists of: Family style shared starters, choice of 1 main dish, dessert and 1 glass of wine or 1 beer or 1 soft drink. Water and bread are also included. Final menu and restaurant to be determined.

An informal introductory Q&A, in which I'll try to answer any preliminary questions about Greek history and the sites on our itinerary.

Overnight in Thessaloniki

Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (Above items can be vary).

Starting from the upper city you will see the city from above! First stop is the trigonion tower. From this vantage point you will be able to have an overview of all the city. This overview will allow for a good understanding of the city layout and the main focal point structures. Walking along the northern walls, follow the downhill path towards the city. You have the opportunity to view and discuss with your guide the evolution of the city through the ages and the local architecture. Visit the church of Vlatadon, a beautiful monastery of the 14th century which now is open to public as a church. Walking towards the center of the city, next stop is a visit to the Rotunda, a Unesco world heritage site , which through the centuries has served as a temple, church, mosque. The Rotunda houses few early Christian mosaics and is a spectacular sight. Continue to the church of St. Demetrius, patron Saint of Thessaloniki, an early Christian basilica of the 5th a.D. with a crypt under the altar of the church which exist since the beginning of the city, 4th B.C. Walking towards the waterfront, you will pass the open air market and feel the vibe of this majestic city. Thessaloniki promenade waterfront is a favorite for the locals. Walk along the promenade with your guide and enjoy the slower pace of life that Thessaloniki offers. Packing essentials: This tour includes walking on uneven ground. The sights visited at parts include uphill walking on unpaved ground. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, non slip, and pack a hat, sunscreen & water. You will be walking approximately 3miles. At the end of the tour you will be transferred back to your hotel.

An optional excursion to one of Greece's finest museums

Overnight in Thessaloniki

Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (Above items can be vary)

Today you will take a private transfer to Kalambaka. Stops along the way for the bathroom/snacks will be made as needed.

Discover the fascinating history of ancient Macedonia with visits to Dion, Pella and Vergina. Explore Dion, the sacred city at the foot of Mount Olympus, Pella, the birthplace of Alexander the Great, and Vergina, home to the royal tombs of the Macedonian kings.

A short talk on the bus about how Alexander the Great changed the course of history.

Overnight in Kalambaka

Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (Above items can be vary)

PLEASE NOTE, NO SHORT OR SLEEVELESS TOPS ALLOWED. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. Women must wear a skirt and men must wear pants. The monasteries provide wrap around skirts at an extra cost (approx.3-4euro per item) but are unable to provide gents trousers. As you venture deeper into the heart of Meteora, you'll discover the awe-inspiring monasteries that have stood the test of time. Built by monks seeking solitude and spiritual enlightenment, these monasteries date back to the 14th century and are perched atop sheer cliffs, seemingly suspended between heaven and earth. Take a moment to appreciate the remarkable architecture of these sacred sites, adorned with intricate frescoes, ornate courtyards, and ancient relics that offer glimpses into the region's rich history. Each monastery has its own unique charm and character, from the grandeur of the Great Meteoron to the secluded tranquility of Roussanou. Wander through the hallowed halls, where the echoes of centuries-old prayers still linger, and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Together with your guide you’ll explore two of them. The monasteries are protected not only by UNESCO, but also by the Church and the Greek government. Their construction began in the 14th century, eventually growing to the massive structures that they are today. However, prior to this they were tiny caves in the rocks occupied by hermit monks seeking solitude. The way they were constructed was an architectural feat, especially with the lack of equipment and their odd location perched on the top of the huge rock pillars. Essential packing: This tour includes walking on uneven ground. The sights visited at parts include uphill walking on unpaved ground. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, non slip, and pack a hat, sunscreen & water. You will be walking approximately 2miles. At the end of the tour you will be transferred back to your hotel.

A discussion of why Byzantine art looks like that

Overnight in Kalambaka

Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (Above items can be vary)

Today you will take a private transfer to Delphi. Stops along the way for the bathroom/snacks will be made as needed.

Time and weather permitting, I'll lead anyone interested on a hike up the spectacular ancient road above the sanctuary of Delphi.

Overnight in Delphi

Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (Above items can be vary)

In ancient Greece, Delphi was considered the middle of the earth. Legend has it that Zeus released two eagles from either side of the earth and it was in Delphi that they met. This, together with the importance of consulting the oracle, made it a popular pilgrimage for ancient Greeks during the 6th to 4th century BC. you’ll first explore the small, interesting Delphi museum which is has a collection of statues, paintings and even the tripod where the priestess was seated while communicating with the oracle. After you’ve finished in the museum you’ll head to the site itself where your guide will bring to life some of the remains including the Temple of Apollo and the impressive theatre. Packing essentials: The sights visited at parts include uphill walking on unpaved ground and steps. Please wear comfortable walking shoes, non slip, and pack a hat, sunscreen & water. You will be walking approximately 1-mile. At the end of the tour you will be transferred to your hotel.

You will visit the magnificent Monastery of Hosios Loukas, one of the most important Byzantine monuments in Greece and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in the picturesque hills of central Greece, the monastery is renowned for its impressive Byzantine architecture, exquisite mosaics, and beautiful frescoes. Discover the rich history and spiritual significance of this remarkable site while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of its surroundings. Free time to explore the monastery and admire its unique artistic and architectural treasures.

Depart from Delphi after breakfast and enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful landscapes of central Greece towards Athens.

How a relatively small and poor city created Western Civilization

Overnight in Athens

Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (Above items can be vary)

Explore the mighty Parthenon, built in the mid 5th century. This magnificent structure sits above a compound of temples known as the Acropolis of Athens, overlooking the city. Take a step back in time as you wander through the Acropolis amongst ruins and architectural marvels. Learn about the ancient Greek civilization and visit the site of the first Olympic Games. This tour includes walking on uneven ground. The sights visited at parts include uphill walking on unpaved ground. Packing essentials: Comfortable walking shoes-non slip, hat, sunscreen & water Combination of walking & touring by coach. Walking distance: approximately 2.6miles/4km

Tonight you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Syntagma square, where you will start your Plaka walk. Finish at a local taverna for your welcome dinner. Take a stroll in the Plaka, the oldest neighborhood in Athens. Under the shadow of the Acropolis and its ancient temples, the neighborhood has a village feel with narrow cobblestone streets lined with tiny shops, tavernas and cafes. A perfect introduction to Greece! Packing essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, non -Slip. Walking Distance: approximately 1.3miles/2km

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local taverna with set menu consists of: Family style shared starters, choice of 1 main dish, dessert & 1 glass of wine or 1 beer or 1 soft drink - water & break are also included Final menu & restaurant to be determined

Weather permitting, a short hike to the top of Philopappos Hill, site of a Roman tomb and the best views in Athens. If the weather does not permit, I will lead a group to the National Archaeological Museum.

Overnight in Athens

Greek Continental buffet breakfast at the hotel is included. A typical Greek Continental breakfast usually includes: Coffee, tea, bread, jams, honey, yogurt, milk, croissant, cake, cereals, seasonal fruits, eggs, cold cuts, bacon & sausages (Above items can be vary)