Greece Cultural Tour 12 Days From Athens; Greece Mainland Unesco Places.

Itinerary

Day 1: Corinth Canal / Ancient Corinth / Palaia Epidauros

Stop At: Corinth Canal, Isthmia, Corinth 201 00 Greece
In the morning, we start the journey picking you up at the hotel, airport or marina you have selected. We leave Athens and pass by the Corinth Canal to enjoy splendid views over the Saronic Gulf.
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Ancient Corinth (Archaia Korinthos), Ancient Korinthos village, Corinth Greece
After, we will drive toward Ancient Corinth, home to one of the most beautiful ancient temples in Greece! We will visit the impressive Archaeological site, one of the best testimonies of ancient Greek architecture, and its fascinating museum. Admission not included.

The imposing Temple of Apollo, a Doric-style temple dedicated to Apollo, is actually a great example of a peripteral temple (one with a portico made of columns) and was supported by 38 columns, though today, only seven are still in place.⁣⁣
After visit this beautiful site with its temples, fountains and other fascinating buildings and structures dating from the 10th century BC, we will have lunch in a local tavern.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Palaia Epidavros, Palaia Epidavros, Argolis Region, Peloponnese
Next, we will head toward Palaia Epidauros, a small and lovely Peloponnesian town. It is built in the same place where was located the ancient city of Epidauros, on top of and surrounding a small peninsula between two bays, on the coast of the Saronic Gulf.
There, we will have accommodation for one night. Right after the check-in process, you will have time for yourself.
Duration: 3 hours

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 2: Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus (UNESCO) / Argos

Stop At: Argos, Argos, Argolis Region, Peloponnese
After touring the home of mythical Agamemnon, we head on to Argos, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. We will take you to the ancient Hellenistic theater (320 BC) that is one of the largest architectural developments in Greece and, one of the largest ancient Greek theaters.
The Nemean Games, part of the Panhellenic Games collective, migrated to Argos and remained there for a while. These games were held at the Argos Theater as the primary venue.
Nearby from this site is Agora, Roman Odeon, and the Baths of Argos.
Larissa was the ancient and medieval acropolis of Argos, located on the top of a high rocky hill of the same name, within the city's boundaries. Later, an imposing castle was built on the site of the ancient acropolis.
The location was fortified since prehistoric times and remained a powerful fortress through the classical period and the Middle Ages until the 19th century. Admission not included.
Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: The Great Theatre of Epidaurus, Ethniki Odos Isthmou Archaias Epidavrou, Epidavros 210 52 Greece
After, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Epidaurus. It is well-known for its sanctuary as well as its theater (which is in use today and considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture).
Duration: 30 minutes

Stop At: Epidaurus Archaeological Museum, Asklepieion, Epidavros 210 52 Greece
The museum provide interesting information about the site and keep masterpieces of art.
Duration: 45 minutes

Stop At: Sanctuary of Asklepios, Epidavros 210 52 Greece
Today, we will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Epidaurus. It is well-known for its sanctuary as well as its theater (which is in use today and considered one of the purest masterpieces of Greek architecture). The Sanctuary of Asklepios was the most celebrated healing center of the Classical world. Admission not included.
After visit this vast archaeological site with its temples and hospital buildings dating from the 4th century, we will have a lunch in a local tavern.
Duration: 3 hours

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 3: Archaeological Sites of Mycenae (UNESCO) and Tiryns (UNESCO)

Stop At: Mycenae, Mycenae, Argolis Region, Peloponnese
After breakfast, we will leave to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mycenae which dates from between the 14th and 13th century BC when the Mycenaean civilization was at its peak of power, influence and artistic expression.
Here is located the famous Lion Gate, the sole surviving monumental piece of Mycenaean sculpture, as well as the largest sculpture in the prehistoric Aegean. Besides, It is the only monument of Bronze Age Greece to bear an iconographic motif that survived without being buried underground, and the only relief image which was described in the literature of classical antiquity, such that it was well known prior to modern archaeology.
Also, the Bronze Age citadel of Mycenae is the place that was mentioned by Homer as Mykene. Admission not included.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Tiryns, Nafplio Greece
After touring the home of mythical Agamemnon, we will head on to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Tiryns, an archaeological site known from the beginning of the Bronze Age. The Mycenaean acropolis with Cyclopean walls, was one of the most important centers of the Mycenaean world, and in particular in Argolis. Its most notable features were its palace, its cyclopean tunnels and especially its walls, which gave the city its Homeric epithet of "mighty walled Tiryns". It is also known as the location from which mythical hero Heracles performed his 12 labors. Excavations show that the hill was inhabited from at least 2500 BC. Admission not included.
Later, we will return to Nafplio. There, you will have time for yourself and be able to enjoy the city's vibe to the fullest.
Duration: 1 hour

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 4: Nafplio / Sparta

Stop At: Palamidi Castle, Eikostis Pemptis Martiou, Nafplio 211 00 Greece
Nafplio, a rich and vibrant city, is the proud home to three impressive Venetian fortresses that currently are on the UNESCO Tentative List.
First, we will visit the Palamidi fortress, a 18th-century Venetian fortification, that overlooks the whole city. When the Venetians retook Nafplio and made it the capital of their Kingdom of the Morea, the city was strengthened by building the fortress of Palamidi, which was in fact the last major construction of the Venetian empire overseas.
Next, we will take you to the Akronafplia fortress formed the walled town of Nafplio from antiquity to the end of the 15th century, when the Venetians built the lower town of Nafplio.
And finally, in one of the little boats that drop anchor at the dock, we also will visit the Bourtzi, a 15th-century island Venetian fortress located in the middle of the harbor of Nafplio in the Argolic Gulf, and which along with Palamidi, is considered one of the landmarks of Nafplio. Admission not included.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Sparta, Sparta, Sparta Municipality, Laconia Region, Peloponnese
After sightseeing Nafplio fortresses, we will go ahead toward to the famous Sparta, a prominent city-state in ancient Greece, where we will have accommodation for one night.
Sparta was unique in ancient Greece for its social system and constitution, which configured their entire society to maximize military proficiency at all costs, and completely focused on military training and excellence.
We are going to visit Sparta's archaeological site, where a number of monuments and features survive from different ages of the ancient capital city. Admission not included.
After touring the Acropolis of Sparta, we will see the famous statue of King Leonidas along with the Roman and Byzantine Baths.
Due to its extensive and prominent history, the name Sparta is a world-renowned symbol of heroism and sacrifice balanced by a simple, austere way of life.
The evening, as usual, is free for you to relax and have a look around the area independently.
Duration: 2 minutes

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 5: Archaeological Site of Mystras (UNESCO) / Kalamata

Stop At: Archaeological Site of Mystras, Mystras, Sparta Municipality Greece
This day will be spent in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mystras, the "wonder of the Morea", which was built as an amphitheater around the fortress erected in 1249. Reconquered by the Byzantines, then occupied by the Turks and the Venetians, the city was abandoned in 1832, leaving only the breathtaking medieval ruins, standing in a beautiful landscape.
The impressive and vast archaeological site of Mystras consists of a medieval castle and the fortified settlement that encloses a museum, picturesque monasteries, stunning churches, charming chapels, houses and palaces within its walls. Admission not included.
Next, we will enjoy lunch in a local tavern, and then we will hit the road to the impressive Monemvasia where we will have accommodation for one night. There, in the evening, you will have free time to eat and explore the twisting streets, sophisticated atmosphere and enjoy the impressive views.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Kalamata, Kalamata, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
Next, we will go to the beautiful and lively Kalamata, the second most populous city of the Peloponnese peninsula, for one day accommodation. Kalamata is a lively city holding a strong cultural and historic past.
There, we will do sightseeing and later you will have time to enjoy the city that sits between the sea and mountains, at the foot of the majestic and impressive Taygetus Mountain range.
Duration: 1 hour

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 6: Archeological site of ancient Messene

Stop At: Messene 240 02, Greece
Yesterday, we spent exploring Kalamata's main historical and cultural sights as well its amazing gastronomy.
Today, the day will be partially spent in the vast and impressive Archaeological Site of Ancient Messene, currently in the UNESCO Tentative List.
Nestled in the fertile foothills of Mount Ithomi, it is quickly becoming one of the most exciting archaeological sites in Greece.
Notable for its outstanding circuit walls, the Arcadian gate and the eight surviving towers among others.
The important remains such as temples, powerful defensive walls, the stadium and the theater are in splendid condition.
Admission not included.
Duration: 3 hours

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 7: Methoni / Pylos / Giolova

Stop At: Methoni, Methoni, Pieria Region, Central Macedonia
Right after breakfast, we will explore Methoni, a lovely coastal town. It is a real gem not only because its ancient history and fine golden sandy beaches but also because it houses an impressive medieval castle currently in the UNESCO Tentative List. Admission not included.
The Venetian castle of Methoni occupies the whole area of the cape and the southwestern coast to the small islet that has also been fortified with an octagonal tower and is protected by the sea on its three sides.
After touring this large medieval defensive fortification, we will go to check you in for one night's accommodation. Then, the rest of the day will be spent independently, as you want. Here, you will have a fine relaxation time, amazing views, tasty local cuisine and peaceful strolls as you explore the town on your own.
Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Pylos, Pylos, Pylos-Nestor, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
After breakfast, we will leave for Pylos, built in the shape of an amphitheatre on the Bay of Navarino, which has a long history, having been inhabited since Neolithic times. The well-kept Niokastro Castle (1572), one of two castles guarding the strategic Bay of Pylos, features museums, exhibits, a beautiful church, views and more. Admission not included.

Duration: 2 hours

Stop At: Gialova, Gialova, Messenia Region, Peloponnese
Next, we will visit the charming Gialova, a largely touristic village with plenty of restaurants and bars. In addition to the village beach to the south of the pier, a 1.5 kilometre-long sandy protected beach known as Divari starts at Gialova and continues west to Old Navarino castle.
The beach is actually a narrow bar separating the sea waters of the Bay from the brackish waters of Gialova Lagoon, a Natura 2000 site of major importance. It is the only location in Europe where the African chameleon is found. Immediately to the north of Old Navarino castle is the famous Voidokilia Beach.
Next, we will go to our last destination for the day: Olympia, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we will have our one night's accommodation.
Duration: 2 hours

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 8: Archeological site of Olympia (UNESCO) / Patras

Stop At: Olympia, Olympia, Elis Region, West Greece
Today in the morning, we will go to the well-known Olympia, a lovely town on the Peloponnese peninsula, famous for the nearby archaeological site (an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site) of the same name, which was a major Panhellenic religious sanctuary of ancient Greece, where the ancient Olympic Games were held. In addition to temples, there are the remains of all the sports structures erected for the Olympic Games, which were held in Olympia every four years beginning in 776 B.C.
The archaeological site is a major tourist attraction, and has two main museums: one of them devoted to the ancient and modern games while the other one, the Archaeological Museum of Olympia (one of the prime museums of Greece), presents the long history of the most celebrated sanctuary of antiquity, the sanctuary of Zeus, where the Olympic Games were born. Admission not included.
Duration: 5 hours

Stop At: Patras, Patras, Achaea Region, West Greece
After, we will visit Patras and its the impressive Cathedral of Saint Andrew (a place of pilgrimage for Christians from all over the world since the relics of the Apostle Saint Andrew and the cross on which he was martyred are kept in a special shrine here), among other sights. Definitely, Patras is a place where entertainment, history and culture mingle together to create a popular destination.
Duration: 1 hour

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 9: Patras / Rio

Stop At: Patras, Patras, Achaea Region, West Greece
Right after breakfast, we will do our sightseeing in and around the city. We will visit the beautiful medieval Castle of Patras (where you will have breathtaking views of the city and the Ionian Sea). Admission not included.
Duration: 3 hours

Stop At: Rio Castle, Rio 26504 Greece
Next, we will continue our itinerary in Rio, home of а well-kept medieval seafront fortress. This lively town stretches along the southeastern coast of the Gulf of Patras. Besides, you will enjoy splendid views of the famous Rio-Antirrio Bridge from the seafront. Admission not included.

Later, we will take road toward to the beautiful beach town of Nafpaktos where we will have one night's accommodation. After the check-in procedure, you will have time to take a rest or have a stroll independently to see the buzzing atmosphere of the city.
Duration: 1 hour

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 10: Nafpaktos / Messolonghi

Stop At: The Venetian Castle of Nafpaktos, Montain, Naupactus 30300 Greece
Today, we will explore Nafpaktos, one of Greece's most beautiful beach towns, located on a bay on the north coast of the Gulf of Corinth. It will charm you with its traditional character, peaceful atmosphere and lush green landscape.
The city is blessed with a rich and an interesting history: the Battle of Lepanto took place here. The greatest writer in the Spanish language and one of the most famous Spanish writers, Miguel de Cervantes fought in the Battle of Lepanto and you will see a statue in his honor. His novel Don Quixote is the most-translated book in the world, after the Bible. It is considered the best work of fiction ever written.
The picturesque port, the lovely castle built on the top of the hill offering great panoramic views of the majestic Ionian Sea and the blue flag beaches provide the main attraction. Lots of things to see and do! Admission not included.

Duration: 4 hours

Stop At: Missolonghi 302 00, Greece
After our sightseeing in Nafpaktos, we will leave for the peaceful Messolonghi, proud home to a beautiful lagoons complex, classified as a national park. The site is important for breeding, staging and wintering waterbirds and exhibits a considerable degree of endemism in plant and fish species.
The National Park of Messolonghi-Etoliko Lagoons is not only one the most important wetlands in the Mediterranean, protected by the Ramsar Convention and included in the Natura 2000 network, but also one of the richest natural fish production centers of the country.

Duration: 1 hour

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 11: Archaeological Site of Delphi (UNESCO) / Arachova

Stop At: Delphi, Delphi, Phocis Region, Central Greece
Next, we will leave for the impressive Archaeological Site of Delphi, an major UNESCO World Heritage Site, set at the foot of Mount Parnassos. The Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi is home to the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Considered the center of the world in ancient times, Delphi was the cultural and religious hub of the Hellenic civilization. Admissions not included.

Later, we will drive to the modern Delphi, one of the most picturesque Greek towns and located very close to the ancient site of Delphi. After the check-in for one night's accommodation, you are free to explore by yourself this popular tourist destination. There are plenty of restaurants, taverns, bars and shops. You will enjoy the vibe of this lovely place!
Duration: 5 hours

Stop At: Arachova, Arachova, Boeotia Region, Central Greece
While Greece is known as a beach holiday destination, few know that it's also perfect for a green holiday. The lovely Arachova is a great destination! You will quickly see why Greece is much more than just a summer destination.
Duration: 1 hour

No meals included on this day.
Accommodation included: Accommodation in 3 Star Hotels/Pensions, in double/single rooms, with breakfast included.

Day 12: Hosios Loukas (UNESCO) / Livadeia

Stop At: Monastery of Hosios Loukas, Distomo 32005 Greece
This day is the last day of our splendid 19-days tour!
We are going to visit the beautiful walled Monastery of Hosios Loukas, located at the foot of Mountain Parnassos in a picturesque valley teemed with olive trees. It is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art, and has been listed on UNESCO's World Heritage Sites, along with the monasteries of Nea Moni (Chios) and Daphni (Athens). Hosios Loukas is considered extremely important based on its historical value. According to historians, it represents the second golden age of Byzantine art.

Duration: 3 hours

Stop At: Livadia 321 00, Greece
Next, we will drive on to the lovely Livadeia, built amphitheatrically at the feet of mount Elikon. Homer refers to Livadeia with its former name, Mideia. Livadeia is an interesting city since participated in the War of Troy and became famous due to the Oracle of Trofonios Zeus. We will have a nice stroll around the small medieval castle (14th century) and along the Erkynas River.
After spend a nice and relaxing time in this unique Greek city with a history and a mythology that became a source of inspiration for poets, painters and sculptors of all ages, we will leave for Athens, our final destination. There, depend on your schedule and previous request, we will drop you off in your hotel.
Duration: 2 hours

No meals included on this day.
No accommodation included on this day.