Ancient cultures and modern day life meet on this five-day exploration of Greece's capital city. Immerse yourself in the history of the Golden Age with a visit to the Acropolis and the Parthenon. Stroll the historic cobblestone streets of Athens' many neighborhoods, learn about the ancient rites of the Eleusinian Mysteries, and relax by the sea on the Athens Riviera.

Highlights

  • Visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon 
  • Stroll through Athens' historic streets and charming neighborhoods  
  • Slow down and relax on the Athens Riviera 
  • Immerse yourself in the history of the Eleusinian Mysteries 
  • Take on Athens' vibrant nightlife

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Welcome to Athens Athens
Day 2 Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum Athens
Day 3 Sounio and the Athens Riviera Athens
Day 4 Eleusis Athens
Day 5 Depart Athens  

Detailed Itinerary 

Day 1: Welcome to Athens

The architecture is romantic and the weather is dreamy - so get out and enjoy the city on foot! 
The architecture is romantic and the weather is dreamy — so get out and enjoy the city on foot! 

Welcome to Greece! Meet your guide at the airport and make your way to your hotel. After settling in, head to the neighborhood of Plaka for a walk to stretch your legs. This charming quarter is the oldest in the city, and is famous for its historic cobblestone streets, iconic two-story houses, and unique storefronts. 

After exploring the area to your heart's content, grab dinner at one of the many restaurants that dot the streets and enjoy the view of the Acropolis on the hill above you. Head to the hotel for some rest, or stay out and enjoy the buzzing nightlife! 

Day 2: Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum

The Acropolis, lit up at night, makes a stunning contrast to the dark sky behind it 
The Acropolis at night 
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You have a busy day ahead of you, so make sure to get an early start. Begin your day by meeting your guide in the lobby of the hotel, then head to the Acropolis for a tour. Visit the Parthenon before continuing on to the ultra-sleek Acropolis Museum, where you'll see exquisite ancient artifact displays and learn about the history of the Acropolis. 

Stop for lunch at the museum and enjoy the sights before descending back into the bustling streets of the city. Mingle with the locals as you stroll through Monastiraki, Psyrri, and Kerameikos. Stop for coffee or street food, or pause for drinks at one of the many streetside open-air tavernas along the way! 

Day 3: Sounio and the Athens Riviera

Athens Riviera
Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind as you travel south to the Athens Riviera 

Today, leave the busy city behind when you head south to the stylish Athens Riviera. Enjoy the slower pace of life in this relaxed and casual region of Greece. Stroll next to the sea alongside swaying palm trees and enjoy magnificent views of the coast. Visit the breezy neighborhood of Glyfada and soak in the culture before stopping by for a refreshing dip in Vouliagmeni Lake.  

Enjoy lunch at a seaside tavern, then continue along the coast to the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio, an imposing monument with captivating sea views. Stay until sunset for a spectacular show! 

Day 4: The Eleusinian Mysteries

Greece is full of fascinating architectural ruins - take your time and explore them all!
Greece is full of fascinating architectural ruins — take your time and explore them all!

Travel northwest of Athens and spend your day discovering why Eleusis was chosen as Europe's Cultural Capital for 2021. Explore this city of contrasts as you learn more about how Greece's ancient history blends with modern-day culture in this exciting and varied region. 

Enjoy a tour of the fascinating architecture and learn about the ancient religious rites of the Eleusinian Mysteries during the day, then relax at a seaside cafe for a delicious Mediterranean dinner at night. There's something for everyone to enjoy in this part of Greece!

Day 5: Depart Athens

Ruins of the Roman agora alongside an open-air restaurant
Ruins of the Roman agora alongside an open-air restaurant

It's time to say goodbye to Greece! After your final breakfast in Athens, you'll be picked up and transferred to the airport for your return trip home.