GREECE: FOOTSTEPS THROUGH TIME ITINERARY:
Day 1 — Depart the U.S.
Depart the U.S. for Athens and arrive the next day.
Day 2 — Athens, Greece
Your home for the next week is Athens—a cosmopolitan, lively
city built around magnificent classical monuments and bathed in
dazzling Mediterranean light. This evening meet fellow travelers
before enjoying a typical Greek dinner. (D)
Day 3 — Acropolis and tour of Athens
A morning city tour introduces you to Athens and features
the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Tomb of the Unknown
Soldier, and the Olympic Stadium. Climb to the top of the
Acropolis, the spectacular rock plateau in the center of the
city containing the magnificent Parthenon and the Temple of
Athena Nike. After lunch, learn about the antiquities at the
National Archaeological Museum from a curator, followed by a
guided visit of the extensive collection of classical artifacts.
(B)
Day 4 — Delphi and Arachova
This morning travel outside Athens to the sacred city of
Delphi. It was here, at the Oracle of Delphi, that ancient
Greeks consulted the priestess of Apollo on everything from
agriculture to military strategy. Make your own trek along the
Sacred Way with a local expert to see the Sanctuary of Apollo,
the Doric Temple, and the impressive theater. The site also
contains a wonderful museum featuring art excavated at the site.
En route back to Athens, stop at the picturesque mountain
village of Arachova, famous for its wine, cheese, hand-woven
carpets, and quilts. (B,D)
Day 5 — Saronic Islands Cruise
Set sail on the sparkling Aegean for a day trip to the
picturesque Saronic Islands. Your first port of call is Aegina
Island, the largest in the chain, known for its important
archaeological sites, charming villages, and gorgeous beaches.
Next, visit Poros, known as the "green island" because of the
many pine and lemon trees that dot the landscape. Enjoy lunch on
board ship before exploring the lovely island of Hydra, with its
red-roofed architecture and quiet pedestrian streets. (B,L)
Day 6 — Mycenae, Nauplion, and Epidaurus
Today's journey begins with a breathtaking drive across the
Peloponnese Peninsula to the ancient city of Mycenae. Here a
local guide accompanies you through the incredible excavations,
including the 3,000 year-old Lion Gate, palace, and royal tombs.
Stopping at the beautiful fishing town of Nafplion, enjoy some
time at leisure to explore this historic old city overlooking
the Argolic Gulf. Later, travel to the legendary healing and
cultural center of Epidaurus, which dates back to the 3rd
century B.C. The magnificent outdoor theater of Epidaurus is
considered one of the purest examples of ancient Greek
architecture. (B)
Day 7 — Cape Sounion
A scenic coastal drive takes you to Cape Sounion, site of
one of the most significant ancient sanctuaries—the Temple of
Poseidon. Perched high atop the cliffs and overlooking the
brilliant blue waters of the Aegean, the temple is a timeless
tribute to the beauty and power of the sea. Enjoy some time to
explore this breathtaking area which also includes the ruins of
the temple to Athena. Stop by a local winery to tour their
facilities and sample their delicious products before returning
to Athens for the evening. (B)
Day 8 — Athens
Enjoy your last day at leisure to pursue your own interests
in this captivating city. Choose from one of Athens' many
museums and galleries or explore the bustling activity of the
Plaka and Monastiraki districts. Or if a relaxing day by the
pool is more your style, enjoy unparalleled views of the
Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill from your hotel's rooftop swimming
pool. This evening, celebrate the many delightful and
fascinating experiences of your journey during a special
farewell dinner featuring traditional Greek cuisine, dancing,
and wine at a local taverna in the Plaka district. (B,D)
Day 9 — Depart for the U.S.
Depart for the U.S. with wonderful memories of the ancient
treasures and modern wonders of Greece. (B)
Back to SMITHSONIAN JOURNEYS - Menu Page
All information is property of Smithsonian
Journeys Travel Adventures. Certain restrictions apply. All
rates in U.S. dollars. Prices, savings offers, and other terms
subject to change without notice. Images, logos, photographs
etc. on this page is copyrighted by Smithsonian Journeys Travel
Adventures. All such copyright material is acknowledged. These
pages are not endorsed or supported by Smithsonian Journeys
Travel Adventures in any way. All information presented is based
on promotional material provided by Smithsonian Journeys Travel
Adventures. It is presumed to be accurate and is subject
to change without notice.
Call toll-free 1-877-306-5595
|
Few places on earth can rival Greece's blend of intriguing
history, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality. Settle into
your centrally located hotel in Athens for a week and discover
the rich variety of world-famous historic sites in and around
this ancient city. During expert tours in around Athens, explore
the Acropolis, visit the Temple of Poseidon, and join an
excursion to Delphi. A memorable cruise of the Saronic Islands
and a wine-tasting at a local vineyard add to your understanding
and enjoyment of this vital culture.
|
2008 DEPARTURE
DATES & RATES |
Land Only Rates Per
Person:
|
Departures |
Double |
Single |
|
March 06, 2008
|
$1,749
|
|
|
April 03, 2008
|
$1,849
|
$2,649
|
|
May 15, 2008
|
$1,999 |
$2,649
|
|
June 26, 2008
|
$1,999 |
$2,649
|
|
July 10, 2008
|
$1,899
|
$2,649
|
|
October 09, 2008
|
$1,999
|
$2,649 |
|
April 23, 2009
|
$1,999
|
$2,649
|
|
May 07, 2009 |
$2299 |
|
|
July 09, 2009 |
$2199 |
|
|
September 24, 2009 |
$2299 |
|
|
November 05, 2009 |
$2199 |
|
|
April 15, 2010 |
$2299 |
|
|
April 22, 2010 |
$2299 |
|
Optional Pre-Tour Extension in Athens:
Enjoy one extra night in Athens starting at $150 per person,
double occupancy.
|
IMPORTANT INFORMATION |
- Sample land and air rate is subject to availability and
may vary by airline, flight number, or routing.
- Itinerary featured is for May 2008-April 2009.
- The days and order of sightseeing may change to best
utilize your time on tour.
- Our itineraries include many activities and may consist
of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at
times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean
accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially
in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing
sturdy walking shoes. In addition, temperatures on this tour
can be very high, so bring adequate sun protection.
- If you have not purchased air through Smithsonian
Journeys Travel Adventures and wish to purchase transfers,
you must transfer at our pre-scheduled times.
- Single accommodations are limited and on a first-come,
first-served basis.
|
EDUCATIONAL
HIGHLIGHTS |
- Enjoy exclusive presentations by expert local historians
and archaeologists to learn about the ancient history of
cosmopolitan Athens and the rich culture of the beautiful
countryside and islands.
- Admire the magnificent collection at the National
Archaeological Museum and enjoy an insightful presentation
on the representation of the human figure in Greek
antiquity.
- Learn about the history and culture of contemporary
Greece during an exclusive lecture by a professor of Social
Sciences and Humanities at New York College in Athens.
|
TOUR MAP |
|
|
