Athens, Meteora and Argo Saronic islands 6 days

Upon your arrival in the mythical city of Athens, you will be greeted with a seamless transfer to your hotel in one of our vehicles, where your professional and friendly English-speaking assistant will ensure your comfort and convenience throughout the journey.

Later in the afternoon, at an agreed time, our representative will meet you at the hotel to provide all the essential details of your trip. He will also offer a captivating presentation of the city, sharing insights into its everyday way of life. This is an excellent opportunity for you to ask any questions and have any doubts dispelled, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the rest of your trip.

You will have the remainder of the day free to relax and explore Athens at your own pace, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this remarkable city.

Greca Tip: Extend your stay by adding more nights during the first step of your booking!

Take a seat and enjoy the city of Athens and its suburbs on a comfortable open-top, double-decker bus with this unique 48-hour pass. You can ride the bus as many times as you wish, and it's available in more than 16 languages, including English, Spanish, and Chinese. The bus departs from selected points all over Athens, as well as from the cruise terminal.

In the evening, you can join our English-speaking guide for a leisurely but informative walk through the prettiest districts of Athens, such as Anafiotika, Tiseo, Monastiraki, and Plaka.

Line 1: Athens Line

Step aboard our Athens Discovery line and immerse yourself in the heart of ancient and modern Athens. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Acropolis and Parthenon, stroll through the charming streets of Plaka, and soak in the lively ambiance of Monastiraki and Thisseo. Delve into history at landmarks like Adrian’s Gate, Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Hellenic Parliament. With informative commentary available in multiple languages, you'll gain deep insights into Athens' fascinating past and dynamic present. Reaching again the Acropolis & Parthenon stop you can swich lines and hop on the next bus that will take you to Piraeus, an opportunity for you to check out the coastal part of this beautiful city.

Line 2: Piraeus to Riviera Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Piraeus to the Athenian Riviera with our Piraeus to Riviera Adventure line. Ideal for cruise passengers and leisure seekers alike, this route combines the best of coastal beauty and historical splendor. Explore the bustling port of Piraeus, admire charming ports like Pasalimani and Mikrolimano, and uncover the treasures of the Athenian Riviera. If you arrive by cruise you can begin your tour immediately upon disembarkation from any of the Yellow bus stops specifically located in the vicinity of the cruise terminal. You can hop off again at the Acropolis stop for your interchange to the Riviera and the Beaches Line.

Line 3: Riviera and Beaches Line

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the "Acropolis & Parthenon" stop to explore the Athenian Riviera and beyond. Witness the transformation of this once sparsely populated area into one of Greece's most cosmopolitan regions. From the cultural hub of the Stavros Niarchos Foundation to the bustling Marina Alimou, our Riviera/Beaches Line seamlessly blends history with modernity, offering a delightful mix of traditional charm and contemporary allure.

Don't miss the breathtaking sunset vistas from Marina Flisvou or the opportunity to bask in the sun and swim at the pristine Aghios Kosmas beaches. Upon reaching Glyfada city center, indulge in leisurely strolls through its cosmopolitan neighborhoods, shop in the luxurious department stores and unwind at charming cafes.

Continue your journey to Vouliagmeni, where history meets leisure. Relax on the picturesque Kavouri beach, a beloved destination among locals and visitors alike. Explore the serene Vouliagmeni Lake, a hidden gem of Attica's natural wonders, and treat yourself to a rejuvenating thermal spa experience. As the day draws to a close, savor the magic of a sunset cocktail at one of the captivating bars along the coast or taste the local delicacies in one of the seafront tavernas.

Greca Tip: The Acropolis & Parthenon is the main stop for your interchange, where you can switch to the line of your preference as many times as you wish within these 48 hours, making it a full day of personalised sightseeing in Athens!

Today, you have the opportunity to enjoy a free day in Athens, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for an enchanting experience, you can opt for a captivating one-day cruise to three stunning islands nestled in the picturesque Saronic Gulf.

On the one hand, if you choose to embark on the full-day cruise, you will be conveniently transferred to the port, where your adventure begins. The itinerary includes visits to three remarkable islands: Aegina, renowned for its delightful assortment of pistachios; Poros, celebrated for its scenic beauty; and Hydra, the greenest among these islands, boasting elegant stone mansions, a tranquil atmosphere, and car-free streets.

On board the ship, you can indulge in a delectable lunch accompanied by traditional Greek music and dance. At the end of the day, you will be comfortably transferred back to your hotel, ensuring a seamless experience.

On the other hand, if you decide to spend the day in Athens, you will have the freedom to explore the city's rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks at your own leisurely pace.

Greca Tip: You can add the cruise during step 1/3 while booking. If you do, make sure to try the different varieties of pistachio nuts grown on the famous island of Aegina!

The tour begins at Larissa train station in central Athens, where you will board the bus towards Kalambaka station (Meteora) and promptly depart at 08:00.

Enjoy a picturesque journey through the beautiful Greek countryside and in the afternoon (around 12:45 pm) you will arrive in Kalambaka. Your driver will be waiting for you to welcome and transfer you to your hotel.

In the afternoon, our knowledgeable local guide will lead you on a 4-hour sunset adventure in a VIP minibus, showcasing Meteora's stunning rock formations and panoramic viewpoints.

Upon pickup for the sunset tour, the guide will provide information on the audio guide, which is available in English, Spanish, French, and German.

The exploration will start from one of the six operating monasteries of Meteora: Agios Stefanos, Saint Nicholaos, or Roussanou.

You will visit the oldest standing monument, the Byzantine church of the Virgin Mary, located in the old town of Kalambaka. This church, built in the early Christian period and with ancient marble embedded in its walls, tells the story of the city spanning 27 centuries.

You will then head to the ancient hermitages of Badovas, hear about the stories and legends, and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views.

As the sun begins to set, slowly descending upon the mountain ridges, you will climb to the top of the Meteora rocks, a magical place, for a pure, and uninterrupted experience. Up there, you will feel the night breeze blowing amidst these cliffs and fill your senses with the splendor of nature. This is the perfect way to end a beautiful day at Meteora.

After sunset, you will return to your accommodation and enjoy a good rest.

Dress code in the monasteries: Sleeveless shirts and shorts are not permitted. Visitors can use the skirts, shawls, and trousers available at the entrance of the monasteries if they don’t carry appropriate clothing to cover themselves with.

Greca Tip: Roam the maze-like cobblestone lanes of the old center and shop around for local handmade embroidery, leather sandals, and carved wooden handicrafts.

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel you will start an unforgettable morning tour of Meteora. You will learn which monastery was the first to become established and the reasons behind the monks' decision to attempt to climb the steep rocks and build the monasteries there.  In the panoramic tour that will follow, you will enjoy the incredible views and have the chance to take photos of the awe-inspiring scenery.

After your tour, you will return to Kalambaka train station to catch the 6:00 PM bus back to Athens. You are expected to arrive at Stathmos Larissis by 10:30 PM, concluding your memorable day trip.

Greca Tip: Do not leave this region without trying a variety of home-made pies, a glass of house wine or a few tsipouro shots and the regional pudding (“spatoula”) or some “halva” for a sweet aftertaste.

At the appointed time, a member of our team will drive you to Athens Airport for your international flight back home or to your next destination.

After spending a few fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again soon to create more extraordinary moments that will be etched in your memory forever.

Have a nice trip! Or, as Greeks say: "Kalo taksidi!".

Greca Tip: As a going-away gift you can choose from a wide range of brightly colored flokati rugs, handmade sandals, embroidered covers, and Greek honey or olive oil.