Athens, Meteora, Saronic islands, and Zagreb in 9 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!

In the morning, and after a good breakfast, you will visit Delphi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the center or 'navel' of the ancient world. It was here where the renowned Oracle of Delphi, a counselor of kings and pilgrims, could be found. You cannot miss out on a visit to the museum, which houses the "Bronze Charioteer", a masterpiece of Greek sculpture.

At the end of your Delphi tour, you will descend the slopes of Mount Parnassus and head towards the plains of Thessaly, where the city of Kalambaka is located.  

Upon your arrival in Kalambaka, you will check in at your hotel, have dinner, and rest or you can go out to explore the town’s old picturesque district with its narrow cobblestoned streets and traditional houses. 

Greca Tip: You may also use your free time to visit the Temple of Athena Pronaia at Delphi.

Early in the morning, you will visit Meteora, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988.

In this mysterious landscape, the natural beauty is combined with the compelling presence of the eternal monasteries suspended or "Meteora" on top of the huge rocks. Currently, there are only six in use, five for the male and one for the female monastic community.

Dress code to the Monasteries: Sleeveless clothing and shorts above the knee are not allowed. Skirts, shawls, and trousers are available at the entrance of the Monasteries in case visitors do not have such clothing to cover themselves with.

On the way back to Athens, you will briefly stop at Thermopylae, where you can see the statue of the Spartan King Leonidas, famous for leading the battle against the Persians in 480 BC. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Athens, where we will drop you off at your hotel.

Greca Tip: Take a stroll in Kalambaka's old town and look for handmade wood-carved objects and religious icons as well as home-made sausages, honey, fruit sweets and jams, and the regional pudding “spatoula” or “halva” for a sweet aftertaste.

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!

After a delicious breakfast and at the indicated time, our staff will transfer you to Athens International Airport, to embark on your flight to Zagreb. 

Upon your arrival at the airport of Zagreb, transfer you comfortably and quickly to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax, or if you wish, you can begin enjoying the city at your own pace.

Zagreb, the capital of Croatia is distinguished for its Austro-Hungarian architecture dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. At its center, in "Upper Town", is the Gothic Zagreb Cathedral, with two identical spires, and the 13th-century St. Mark's Church, with a colorful roof. Nearby is the pedestrian Tkalčićeva street, lined with sidewalk cafés. Lower Town has a main square, Ban Jelačić, along with shops, museums, and parks.

Greca Tip: Don't miss a chance to taste the Kulen, one of Croatia's best-known cold-cut delicacies.

After enjoying our breakfast, we will make our way to Ban Jelačić Square, the vibrant heart of Zagreb, where we will meet our local guide at 10:15 AM in front of the iconic horseman statue. From there, we will begin an immersive walking tour through Croatia’s charming capital, a city where centuries of history blend seamlessly with modern urban life.

As we stroll through Zagreb’s picturesque cobblestone streets, we will uncover the stories, traditions, and landmarks that have shaped the city over the centuries. Our journey will take us through Gradec and Kaptol, the two medieval settlements from which Zagreb was born. Perched on opposing hills, these historic districts tell a fascinating story of rivalry, cooperation, and growth that ultimately created the city we know today.

Along the way, we will admire the historic Stone Gate, the beautifully decorated St. Mark’s Church with its colorful tiled roof, the iconic Lotrščak Tower, which still marks noon with its daily cannon shot, the legendary Bloody Bridge, and the magnificent Zagreb Cathedral, among many other remarkable sights.

By the end of the tour, we will have gained a deeper understanding of Zagreb’s rich heritage and vibrant culture, leaving us well prepared to continue exploring the city at our own pace. At the end of the day, we will return to the hotel to relax and enjoy the rest of the evening.

Greca Tip: Take some time to sample traditional štrukli, Zagreb’s most beloved local specialty. This comforting pastry dish can be enjoyed either baked or boiled and is a true taste of Croatian cuisine.

After a delicious breakfast, we will have the day off to continue exploring Zagreb and its surroundings at our own pace.

Optionally, we will have the possibility of taking an excursion to the Plitvice National Park recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1979 with our accompanying guide who will tell us all its secrets. Plitvice is known as the Paradise of Waters since it has 16 small lakes and multiple waterfalls and streams of spectacular beauty. Hopefully, in addition to enjoying this beech forest, we will be able to see lynx, deer and tawny owls.

You can also choose a walking tour of Zagreb, where you will explore its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and attractions such as the Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark's Square.

Greca Tip: In Zagreb, you can try "stukli", a savory puff pastry stuffed with cheese.

You will have breakfast at the hotel, and then transfer to Zagreb airport.

After spending some fantastic days with Greca, we hope to see you again to enjoy some wonderful moments that will remain forever in your memory.

Bon voyage! Or, as you say yourself, "Dobro putovanje!"

Greca Tip: The most common souvenirs include wines, spirits, oils and ties!, a Croatian invention.

After enjoying a tasty breakfast, you will begin your tour of the city at Ban Jelacic Square, from where you will travel through the past and present of Zagreb.

The first stop will be at the historic entrance to the old town: the 13th-century Stone Gate. You will visit one of the oldest pharmacies in the world, which has been continuously operating for almost 700 years.

The next stop will be at St. Mark's Square with the iconic St. Mark's Church. You will enter Lotrščak Tower just in time to see the cannon being prepared to fire. Get ready for a spectacle because exactly at noon, the cannon is fired right in front of us!

Now that everyone is awake, it's time to ride one of the shortest funiculars in the world: the famous Zagreb Funicular! With over 100 years of history, the funicular will slowly take us to the city center while offering spectacular views. Just around the corner, we will enter the tunnels built during World War II.

As we walk through the tunnels, you may hear echoes of past times and even see the original signs on the walls. Upon leaving the tunnels, we go even further back in time: to Bloody Bridge, a site of many conflicts during Zagreb's turbulent past centuries.

Dolac, the city's largest green market, is our next stop. Colors, aromas, and the people who visit it create a lively and charming sight. Near the market is the grand Zagreb Cathedral, the largest church in Croatia!

You will end the tour in the same place where you started: at Zagreb's main square. Then, you will have the rest of the day free to continue exploring the city at your own pace.

Greca Tip: In Zagreb, you can try "stukli," a savory puff pastry filled with cheese.