Signature: Greece’s Ancient History of Athens, Meteora & the Peloponnese

You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.

Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.

Discover the intersection of ancient legend and architectural achievement during this expert-led dialogue on Egypt's past and present.

Explore the ruins, located in the heart of modern Athens, which were once the site of the marketplace in ancient times. It was the political, cultural, social and economic centre of the ancient world, where the likes of Socrates, Plato and affluent Athenians used to gather to discuss philosophy, political issues, exchange gossip and trade.

Take time to relax at Shedia Home, a non-profit cafe providing purpose and employment to over 150 individuals experiencing homelessness in Athens. You'll enjoy a drink while one of Shedia's guides recounts the recent history of Greece's financial crisis which has made initiatives like Shedia even more important for those who have found themselves without work and shelter. Your stop here supports their programs - including the cafe, art program, and magazine - all dedicated to supporting the community.

Visit the Acropolis Museum to see some of the artifacts and artworks discovered during excavations of the Acropolis. With over 25, 000 square meters (82,020 ft) the museum is architecturally as interesting as the collection. The museum is built over an archaeological dig site and there is an impressive view of the Acropolis from the third floor.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Discover the wonders of Meteora through a visit to St. Stephen's Monastery and the historic Church of the Virgin Mary, renowned for its 11th-century artistry. After, take a short walk to the secluded Hermit Caves and take in unparalleled panoramic views of the entire landscape.

Uncover the "why and how" behind the incredible cliffside retreats of Meteora. This session explores the intersection of natural wonder and human perseverance, revealing how these ancient stone summits became a sanctuary for the soul.

Led by a professional archaeologist, this immersive journey bridges the gap between prehistory and local tradition through an exploration of the region's most significant sites. You will uncover the ancient secrets of the Theopetra Prehistoric Cave and enjoy an exclusive visit to the secluded Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosios, gaining rare insight into the area’s long human history. This cultural experience is complemented by a series of authentic culinary encounters, from traditional village snacks to a full taverna lunch featuring classic regional specialties.

Take part in a truffle hunt with a local guide and their trained dogs. You'll follow the dogs as they use their sense of smell to locate truffles buried in the forest; a rewarding experience that connects you with nature and the joy of the hunt. Then, enjoy a meal featuring the famous truffles.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Experience the architectural splendor of the UNESCO-listed Hosios Loukas monastery, a premier masterpiece of Middle Byzantine art and architecture nestled on the slopes of Mount Helicon.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Orient yourself to the dramatic setting of Delphi with an Expedition Leader led walk through its historic streets and cliffside pathways. This brief tour offers a helpful overview of the town's geography and the stunning natural scenery that has inspired visitors for millennia.

Visit the ancient city of Delphi, at the base of Mount Parnassos. The UNESCO World Heritage Site includes ancient buildings like treasuries, a stadium, a gymnasium, an altar, hippodrome and the Temple of Apollo.

Capture the iconic image of Delphi with a brief photo stop at the Temple of Athena Pronaia, home to the famous circular Tholos. This visit offers a stunning perspective of the sanctuary’s graceful columns set against the dramatic, steep backdrop of the Parnassus mountain range.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, lies in a lush valley filled with symbolic ruins and captivating landscapes. Wander through the ancient olive groves to see remains of the Temple of Hera (today the starting point of the Olympic torch relay), the Temple of Zeus (a model for the development of Doric architecture) and the great Stadium of Olympia. Visit the nearby Archaeological Museum, whose collection spans over 3,500 years of Greek history. Here, find sculptures depicting Hermes and the Infant Dionysus, Zeus and Ganymede, and Nike of Paionios.

Go behind the scenes for an exclusive visit to a family-owned estate, where you will meet the owners and discover the time-honored secrets of harvesting and pressing olives. After an expert-led tasting, enjoy a private al fresco dinner featuring regional specialties paired with local wine or beer in a beautifully branded, intimate setting.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Take a short Expedition Leader led orientation walk through the elegant streets of Nafplio, Greece’s first modern capital, to discover its unique blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Neoclassical charm.

Take a short ferry ride to this Venetian landmark - a medieval castle off the coast of Nafpilo. A visit here offers visitors the chance to explore the castle's rooms, and a great views of the city on shore.

Join a local guide and explore the highlights of Nafplio's Old Town, from its charming alleys to its impressive landmarks. The walking tour offers perfect views of Bourtzi Castle and Palamidi Fortress, giving you a great overview of the city's unique history.

This expert-led dialogue offers a deep dive into the legendary foundations of Mycenae and its storied connection to the Trojan War.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Visit the famous Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and archaeological site with spectacular ruins and a treasury. Once a major settlement of Greek civilization, Mycenae was occupied during the Neolithic period around 4000 BC, and is linked to the mythology in Homer’s epics the Iliad and the Odyssey.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Experience an exclusive National Geographic Signature moment with a private visit to the Bairaktaris Winery, where you will meet the owners for a personal tour of their storied estate and cellars. This intimate encounter concludes with a guided wine tasting and sampling of local flavours, offering a sophisticated deep dive into the heritage of Greek viticulture.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

The evening is yours to explore Nafplio's vibrant waterfront and hidden squares, offering the perfect opportunity to browse the town's artisan boutiques.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Explore the ancient sanctuary of Asklepios, a UNESCO site and the birthplace of organized medicine. See the ruins of the world's first recorded hospital where ancient Greeks sought cures through a combination of physical and spiritual healing, and then the famous, well-preserved ancient theater, still in use today.

Take a quick break at the Corinth Canal, a marvel of engineering, connecting the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf in Greece.

Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Delve into the heart of ancient Greece with a guided exploration of its most iconic artifacts and artistic milestones within the nation's premier archaeological institution.

You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.