Step 1
Nafplio
Situated on the Peloponnese coast with its impressive beaches, Nafplio is a city of exceptional beauty with neoclassical buildings. With its old quarters, large squares and tiled roofs, Nafplio is a veritable living museum city.
Between the mainland and the Greek islands, discover Greece from every angle.
Are you hesitating between a self-guided tour of the Peloponnese and a stay in the Cyclades? This trip to Greece is for you, because it combines both aspects!
We’ve designed this combination to satisfy the cultural desires of some and the seaside desires of others. Over five days in the Peloponnese, you’ll discover Greece’s most emblematic sites: Mycenae, Olympia, Delphi, Athens… Then take the ferry to Paros for three days of island exploration, relaxation and beach time. But fortunately, today, a stay in Paros is still a guarantee of authenticity. Paros has preserved its traditional way of life and is surrounded by beautiful beaches.
Regions visited on this trip to Greece: Santorini & the Cyclades | Athens & Peloponnese
N.B.: This trip to Greece is an individual, tailor-made tour, to be personalized with our specialist Greece advisors.
Step 1
Situated on the Peloponnese coast with its impressive beaches, Nafplio is a city of exceptional beauty with neoclassical buildings. With its old quarters, large squares and tiled roofs, Nafplio is a veritable living museum city.
Step 2
As the cradle of ancient Greece, you'll need more than a single visit to discover Olympia's surprises. Marvel at Praxiteles' famous Hermes, and imagine the presence of one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world: the 13.5-metre-high gold-and-ivory statue of Zeus.
Step 3
Meet the gods at Delphi, the "navel of the world" according to Zeus. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1972, the archaeological site of Delphi boasts a prestigious site not to be missed: the time of Apollo, the god of light.
Étapes 4 & 6
The heart of ancient Greece and the country's current capital, Athens will charm you with its history-filled culture, ancient architecture, exceptional museums and lively neighborhoods.
Step 5
Cette grande île est réputée pour ses belles plages de sable mais aussi ses spots de planche et de kite.
Étapes 4 & 6
The heart of ancient Greece and the country's current capital, Athens will charm you with its history-filled culture, ancient architecture, exceptional museums and lively neighborhoods.
Pick up your rental car at the airport. And you’re off on your mini-tour of the Peloponnese.
On your way to Nafplio, you start with a short stop to admire the Corinth Canal. A sublime, rather narrow waterway carved out of the rock. Then you’re back on the road, arriving in the mythical lands of Argolida. Your tour of the region begins at the ancient site of Mycenae. A world cultural heritage, the site dates back to the Bronze Age and boasts sumptuous megalithic monuments. The cradle of civilization, Mycenae inspired Homer’s stories, in which he described it as a city “rich in gold”, suggesting its greatness. For your information, 7 centuries separate the cultural site of Mycenae from the creation of the Acropolis!
Arrive in Nafplio in the afternoon. Then let yourself try by a balade to the light of the sun couchant, before you sit in a traditional restaurant near the port.
Distance covered: 130 km – 2 hrs drive
Overnight in a downtown hotel in Nafplio
Today’s excursion takes you to Epidaurus, where you can admire one of the finest surviving ancient theaters. Entirely built two centuries apart, the acoustics have not been altered in the slightest. Test it for yourself: even in the last row, spectators don’t miss a beat. And to top it all off, the theater is surrounded by nature. It’s even said that a team of archaeologists has rediscovered the site hidden by the pine forest.
In July and August, performances are given, offering spectators an extraordinary experience.
Don’t miss the ruins of the sanctuary of Asclepius. The god of medicine, he was often depicted with a staff around which a snake was coiled. Many came to make offerings to this god in the hope of overcoming illness. Today, although the site has been devastated, the myth still lives on. If you wish, you can learn more about the god Asclepius in the museum.
For lunch, fresh fish awaits you at Palea Epidauros, where you can find a traditional restaurant facing the sea.
In the afternoon, we return to Nafplio where, if you haven’t already done so, you can visit the Venetian fort overlooking the city. Even more impressive is the view from the top of the fort. A veritable panorama of the city and its surroundings awaits you. But we’re not going to lie to you, this view comes at a price: 900 steps to climb.
Distance covered: 80 km – 1h30 drive
Overnight in Nafplio, staying in the same accommodation as the day before
At the start of the day, it’s a 2h30 drive to Olympia. But rest assured, you’ll cross a sublime mountain road offering incredible views over the valleys, passes and mountains of the northern Peloponnese. In winter, the scenery is even more beautiful.
Arrive in Olympia in the early afternoon. The extensive archaeological site lies at the foot of Mount Kronion. As you explore the ruins, you’ll become aware of the religious aspect of the Olympic Games, originally held in honour of Zeus. During your visit, you’ll see the remains of the Temple of Zeus, the Temple of Hera, the Stadium and the Palestra, where young men trained in athletics. The colonnade of the Palestra courtyard is still visible, leaving the rest to our imagination.
Distance covered: 180km – 2h30 drive
Overnight in a hotel in the modern district of Olympia
Today we head north towards Patras. You cross the new bridge over the Isthmus of Corinth, then take some lovely little roads offering a landscape between sea and mountains.
Arrival at Delphi, still renowned today. Long considered the center of the world, Delphi was a major pilgrimage site. It was here that the oracle of Apollo, which foretold the future and announced prophecies, was located. Situated high above a valley, the site offers beautiful panoramic views. Allow around three hours for the entire site.
Distance covered: 250 km – 3h30 drive
Overnight in a hotel in Delphi
From Delphi you return to Athens to take the ferry to the Greek islands the following morning. On the way back, you’ll pass the foot of Mount Parnassus, which rises to over 2,450 meters above sea level. On the way, we recommend a stop at the Hosios Loukas monastery. Built in Byzantine Greece, this hermitage lies in the heart of the Phococci mountains.
Arriving in Athens, drop off your car in the city center before transferring to your hotel. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the modern districts of Athens, such as Plaka and Monastiriki, and above all to visit the famous Acropolis.
Distance covered: 200 km – 2h30 drive
Night in hotel in Athens
Transfer to the port of Piraeus and embark for a 4-hour ferry crossing to Paros. A mini-cruise in the heart of the Cyclades. Arrive in the afternoon and check into your hotel. First walk on the beach to stretch your legs…
One of the largest islands in the Cyclades, Paros has preserved its traditions and old-world charm despite its strong tourist appeal. The island is still very agricultural, and fishing is one of its major activities. It’s impossible not to be tempted by a dish of fresh fish during your stay in the heart of the Cyclades.
There’s plenty to do during your stay. These include the beautiful beaches typical of the Greek islands, the Venetian fort of Parikia, the basilica of Panagia Ekatonpiliani, the oldest church in Greece, the Byzantine Empire churches of Naoussa and the monastery of Longovarda. You can also go hiking in the “butterfly valley” or follow the trails starting from Lefkès. We also recommend the pretty port of Naoussa, one of the most beautiful in the Cyclades.
These two days can be organized to suit your mood and your desires: hiking, lounging, culture, gastronomy… Paros has something to satisfy all your travel desires.
Estimated 4-hour ferry trip.
Last moments on the island before taking the ferry back to Athens. There are several rotations a day, especially in high season. Last visit to Athens depending on your arrival time.
Overnight in a hotel in Athens.
Today, you’re enjoying the last few moments in the capital before your departure!
See you soon!
– Just outside Athens, we recommend Cape Sounion and its temple. It’s a real favorite, and as the sun sets, it’s bound to fill you with wonder.
– As for cultural sites, if your trip takes place during the high season, we strongly recommend that you come as early as possible or, conversely, as late as possible. That way, you’ll avoid the heat peaks and the crowds of tourists.
– As for gastronomy in Greece, we can’t praise enough the delights of this cuisine prepared with fresh produce and olive oil in particular.
– For an aperitif, we recommend you share a mezze and sample a variety of flavors. And something to drink? Accompany it with a small glass of Ouzo or Tsipouros, the local spirit.
– Don’t forget to bring your swimsuit, sun cream and something to cover your head. The Greek sun is unforgiving in high season.
– If you want to go hiking in Paros, don’t forget your walking shoes.
Visit the archaeological sites and museums of Epidaurus and Mycenae.
Immerse yourself in the heart of the historical patrimony with an English-speaking guide.
Enjoy an unforgettable experience at two extraordinary archaeological sites: Epidaurus and Mycenae. A guide will explain everything you need to know about these incredibly well-preserved monuments!
The ancient theater of Epidaurus and Mycenae, the city of Agamemnon, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, give you the dizzying sensation of being truly immersed in the Greek world. With an English-speaking guide who knows their history, you won't miss a thing at these extraordinary historical sites.
Explore Epidaurus, its theater and sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. At Mycenae, discover the Lioness Gate and the royal tombs. This is where the Trojan War began!
Visit the archaeological site of the Museum of Ancient Olympia
Immerse yourself in history
Discover Olympia, one of the centers of Greek mythology and history. Accompanied by an English-speaking guide, you will meet the gods and athletes of ancient Greece!
Your guide will take you through the history of the cradle of Olympism. An expert on the site, he'll share his knowledge with you as you explore the archaeological site and museum of Ancient Olympia. Visit the Temples of Zeus and Hera, the Altar of the Olympic Flame, the Stadium, the Archaeological Museum and more. Thanks to your guide, you won't miss a thing at this extraordinary site, from its most famous statues (such as Praxiteles' Hermes) to its most secret treasures!
Nafplio Old Town Historical Tour
Private tour with English-speaking guide
Would you like to know all about Nafplio, one of the most beautiful cities in the Peloponnese? Your English speaking guide will show you around this amazing city that is part Greek, part Eastern and part Western!
This guided tour through the maze of picturesque alleys of Nafplio's Old Town will help you understand this city of mysterious charm. Visit its archaeological sites and most popular monuments and look for buildings built by the Franks, Venetians and Ottomans. Inhale the typical scents of Nafplio through basil and jasmine. In just two hours of fascinating discovery, you'll learn all there is to know about the city founded by Poseidon's son!
