Sites of the northern Peloponnese
After exploring Athens we head south into the Peloponnese to Nafplion. A worthwhile visit in its own right it provides the perfect base from which to visit Epidavros and its stunning 4th century BC theatre. From here we head south to Mycenae which, myth tells us, was founded by Perseus but which is more popularly associated with Agamemnon, then travel on to Areopolis and Deep Mani.

Adventures in Mani
The Mani is the southernmost peninsula of the mainland, a land of dramatic mountain vistas, tower houses, proud people and strong traditions. We have time to explore the caves at Diros by boat and there's time to walk to the port-village of Limeni just 3 km away. There is the opportunity to make a full day trip to Monemvassia, the incredible Byzantine seaport perched eyrie-like on a monolithic rock and reached only by crossing a causeway once constructed of swaying wooden bridges.

Pylos, Olympia & Delphi
We explore the Byzantine ghost-town of Mystras, a highlight of any visit to the region, and travel on to Pylos where we can make optional trips around the Bay of Navarino before continuing to Methoni to visit a 15th C. Venetian fortress. For many our final two visits are the highlight of our journey as we spend time exploring the magnificent and surprisingly extensive site Olympia, home of the first games in 776 B.C. and Delphi, whose oracle guided the ancients and whose Temple of Athena is an easily recognizable icon to lovers of Greek history.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Athens. 2 In Athens; orientation walk; PM free. 3 Bus to Nafplion; walking tour of town. 4 Visit to Epidavros; return Nafplion. 5 Drive to Mycenae for visit and on to Areopolis. 6 & 7 Free; optional excursions to Diros Cave and Monemvassia. 8 Explore Mani Peninsula including Vathia fortified village, Cape Tenaro, and Marmari Beach. 9 To Mystras for included visit; continue to Pylos. 10 Optional boat trip to the Bay of Navarino; optional trip to Methoni to visit Venetian fortress. 11 Drive to Olympia for included visit. 12 Drive to Delphi for visit. 13 Finish sightseeing at Delphi; drive to Athens. 14 End Athens.

Accommodation: 13nts hotel; 13 breakfasts included.
Transport: Charter & public bus/On foot/Optional boat trips.
Comment: A varied sightseeing trip which will appeal to those interested in classical Greek and Byzantine history and which includes the most impressive cultural and archaeological sites of the Peloponnese. Exploring ancient sites on foot calls for comfortable and sturdy footwear.
Group: Approx. 16 to 20.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader plus driver.
Trip Reference: GX