Ancient Greece: Athens, Delphi & Tolo
Join us on a fascinating 7-night Escorted Tour that takes you deep into the heart of the Mediterranean’s history. This Ancient Greece tour is designed for Irish holidaymakers who appreciate a mix of structured discovery and well-earned relaxation. Your journey begins in Athens, one of the oldest cities on the planet, where over three millennia of history are etched into every stone. We start by exploring the Acropolis, the magnificent hilltop citadel that has watched over the city for thousands of years. You will have the chance to stand before the Parthenon and the Erechtheion Temple, marvelling at the architectural feats achieved by the ancients.
After immersing ourselves in the capital, we head to Delphi on a full-day excursion. Known as the navel of the ancient world, this site sits on the slopes of Mount Parnassus and offers incredible views alongside its ruins. We will visit the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Museum, which houses some of the most significant archaeological finds in the region, including the bronze Charioteer of Delphi.
The second half of our holiday takes us to the Peloponnese peninsula and the charming village of Tolo. This seaside base offers a different pace of life, with peaceful bays and turquoise waters. En route, we stop at the Corinth Canal, an engineering marvel that connects the Saronic Gulf with the Gulf of Corinth. From Tolo, we explore the Argolis region, visiting the ancient city of Mycenae and the breathtaking amphitheatre at Epidaurus, world-famous for its acoustics. We also spend time in Nafplio, a town known for its elegant Venetian architecture, colourful streets, and beautiful harbour views.
One of the highlights of our stay in Tolo is a boat trip to the island of Spetses. Travelling by sea taxi, we will discover an island defined by its traditional Greek charm and grand mansions. With plenty of leisure time included, you can choose to wander the local markets, sample fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna, or simply relax by the sea. Throughout the trip, your expert local guide will be on hand to provide insights and advice, ensuring you get the very most out of your Greek adventure. This holiday offers fantastic value, combining expert-led excursions with the freedom to explore at your own pace. Please note that some walking on hilly or uneven terrain is required to see the historic sites.
What if there is an emergency during the holiday?
Do Irish holidaymakers need a visa for Greece?
Will I be met at the airport in Athens?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights from Dublin to Athens
- All airport transfers and ground transport in Greece
- 7 nights’ accommodation in 4-star hotels (3 nights in Athens, 4 nights in Tolo)
- 7 breakfasts and 4 evening meals
- Guided tour of Athens and the Acropolis including the Parthenon
- Full-day guided excursion to the ruins of Ancient Delphi and its museum
- Visit to the impressive Corinth Canal
- Guided excursion to the Argolis region visiting Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio
- Boat taxi trip to the traditional Greek island of Spetses
- Services of an expert local guide throughout the holiday
Itinerary
1Arrival in Athens+
Upon landing at Athens Airport, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel. Once you have checked in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax and settle in. You might choose to take a short stroll to the National Archaeological Museum for a gentle introduction to the ancient treasures we will be exploring during your stay.
2Discovering the Acropolis on your Ancient Greece tour+
Today we dive into the history of the capital with a guided excursion. We will visit the iconic Acropolis, a hilltop citadel that houses the Parthenon and the Erechtheion Temple. We also stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, the world's only all-marble stadium and home of the first modern Olympics. The afternoon is free for you to explore the charming Plaka district or watch the changing of the guards at the House of Parliament.
3Full-Day Excursion to Ancient Delphi+
We travel beyond the city today to visit Delphi, one of the most important archaeological sites in the country. Our guided tour takes us through the ruins of the Temple of Apollo and includes entry to the Delphi Museum to see famous artefacts like the bronze Charioteer. We return to Athens in the evening, passing through the beautiful rolling countryside of Central Greece.
4Corinth Canal and Transfer to Tolo+
Enjoy a free morning in Athens for some final sightseeing or a traditional Greek coffee in a local café. In the afternoon, we begin our three-hour journey to the seaside village of Tolo. On the way, we stop at the Corinth Canal, a remarkable feat of engineering connecting the Saronic Gulf with the Gulf of Corinth. We arrive in Tolo in time for dinner at our hotel.
5Exploring the Argolis Region+
A full day of discovery awaits in the Argolis region. We begin at the ancient city of Mycenae before continuing to Epidaurus to see the massive ancient amphitheatre, famous for its perfect acoustics. Later, we visit the elegant town of Nafplio to admire its Venetian architecture and colourful harbour before returning to Tolo.
6A Day of Leisure by the Sea+
Today is entirely yours to enjoy the relaxed pace of life in Tolo. This charming fishing village is perfect for a leisurely walk along the seafront or a quiet afternoon on the beach. Your guide will be available to recommend the best local tavernas where you can sample fresh seafood and watch the world go by.
7Boat Trip to Spetses Island+
We head to the coast at Costa today to board a sea taxi for a short trip to the beautiful island of Spetses. Known for its traditional mansions and car-free streets, the island offers a wonderful look at authentic Greek island life. You will have time to explore the local shops and relax by the clear azure waters before we return to Tolo in the afternoon.
8Departure from Athens+
After breakfast, we say goodbye to the Peloponnese and transfer back to Athens Airport for our return flight to Ireland, taking home wonderful memories of historic sites and warm Greek hospitality.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Mar 2027 | Twin | €1,649 | Enquire Now |
| 13 Apr 2027 | Twin | €1,579 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Apr 2027 | Twin | €1,619 | Enquire Now |
| 04 May 2027 | Twin | €1,699 | Enquire Now |
| 10 May 2027 | Twin | €1,729 | Enquire Now |
| 18 May 2027 | Twin | €1,699 | Enquire Now |
| 13 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,679 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,699 | Enquire Now |
| 04 Oct 2027 | Twin | €1,799 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TD
