Signature: Greece's Ancient History of Athens, Meteora & the Peloponnese Adventure Tour

Voyage through the classical heart of Greece, from the Acropolis of Athens to the cliff-top monasteries of Meteora. Walk in the footsteps of Olympians, hunt for truffles in ancient forests, and connect with local artisans. Guided by experts, trace the origins of democracy and Western civilization on an expedition defined by history and traditional flavour.

Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?  

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings for trip specific information. G Adventures reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our Expedition Leader

What rules should I know before joining this trip?  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our Expedition Leaders have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

How can I share feedback about my trip experience?  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

What is the maximum number of travellers on this tour?  

Max 22.

Who will be leading the group?  

National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.

How old must I be to join this trip?  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

What happens if I experience problems when arriving?  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your Expedition Leader. If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.

What important notes should I be aware of before the trip?  

OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES NOTE:
During high season in Europe (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour.

What meals are included in this trip?  

9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 6 dinners

What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?  

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Greece. Check with your bank. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card, that a fee usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros, traveller's cheques and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

How large will the group be?  

Max 22.

What's Included  

Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Truffle Hunting Experience with Dogs, Kalampáka
Your G for Good Moment: Visit to Shedia Home, Athens
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Athens
Signature Moment: Archaeologist- Led Exploration of Theopetra Cave, Kalampáka
Your Foodie Moment: Olive Farm Visit, Olympia
Signature Moment: Bairaktaris Winery Visit, Baïraktári. Arrival and Departure Transfers. Local Guided Tour of Agora. Guided Tour of Acropolis Museum. Leonidas Statue Photo Stop. Meteora Highlights with Archeologist. Agios Dimitrios Village Brunch. Hermit Cave of Agios Theodosio Visit. Truffle Hunting Experience. Hosios Loukas Monastery Visit. Delphi Orientation Walk. Delphi Guided Tour. Temple of Athena Pronaia Visit. Olympia Archeological Site Guided Visit. Leader Led Exploration of Bourtzi Castle. Naplfion Guided Walk. Mycanae Open Air Museum. Epidaurus Exploration. Corinth Canal Photo Stop. National Archeological Musuem Guided Visit. Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expert Throughout. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?  

Yes, for those travelling solo there is a single supplement.

Are international flights included in this trip?  

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

What should be on my packing list?  

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Headphones (Noice-cancelling recommended)
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Is there an itinerary Disclaimer?  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

What activities are optional on this trip?  

No optional activities

What are the joining instructions?  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

An arrival transfer is included when you arrive on Day 1, or if you arrive up to three days prior provided that you have booked your pre-accommodation through National Geographic Signature Journeys in our joining hotel. Due to customer experience and quality considerations, all services related to the tour must be continuous.

Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.

Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your Expedition Leader. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your Expedition Leader and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your Expedition Leader will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.

Do I need to pay a departure tax?  

Usually included in international air ticket.

What are the main highlights of this trip?  

Explore hidden hermit caves and Byzantine frescoes in Meteora with a local specialist, Join a local specialist and trained dog to search for truffles in the forests of Meteora, Savor award-winning vintages and a gourmet lunch at a celebrated winery in Nemea, Learn the art of pressing olives at a family farm before an al fresco feast, Tour the prehistoric Theopetra Cave with an archaeologist to uncover 130,000 years of history

Is there a disclaimer I should read before booking this trip?  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you view a final copy of your Trip Details a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

What are the modes of transportation on my trip?  

Private vehicle, small boat, walking.

What instructions should I follow at the finishing point?  

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

Where will we stay during the trip?  

Hotels (9 nts)