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Greece: Footsteps Through Time
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Few places on earth can rival Greece's blend of intriguing history, stunning scenery and warm hospitality. Settle into your centrally located hotel in Athens for a week and discover the rich variety of world-famous historic sites in and around this ancient city. Explore the Acropolis, visit the Temple of Poseidon and take an excursion to Delphi during expert-led tours. A memorable cruise of the Saronic Islands and a wine-tasting at a local vineyard add to your understanding and enjoyment of this vital culture.
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| Details | | Collette Vacations | | Offer valid through 7/31/2008 | | | Day | Destination | Description | | Day 1 | Overnight Flight | Overnight Flight : Few places on earth can rival Greece's blend of intriguing history, stunning scenery and warm hospitality. Settle into your centrally located hotel in Athens for a week and discover the rich variety of world-famous historic sites in and around this ancient city. During expert-led tours in and around Athens, explore the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon and nearby Delphi. A memorable cruise of the Saronic Islands and a wine-tasting at a local vineyard add to your understanding and enjoyment of this vital culture. | | Day 2 | Athens | Athens, Greece : Your home for the next week is Athens - a cosmopolitan, lively city built around magnificent classical monuments and bathed in dazzling Mediterranean light. This evening meet fellow travelers at a welcome reception before enjoying a typical Greek dinner. Today dinner is included. | | Day 3 | Athens | Athens : A morning city tour introduces you to Athens and features the Temple of Zeus, the Royal Palace, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Olympic Stadium. Climb to the top of the Acropolis, the spectacular rock plateau in the center of the city containing the magnificent Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike. After lunch, learn about the antiquities at the National Archaeological Museum from a curator, followed by a guided visit of the extensive collection of classical artifacts. Today breakfast is included. | | Day 4 | Arachova | Delphi - Arachova : This morning travel outside Athens to the sacred city of Delphi. It was here, at the Oracle of Delphi, that ancient Greeks consulted the priestess of Apollo on everything from agriculture to military strategy. Make your own trek along the Sacred Way with a local expert to see the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Doric Temple and the impressive theater. The site also contains a wonderful museum featuring a collection of art excavated at the site. En route back to Athens, stop at the picturesque mountain village of Arachova, famous for its wine, cheese, hand-woven carpets and quilts. Today breakfast and dinner are included. | | Day 5 | Saronic Islands Cruise | Saronic Islands Cruise : Set sail on the sparkling Aegean for a day trip to the picturesque Saronic Islands. Your first port of call is Aegina Island, the largest in the chain, known for its important archaeological sites, charming villages and gorgeous beaches. Next, visit Poros, known as the "green island" because of the many pine and lemon trees that dot the landscape. Enjoy lunch on board ship before exploring the lovely island of Hydra, with its red-roofed architecture and quiet pedestrian streets. Today breakfast and lunch are included. | | Day 6 | Epidaurus | Mycenae - Nafplion - Epidaurus : Today's journey begins with a breathtaking drive across the Peloponnese Peninsula to the ancient city of Mycenae. Here a local guide accompanies you through the incredible excavations, including the 3,000 year-old Lion Gate, palace and royal tombs. Stopping at the beautiful fishing town of Nafplion, enjoy some time at leisure to explore this historic old city overlooking the Argolic Gulf. Later, travel to the legendary healing and cultural center of Epidaurus, which dates back to the 3rd century B.C. The magnificent outdoor theater of Epidaurus is considered one of the purest examples of ancient Greek architecture. Today breakfast is included. | | Day 7 | Cape Sounion | Cape Sounion : A scenic coastal drive takes you to Cape Sounion, site of one of the most significant ancient sanctuaries: the Temple of Poseidon. Perched high atop the cliffs, overlooking the brilliant blue waters of the Aegean, the temple is a timeless tribute to the beauty and power of the sea. Enjoy some time to explore this breathtaking area which also includes the ruins of the temple to Athena. Stop by a local winery to tour their facilities and sample their delicious products before returning to Athens for the evening. Today breakfast is included. | | Day 8 | Athens | Athens : Enjoy your last day at leisure to pursue your own interests in this captivating city. Choose from one of Athens' many museums and galleries or explore the bustling activity of the Plaka and Monastiraki districts. Or if a relaxing day by the pool is more your style, enjoy unparalleled views of the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill from your hotel's rooftop swimming pool. This evening you will celebrate the many delightful and fascinating experiences during your stay in Greece while enjoying a special farewell dinner at a local taverna in the Plaka district. Say goodbye with a festive dinner featuring traditional Greek cuisine, wine and dancing. Today breakfast and dinner are included. | | Day 9 | Athens | Athens - Tour Concludes : Return home filled with wonderful memories of the ancient treasures and modern wonders of Greece. Today breakfast is included. |
| | | Total meals - 11 | Breakfasts - 7 | | Lunches - 1 | Dinners - 3 |
| Base Rates Per Person
Air rates are based from the following airport: New YorkTour and air prices are lead-in rates from a specific gateway based on double occupancy and include fuel surcharges and internal flights, these rates are subject to change. Please call for triple or child occupancy rates. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking. Taxes and fees are additional, for tours that feature a cruise; port taxes are not included in the prices above. *All special offers are valid on non-group and new bookings only. Special offers can not be combined with any other offer, except AARP discounts. |
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