How to Plan Your 2-Day Delphi and Meteora Tour from Athens

If you are planning to visit Greece, you cannot miss out on the stunning UNESCO-listed attractions of Delphi and Meteora. For those short on time, the 2-day Delphi and Meteora tour from Athens offered by Viator is an excellent option. In this article, we will guide you through the process of planning your trip, what to expect during the tour, and some useful tips to make the most of your visit.

Overview of the Tour

The tour starts early in the morning from Athens, where you will board an air-conditioned bus and head towards your first destination, Delphi. Known as the center of the ancient world, Delphi is home to the Temple of Apollo, the Athenian Treasury, and ancient ruins that offer a glimpse into Greece’s rich history.

After exploring Delphi, you will continue to Meteora, a place of breathtaking beauty and home to the “floating” monasteries perched on top of the towering rock formations. Here, you will have the opportunity to learn about the region’s history and marvel at the medieval monasteries, marvelously preserved and still in use today.

The tour includes overnight accommodation in 3- or 4-star hotels, breakfast, dinner, entrance fees, and Athens hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and hassle-free way to explore two of Greece’s most iconic attractions.

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Athens – Delphi – Kalambaka
– Depart from Athens in the morning and drive towards Delphi
– Visit the classical ruins of Delphi and the Temple of Apollo
– Have lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the tour price)
– Cross the Thessalian Plain to reach the town of Kalambaka
– Check-in at your hotel and have dinner included in the tour price

Day 2: Kalambaka – Meteora – Athens
– Breakfast at the hotel included in the tour price
– Visit the medieval rock top monasteries of Meteora
– Have lunch at a local restaurant (not included in the tour price)
– Start the journey back to Athens and arrive in the late afternoon

What’s Included

– Breakfast and dinner
– Overnight accommodation in 3- or 4-star hotels
– Entrance fees to Delphi and Meteora monasteries
– Air-conditioned transport by bus
– Hotel pickup and drop-off in Athens

What’s Not Included

– Lunches and drinks
– Hotel accommodation tax

Tips for Your Trip

– Wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you will be walking on rough terrain and climbing stairs at the Meteora monasteries
– Bring water and snacks as the tour does not include lunch
– Don’t forget to bring a camera as you will be surrounded by stunning views throughout the tour
– It is recommended to bring cash for personal expenses as not all places may accept credit cards
– Make sure to be on time for all the scheduled stops and activities to avoid disrupting the tour itinerary

Conclusion

The 2-day Delphi and Meteora tour from Athens is an excellent way to make the most out of your time in Greece by visiting two of its most iconic destinations. With convenient transportation, comfortable accommodation, and knowledgeable guides, this tour ensures that your visit to Delphi and Meteora is memorable and hassle-free. To book the tour, click on the following link: book the tour here.

An Insider’s Guide to Athens: A City Full of History, Culture, and Off-The-Beaten-Path Gems

Athens, the ancient capital of Greece, is a city with a rich history and culture that spans thousands of years and attracts tourists from all around the world. With an endless array of things to see and do, Athens can be overwhelming for any traveler, but this insider’s guide will provide you with tips and suggestions to make the most out of your visit.

Local Attractions

Explore the Acropolis: The Acropolis of Athens is the most popular attraction in the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a symbol of Greek civilization. That should be on your Athens bucket list.

Visit the Acropolis Museum: The Acropolis Museum is a must-visit for those who want to learn about the history and culture of Athens. The museum not only showcases artifacts from the Acropolis but also provides an extensive history of Athens through the ages.

Stroll through the National Gardens: Located in the heart of Athens, the National Gardens provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park is home to many plant species, a small zoo, and numerous walking paths.

Dining Spots

Savour Greek Cuisine at To Kafeneio: For authentic and traditional Greek food that locals love, head to To Kafeneio. The menu features classic dishes such as moussaka, saganaki, and souvlaki.

Enjoy a Rooftop Dinner at A for Athens: Located in Monastiraki, A for Athens offers a stunning view of the Acropolis. Book a table in advance and enjoy the panoramic view while savoring delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Devour Street Food at Varvakios Agora: The Varvakios Agora is Athens’ largest and oldest food market, boasting dozens of stalls selling everything from fish and meat to fruits and vegetables. It’s the perfect place to taste some of the city’s best street food.

Cultural Experiences

Watch a Play at Ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus: Imagine sitting in a 2,000-year-old amphitheater watching a play. At the Ancient Odeon of Herodes Atticus, located at the foot of the Acropolis, you can experience exactly that.

Visit the Benaki Museum: The Benaki Museum is a cultural oasis in the center of Athens, displaying artifacts from Greek antiquity to the present day. The museum has several collections, including one that’s devoted to Greek costumes and textiles.

Catch a Show at the Athens Concert Hall: The Athens Concert Hall is the largest cultural center in Greece, boasting three halls and a stunning outdoor amphitheater. Check out the schedule and catch a performance or show while in Athens.

Local History

Wander through Plaka: Plaka is the oldest neighborhood in Athens, and it is known for its picturesque narrow streets, winding alleys, and neoclassical architecture. It’s the perfect place to explore Greek history and culture.

Explore Syntagma Square: At the heart of Athens, Syntagma Square is a central hub of the city, as well as the site of many significant events in Greek history. Keep your eyes open for the changing of the guards ceremony outside the Parliament building.

Take in the View at Philopappos Hill: Philopappos Hill, located southwest of the Acropolis, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Athens. The hill is also home to a monument dedicated to Gaius Julius Antiochus Epiphanes Philopappos, a prince of the Kingdom of Commagene.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Discover Exarcheia: Exarcheia is a bohemian neighborhood in Athens that is known for its vibrant street art, cafes, and bookshops. It is also home to the National Technical University of Athens, which was a center of resistance against the military junta in the 1970s.

Relax at Lake Vouliagmeni: Escape from the city and head to the quaint suburb of Vouliagmeni. Here you’ll find the mystical Lake Vouliagmeni, a natural mineral spa where you can relax and swim in the warm waters.

Check out Athens Street Art: Athens has a thriving street art scene that showcases the work of some of the most talented artists in the world. Take a walking tour and discover the colorful murals, graffiti, and installations that line the streets of the city.

In conclusion, Athens is a city that truly has something for everyone. With its rich history, vibrant culture, delicious food, and endless attractions, Athens is a must-visit destination for any traveler. By following this insider’s guide, you’ll be sure to take in all the best experiences this amazing city has to offer.