HomeAthens History and Culture Pre-Voyage Extension

Athens History and Culture Pre-Voyage Extension

the temple on the Athenian Acropolis, Greece, dedicated to the goddess Athena, whom the people of Athens considered their patron. Construction began in 447 BC when the Athenian Empire was at the peak of its power. It was completed in 438 BC although decoration of the building continued until 432 BC.

Venture into the heart of the Ancient Greek world on a pre-voyage extension that takes you from the storied city of Athens to Cape Sounion. Take in jaw-dropping vistas at the Temple of Poseidon, one of the major monuments of the Golden Age of Athens and famed for the tragic myth of King Aegeus. Discover the Acropolis and its museum of ancient artifacts, and visit the “Panathenia,” the site of the first modern Olympic Games.

Please note: A minimum of 10 guests is required to operate this extension.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Athens, Greece

After arriving in Athens, transfer to our hotel, located in the shadow of the Acropolis, and have lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Acropolis Museum, which displays some of the finest sculptures and other art of Ancient Greece. Enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres on the hotel’s rooftop this evening, and meet your fellow passengers. Dinner is on your own in one of Athens's numerous restaurants. (L)

Day 2 - Acropolis / Panathenian

Our morning is devoted to the Acropolis, the spiritual heart of Athens and much of the ancient world. This incredibly rich site not only houses the Parthenon, which was built in 438 B.C., but also a host of monuments from both earlier and later in the city’s prolific history. On a city tour, you will see the Ancient Agora, the Temple of Zeus, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the “Panathenian” Olympic Stadium, where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Enjoy lunch and a cooking class in a traditional taverna in the center of the Acropolis, followed by a walking tour of the Plaka, the old area of Athens. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Ancient Agora / Embark Ship

This morning, visit the ancient Agora (marketplace) of Athens, the commercial center of the city where philosophers like Socrates used to teach. The temple of Hephastos and the museum in the Stoa of Attalos with everyday artifacts uncovered in the agora are also included in the tour. Enjoy lunch and a tasting at a winery before embarking the ship. (B,L)

costs & What's Included

Occupancy
Double Occupancy
Single Occupancy

Cost Includes:

Airport arrival transfer if traveling on the recommended flight; accommodations as shown in the itinerary, or similar; meals as shown in the itinerary; local guides on all excursions; tips to local guides, to porters and to waiters for included meals.