Athens, Stay of Distinction: Hotel Grande Bretagne
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,644
This exceptional Athens stopover proves you don’t have to visit the island to get a taste of high Greek luxury – but it doesn’t hurt! Stay in the capital, enjoying day trips out to Delphi, and a full day islands cruise.
What is a Stay of Distinction? CLICK
Also see Athens Stopover.
This 5-day Stay of Distinction at the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens lets you experience the Greek capital in superb luxury, taking in the best sights, old and new, before a cruise through the nearby islands.
Your first full day is devoted to the city proper, with sights both ancient and modern. Start by visiting Syntagma Square, the National Library, Iliou Melathron, and the Panathenaic stadium. Then head for the Acropolis, the spectacular ancient complex that overlooks Athens. Admire the Parthenon, and the treasures of the Acropolis Museum, among other structures. End your day with a visit to the neighbourhood of Plaka, which dates back an incredible 7,000 years.
The Oracle of Delphi is the stuff of legend. You’ll visit the famous site at the foot of Mount Parnassos, where the twin eagles of Zeus are said to have met, finding the centre of the world. Explore the history of Delphi and its signature event, the Pythian Games, then visit the nearby museum to put your finds in context. The following day, set sail for the beautiful islands of Hydra, Poros and Aegina. Each of these islands preserves its own unique slice of Greek history, from the ancient temple of Athena, to the more modern architecture of Poros.
Return to Athens for departure.
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,644
Itinerary View Trip Map
Athens Airport to Athens Hotel Private with English Speaking Escort
| Duration | 1 Hour |
|---|
Hotel Grande Bretagne Athens
With breathtaking views of the fabled Acropolis, regal Syntagma Square and the Parliament, lush Lycabettus Hill or the original Olympic Stadium, the multi-awarded deluxe Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivalled perspective of Athens' mythical history. Situated right in the heart of the city, since 1874, the landmark hotel is within walking distance of exclusive shopping areas, museums and the business district. Escape to the GB Spa Athens for a GB Collection Exclusive Massage or an indulgent respite in the Thermal Suite. The GB Roof Garden Restaurant & Bar serves the finest champagne - the ideal complement for the setting sun beyond the imposing Acropolis. The Cellar stocks more than 3,000 bottles of the finest vintages - allow us to create the finest wine tasting has never been so exquisite.
| Meal Plan | Full Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Grande Bretagne Athens |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Grande Bretagne Athens
With breathtaking views of the fabled Acropolis, regal Syntagma Square and the Parliament, lush Lycabettus Hill or the original Olympic Stadium, the multi-awarded deluxe Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivalled perspective of Athens' mythical history. Situated right in the heart of the city, since 1874, ...
With breathtaking views of the fabled Acropolis, regal Syntagma Square and the Parliament, lush Lycabettus Hill or the original Olympic Stadium, the multi-awarded deluxe Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivalled perspective of Athens' mythical history. Situated right in the heart of the city, since 1874, the landmark hotel is within walking distance of exclusive shopping areas, museums and the business district. Escape to the GB Spa Athens for a GB Collection Exclusive Massage or an indulgent respite in the Thermal Suite. The GB Roof Garden Restaurant & Bar serves the finest champagne - the ideal complement for the setting sun beyond the imposing Acropolis. The Cellar stocks more than 3,000 bottles of the finest vintages - allow us to create the finest wine tasting has never been so exquisite.
Facilities
- Check-In Time
- Check-Out Time
- Internet Access
- Lobby
- Sauna
- Spa
- Swimming Pool
- TV
Photo gallery
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Athens Morning Tour including Acropolis Museum
The striking contrast between breathtaking monuments of a glorious past and modern elegant structures is what you will enjoy during your tour of Athens. Visit the Acropolis, the crowning beauty and glory of Ancient Athens, with its many monuments atop its rocky base, including the awesome Parthenon, the Propylea, the temple of Athena Nike and the Erechtheion, with its Porch of Maidens. Drive to the Roman Temple of Olympic Zeus, the Panathinaikon Stadium (site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896), and the Tomb of the unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament House on Constitution Square. See views of government buildings and elegant structures of the 19th century. Drive along Panepistimiou Avenue and view the Catholic Cathedral, the Academy, University, and National Library. In contrast, conclude your tour with a visit to the new Acropolis museum, a marvel of architecture with a full exhibition of the glory of Ancient Athens.
| Duration | 5 Hours |
|---|
Full Day Delphi
At the foot of Mount Parnassos, within the angle formed by the twin rocks of the Phaedriades, lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which had the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the centre of the world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, set within a most spectacular landscape, was for many centuries the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world and seat of the Pythian Games, the second most important games in Greece after the Olympics, which were held every four years.
Between the sixth and fourth centuries BC, the Delphic oracle, which was regarded as the most trustworthy, was at its peak. It was delivered by the Pythia, the priestess, and interpreted by the priests of Apollo. Cities, rulers and ordinary individuals alike consulted the oracle, expressing their gratitude with great gifts and spreading its fame around the world. The oracle was thought to have existed since the dawn of time. Indeed, it was believed to have successfully predicted events related to the cataclysm of Deukalion, the Argonaut's expedition and the Trojan War.
Visit of the archaeological site and the Museum where one can see among other archeological treasures, the unique bronze statue of the Charioteer dedicated to Apollo by Polyzalos, the tyrant of Gela, in 478 B.C. when he won the chariot-race at the Pythian Games. This incomparable statue is a representative example of the ''severe'' Attic style, certainly the work of a major artist.
| Duration | 12 Hours |
|---|
Full Day Cruise - Hydra, Poros and Aegina
The first port of call is Hydra, a beautiful small island, yet so great in history that stands out among many others! Here you will stop for a 1.5 hour visit (approx.) and explore the architecture of the island, with the town of Hydra built in its centre on the imposing rocky slopes. This has remained intact and unspoiled by modern interventions to our very days thanks to the Hydrants, who religiously keep this unique legacy that has been handed down to them by their ancestors from one generation to the next.
The next stop is Poros, the island of peace, romance and relaxation (approx. 50 minutes). It is lush with pine trees which reach the rugged shores and the sandy beaches. Approaching Poros by ship, from afar, we can see the historical clock tower on the highest hilltop. The centre of the town features the Town Hall, the Archaeological Museum, the Exhibition Hall and it is the site of a variety of cultural events. Within the narrow streets of Poros among the white houses and bougainvillea's, there are various shops, cafes, taverns and many bars with Greek and foreign music to excellently provide for all needs and tastes.
The final stop today is Aegina, the land of legendary Achilles (approx. 3 hours). The world famous temple of Aphaia (Athena) imposes at the top of a pine-covered hill in the northeastern part of Aegina. This temple constituted the epitome and prototype of the Parthenon, which was built by Ictinus and Callicrates. When the atmosphere is clear, one can see the Temple of Poseidon at Sounion and the Acropolis of Athens from the site of Aphaia. These three temples form an isosceles triangle (the holy triangle of the ancient times). On the island there is also the church of Saint Nectarios, a grand Christian Byzantine church, which is one of the largest in the Balkan. It contains a silver urn with the relics of St. Nectarios, the patron saint of the island.
| Duration | 11 Hours |
|---|
Athens Hotel to Athens Airport Private with English Speaking Escort
| Duration | 1 Hour |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Select dates (subject to availability)
PRICE INCLUDES:
Private arrival and departure transfers, 4 nights’ accommodation, breakfast daily, and sightseeing as per the itinerary.
PRICE EXCLUDES:
All other meals and beverages, items of a personal nature and gratuities. Subject to availability at the time of booking.
OTHER INFORMATION:
Not exactly what you are looking for? Let us know! We can customize this itinerary. This can also be done on a private basis (please enquire).
TERMS & CONDITIONS:
*Prices are "from", per person, based on twin/double share and include all taxes. Subject to availability.
27 Oct 2017
Excursion Suggestions
As there is so much to see and do in many of our City Breaks/Stopover Ideas, you should consider staying longer. Below is a list of suggestions that can be added to your stay.
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Athens: Afternoon Tour including Acropolis Site
This tour gives you the opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city.- Duration:
- 3 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: By Night Tour
This Athens By Night Tour takes you through the illuminated city stopping at The Acropolis, the Old Olympic Stadium, Parliament Square, the Neoclassic Academy, Univers...- Duration:
- 3 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: Delphi Full Day Tour
Goway's Delphi Tour from Athens - see archaeological treasures like the bronze statue of the Charioteer, the tyrant of Gela & more!- Duration:
- 12 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: Full Day Cruise to Hydra, Poros and Aegina
Athens: Full Day Cruise to Hydra, Poros and Aegina- Duration:
- 11 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
-
Athens: Morning Tour including Acropolis Museum
The striking contrast between breathtaking monuments of a glorious past and modern elegant structures is what you will enjoy during your tour of Athens. Visit the Acro...- Duration:
- 5 Hours
- Prices From:
- US$ 94
-
Athens: Sightseeing Full Day Tour
This full day private city tour is a perfect combination of old and new taking you to city sights throughout Athens.- Duration:
- 6 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
