Athens, Stay of Distinction: Hotel Grande Bretagne
- Duration
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,650
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$ 1,650
Itinerary View Trip Map
Athens Airport to Athens Hotel Private
| 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
Photo 1 of 5
Athens Morning Tour including Acropolis Museum
This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Your expert guides will take you to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held in 1896 (short stop). Continue and pass by the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma. On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally "the harmony between material and spirit", the monument that "puts order in the mind", the Parthenon. Continue and visit the place where at last the statues found their home and admire the wonders of the classical era: The new Acropolis museum.
| Duration | 5 Hours |
|---|
Full Day Delphi without Lunch
Drive along the fertile plain of Boeotia, crossing the towns of Thebes - connected with the tragedy of king Oedipus - Levadia and Arachova, famous for its colourful rugs and carpets (short stop). Arrive at Delphi, the centre of the ancient world - the "Omphalos" (Navel) of the Earth - whose prestige extended far beyond the boundaries of the Hellenic world. On the slopes of mount Parnassus, in a landscape of unparalleled beauty and majesty, lie the ruins of the Sanctuary of Apollo Pythios.
Visit the treasury of the Athenians, the Temple of Apollo and the museum containing such masterpieces of ancient Greek sculpture as the bronze Charioteer and the famous athlete Aghias. Return to Athens by the same route.
| 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
| Duration | 1 Hour |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Select dates (subject to availability)
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Private arrival and departure transfers
- 4 nights’ deluxe accommodation
- Breakfast daily
- Half day Acropolis tour
- Full day Delphi tour
- Full day cruise to Hydra, Poros & Aegina
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Visa fees if applicable
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
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 AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
27 Oct 2018
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: Acropolis Walking Tour with Virtual Reality Experience
Marvel at the ancient Greek world on this Acropolis walking tour and immerse yourself into a realistic reconstruction of the Parthenon and surrounding sites of the Acr...- Duration:
- 2 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: Afternoon Tour including Acropolis Site
Get a taste of Athens’ striking contrasts on this afternoon tour. Begin in Constitution Square before making your way to Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Olympic G...- Duration:
- 3.5 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: By Night Tour
See the Greek capital lit up beneath the stars as you explore Athens by night. Start with a drive through the city centre before gazing upon the ancient Acropolis illu...- Duration:
- 3.44 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: Cruise to Hydra, Poros and Aegina Full Day Tour
Take a full day cruise to some of the gorgeous islands off the coast of Athens. Traverse the rocky slopes of Hydra as you explore its central town, stroll the sandy be...- Duration:
- 11.5 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: Delphi Full Day Tour
Visit the site of the ancient Oracle of Delphi on this full day tour from Athens. This ancient site at the foot of Mount Parnassos attracted ancient rulers and priests...- Duration:
- 12 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: Morning Tour including Acropolis Museum
Tour the major sites of the Greek capital of Athens. Visit the city’s crowning glory, the Acropolis, which boasts the Parthenon and the Temple of Athena Nike, before v...- Duration:
- 5 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Athens: Sightseeing Full Day Tour
Take a full day to see the major sites of the Greek capital, Athens. Begin with a tour of the modern political centres of the House of Parliament and the National Libr...- Duration:
- 7 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Mykonos: City & Island Half Day Tour
Walk the narrow streets of Mykonos to see the famous windmills and small churches of this gorgeous island. Afterwards, explore the island by bus; stroll through the vi...- Duration:
- 4 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
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Mykonos: Delos Half Day Tour
Take a half day to explore the mythological birthplace of the Greek god, Apollo. Enjoy a guided tour of the archaeological site of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site ...- Duration:
- 4 Hours
- Prices:
- On request
