Hosios Loukas

1. ATHENS You will get picked up from your hotel, apartment, Airbnb, or Piraeus port. 2. MOUNT PARNASSUS DELPHI Mount Parnassus is a mountain in central Greece that towers above Delphi, north of the Gulf of Corinth. Mount Parnassus offers many advantages to the population of Greece. In peace, it possesses scenic views of the countryside and features olive groves and rolling hills. The mountain is also the location of historically, archaeologically, and culturally significant places of interest (such as Delphi). Recreationally, the slopes of Parnassus provide a medium for hiking (in the three warm seasons) and are skied in winter. Its melting snows provide water to the surrounding communities, reaching out as far as Athens. The mountain is composed of limestone, and its rock contains bauxite, ore that is rich in aluminum. In war, Parnassus has been a center of resistance if need be, providing cover and refuge to partisans. 3. MONASTERY HOSIOS LOUKAS Hosios Loukas is a historic walled monastery situated near the town of Distomo, in Boeotia, Greece. It is one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine architecture and art and has been listed on UNESCO's World Heritage Sites, along with the monasteries of Nea Moni and Daphnion. The monastery of Hosios Loukas is situated at a scenic site on the slopes of Mount Helicon. It was founded in the early 10th century AD by the hermit, Venerable (Greek: Hosios) Luke of Steiris (Greek: Lukas), whose relics are kept in the monastery to this day. The main shrine of the monastery is the tomb of St. Luke, originally situated in the vault, but later placed at the juncture of the two churches. The monastery derived its wealth (including funds required for construction) from the fact that the relics of St. Luke were said to have exuded myron, a sort of perfumed oil which produced healing miracles. 4. DELPHI Arrival at the archaeological site of Delphi after a 2,5 hours trip. Free time for a walk at: - sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena Pronaia - ancient stadium and theater Duration: 30 minutes 5. THOLOS OF ATHENA PRONAIA The tholos at the sanctuary of Athena Pronoia (Ἀθηνᾶ Πρόνοια, “Athena of forethought”) is a circular building that was constructed between 380 and 360 BC. It consisted of 20 Doric columns arranged with an exterior diameter of 14.76 meters, with 10 Corinthian columns in the interior. The Tholos is located approximately a half a mile (800 meters) from the main ruins at Delphi. 6. DELPHI ARCHAELOGICAL MUSEUM Delphi Archaeological Museum is one of the principal museums of Greece and one of the most visited. 7. TEMPLE OF APOLLO The Temple of Apollo, god of music, harmony, light, healing, and oracles occupied the most important and prominent position in the Delphic Panhellenic Sanctuary 8. ANCIENT THEATER OF DELPHI 9.TREASURY OF THE ATHENIANS 10.VISIT ARACHOVA 11. ENJOY LUNCH GREEKE TRANDITIONAL TAVERNA

Embark on a private journey through time and spirituality with a tour from Athens to Delphi and the Hosios Loukas Monastery. This tailor-made experience blends ancient Greek history with the serenity of Byzantine architecture, offering a unique and intimate encounter with Greece's past. Begin with a comfortable drive through the scenic landscapes of Central Greece. Your guide will introduce you to the myth-laden history and culture of the region as you approach the ancient city of Delphi, once considered the center of the world by the Greeks. Upon arrival, walk the Sacred Way, retracing the steps of pilgrims who came to consult the Oracle of Delphi. Explore the ruins of the Temple of Apollo, where the Pythia, the high priestess, once delivered prophecies. Continue to the Delphi Archaeological Museum, home to famous artifacts such as the bronze Charioteer and the Naxian Sphinx, offering a deeper understanding of the city’s significance in ancient times. Before continuing your journey, we'll take a pause for a traditional Greek lunch in the charming village of Delphi. Savor local flavors as you dine at a taverna with stunning views of the valley below, including the olive groves stretching out to the Gulf of Corinth. This leisurely break allows you to enjoy the culinary heritage of the region and recharge for the next leg of the tour. With your appetite satisfied, the tour continues to the tranquil surroundings of Hosios Loukas Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Middle Byzantine art and architecture. Nestled in the slopes of Mount Helicon, the monastery offers a peaceful retreat from the world. Marvel at its well-preserved mosaics, intricate frescoes, and the grand dome of its Katholikon church. Built in honor of St. Luke the Hermit, Hosios Loukas is a sanctuary of devotion and artistic brilliance, blending religious faith with the natural beauty of the Greek countryside. Throughout the day, your driver will enrich your experience with stories and insights, ensuring your visit is as informative as it is inspiring. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of art and architecture, or simply seeking a deeper connection with Greece’s cultural heritage, this private tour promises an unforgettable journey that combines the ancient world with the spiritual tranquility of the Byzantine era. The day concludes with a scenic drive back to Athens, giving you time to reflect on the day's wonders. This customized tour promises not only a journey through Greece’s ancient and Byzantine past but also a taste of its vibrant present, all delivered at your own pace for an unforgettable experience.

Discover Meteora and Delphi on this historical 2-day tour leaving from Athens. Explore the wonders of each city, including the Delphi Archaeological Site, museum, stadium, and the Oracle of Delphi. See nature's wonders and marvel at the beautiful architecture and learn more about the history of the monasteries in Meteora. Begin the tour in Athens with pickup in a luxury air-conditioned minivan and meet your guide/driver for the rest of the tour. Prepare for an exciting and historical two-day tour and get ready to make the most of your time in each city. Stop first in the Monastery of Saint Lucas, a few miles from Delphi. Admire one of the most important monuments of Middle Byzantine art and see the beauty of a site included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Move on to the city of Arachova, a famous ski resort, and see beautiful colorful villages along the way. Travel to Delphi after Arachova, and visit the famous archaeological site, the museum, and the stadium, and take some time to admire the Oracle of Delphi, the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. See the Oracle where the Priestess of Apollo was consulted about major important decisions in the ancient classical world. Move on to Meteora, where you will rest for the night and get ready to explore Meteora early in the morning. Rise early and enjoy an opportunity to visit the famous monasteries in Meteora, and witness the beauty of nature in comparison to the history and architecture in the area from early Christian history. See the Meteora vertical cliffs, regarded as the perfect place to achieve absolute isolation, and discover peace and harmony, supporting man's eternal struggle for spiritual elevation. Explore the beautiful rock formations, and visit the monasteries to take beautiful photos and admire the exquisite landscape. Eat lunch before heading back to Athens having seen many famous and iconic sites important to Greek history.

Explore the ancient ruins of Delphi on a full-day tour from Athens. Visit the UNESCO-listed site, the Temple of Apollo, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. Stop for a coffee break in the picturesque town of Delphi. Begin your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Athens and head to the World Cultural Heritage Site, with its splendid mosaics byzantine monastery of Osios (saint) Lukas. After that continue to the UNESCO arch, site of Delphi. Learn about the history of the site and its importance in ancient Greece. Visit the Temple of Apollo, the theater, and the stadium where the Pythian Games took place. See the treasury of the Athenians and the sanctuary of Athena Pronea. Continue to the Delphi Archaeological Museum to see the famous Bronze Charioteer (Iniochos) of Delphi, sculptures from the treasure of Siphnos, two colossal “kouros” from Argos, and the remains of three gold and ivory statues. Stop for a coffee break or lunch in the picturesque town of Delphi, which is built on the slopes of Mount Parnassus and offers stunning views of the Corinthian Gulf. After your break, return to Athens.

Explore the Unesco-listed archeological site of Delphi with an expert guide and learn how the city was considered the ‘Center of the World’ in ancient Greece.Immerse yourself in the myths and monuments of classical Greece on this full-day tour of Delphi from Athens. Stand in awe before the dramatically situated Temple of Apollo, then discover long-lost wonders at the Delphi Archeological Museum, including the Charioteer of Delphi and the Sphinx of Naxos. After lunch in Delphi (optional upgrade or at own expense), visit the handicrafts towns of Arachova and Levadia on the way back to Athens. In a landscape untouched by time, you will discover two magnificent Byzantine churches decorated with frescoes and mosaics, with their characteristic golden background (10-11th century AD). The Byzantine abundance of the monastery still functioning today was recently brought to light due to a successful restoration project. The monastery was founded around the middle of the 10th century AD by the monk Loukás from Stýri. His relics are exhibited in the Katholicon (main church of the monastery). They were stolen by the Crusaders during the 13th AD and kept in the Vatican for centuries. 1. Livadia, 30 minutes 2. Monastery of Hosios Loukas, 1 hour 3. Delphi Archaeological Museum, 1 hour 30 minutes - Temple of Apollo, Delphi, Pass by without stopping - Tholos of Athena Pronaia, Delphi, Pass by without stopping - Ancient Theatre, Delphi, Pass by without stopping - Ancient Stadium of Delphi, Pass by without stopping - Arachova, Pass by without stopping 4. Delphi village, 1 hour

-Monastery of Hosios Loukas: Our first stop is going to be the monastery of Hosios Loukas, which represents the second golden age of Byzantine art (11th -12th century) in particular its golden mosaic decoration and fine architecture. Before you leave the monastery don’t forget to visit the crypt, located under the Katholicon. There are no mosaics here but paintings and their subjects are similar, though the style is different, more sentimentally charged and more expressive, clearly proving the wealth and variety of Byzantine art. -Archaeological Museum of Delphi: The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is one of the most visited museums around Greece. Some of the museum’s exhibits include the Charioteer of Delphi, the frieze of the Siphnian Treasury, the Sphinx of Naxos, chryselephantine sculptures, inscriptions, bronze figurines and bronze votive offerings. -Temple of Apollo and Archaeological Site of Delphi: Ancient Greeks believed that Delphi was the Navel of the Earth, a place seen as a spiritual focal point for all Greeks; it included many sanctuaries and the most prestigious oracle in all of ancient Greece. This is where Pythia, the high priestess, uttered the divine advice of god Apollo to mortals who travelled from across the world to seek a prophecy. Apart from Greeks, the Oracle was visited also by foreign leaders and dignitaries who were anxious to know the will of Apollo on important state affairs. -Arachova: The picturesque town of Arachova is deeply rooted in history and folklore tradition, famous for its colorful carpets and local products. A stroll around the labyrinth of narrow alleys with the beautiful old houses, small churches, and picturesque shops will impress you while the tourist activity is concentrated at the main street of the town where there is a plethora of shops, taverns, and bars.

Start your two-day tour at the Delphi archaeological site to see the Castalian Spring, ancient sanctuary of Apollo, the treasury of the Athenians, the ancient stadium, and the theater. See artifacts from as far back as the 15th century BC, including the Naxian Sphinx, the statue of Antinoos, and a bronze sculpture of a charioteer. Visit the UNESCO-listed Osios Loukas Monastery before heading to the Arachova mountain village for lunch. After overnighting in Meteora, start your second day ascending upwards to the monasteries built on a natural formation of sandstone rock pillars from the 14th century. Head south towards the site of Thermopylae. Explore the monument and enter the newly-built visitor’s center, which recreates the ancient battle where King Leonidas famously led 300 Spartans into battle in 480 B.C. After pausing for lunch or a break by the sea in one of the many local villages, end the experience with lasting memories and photos.

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi on a private tour from Athens. Customize your itinerary to suit your interests and pace, and explore the ancient Greek sanctuary at your own pace. Depart from Athens and pass through scenic landscapes on the way to Delphi. Upon arrival, embark on a guided tour of the Delphi Archaeological Site. Explore the Temple of Apollo, the Treasury of the Athenians, and the Castalian Spring, which was believed to have sacred properties. After exploring the archaeological site, visit the Delphi Museum to admire a vast collection of artifacts, including sculptures, pottery, and inscriptions that provide insights into the ancient city's history and culture. After a relaxing lunch at a traditional tavern, head to the charming village of Arachova. Nestled amidst the Parnassus Mountains, Arachova offers a picturesque setting with traditional stone houses, cobbled streets, and local shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs. Your private tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Athens, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through history, spirituality, and scenic beauty with this private luxury tour. Explore the ancient sanctuary of Delphi, visit the serene Hosios Loukas Monastery, and wander through the charming mountain village of Arachova, all while enjoying the comfort and exclusivity of a personalized experience. Scenic Drive Through Greece’s Countryside Begin your adventure with a relaxing drive through the picturesque landscapes of central Greece. Sit back in luxury transportation as you pass olive groves, mountains, and charming villages on your way to your first destination. Delphi: The Navel of the Ancient World Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delphi, once considered the center of the ancient world. Walk the Sacred Way, lined with remnants of ancient monuments, to reach the Temple of Apollo, where the Oracle of Delphi once delivered her prophecies. Visit the Tholos of Athena Pronaia, a striking circular temple that is one of the most photographed landmarks in Delphi. Explore the Delphi Archaeological Museum, home to remarkable artifacts such as the Charioteer of Delphi and treasures from the Temple of Apollo, offering deep insights into the religious and cultural importance of this ancient site. Arachova: The Picturesque Mountain Village Next, head to the charming village of Arachova, nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Known for its traditional architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant atmosphere, Arachova offers a delightful break. Take your time to explore local shops, sample handmade crafts, or enjoy a coffee with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Hosios Loukas Monastery: A Spiritual Haven Conclude your journey with a visit to the Hosios Loukas Monastery, a stunning Byzantine monastery and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in a peaceful valley, this architectural masterpiece is adorned with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and a serene atmosphere that invites reflection. Learn about its history and significance as one of Greece’s most important religious sites. Relaxing Drive Back After a day filled with exploration and discovery, enjoy a leisurely drive back to your starting point. Reflect on the history, beauty, and spiritual richness of the sites you’ve visited. Why Choose This Tour? This private luxury tour combines the best of history, culture, and natural beauty in a seamless and enriching experience. With expert service, comfortable transportation, and a personalized itinerary, this tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those seeking a unique journey through Greece. Book Now for a Memorable Experience Discover the wonders of Delphi, the charm of Arachova, and the serenity of Hosios Loukas on this unforgettable private tour. Secure your spot today for an extraordinary adventure!

Visit Delphi, one of the most famous historical and archaeological destinations in Greece. See sites included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and see Arachova, Delphi's Archaeological site and Oracle, and its museum and stadium on this private tour leaving from Athens. Travel to Delphi, one of the most important destinations in Greece, once considered the center of the world. Leave Athens and begin the journey with a visit to the Monastery of St. Lucas, one of the most important monuments of middle Byzantine art and architecture, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Admire colorful villages on the trip to the next stop, Arachova, one of the most famous ski resorts in Greece, and immerse yourself in its picturesque atmosphere. Move on to the stop in Delphi, where you can visit the archaeological site, the museum, the stadium, and the famous Oracle of Delphi. Return from the museum and enjoy the option to grab lunch at a local restaurant and enjoy delicious Greek cuisine. Enjoy the uniqueness of the landscape, history, and culture in the area, and learn more about the Legend of Zeus releasing two eagles. Finish up in Delphi after lunch and return to Athens for hotel drop-off.