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Ancient Lands (Premier) |
8 day
tour from US$1425
Tour Type: Regional Europe |
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Highlight |
Itinerary |
What's
Included |
Optionals |
Dates
& Rates |
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ITINERARY |
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Lands (Premier) |
Day
1 - Arrive Athens (2 nights)
On arrival at Athens airport you are transferred to your hotel.
Later after check-in, why not explore this lively capital or relax
and watch the world go by in one of the many pavement cafés.
Hotel: Intercontinental (2 nights)
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Day
2 - Athens sightseeing & at leisure
After breakfast, our morning sightseeing tour includes the
Acropolis, Parthenon. We'll also enjoy views of the Agora where
Socrates taught, plus see the Royal Palace, Temple of Zeus and
Hadrian's Arch, before heading to the stadium built for the first
modern Olympic games in 1896.The rest of your day is at leisure, to
perhaps shop or sightsee further. This evening why not dine on local
specialities in one of Athens' many cosmopolitan restaurants? (Buffet
Breakfast)
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Day
3 - Athens – Piraeus – Mykonos
Today we depart Athens and make our way to Piraeus port. Here we
will board our luxury ship and cruise to stylish Mykonos where we
spend a few hours before continuing our cruise.
(Buffet Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
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Day
4 - Kusadasi – Patmos
An early morning arrival at Turkish Kusadasi, an optional excursion
to Ephesus is a must! Next we continue our cruise to Patmos with
time for an excursion to the Fortress-Monastery. (Breakfast /
Lunch / Dinner)
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Day
5 - Rhodes
An early morning arrival at Rhodes. There's time to explore the Old
Town and visit Lindos before we set sail. (Breakfast / Lunch /
Dinner)
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Day
6 - Heraklion – Santorini
We arrive at Heraklion on the island of Crete, time here to take a
shore excursion to Knossos. Next we cruise to the beautiful island
of Santorini. On arrival time for an excursion to Akrotiki. (Breakfast
/ Lunch / Dinner)
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Day
7 - Disembarkation – Athens
Early morning arrival at Piraeus. We transfer to our Athens hotel.
Then time to relax or do some souvenir shopping. (Breakfast)
Hotel: Intercontinental
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Day
8 - Depart Athens
Today bid farewell to new-found friends as we transfer you to the
airport for your return flight home. (Buffet Breakfast)
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Cruise
Ships operating this itinerary
Perla or Serenade
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Note
Due to disembarkation by tender, calls at the ports of Mykonos and
Santorini are weather permitting.
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WHAT'S
INCLUDED
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Ancient Lands
(Premier) What's Included
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Sightseeing
Highlights
Athens: Visit the
Acropolis and Parthenon with views of the Olympic Stadium,
Temple of Zeus, Royal Palace, Hadrian's Arch and more.
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Dining
Highlights
- 3 Buffet breakfasts in Athens
- On-board dining &
Entertainment
- Captain's welcome cocktail
party and dinner on board.
- All à la carte meals on board
ship: breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Nightly entertainment on board
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First
Class Travel Highlights
- Touring by luxury
air-conditioned coach with reclining seats in Athens.
- Private motorcoach transfers
-hotel / Piraeus / hotel.
- Athens airport arrival and
departure transfers will be provided on the scheduled arrival
and departure day of the tour.
- Hostess service in Athens.
- All cabins are two-berth,
air-conditioned with private facilities, telephone and a
5-channel radio.
- Hotel accommodation with
twin-bedded rooms and private facilities.
- All hotel service charges and
tips, baggage handling fees and local taxes included.
- A stylish travel bag and wallet
containing comprehensive tour documents and helpful
information.
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Airport
Transfers
- London Gateways:
Transfers can be expensive, particularly between the Airport
and central London. When you book your tour with Trafalgar
your transfers to and from the airport are included. It's that
simple. Trafalgar has included a Free transfer to and from
your airport and Central London.
- Important – Please Note: Passengers
will only be entitled to transfers to and from London Airports
providing the following conditions are met:
- You are staying at a London
hotel, booked by Trafalgar, on the night of your arrival and
the night prior to the date of your departure.
- Flights are either booked by
Trafalgar or detailed information on flights is provided by
your Travel Agent not less than 21 days prior to departure.
- Only one included transfer both
inbound and outbound per tour is included by Trafalgar.
Transfers are by express train to a Central London Rail
Station.
- Heathrow Express operates
between 05.10-23.30. Gatwick Express operates inbound services
between 05.20-23.45 and outbound services from 04.30-23.45.
Transfers outside of these times are at the passengers own
expense.
- In the event of unforeseen
events (road or rail works, demonstrations, strikes) Trafalgar
will not be held responsible for delayed or cancelled
transfers.
- No refund is available for
passengers not utilising this service.
- Why not upgrade to a Hotelink
transfer from the Airport to-the-door of your Trafalgar London
hotel? (please ask Trafalgar or your travel agent of the
additional upgrade price per person when booking)
- European Gateways: With
Trafalgar all passengers will receive complimentary arrival
and departure transfers on the scheduled arrival and departure
day of their tour at the times specified below. Please ensure
your Travel Agent reserves your flight to co-ordinate with the
transfer times shown.
- Trafalgar Bonus - Passengers who
book Trafalgar's Land+Air package and who arrive or depart
outside of these specified times on the scheduled arrival and
departure day of the tour will also be provided with a
transfer.
- Passengers arriving before or
leaving after the scheduled tour days are not entitled to a
transfer but may book and purchase one through Trafalgar
providing that they also purchase the additional pre and/or
post tour hotel night(s) from Trafalgar. Please ask for prices
of transfers at the time of booking your extra night
accommodation.
- Land only passengers arriving or
departing on the scheduled tour arrival or departure days but
whose flights don't coincide with the listed transfer times
below may also book and purchase these transfers. Flight
details must be provided to Trafalgar not less than 21 days
before the flight departure.
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Please
Note
- Louis Cruise Lines reserve
the right to alter their operating cruise ships to one of
the same standard not listed on this website, or the
itinerary of any cruise in regards to the sequence of
ports, stops or ships on Land tours.
- Room Mate Matching is not
available on this tour.
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OPTIONALS |
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Ancient Lands
(Premier) Optional Excursions
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Note:
All optional excursions listed are for
2004/2005 please use the information as a guide only.
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EP1
- HERAKLION. Palace of Knossos & Archeological Museum
Enjoy a drive from the Venetian lion-guarded port of Heraklion town
to Knossos (approximately 30 minutes), once the capital city of the
prehistoric Minoan civilization, and thought to be the basis for the
original Labyrinth housing the mythological Minotaur. Follow your
guide in order to visit a portion of the excavated and partially
reconstructed Palace of King Minos, as well as the surrounding area.
The Palace houses the Hall of the Royal Guard, decorated with
frescoes and shields, the Hall of the Double Axes, the King’s
Chamber housing the alabaster throne amidst paintings of griffins
and lilies and the Queen’s Apartment, adorned with murals of
dolphins and spirals reminding us of the legend of the Labyrinth,
also viewing beautiful courtyards & shrines. Return to your
motorcoach and drive to the city of Heraklion where you have the
choice to either enjoy a guided tour through the extraordinary
Archaeological Museum, viewing the unique original items from the
Minoan culture or spend free time in town to browse at the shops.
Afterwards, return to the port by your motorcoach in time for
ship’s departure. Please Note: Entrance fees to the Archaeological
Museum are included. The use of a flash in the Museum is strictly
forbidden. The King’s Chamber and the Queen’s Apartment maybe
closed due to temporary restoration.
Adult 55.00 / Child 28.00 (€)
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EP38
- HERAKLION. Panoramic Sightseeing
Your tour begins from the Venetian lionguarded port of Heraklion and
having a scenic drive through the city to the famous wine producing
of Peza, south of Heraklion. Driving through breathtaking landscape
of coutryside and vineyards as old as Minoan times on your way to
your first stop, a modern winery, were you will see the updated
procedures of wine making and sample some of the delicious Cretan
wines. Your drive continues through rural villages to the village of
Archanes, the municipality in the area. On the way a photo stop is
made at Vathypetro to view one of the oldest farmhouses of Crete,
dating to the Minoan period 16th century BC. Your tour continues
through the island’s hilly countryside where olive groves and
vineyards existed from as far back as 4000 years. Arriving to the
village of Archanes, which is situated 10km south of the Palace of
Knossos, the quaint market town of Archanes has many restored
sandstone houses dating from the Turkish period. At a local taverna
in the villages’ tree-shaded square, you can sample an assortment
of Cretan snacks and locally produced wine along with mingling with
many of the locals themselves. Free time to browse will be given
before the return drive to the port of Heraklion and the ship.
Adult 49.00 / Child 25.00 (€)
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EP67
- PATMOS. Scenic Tour Around the Island
An interesting scenic island tour has been designed for those guests
who prefer to discover the beauties of Patmos within the comfort of
your air-conditioned motorcoach. Commencing your tour from the port
of Skala you will drive to the dominating central part of the island
“Chora” which is the location of the Majestic Byzantine
Monastery of St. John the Divine, built in 1088. Your sightseeing
will first bring you to the windmills of Chora, once upon a time the
landmark of all Aegean islands. Enjoy the view, take photos and
continue to visit the new active convent of Evangelismos
(Annunciation) in the south part of the island, which has a
significant number of nuns who follow the traditions. Afterwards,
continue your drive around the island to see its landscape of
outstanding natural beauty comprised of rocky hills. Dozens of
tongues of land reaching out into the sea tranquil beaches and many
picturesque inlets, before you arrive to the village of Kambos
located in the north part of the island, where you will be welcomed
with a refreshment and a traditional local sweet. Ending your tour
in the port of Scala you may enjoy some free time in this quaint and
picturesque little harbor.
Adult 29.00 / Child 19.00 (€)
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EP24
- RHODES. Lindos with Lunch by the Beach
Depart with your motorcoach from the harbor of Rhodes and drive
alongside the walls of the Medieval city and Mandraki Harbor where
once stood the 27 meter Bronze statue of the Colossos of Rhodes, one
of the seven wonders of the Ancient World. Commence your walking
tour at Port d’Amboise where you will stroll through the Medieval
Old City, down through Chevaliers Road and view the Palace of the
Knights of St. John not to mention the medieval houses of the
Knights. Continue on and pass by the Hospital of the Knights of St.
John, before meeting back up with your motorcoach at the Marine
Gate. Afterwards enjoy a relaxing drive along the eastern coastline
as you make your way to the village of Lindos (approximately 45
minutes drive). On arrival, follow your guide and proceed on foot
uphill to explore the Acropolis of Lindos, which overlooks the
Aegean Sea and the historic Bay of St Paul. Marvel at the
breathtaking views, and sites of this amazing Ancient City.
Afterwards, time will be given to discover this picturesque village
at the foot of the hill at your own pace before meeting backup with
your guide at the stated time and place. Continue on to a leading
five star beach hotel, half an hour away in the highly populated
tourism spot of the island “Faliraki”. Here you will enjoy a
full variety lunch buffet along with house wine before relaxing in
the afternoon sun by the pool, on the beach, or in the hotels
surrounding gardens. Hotel facilities, sun beds are included. Water
sports if desired will be at an extra cost. At the stated time meet
back up with your guide for the drive back to the harbor and your
ship. Please Note: Towels will be supplied by the ship and should be
returned after use. Hotel facilities, umbrellas and sun-beds will be
available on the beach for use. A short stop is foreseen at a
ceramic workshop to see how the traditional and world famous Rhodian
ceramics are made. The order of sites visited may change in order to
avoid overcrowding of motorcoaches and tourists.
Adult 69.00 / Child 35.00 (€)
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EP51
- RHODES. Old City & Philerimos
Drive along the medieval walls to the summit of Mount Smith, the
Acropolis of Ancient Rhodes. From the tumbled massive pillars of a
Temple of Athena, the view encompasses the nearby Temple of Apollo,
the Stadium of Diagoras and the port, which was once protected by
the Colossus of Rhodes – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient
World. The drive continues across the island to Philerimos. The
summit of Philerimos was the site of Ialysos, one of the three
ancient cities of Rhodes. Later remains include the restored
Byzantine Church of Our Lady of Philerimos, a chapel with 15th
century frescoes and a ruined castle of the Knights. After the visit
and free time, you will return to the Old City of Rhodes and begin a
guided walk of the Medieval walled city to the Porte d’Amboise. It
will be a pleasure to stroll the Street of the Knights with its
medieval buildings, winding alleys, towers, turrets and emblazoned
facades. Then visit the impressive Grand Masters Palace and have the
chance to see, among others, the superb mosaics. After your pleasant
walk, pass through the Marine Gate to meet up with your motorcoach
and return to the ship. Please Note: There will be easy and flat
walking involved in the Old Town.
Adult 39.00 / Child 22.00 (€)
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EP71
- RHODES. Lindos Excursion
Leaving the harbor area, you will drive along the picturesque
eastern coastline, scattered with white-washed villages, until you
reach Lindos. (A drive of approximately 45 minutes). This enchanting
site of the most important of the three great cities of ancient
times is guarded by the medieval walls constructed by the Knights of
St. John in the 13th century. Within stands the ancient Acropolis of
Lindos on the brick of a precipice 400 feet above sea level. From
the Acropolis you will stand in awe with the breathtaking views of
the great expanse of the Pelagus and St. Paul’s Bay, which is
where the Apostle himself cast anchor during his historic voyage to
Ephessos. You will proceed, on foot, up the Great staircase leading
from the Hellenistic portico to the Temple of Athena, considered the
most worshipped temple of the Ancient Greek World. After your visit
to the Acropolis there will be some time for shopping in the
interesting little shops that line the narrow streets of this
attractive village. You will rejoin the motorcoaches and drive back
to the town of Rhodes where you will commence your walking tour of
the Old Medieval City of Rhodes at the Port d’Amboise and stroll
through the Medieval Old City, down through Chevaliers Road and view
the Palace of the Knights of St. John not to mention the medieval
houses of the Knights. Continue on and pass by the Hospital of the
Knights of St. John, before meeting back up with your motorcoach at
the Marine Gate. Please Note: A short stop is foreseen at a ceramic
workshop to see how the traditional and world famous Rhodian
ceramics are made. There will be strenuous uphill walking to visit
the Acropolis of Lindos and to return to parking lot.
Adult 44.00 / Child 22.00 (€)
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EP45
- SANTORINI. Island Tour & Oia Village
Sailing into the Caldera of Santorini is like floating inside a
giant open-air geological museum. Oia Village is the crowning glory
of peace and tranquility. Built on the northern tip of the Caldera
rim, it is here where many artists have been inspired due to its
magnificent location. As you will see for yourself, it has “out of
this world” views of the Caldera, the island itself, and many of
the broken off islands surrounding the Caldera and Aegean Sea. Enjoy
a short trip by boat to Athineos Harbor where you will meet up with
your motorcoach and guide. Drive uphill along the rocky sides of the
Caldera and pass through many traditional villages in order to reach
the listed settlement and unique village of Oia, with its typically
Cycladic architecture and its houses perched on the cliffs edge like
seagulls poised for flight on this dramatic cliff-side Accompanied
by your guide, walk through the village along cobble-stoned streets
marveling at the breathtaking panoramic views and admiring the
traditional architecture. Enjoy free time on your own, where you may
either wander through the many art galleries available or perhaps
relax over a coffee. At the specified place and time, meet back up
with your guide and make your way to Fira, the capital town of the
island, built on the center of the Caldera rim. Enjoy the town at
your own leisure and return to the small pier of Scala by cable car
or mule, where the vessel’s tendering service awaits to take you
back to your ship. Please Note: This excursion will commence from
Fira Town, instead of Athenios harbor, in unfavorable weather
conditions.
Adult 45.00 / Child 23.00 (€)
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EP92
- SANTORINI. Sailing & Volcano
Enjoy a cruise around the active crater of Nea Kameniislet. Sail
along the peculiar formations of its volcanic shores, where black
lava rocks and white pumice are combined beautifully with the red
color of lava. Take a walk to the top of the volcanic island where
sulphur is spewed into the air by one of the craters. Enjoy this
surreal landscape as your guide narrates the creation and history of
the volcano and the last eruption leading to the destruction of the
island of Santorini. The tidal wave created by the eruption was of
such an immense magnitude, it destroyed the thriving city of Knossos
on the island of Crete. As your caique enters the narrows of the two
lava islets, Palea and Nea Kameni, note the changing colors of the
water from dark blue to sulphur green. In the background, admire the
breathtaking sight of Fira Town with its white washed houses
clinging precariously on the rim of the Caldera. Take time to swim
in the warm waters heated by Hot Springs on the sea floor. Sail to
Athinios port, where your motorcoach will take you to Fira Town, the
island’s capital where the tour ends and you will have free time
to walk around on your own or shop. Later, use your tour ticket to
ride the mules or the cable car to descend to Skala, the pier at the
bottom of the cliff where ship’s tenders will be waiting to take
you back to the ship. Please note : Descending to Skala on mule back
may be uncomfortable, as the animals lean forward at a considerable
angle due to the very steep incline. The stepped way is littered
with animal droppings resulting in a strong odor being noticeable
during the entire descent. A strenuous uphill/downhill walk is
involved to reach the crater. We recommend light dress, comfortable
enclosed flat shoes, hat, sunglasses and bottled water. You may wear
your swimwear under your clothes or should you wish to change on
board the caique, please note you will be using the rest rooms for
changing. Do not forget your towel and sunscreen.
Adult 45.00 / Child 23.00 (€)
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EP14
- CAPE SOUNION
Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece
to see the fifth century B.C Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if
you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the
temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the
coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down
to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first
lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history,
ever since the tragic king Aegeas threw himself from the rocky
precipice into the sea below, there by giving his name to the Aegean
Sea.
Adult 32.00 (€)
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EP15
- ONE DAY CRUISE
Aegina, Poros & Hydra. It’s just a short 20 minute drive to
Flisvos harbour where you will board your ship for a memorable full
day cruise to the three Saronic Gulf Islands of Aegina, Hydra and
Poros. The cruise ship is fully equipped with bars, dance floor,
inside/outside seating, money exchange, gift shop, restaurant, air
conditioning/heating etc. Lunch with a glass of wine is inclusive of
the price and in the afternoon there is also a small show to keep
you entertained for the return journey.
Adult 80.00 (€)
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EP16
- ARGOLIS. (Mycenae, Epidaurus, Corinth Canal) with Lunch
Visit the most historic region of the Peloponnese - where you can
see more ancient sites per square mile than in the whole of Greece!
You will first cross the Corinth Canal, separating the Peloponnese
from Mainland Greece with impressive dimensions - Visit the ancient
site of Mycenae, home to several important excavations such as the
Lion Gate, Royal Palace & Tomb of Agamemnon, all of whose
sophisticated architecture testifies to the advanced culture of the
Mycenaean civilisation. Then on to the stunning ancient theatre of
Epidaurus, which was built with such amazing mathematical precision
that a pin dropped in the arena can be heard from every one of the
14,000 seats! There will also be a stop at the picturesque town of
Nafplion, the first capital of modern Greece.
Adult 82.00 (without lunch Adult 72.00) (€)
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EP18
- DELPHI. Full Day with Lunch
With its site raised on the slopes of a high mountain terrace &
dwarfed on either side by the great & ominous crags of
Parnassus, it’s easy to see why the ancients believed Delphi to be
the centre of the universe. Confirmation of a divine presence was
achieved through the discovery of a rock chasm that excludes strange
vapours & reduced all visitors to frenzied, incoherent &
undoubtedly prophetic mutterings, whilst consulting the Oracle!
Visit the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Stadium & the Temple, as well
as the museum of Delphi - home to over 10,000 artefacts, including
the famous bronze Charioteer. In addition, you will also pass
through the typical mountain Greek village of Arachova - famous for
its cheese, matured in nearby caves, and for its flokati rugs.
Adult 82.00 (without lunch Adult 72.00) (€)
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EP22
- KOROPI. “Old Stables” Greek Folklore Evening
A 40 minutes drive out of Athens in small village called Koropi,
situated in the wine district of Attica, is the ‘Old Stables’
Taverna. Renowned as an excellent Greek folklore taverna, also
frequented by the local residents, you will dine on typical Greek
food & wine, whilst enjoying a professional floorshow. And if,
after a few glasses of Ouzo & wine you are over come with the
desire to join in, then we’ll happily teach you a few steps!
(Casual dress).
Adult 60.00 (€)
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EP42
- MICROLIMANO. Seafood Dinner
This is an evening excursion to the picturesque fishing harbour of
Microlimano, which is the perfect setting to enjoy a wonderful
seafood dinner served on the waterfront. Dinner includes starters,
shrimp, calamari, fish, salads, fruit, wine, ouzo and soft drinks.
Adult 60.00 (€)
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EP79
- ATHENS. Greek Evening in Plaka
This is an evening excursion to a taverna in Plaka, which is within
walking distance from most of the central Athens hotels. Excellent
Greek food in a lively atmosphere, entertained through dances and
music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are
also included. Although the show does have an official ending time,
clients are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in
with the local residents! (Casual dress)
Adult 50.00 (€)
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EP80
- ARCHAEON GEFSEIS. Ancient Tastes
One cannot leave Greece without relishing what the Ancients used to
savour. A unique opportunity to compliment your “Hellenic
Experience”. A restaurant, which recreates the ancient Greek
symposium, with all its romance and picturesque interest. Dine in a
torch-lit atmosphere, on the most extraordinary dishes. Waiters in
togas, archaic eating and drinking utensils, air scented by
essential oils, as well as music with rhythms and sounds of
antiquity are a few of the many pleasures enjoyed here.
Adult 60.00 (€)
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DATES
& RATES |
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*These prices are correct at
the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at
the time of booking.
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