Ready to lace up your running shoes and dive into history? Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner chasing that 26.2-mile thrill or an adventurer looking to follow in the footsteps of legends, the Athens Marathon is your chance to experience Greece in a way that’s truly epic. To celebrate this iconic race, Travelive has crafted the ultimate 9-day itinerary, blending the spirit of the marathon with the best of Athens and the Peloponnese. Get ready for a journey that’s equal parts race and revelry!
Day 1: Arrival in Athens
Welcome to Athens, the birthplace of the marathon and the cradle of Western civilization! After a seamless private transfer to your luxury hotel, soak in the electric atmosphere of a city steeped in history and buzzing with excitement. Wander through the vibrant streets where “Νενικήκαμεν!” (“We have won!”) once echoed or visit the Panathenaic Stadium, the historic finish line of the Athens Marathon and site of the first modern Olympics.
Day 2: Private Tour of the Acropolis & Acropolis Museum
Kick off your adventure with an essential stop at Greece’s most iconic landmark—the Acropolis. Step through the gates of Propylaea, marvel at the Parthenon and immerse yourself in stories of ancient glory. Afterward, explore the Acropolis Museum, where thousands of artifacts await to bring the past to life. Wrap up the day with a hearty, carb-loaded dinner at a traditional taverna—fuel for the big day ahead!
Day 3: The Athens Marathon
Race day has arrived! Start with a light breakfast before heading to Marathon for the run of a lifetime. Channel the spirit of Pheidippides as you conquer the legendary 26-mile route back to Athens, finishing in the awe-inspiring Panathenaic Stadium. After crossing the finish line in triumph, enjoy a well-deserved feast and relax—you’ve just made history!
Day 4: Leisure Day or Explore Cape Sounion
Take a day to recover and unwind. Relax at your hotel or join an optional trip to Cape Sounion to witness the breathtaking Temple of Poseidon and soak in stunning sunset views over the Aegean Sea.
Day 5: Athens to Nafplio with a Tour of Mycenae and Epidaurus
With the marathon behind you, embark on your epic journey through Mainland Greece. Visit the ancient citadel of Mycenae, home of King Agamemnon, and explore the spectacular theater of Epidaurus. End your day in Nafplio, Greece’s first capital and a charming seaside town rich in history and beauty that now boasts a marathon of its own (something to consider for your next Greek sporting adventure).
Day 6: Nafplio to Arachova with a Tour of Olympia
Continue your exploration as you head to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games! Walk the ancient track where athletes competed in 776 BC, and marvel at the relics in the Archaeological Museum. Then, head to the alpine village of Arachova, known as the “Winter Mykonos,” for a scenic mountain retreat.
Day 7: Delphi to Meteora with a Tour of Delphi
Discover Delphi, once considered the center of the ancient world. Visit the Temple of Apollo and learn about the Pythian Games—a precursor to the Olympics. Then, journey to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking monasteries perched atop towering rock formations.
Day 8:The Majestic Monasteries of Meteora
Spend the day exploring Meteora’s stunning monasteries, learning about the monastic life, and admiring some of Greece’s most spectacular vistas. Afterward, return to Athens for one last night in this enchanting city.
Day 9: Departure
Depart with pride and a heart full of memories as your private driver takes you to Athens International Airport. Your marathon of Greece may be over, but the stories and triumphs will last a lifetime.