While the blue duo of sky and water may be the most iconic representation of a Hellenic holiday, mainland Greece plays no second fiddle when it comes to the country’s historic assets. An ancient civilisation that sprouted democracy, philosophy, law and the Olympics conjures up an open-air wonderland of majestic temples, nature straight out of mythology and a hip cultural scene permeating through its urban cities. So, hold off your beach towels and venture inland instead with a customised Athens and mainland Greece tour package from Chan Brothers Travel Private Tours and explore the cradle of western civilisation today.
Act on Athens
The country’s capital is a heady mix of history and modernity creating an energetic city scene combining the best of both worlds. Rise early with the sun lighting up the city’s gorgeous streets, slip into the afternoon with a long lunch of “mezes” (Greek small dishes) at an al alfresco restaurant, and then hike up Acropolis with a private guide to unravel the hidden stories of its sacred grounds.

Sky-high monasteries
Meteora, a group of monasteries perched high up on rocky pinnacles, is one of Greece’s most visited sites and for very good reasons. Literally meaning “suspended in air”, the appeal of the UNESCO World Heritage Site lies in its almost unfathomable setting which leaves you wondering how on earth did they build them in ancient times. Explore further into the monasteries, the chapels and the caves, and you will possibly come to understand the spiritual fervour of the monks who built and inhabited them centuries ago.