• Thermopylae - Traveling north from Athens, approximately 220 km, visitors will arrive at the renowned Thermopylae, the site of the legendary battle of the 300 Spartans. A modern monument dedicated to King Leonidas stands beside the highway. This memorial features the Spartan King atop a wall with the inscription “Molon Lavei” beneath the statue. This phrase, meaning “Come and get it,” was Leonidas’ response to Persian King Xerxes’ demand to surrender his weapons. It has since become a global symbol of resistance. Opposite the modern memorial, across the highway, lies the ancient memorial erected shortly after the battle. This small carved stone plaque reads, “Stranger, tell the Spartans that we lie here obedient to their laws.” This ancient tribute is located on the small hill of Colonos, across the national road from the modern monument.

• Thermopylae Museum - The Center for Historic Information in Thermopylae comprises three halls, with exhibits curated by the Foundation of the Hellenic World. The educational material is based on Herodotus’ history and archaeological research. In the first hall, named ‘Leonides,’ visitors can watch a seven-minute video introducing the Centre’s operations and what to expect in the other halls. In the second hall, ‘Diinekis,’ visitors don special glasses to view a fifteen-minute virtual reality film depicting historical events of the Battle, including the Greek armory, the ascent of the Anopaia Way, and the Battle’s conclusion. This immersive experience allows viewers to witness the traitor Efialtes leading the Persians through the Anopaia Way to the West Gate and Kolonus Hill. In the third hall, ‘Thermopylae,’ visitors can interact with touch-activated screens on special tables to access comprehensive information about the Battle’s history and the historical period. They can learn about the Persian Wars’ causes, the Sea Battle of Artemision, the key figures, the 300 Spartans, their armor, the movements of the opposing armies, and much more in an unexpectedly engaging manner.

• Battlefield of Thermopylae - At the Thermopylae battlefield, visitors can witness the hot gates where hot water has flowed since ancient times.

• Kamena Vourla - A picturesque seaside resort where visitors can enjoy lunch on the return journey to Athens.

• Thermopyles Hot Springs - This location features hot healing waters that have flowed since ancient times in the Thermopylae area.

• Round-trip hotel transport included
• Complimentary bottled water
• Experienced and knowledgeable drivers
• Comfort with air-conditioned, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicles
• Transportation costs like tolls covered

• Food and drinks
• Licensed Tour Guide
• tickets to the archaeological sites

The journey begins in Athens. Heading north from Athens, we will pause to appreciate the serene Lake Ylikii for about 15 minutes. We will then visit the majestic Thermopylae, the very spot where the famed battle of the 300 Spartans occurred in 480 BC. A memorial stands there, paying homage to the Spartan King Leonidas. Mounted on a wall, the statue features the words ‘Molon Lavei’ beneath, translating to ‘Come and get it’. This phrase, a response to the Persian king who demanded that Leonidas surrender his arms, is globally recognized as a symbol of resistance. An antique memorial exists opposite the highway from the present-day one, installed shortly following the battle. It features an eloquent, carved stone plaque that reads: ‘stranger, tell the Spartans that we lay here obedient to their laws’. Finally, a visit to the museum offers insights into the lifestyle of the Spartan warriors, their combats, and an immersive experience of the battle via virtual reality games in a dedicated room.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.