- Cycle along idyllic coastlines
- Visit historical sights of Ancient Greece
- Discover Athens and its archaeological treasures
Cycling in Greece
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8 Days
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8 Days
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Cycling
Itinerary
Athens Athens
Fly to Athens
Fly to Athens and transfer to our start hotel upon arrival. In the evening, we have our welcome briefing, in which we meet the tour leader and come together for the first time. Get some rest tonight, the cycling starts early tomorrow.
Start Athens
We begin at our hotel in the capital of Greece. In the evening, we have our welcome briefing, in which we meet the tour leader and come together for the first time. Get some rest tonight, the cycling starts early tomorrow.
Explore Athens by bike; ferry to Poros; cycle around the island
In the morning, we cycle down one of the major bike lanes in the city, heading to the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center, where we take a short transfer to the busy port of Piraeus. Here we catch the ferry (approximately 2hr 30min) across the Argo-Saronic Gulf to the island of Poros.
In Poros, we cycle around the island, passing the Russian naval base and many small, beautiful bays. After an ascent to the temple of Poseidon, we have a steep descent to Askeli beach where our hotel is located and we can enjoy a refreshing swim.
Please note, the ferry timetable is often modified at very short notice. On occasion, we may have to take an early ferry.
Route: First part is flat with a gradual downhill in Athens. The second part is a gradual ascent to Poseidon’s Temple, then undulating and then steep downhill to our hotel. Terrain: 100% paved road.
Boat to Galatas and scenic coastal ride to the ancient site of Epidaurus
In the morning, after a walking tour of Poros town, we take a five-minute boat ride to the Peloponnese mainland. Cycling through olive groves and quiet hamlets, we start our ascent along one of the most impressive coastlines in Greece, enjoying views of the Aegean Sea. Our tour takes us through ancient Trizina, birthplace of the Minotaur-slaying hero Theseus. Not far away is the beach, where we can have a short break, swim and a small lunch.
The fantastic views throughout today’s ride are our reward for two big ascents – over 2.5mi (4km) and 1.85mi (3km) – that we climb after lunch. They lead to a 1.2mi (2km) steep descent to the ancient town of Epidaurus. Palia Epidaurus (Old Epidaurus) is built around a natural harbor and is our base for the night.
Route: First part is flat with a gradual downhill in Athens. The second part is a gradual ascent to Poseidon’s Temple, then undulating and then steep downhill to our hotel. Terrain: 100% paved road.
Optional visit to the theater of Epidaurus; cycle to Tolo
After an uphill ride of approximately 6mi (10km), there is an optional visit to the ancient site of Epidaurus. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a 15,000-seater amphitheater, which was built for Asclepius, the god of medicine, and is renowned for its size, symmetry and acoustics. If you don’t want to go in, relax in the shaded gardens or cafeterias outside the site.
After refuelling, we have a 1.2mi (2km) uphill ride, then a 6.2mi (10km) descent through some mountain roads towards the sea. The last ascent today is almost 1mi (1.5km) and takes us to the town of Tolo, where we stay tonight.
Route: Long but gradual ascent to Lygourio, short ascent after the Epidaurus Theater and a long, steep and bumpy decent towards the sea, then almost flat until Tolo except for a small ascent. Terrain: 99% paved road.
Visit Nafplio; head into the heart of the Peloponnese to Mycenae
Leaving Tolo, we cycle on the main road for 7.5mi (12km) and make our way to Nafplio, one of the most beautiful cities in Greece and the capital in the early 1800s. Situated on the hillsides at the northern end of the Argolic Gulf, the town has numerous neoclassical buildings plus the Palamidi Castle. Today, we can also enjoy an off-road adventure: a 6.2mi (10km) round trip to the beach nearest Karathonas, enjoying the beautiful coastline and a swim. After our return, we leave the coast and start our ride to the heart of the Peloponnese, making our way to Mycenae.
We cycle through orange groves until we start an ascent of 3mi (5km) to an archaeological site at the top of the hill. The imposing Lion Gate, built around 1350-1200 BCE, awaits. Outside the walls, we can see the wonders for which Mycenae is known: the vault-shaped tombs of Lions, Aegisthus and Clytemnestra, and the Treasury of Atreus. An optional visit of the site is highly recommended.
Route: Flat to Nafplio, then dirt road to Karathonas Beach, then flat and, at the end, a long ascent to Mycenae. Terrain: 80% paved, 20% dirt road.
Explore the wine-producing town of Nemea; visit a vineyard; continue to Loutraki
Today is the longest ride! We start by gradually climbing on the main road for 8mi (13km) until we reach Ancient Nemea, where Hercules killed the Nemean lion and where the Nemean games were held. Here we visit an archaeological site and ancient stadium before we ride through vineyards.
The town of Nemea is now known for producing exceptional wine and we visit one of the wineries, learn about the process and taste (a little) before we continue our journey on quiet country roads. The first part is undulating, then we have a 6.2mi (10km) descent towards the Gulf of Corinth. We continue by the seaside to Corinth and then Loutraki, where we spend the night.
Route: Gradual but long uphill to the winery then an undulating section, followed by a gradual decent towards the sea and then almost completely flat towards the hotel. Terrain: 100% paved road.
Bus to Athens; guided tour of the Acropolis
From Loutraki, we take the bus to Athens and a metro to Plaka, the historic downtown. Here we enjoy a guided tour of the Acropolis before a walking tour of the city center. Our route takes us at a relaxed pace to some of the must-see sites: Monastiraki square and the Ancient Library, the Roman Forum and Tower of the Winds, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch, the Greek Parliament and the National Gardens, and the monumental 19th-century buildings of the oldest Greek university. Enjoy a free evening to sample more delicious Greek food.
Fly to London
After breakfast we transfer to Athens airport and fly to London. However, if you’d like more time to explore this fascinating ancient city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
End Athens
The trip ends after breakfast. However, if you’d like more time to explore this fascinating ancient city, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Essential Info
Joining Instructions
Key information
Recommended arrival time: 5pm at the start hotel to catch the welcome briefing. If this is not possible for you, the leader will happily bring you up to speed later
Airport: Athens Airport (ATH)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 45 to 60 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel relatively easily using taxis or public transport. A cab from the airport should take 45 minutes. Alternatively, catch line 3 of the metro, which will cost €10 and takes one hour. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to the airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Athens
Location end: Athens
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Trip Experts
Vivien Urban
Product Manager Europe
Reviews
Add your own reviewGreat cycling trip
Our first time visiting Greece and it did not disappoint. The scenery was beautiful. The weather excellent and our fellow travellers were great company. The food was delicious, with plenty of choice. The hotels were clean and comfortable. Our guides were awesome and looked after us incredibly well.
Most Inspirational Moment
This happened on the last but one night on our trip. Earlier in the day we’d been wine tasting and Dimitris had taken great care to ask us which were our favourite wines. On our way to dinner we were taken to a jetty to watch the sunset, and with a flourish, bottles of the most popular wines were produced for us to enjoy. We were all encouraged (if we wanted to) to stand up and say a few words about what we’d enjoyed, learned or been surprised by on the trip. It was a lovely idea, and I think we all enjoyed the moment (and the wine!).
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leaders were Niovi Stasinou & Dimitris Gotsis, with Niovi leading the cycling and sorting out the many bike maintenance issues and Dimitris driving the support vehicle and doing the shopping for our delicious lunches they both prepared. Niovi led the cycling at a very sensible pace. She was very diligent with regards to our safety and made us aware of how she expected us to cycle on the busier roads. She kept us safe, and we also had Dimitris providing cover at the back of the line. They were constantly in contact with each other, providing feedback if anyone was slowing down at the back of the line. They also stopped the traffic at busier junctions, to allow us safe crossing. I was a little apprehensive about the promised picnic lunches, but they were beautifully presented and were absolutely delicious. The choice of evening restaurants were also first class. It was lovely that they both always joined us for our evening meal, although they didn’t really sit still and relax and were constantly on the move, sorting out what we would be eating, explaining the drinks menu and generally looking after us, and we were a full group of 16. They were great fun, friendly, informative and were excellent ambassadors for Exodus and Greece. We loved spending time with them.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The cycling was not too demanding. There were some good up hills and some very steep descents where great care needed to be taken. The weather was beautiful and very warm at times, so be prepared for that. We were provided with frequent water stops to keep us hydrated in the heat. We also had stops for snacks. Don’t be afraid to do this trip as there was absolutely no pressure to cycle at a fast pace.
Great cycling trip!
I had a great time cycling around Greece with Exodus. The scenery on each day was so diverse, from cycling along the coast, through vineyards and mountains. No two days of cycling were the same. The tour guide was excellent, he always found the best places for lunch, usually off the beaten track and told interesting Greek Myths during our breaks. I would highly recommend this trip!
Most Inspirational Moment
Cycling along the coast to a Greek hut where we sat and had lunch. It was so secluded and all of the guests had the chance to swim in the clear blue waters whilst the guide prepared a very fresh lunch.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dimitris was great. He was very friendly, knowledgeable about all things to do with Greek Mythology, and kept the right cycling pace for the group. He was also very thoughtful and printed some photos for each customer at the end of the trip and ensured we tried all of the Greek delicacies.
A fantastic cycling holiday
This was a very enjoyable cycle tour with a wonderful combination of cycle routes, spectacular scenery, excellent food and beer/wine, history and mythology . The two guides Dimitri S and Dimitri G excelled at making sure everyone was looked after and nothing was too much trouble – from providing vehicle support to explaining Greek history and recommending local wines.
Most Inspirational Moment
Being able to swim in the sea three times in different seas all in the same day. Stopping at the ancient Olympic site at Namea and running the 200m for which everyone received a Laurel garland.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both D1 and D2 were fantastic - knowledgeable, helpful and nothing was too much trouble.
Advice for Potential Travellers
With the combination of cycling, scenery, local cuisine, history and mythology I would definitely recommend this tour. For anyone unsure about the distances or difficulty then hiring an E-bike makes this an achievable and rewarding trip.
A unique way to explore Greece, Gods and Myths
Our very first Exodus trip (recommended by friends) commenced apprehensively (and very early) in the Terminal 5 Lounge at Heathrow. After a couple of ‘Pineapple Juices’ for breakfast and 40 winks on the plane we were soon at our hotel to meet the Group Leaders Dimitris and Dimitris soon being referred to as D1 and D2.
Very soon the eclectic mix of people were entrusting the next 7 days of cycling, eating, drinking, swimming and dancing with D1 & D2. We couldn’t have made a better choice. We had fantastic cycling, the snacks, lunches and juices that D2 provided in support were excellent and D1 and D2 excelled at their dinner choices every evening giving us a superb taste of local foods (at very reasonable prices). D2 (the wine connoisseur) helped us choose the best wines to go with the meals, although he was not put out when the odd carafe of house red, or the local beers were ordered as well!
D1 and especially D2 excelled in imparting their local knowledge, Greek history and Greek Mythology at many of our stops to visit ancient sights and places of historical interest. Even better were the lunches that they prepared and the snacks they offered during the days.
In summary, D1 and D2 were fabulous The rest of the group got involved to make it so enjoyable. We had a fabulous time and met some great people. What a fantastic lot! We loved it.
Most Inspirational Moment
Hearing two American young lads Hum Ave Maria in the Mycenae Tomb of Clytemnestra. The sound / resonance was amazing. This was closely followed by a Pink Floyd rendition from "Dark Side of the Moon" in the same tomb! Our first ever trip to the Acropolis wasn't bad either.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader Dimitris S was great, but it was made so much better with Dimitris G as support. I am sure that they work well individually, but they make a great pair. Their knowledge and support were excellent. I had to leave the group on the last morning for personal reasons, and they both helped me out in getting to where I was going.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Please come along to enjoy the cycling, but make sure that you get involved with the group and join in with all the other activities - you won't regret it. The cycling and scenery are great - you can even swim (or just paddle) most days if you want. We did have a couple of issues with electric bikes, but it didn't detract from the holiday. It just meant that some had to peddle harder than others! (These were sorted out).
Scenery, sites, salads and stories
I originally booked this trip for summer 2020, it was rolled over twice due to the pandemic, but my word, it was a trip worth waiting for! Challenging cycling, spectacular scenery, fabulous food, and heaps of history – it has something for everyone, and then some. One of the best trips I have ever done (and this is my 12th with Exodus), “Team Dimitris” made it a wonderful re-introduction to cycling holidays abroad after the last few years of uncertainty.
Most Inspirational Moment
As a student of ancient history, visiting Epidarus and Mycenae could not be beaten. As a cyclist, the scenery was simply stunning, especially the Nafplio coastline. As a foodie, absolutely all of it!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Dimitris on the bike and Dimitris in the van have to be the best double act on an Exodus trip I have ever had the privilege to be a part of. Their meticulous attention to detail with elevation profiles and distances, maps, carefully selected snack and rest spots, and particularly their choices of local cuisine, meant that everything ran smoothly and all we had to do was pedal along, eat, and enjoy ourselves. The real magic though was in their storytelling - if you love Greek myths (or even if you don't), you will be spellbound.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be open to sharing evening meals (and a kitty for arranging lunches, snacks, and drinks). Team Dimitris chose a wonderful selection of local dishes on each day which, when shared between all, meant our group could try a huge variety of delicious food at a really reasonable price. Handing over the decision-making never tasted so good!! The itinerary is quite a busy one but regardless of how hot or tired you might feel, keep going! You won't want to miss out on a single thing.
Fantastic trip!
This is our 6th guided cycling trip with Exodus. I realized how much 2 great guides, both named Dimitris, can add to a trip. Not only was the cycling interesting and varied, both Dimitris planned lunches, ordered food for us for dinner, had us stop at museums, and took us on extra little trips, such as visiting tombs after dinner. This trip was beyond my expectations. There is so much to see in the Peloponnese area: so many beautiful ruins of temples, baths, theaters, stadiums….And “The Dimitris” were passionate about their country and Greece’s mythology. I thought nothing could top Romania, Morocco and South Africa, but this trip just might have done that.
Most Inspirational Moment
The seas were so blue and the flowers were so intensely colored. I was inspired to buy Greek Olive oil instead of Italian! Oh, and I learned that I love ouzo.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The group leaders were incredibly well-planned and had even drawn up an elevation-gain map. So organized.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be ready to enjoy fantastic food and views. Read some mythology before you go. Perhaps read the Iliad and the Odessey (even if you read the approachable graphic novels--it's still good).
Great cycling trip and super food
This was our seventh cycling trip in Europe but our first with Exodus. It was up there with the best of our past trips. The bikes were good (brand new), the hotels as good or better than expected and the guides were excellent. We managed the climbs ok and felt increasingly confident as the week progressed. One of the nice things about this trip is being by the sea. A real highlight was the food organised by Niovi and Demetrius – the snacks, lunches and the dinners. Delicious, good value and time effective. We were a small group and all were good company. We recommend this trip!
Most Inspirational Moment
Sitting up high at the amazing Epidauros amphitheatre, taking it all in and looking across at the Greek landscape.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent - Niovi is great fun and a super organiser and Demetrius a terrific driver, cook, teller of stories, additional guide. They made a great team and added various fun or thoughtful surprises for us. Their organising of the food was exceptional and a real highlight of the holiday.
Advice for Potential Travellers
There are some good climbs on this trip but, having done cycling trips before and practiced on the local hills in the weeks just before going, we coped ok and are now up for more 'moderate' trips.
Great Trip!
Excellent trip. A nice combination of historical sites and cycling. Our local guides offered to provide guidance for the evening meals so the culinary experience was also top notch.
The two guides were both very passionate about sharing their history and culture. I can’t say enough good things about Dimitris Steriotis and Dimitris Gotsis.
Most Inspirational Moment
It is literally hard to pick as there were three categories of highlights: Favourite site: the theatre at Epidarous Cycling: the km downhill stretch into the pistachio orchard Meal: Petite Planette Other fav: swimming in the Aegean Sea
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both group leader and support driver were excellent. Dimitris and Dimitris were a good team that worked well together.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be open to eating with group. Do some long rides with uphill before you go. Prepare to enjoy yourself.
Awesome trip
Our guides were great. They shared their passion for Greek History, Greek culture, Greek food and cycling.
Most Inspirational Moment
When I was able to ride down switchbacks and think that it was fun, rather than terrifying!
Thoughts on Group Leader
I found both Dimitris ‘ to be very supportive. I am a relatively new cyclist and they helped me get more comfortable with many aspects of cycling.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Don’t be shy about sharing your meals! The guides picked well, the food was terrific and the cost was reasonable. We got to taste many dishes this way!
Cycling in Greece
All accommodations were excellent
Bikes were in good condition, two flat tires reported the entire trip.
Some group members thought they were to heavy.
Snacks and meals were delicious, a good selection of Greek foods.
Side excursions good as well
Most Inspirational Moment
Personally I loved Poros island, the dinner we had on the seafront, with the sunset, and our toes in the sand❤️
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our guide was great (Niovi), she was always smiling and cheerful, she was able to turn us into a relaxed cohesive group. We had lots of laughs.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be aware of the climate when you are planning to travel. Our trip was mid September and we rode in temperatures in the mid 30C.
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Sunday Sunday
01 Sep 2024 01 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
08 Sep 2024 08 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From Usually CAD 3,513Now CAD 2,985Saving CAD 528 Usually CAD 4,178Now Saving CAD 528
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 646
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
22 Sep 2024 22 Sep 2024
Sunday Sunday
29 Sep 2024 29 Sep 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From CAD 3,610
Optional Single Supplement
+CAD 646
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
18 May 2025 18 May 2025
Sunday Sunday
25 May 2025 25 May 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 3,800 Book with CAD 950 deposit
Optional Single Supplement
+CAD 722
Available upon Request
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
07 Sep 2025 07 Sep 2025
Sunday Sunday
14 Sep 2025 14 Sep 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 3,800 CAD 3,800 Book with CAD 950 deposit Book with CAD 950 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 722
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSunday Sunday
21 Sep 2025 21 Sep 2025
Sunday Sunday
28 Sep 2025 28 Sep 2025
Availability Available
Adult Price From CAD 3,800 Book with CAD 950 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +CAD 722
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
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Cycling in Greece
8 Days
from
8 Days
from
Incl. taxes
Excl. flights