24-Day Best of Greece - Tour 5C

Nestled in the heart of Greece's Thessaly region, Kalabaka is a charming town renowned for its striking natural and historical attractions. Most famous for its proximity to the Meteora rock formation, Kalabaka offers a unique blend of geological marvel and spiritual history. The Meteora monasteries, perched precariously atop towering sandstone pillars, were established by Eastern Orthodox monks in the 14th century. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are a testament to human perseverance and artistic achievement.

Kalabaka itself is a picturesque town that serves as a gateway to the Meteora region. The town's narrow streets, traditional architecture, and local markets offer visitors a glimpse into authentic Greek life. A visit to the local museum, the Meteora Museum of Natural History, provides insights into the region's unique rock formations and biodiversity.

A fun fact about Kalabaka is that the Meteora rock formation is one of the largest and most important complexes of Eastern Orthodox monasteries in Greece, with six active monasteries still in use today. The name "Meteora" means "suspended in air," which perfectly describes the awe-inspiring appearance of the monasteries seemingly floating above the landscape.

To make the most of your visit, consider traveling between April and October, when the weather is most favorable for hiking and exploring the Meteora cliffs. The town's warm hospitality, combined with the stunning natural and historical scenery, ensures a memorable experience.

Bar, a coastal town in Montenegro, offers a blend of history and nature. Located along the Adriatic Sea, this port city is known for its scenic beaches and centuries-old landmarks. With a mix of modern development and historic sites, Bar provides visitors with opportunities to relax and explore.

One of the town’s most significant historical sites is Stari Bar, an ancient fortress settlement set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rumija. The ruins of Stari Bar tell the story of various civilizations, from the Romans and Byzantines to the Ottomans and Venetians. Walking through its stone archways and narrow pathways, visitors can admire remnants of medieval churches, Turkish baths, and old aqueducts. Just outside the fortress, the Old Olive Tree, believed to be over 2,000 years old, stands as one of the oldest trees in Europe.

Bar’s coastline offers a mix of sandy and pebble beaches. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic invite visitors to enjoy water sports, boat trips, or a leisurely seaside stroll along the town’s modern promenade. With its Mediterranean climate, Bar is also known for its olive groves and vineyards, producing some of Montenegro’s finest olives and wines.

Perched at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, Gibraltar is a captivating destination where British and Mediterranean influences seamlessly blend. Dominated by the iconic Rock of Gibraltar, this British Overseas Territory is a haven for travelers seeking both adventure and history. The Rock itself is a limestone monolith that stands 426 meters high and offers breathtaking views over the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean. A ride on the cable car to the summit unveils these stunning vistas, alongside a chance to encounter Gibraltar's famous Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkey population.

Gibraltar's rich history is etched into its landscape. The Great Siege Tunnels, carved into the Rock during the late 18th century, are a testament to the ingenuity of British soldiers defending the territory against French and Spanish forces. Today, these tunnels are part of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, which also houses St. Michael's Cave, a mesmerizing natural grotto used for concerts and events due to its remarkable acoustics. Wander down to the historic city center to explore Casemates Square, the heart of Gibraltar’s social life, where lively cafes and restaurants spill out onto cobbled streets and visitors can soak in the lively ambiance.

For those intrigued by Gibraltar's military and cultural significance, the Gibraltar National Museum offers a comprehensive look at the territory’s 2,000-year history, from the Phoenicians to World War II. Just a short stroll away is the Moorish Castle, built in the 8th century and symbolizing Gibraltar's strategic importance throughout the ages. The castle's Tower of Homage, with its commanding views, serves as a reminder of the diverse civilizations that have left their mark on Gibraltar's soil.

Fun fact: The Rock of Gibraltar is one of the two Pillars of Hercules, the ancient mythological gateways to the Mediterranean. According to Greek mythology, Hercules separated Europe from Africa, creating the Strait of Gibraltar. Today, the territory remains a unique blend of history, myth, and natural beauty, offering a distinctive travel experience that caters to both the adventurous spirit and the culturally curious traveler.

Marseilles is an enticing port city known for its delectable seafood, breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, and diverse melting pot of cultures. Less travelled by tourists than its other Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur counterparts, including Cannes and Nice, this seaside city is a vibrant, artistic, and historically significant stop worth exploring!

Believed to have been established in the seventh century by the Phoenicians or Greeks, Marseille is now the second largest French city after Paris and was named the European Capital of Culture in 2013. Marseille is a city of and for immigrants, with a blend of cultures and religions from North Africa, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and more, reflected in the gastronomic and architectural diversity of Marseille itself. Visit the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations, constructed in an Arabic architectural style, for an immersive experience with exhibits showcasing the artifacts of Marseille’s extensive history. The city’s most frequented attraction, the Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, is a stunning display of Roman and Byzantine design and provides spectacular views of the city below.

A trip to Marseille wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through Le Vieux Port and Le Panier, popular neighborhoods for tourism and lined with markets boasting fresh and authentic cuisine. Bouillabaisse, a delicious stew filled with local and fresh-caught seafood, is well-known as a Marseillaise specialty, but don’t pass up the chance to eat other scrumptious eats, including squid, sardines, and mussels, piping-hot pizzas, and a sip of anise-flavored Pastis. There’s a reason why the city was one of Anthony Bourdain’s favorite gastronomic destinations!

Be sure to take advantage of Marseille’s natural beauty. The variety of sandy and rocky beaches are perfect spots to revel in striking ocean scenes. Just south of Marseille, the Parc national des Calanques offers great hiking, biking, and boating excursions for any nature-lover.

With so much to see and do, Marseille, France, will delight and astonish you.

La Spezia, a bustling port city in the Liguria region of Italy, is often seen as the gateway to the famous Cinque Terre, bur this vibrant city has much to offer. Visitors can explore the historic center, visit local markets, and partake in a variety of restaurants serving delicious Italian cuisine. The city's waterfront, with its scenic promenades and views of the Gulf of Poets, is perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the maritime atmosphere.

One of the highlights of La Spezia is the Castello di San Giorgio, a medieval castle offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the waterfront. The castle also houses an archaeological museum with fascinating exhibits from the region's history including stunning glassware, mosaics, and finely carved statues. Another must-visit is the Museo Tecnico Navale, one of the oldest naval museums in the world, showcasing La Spezia’s rich maritime heritage as Italy's largest naval base.