Skip to Main Content
Click and hold to Zoom

Greece: Sparta, Monemvasia & the Peloponnesian Peninsula

Cycle into past millennia in Peloponnese, legendary crossroads of civilizations, during our bike tour in Greece. On this famously scenic peninsula, Byzantines, Ottomans, Spartans and others once ruled the day. You’ll rule splendid bike routes amid sweeping coastal and mountain vistas. Traverse the fertile Valley of Sparta and Mount Taygetus, blanketed with olive groves, pine forests, and a storied military history. Ferry to the island of Elafonisos, home to Greece’s most stunning beach. And marvel at the monolithic Rock of Monemvasia and the astonishing Corinth Canal. Local guides illuminate ancient capitals, perfectly located resorts make exploring easy and welcoming tavernas and a cooking demonstration introduce you to delicious Greek and Mediterranean cuisine.

Tour Highlights

  • Uncover the treasures of the hillside medieval gem of Mystras, the Byzantine Empire’s cultural capital for nearly a millennium with an expert archaeologist-guide.
  • Savor the recipes and the flavors of ancient Byzantine cuisine during a dinner
  • Walk through the maze of alleyways in the medieval castle town guide of Monemvasia, a crossroads of civilizations with Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman influences.
  • Cruise around the monolithic Rock of Monemvasia
  • Join a taverna owner on a shrimp-harvesting excursion, then join him for a cooking lesson and prepare garidopetoules – a savory shrimp pancake.

What to Expect

This tour offers a combination of rolling terrain and moderate-to-challenging hills and is ideal for energetic beginners to experienced cyclists. The majority of rides are on rural paved country roads with some traffic. Our VBT support vehicle is always available for those who would like it.

  • Daily Mileage: 7 - 37 miles|
  • Biking: 1 - 4 hours|
  • Group Size: 22
Activity Moderate Moderate
Cycling
Bar Graph Beginner - Experienced
Cyclists
Vehicle Support Vehicle
Support

Average High /
Low Temperature (°F):

Apr67º/53º

May75º/60º

Jun84º/68º

Jul89º/73º

Aug89º/73º

Sep83º/67º

Oct74º/60º

Average
Precipitation:

Apr1.0 in

May0.6 in

Jun0.2 in

Jul0.2 in

Aug0.4 in

Sep0.4 in

Oct1.9 in

Air Package

Tour Only

Roundtrip international airfare Check
Airport car service for arrival and departures Check
Two nights in Athens in conveniently located hotels with daily breakfast Check
6 nights in 5-star hotels and a 4-star historical boutique inn Check Check
12 meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners Check Check

Road Bicycle (Carbon frame)

See More >

Step-Through (Mixte Hybrid) Comfort Bicycle

See More >

Step-Over (Diamond) Comfort Bicycle

See More >

Step-Through Electric-Assisted Bicycle (E-bike)

See More >
View All >

Biking Packages Include:

Custom VBT Bike and Helmet

Two Local, Bilingual Trip Leaders

Support Vehicle

Luggage Transportation

Ride with GPS and Daily Route Notes

Welcome Reception

Facilitated Cultural Experiences

Your Choice of VBT Branded Gear for Your Adventure

Itinerary

Thu, Apr 27 to Sat, May 6 - 2023

Show Itinerary:

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

Start off your first day in Athens right by having a VBT representative greet you at the airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

Enjoy an included breakfast this morning before meeting your VBT representative in the hotel lobby at 8:30 a.m. After brief introductions your group boards a private motorcoach for an approximately 3.5-hour drive to the Peloponnesian Peninsula. Along the way, your representative enlightens you about the fascinating cultural and historical significance of the Peloponnesian region.

You meet your VBT trip leaders at a Greek taverna outside the village of Mystras, situated among the forested slopes of Mt. Taygetos. Take in the breathtaking views of the valley of Sparta as you savor an included lunch. After, you travel to your nearby hotel, change into your biking clothes and meet your trip leaders for a safety and bike-fitting session. A short warm-up loop from your hotel leads you through shimmering olive groves.

This evening, gather for a welcome cocktail and welcome reception at the hotel, followed by a delicious dinner featuring some of the hotel chef’s finest Greek specialties.

Today’s Ride Choices

Afternoon Warm-up — 11.5 km (7 miles)

What to Expect:

The warm-up ride will give you the opportunity to become familiar with your bike as you ride country roads with little traffic. The ride is fairly flat, mostly through neighboring olive groves.

Cumulative Distance Range: 11.5 km (7 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning set out on your bike into the picturesque valley of Sparta, once the epicenter of a prominent city-state in ancient Greece. Olive groves and scenic meadows point the way to the town of Sparta and its impressive Olive Oil Museum. Enjoy a short visit at your leisure before cycling to the famous statue of Leonidas, the King of Sparta and the legendary leader of the 300 Spartans at the battle of Thermopylea in 480 BC. Ride back to your resort for an afternoon at leisure enjoying a poolside lunch on your own.

Later, you shuttle to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Mystras for an energetic walk with your archaeologist-guide. This fortified town is one of the most historic treasures in the Peloponnese, the Byzantine Empire’s cultural and artistic capital for nearly 1,000 years before it was conquered by the Ottoman army. In the evening, enjoy dinner on your own in one of the village restaurants near your hotel.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Mystras Palace Hotel to Sparta — 28 km (18 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy with some rolling hills. Most of the cycling is on country roads. There is some city cycling in Sparta.

Cumulative Distance Range: 28 km (18 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you cycle through Sparta Valley to the Peloponnesian coast, skirting the base of the soaring Taygetos Mountains, one of Greece’s highest ranges. Its summit is known as “Prophet Elias” and is one of the oldest recorded mountain peaks in Europe. It is even mentioned in Homer’s classic work, The Odyssey! You pass through scenic traditional villages before catching sight of the sea and following a coastal road to the charming fishing port of Gytheio. After the morning’s energetic ride, you are sure to be ready for lunch on your own at one of the seafront tavernas, perhaps savoring the fresh catch of the day.

Following lunch, you enjoy a scenic drive to Aegean shores. Your next hotel is just outside the walls of the historic castle town of Monemvasia, a crossroads of civilizations with Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. This spectacular little island, linked to the mainland by a causeway, is known as the Gibraltar of the East for the massive rock that dominates its landscape. The behemoth rises some 300 feet above the sea and measures about 1,000 feet wide and a half-mile long and hosts the remains of the medieval fortress.

This evening, discover the history of Byzantine cuisine during a special and unique presentation by a local chef. Sample some of these historic dishes while enjoying the sea breezes on our hotel’s charming outdoor terrace.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Mystras Palace Hotel to Gytheio — 59 km (37 miles)

What to Expect:

Today will give you a great workout as you ride a longer distance and gain some elevation before descending to a lovely coastal ride. You follow mostly country roads with some occasional traffic in the villages and as you coast into Gytheio.

Cumulative Distance Range: 59 km (37 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a typical hearty Greek breakfast on your inn’s lovely terrace before setting out on your morning ride. Your magnificent route follows the eastern coast of the Laconia region, delivering you to scenic Aegean vistas. Today’s first destination is Limin Gerakas, a stunning port hidden within a unique Greek fjord. The village’s lagoon and wetlands are part of Natura 2000—a vast network of nature preserves throughout the European Union.

Later, try your hand at catching shrimp with the owner of a local taverna. After the harvest, join your host for a cooking demonstration as he prepares garidopetoules—a traditional savory shrimp pancake—with your catch. Enjoy a fresh seafood family-style lunch in a traditional waterfront taverna. Cycle or shuttle back to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Early this evening, join your trip leaders for a stroll through the walled medieval village of Monemvasia, dramatically perched above the peninsula’s cliffs. There’ll be time after to explore the local shops and enjoy dinner on your own in one of the village’s renowned restaurants.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Lazareto Hotel to Limin Gerakas — 22 km (14 miles)

Afternoon Limin Gerakas to Lazareto Hotel — 22 km (14 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s scenic ride features rolling hills with scenic sea views. Most of the cycling is on country roads with some traffic as you leave and return to Monemvasia.

Cumulative Distance Range: 44 km (28 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your day at sea as you cruise around the massive rock of Monemvasia. During your outing, you may witness the traditional fishing technique of tossing nets into the water. This rewarding morning gives you a breathtaking view of Monemvasia from the water and some insight into a centuries-old way of life here.

Back on land, you cycle into Laconia’s fertile farmlands blanketed with olive and orange groves. As you ride through the coastal hills, take in splendid long-distance vistas of the Laconian Gulf shores. You arrive in the small traditional fishing village of Elia in time for lunch on your own. Then cycle to your seaside hotel, located within walking distance of the village. Treat yourself to a spa treatment or go for a swim in the crystal blue waters surrounding your resort.

Dinner is included on the hotel’s lovely seaside terrace this evening, but you need to make a reservation for the time that suits you best.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Hotel Lazareto to Alas Resort & Spa — 35 km (22 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s rewarding ride includes elevation gains as you cycle through the mountains to the Laconian Gulf. Your route follows country roads with some heavier traffic as you leave Monemvasia and as you pass through smaller villages. The VBT support vehicle will always be available for anyone seeking assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 35 km (22 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet of locally sourced traditional Greek selections, a delicious and nourishing start to a longer riding day full of endless rewards. Today’s route offers invigorating elevation gains that provide sweeping views of the sea and dramatic coastal mountain ranges. Your destination is the port town of Pouda, where you embark a local ferry for the short cruise to Elafonisos, one of the most famous islands in Southern Peloponnese. Its white-sand Simos Beach is one of Greece’s best; by some accounts, it is the best Mediterranean beach. Enjoy leisure time here swimming in the crystal-clear waters or catching some sun and set out to explore the island’s charming village for last-minute souvenirs. Lunch is on your own here. Later, meet your trip leaders for the return ferry to Pouda and a shuttle back to the hotel.

This evening join your fellow riders and trip leaders to enjoy the final setting sun over the Lakonian Gulf as you reminisce about your week, during your festive farewell reception and dinner at your resort.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Alas Resort & Spa to Elafonisos — 50 km (31 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s route offers the most significant elevation gains of the week. You follow country roads with some heavier traffic in and around towns. The VBT support vehicle will always be available for anyone seeking assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 50 km (31 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

VBT Air Package Guests: Travel with a VBT guide to the Corinth Canal—a 19th-century engineering masterpiece connecting the Saronic Gulf to the Corinthian Gulf. Today this dramatic waterway cut into the bedrock remains an international maritime hub and serves approximately 12,000 ships per year. There’ll be time to take in its magnificence and have lunch here before continuing to the Electra Hotel in Athens for your final night in Greece. You have the remainder of the afternoon and evening free for independent exploration.

VBT Post-Trip Extension guests: Travel with a VBT guide to the Corinth Canal—a 19th-century engineering masterpiece connecting the Saronic Gulf to the Corinthian Gulf. Today this dramatic waterway cut into the bedrock remains an international maritime hub and serves approximately 12,000 ships per year. There’ll be time to take in its magnificence and have lunch here before continuing to the Athens International Airport for your late-afternoon flight to Chania, Crete.

Upon arrival at the Chania International Airport, collect your luggage. Exit the baggage claim area and meet your VBT representative, who will be holding a VBT sign. Please verify your transportation time at the end of your trip from your Chania hotel back to the airport with your representative. You travel time is about 30 minutes to your centrally located hotel in Chania. VBT provides you with city information that includes recommendations on what to see and do during your stay.

Important note: Following the Post-Trip Extension, you will spend an additional night in Athens at the Sofitel Athens Airport before your departure home.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast, complimentary transportation to the Athens airport will be provided (an approximately 45 to 60 minute drive, depending on traffic) for your departing flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Greece: Sparta, Monemvasia & the Peloponnesian Peninsula 7

Download PDF Itinerary:

Air Package (PDF) Tour Only (PDF)

Sat, Apr 29 to Fri, May 5 - 2023

Show Itinerary:

Your tour starts at 8:30 a.m. at the Electra Palace Athens hotel, Athens, Greece, Phone + 30 21 0337 0000. Your VBT representative will meet you in the lobby with a VBT sign. If your arrival at our Athens hotel will be later than 8:30 a.m. or if you are delayed, please call the hotel and ask the front desk to pass the message on to your VBT representative.

VBT highly recommends flying to Greece at least one day before the tour begins; this allows you to rest and recover from jet lag before you begin sightseeing and cycling.

After brief introductions your group boards a private motorcoach for an approximately 3.5-hour drive to the Peloponnesian Peninsula. Along the way, your representative enlightens you about the fascinating cultural and historical significance of the Peloponnesian region.

You meet your VBT trip leaders at a Greek taverna outside the village of Mystras, situated among the forested slopes of Mt. Taygetos. Take in the breathtaking views of the valley of Sparta as you savor an included lunch. After, you travel to your nearby hotel, change into your biking clothes and meet your trip leaders for a safety and bike-fitting session. A short warm-up loop from your hotel leads you through shimmering olive groves.

This evening, gather for a welcome cocktail and welcome reception at the hotel, followed by a delicious dinner featuring some of the hotel chef’s finest Greek specialties.

Today’s Ride Choices

Afternoon Warm-up — 11.5 km (7 miles)

What to Expect:

The warm-up ride will give you the opportunity to become familiar with your bike as you ride country roads with little traffic. The ride is fairly flat, mostly through neighboring olive groves.

Cumulative Distance Range: 11.5 km (7 miles)

Included Meals: Dinner

This morning set out on your bike into the picturesque valley of Sparta, once the epicenter of a prominent city-state in ancient Greece. Olive groves and scenic meadows point the way to the town of Sparta and its impressive Olive Oil Museum. Enjoy a short visit at your leisure before cycling to the famous statue of Leonidas, the King of Sparta and the legendary leader of the 300 Spartans at the battle of Thermopylea in 480 BC. Ride back to your resort for an afternoon at leisure enjoying a poolside lunch on your own.

Later, you shuttle to the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Mystras for an energetic walk with your archaeologist-guide. This fortified town is one of the most historic treasures in the Peloponnese, the Byzantine Empire’s cultural and artistic capital for nearly 1,000 years before it was conquered by the Ottoman army. In the evening, enjoy dinner on your own in one of the village restaurants near your hotel.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Mystras Palace Hotel to Sparta — 28 km (18 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride is easy with some rolling hills. Most of the cycling is on country roads. There is some city cycling in Sparta.

Cumulative Distance Range: 28 km (18 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you cycle through Sparta Valley to the Peloponnesian coast, skirting the base of the soaring Taygetos Mountains, one of Greece’s highest ranges. Its summit is known as “Prophet Elias” and is one of the oldest recorded mountain peaks in Europe. It is even mentioned in Homer’s classic work, The Odyssey! You pass through scenic traditional villages before catching sight of the sea and following a coastal road to the charming fishing port of Gytheio. After the morning’s energetic ride, you are sure to be ready for lunch on your own at one of the seafront tavernas, perhaps savoring the fresh catch of the day.

Following lunch, you enjoy a scenic drive to Aegean shores. Your next hotel is just outside the walls of the historic castle town of Monemvasia, a crossroads of civilizations with Byzantine, Frankish, Venetian, and Ottoman influences. This spectacular little island, linked to the mainland by a causeway, is known as the Gibraltar of the East for the massive rock that dominates its landscape. The behemoth rises some 300 feet above the sea and measures about 1,000 feet wide and a half-mile long and hosts the remains of the medieval fortress.

This evening, discover the history of Byzantine cuisine during a special and unique presentation by a local chef. Sample some of these historic dishes while enjoying the sea breezes on our hotel’s charming outdoor terrace.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Mystras Palace Hotel to Gytheio — 59 km (37 miles)

What to Expect:

Today will give you a great workout as you ride a longer distance and gain some elevation before descending to a lovely coastal ride. You follow mostly country roads with some occasional traffic in the villages and as you coast into Gytheio.

Cumulative Distance Range: 59 km (37 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a typical hearty Greek breakfast on your inn’s lovely terrace before setting out on your morning ride. Your magnificent route follows the eastern coast of the Laconia region, delivering you to scenic Aegean vistas. Today’s first destination is Limin Gerakas, a stunning port hidden within a unique Greek fjord. The village’s lagoon and wetlands are part of Natura 2000—a vast network of nature preserves throughout the European Union.

Later, try your hand at catching shrimp with the owner of a local taverna. After the harvest, join your host for a cooking demonstration as he prepares garidopetoules—a traditional savory shrimp pancake—with your catch. Enjoy a fresh seafood family-style lunch in a traditional waterfront taverna. Cycle or shuttle back to the hotel and enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure.

Early this evening, join your trip leaders for a stroll through the walled medieval village of Monemvasia, dramatically perched above the peninsula’s cliffs. There’ll be time after to explore the local shops and enjoy dinner on your own in one of the village’s renowned restaurants.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Lazareto Hotel to Limin Gerakas — 22 km (14 miles)

Afternoon Limin Gerakas to Lazareto Hotel — 22 km (14 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s scenic ride features rolling hills with scenic sea views. Most of the cycling is on country roads with some traffic as you leave and return to Monemvasia.

Cumulative Distance Range: 44 km (28 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Start your day at sea as you cruise around the massive rock of Monemvasia. During your outing, you may witness the traditional fishing technique of tossing nets into the water. This rewarding morning gives you a breathtaking view of Monemvasia from the water and some insight into a centuries-old way of life here.

Back on land, you cycle into Laconia’s fertile farmlands blanketed with olive and orange groves. As you ride through the coastal hills, take in splendid long-distance vistas of the Laconian Gulf shores. You arrive in the small traditional fishing village of Elia in time for lunch on your own. Then cycle to your seaside hotel, located within walking distance of the village. Treat yourself to a spa treatment or go for a swim in the crystal blue waters surrounding your resort.

Dinner is included on the hotel’s lovely seaside terrace this evening, but you need to make a reservation for the time that suits you best.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Hotel Lazareto to Alas Resort & Spa — 35 km (22 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s rewarding ride includes elevation gains as you cycle through the mountains to the Laconian Gulf. Your route follows country roads with some heavier traffic as you leave Monemvasia and as you pass through smaller villages. The VBT support vehicle will always be available for anyone seeking assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 35 km (22 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Enjoy a lavish breakfast buffet of locally sourced traditional Greek selections, a delicious and nourishing start to a longer riding day full of endless rewards. Today’s route offers invigorating elevation gains that provide sweeping views of the sea and dramatic coastal mountain ranges. Your destination is the port town of Pouda, where you embark a local ferry for the short cruise to Elafonisos, one of the most famous islands in Southern Peloponnese. Its white-sand Simos Beach is one of Greece’s best; by some accounts, it is the best Mediterranean beach. Enjoy leisure time here swimming in the crystal-clear waters or catching some sun and set out to explore the island’s charming village for last-minute souvenirs. Lunch is on your own here. Later, meet your trip leaders for the return ferry to Pouda and a shuttle back to the hotel.

This evening join your fellow riders and trip leaders to enjoy the final setting sun over the Lakonian Gulf as you reminisce about your week, during your festive farewell reception and dinner at your resort.

Today’s Ride Choices

Morning Alas Resort & Spa to Elafonisos — 50 km (31 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s route offers the most significant elevation gains of the week. You follow country roads with some heavier traffic in and around towns. The VBT support vehicle will always be available for anyone seeking assistance.

Cumulative Distance Range: 50 km (31 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel with a VBT guide to the Corinth Canal – a 19th-century engineering masterpiece connecting the Saronic Gulf to the Corinthian Gulf. Today this dramatic waterway cut into the bedrock remains an international maritime hub and serves approximately 12,000 ships per year. There’ll be time to take in its magnificence and have lunch here before continuing to the Electra Hotel in Athens. The tour concludes here at approximately 4:00 p.m. You will need to make your own transportation arrangements to the Athens airport. Departing flights prior to 7:00 p.m. are not recommended. If you have an earlier departure, you will need to make your own transportation arrangements to Athens from Elia.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Greece: Sparta, Monemvasia & the Peloponnesian Peninsula 7

Download PDF Itinerary:

Air Package (PDF) Tour Only (PDF)

Accommodations (Please Note: Days are based on the Air Package Itinerary. Accommodations may vary depending on departure date. )

Enjoy Your Vacation Longer With Low-Cost Trip Extensions

Airplane

Air Package Only

2023

2023 Pre-Trip Extension - Santorini & Athens

3 Nights From $945 per person, double occupancy
Single Supplement: From $595

  • Roundtrip flights between Athens and Santorini
  • Airport car service for arrival and departure
  • 2 nights at the Volcano View Hotel on the island of Santorini
  • 1 night at the Electra Palace Athens
  • Daily breakfast
  • City information

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

Start off your first day right by having a VBT representative greet you at the Santorini airport. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

Enjoy dinner either at your hotel or one of the island’s many restaurants this evening.

Believed by some to be the lost kingdom of Atlantis, Santorini enjoys a legendary setting, perched on the rim of a sunken volcanic crater 1,000 feet above the azure waters of the Aegean. Savor breakfast with stunning views of the soaring cliff of the caldera and the dazzling waters. Later possibly enjoy an optional morning tour of the highlights of Santorini, where gleaming white houses and blue-domed churches glitter in the sun. After, enjoy lunch and the remainder of the day and evening at your leisure, perhaps treating yourself to a spa treatment or a swim in the pool with sweeping views fit for the gods.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy another freshly sourced breakfast with breathtaking vistas. There’ll be a little time afterward for relaxing or a bit of exploring before your flight to Athens. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, a representative holding a VBT sign meets you as you exit the baggage claim area. Transportation (about one hour) is provided to your centrally located Athens hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore Athens (no meals included).

Please note: If you arrive early, your hotel room may not be available until 3:00 p.m., in which case you may store your luggage with the reception desk.

VBT provides city information with recommendations about what to see and do during your stay.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After a delicious included breakfast at your hotel, you are free to explore on your own, using our included city information packet to guide your discoveries.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Airplane

Air Package Only

2023

2023 Post-Trip Extension - Crete

3 Nights From $895 per person, double occupancy
Single Supplement: From $245

  • Roundtrip flights between Athens and Chania, Crete
  • 3 nights at Samaria Hotel in Chania, Crete
  • Chania walking tour with an archeological guide
  • Cycling tour of Chania Peninsula
  • Explore Aptera at your leisure & wine tasting with lunch
  • Airport car service for departure
  • Daily breakfast
  • City information

Nestled on the northern coast of western Crete, Chania is steeped in Venetian character and charm. This former capital of the island boasts narrow lanes arcing around a scenic harbor that’s graced with a picturesque lighthouse. After breakfast, you meet your guide at 10:00 a.m. in the hotel lobby for a two-hour walking tour. Explore hidden alleys and old Ottoman neighborhoods, strolling past the stunning Orthodox Cathedral, the Yali Tzami Mosque, old townhomes converted into restaurants, and the Venetian waterfront and dockyards. Your guide can recommend restaurants for lunch and dinner and other options for further exploration on your own.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Following breakfast, meet your VBT cycling guide at the hotel before you start your loop ride through verdant forests. After a short journey of 53-km (33-mile) your ride will take you through the verdant valleys of the nearby mountains.  Enjoy a scenic ride through orange and olive groves and picturesque hillside villages. Your ride concludes at a seaside resort town with time for lunch at one of the beachside restaurants and a dip in the turquoise waters. Back in Chania, there’ll be time for more exploring and perhaps a stroll along the scenic harbor. Dinner is on your own, possibly at one of the tempting waterfront restaurants.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, you shuttle to ancient Aptera. This was the legendary site of the battle between the Sirens and the Muses. After the Sirens’ defeat, they are said to have lost their wings, giving the city its name, Aptera, or “without wings.” With sweeping views of western Crete around you, explore the imposing Roman water reservoirs, an archaic temple, the Hellenistic fortification and a Roman temple and Byzantine Monastery. After, you continue to a local winery for a fascinating tour and wine tasting. Wine has been produced here since the Bronze Age, but it was the Romans who refined the process to create the island’s renowned sweet wine known as protropos. Raise a glass to your Crete adventure over an included lunch.

After lunch, you travel to the Chania International airport for your return flight to Athens. Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, collect your luggage, exit the baggage claim area and walk across the street to the Sofitel Athens Airport hotel and check-in.  The remainder of the evening is at your leisure to enjoy the amenities of your 5-star hotel.  Alternatively, the nearby metro and suburban rail stations fast-track you into the beating heart of central Athens’ Syntagma Square, in only 35 minutes for further exploration of Athens.

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After an included breakfast this morning, walk across the street to the International Departure Terminal and check in for your return flights home.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Reviews
64 out of 86 (74%)
4.8 out of 5 stars.
Read More Reviews

This VBT trip does not disappoint! The attention to detail for every visit and experience was remarkable. I live in the mid-west and don't have many hills to train on so these rides were challenging for me, but doable and once I was done I felt very satisfied. The accommodations were all different and great in their own way. The guides were energetic and informative. I highly recommend this tour - it's a great way to see Greece!

Jaymers,

Greece: Sparta, Monemvasia & the Peloponnesian Peninsula

The experience with VBT went beyond expectations as did the part of Greece where we cycled. The Peloponnesian Peninsula is a relatively undiscovered biking jewel, I enjoyed it far more than biking various Greek Islands. Accommodations were excellent and Greek food speaks for itself. VBT and the guides went out of their way in providing a 5 star experience. The bikes were new and top quality, the routes were varied and interesting. The guides bent over backwards to please us and provide a great biking as well as cultural experience.

Marcia B, Boise, Idaho

Greece: Sparta, Monemvasia & the Peloponnesian Peninsula

Dates & Prices

Departing Airport :

Departing airport

Select Year :

Air Package

10 days, includes round-trip international airfare , airport shuttle, and additional hotel nights with included breakfast.

Single Supplement: From $645

Currently Full

Thu, Apr 27 - Sat, May 6, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$4,945

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Call Required

Thu, May 4 - Sat, May 13, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call
Limited Spaces Left

Thu, May 11 - Sat, May 20, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Call Required

Tue, May 16 - Thu, May 25, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,345

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call
Limited Spaces Left

Thu, May 18 - Sat, May 27, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Currently Full

Tue, May 23 - Thu, Jun 1, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,345

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Call Required

Thu, May 25 - Sat, Jun 3, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,345

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call

Thu, Jun 1 - Sat, Jun 10, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Limited Spaces Left

Thu, Jun 8 - Sat, Jun 17, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Private Group

Thu, Jun 15 - Sat, Jun 24, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Call Required

Tue, Sep 5 - Thu, Sep 14, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call
Currently Full

Thu, Sep 7 - Sat, Sep 16, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Currently Full

Thu, Sep 14 - Sat, Sep 23, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Currently Full

Thu, Sep 21 - Sat, Sep 30, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Private Group

Tue, Sep 26 - Thu, Oct 5, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Currently Full

Thu, Sep 28 - Sat, Oct 7, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Private Group

Tue, Oct 3 - Thu, Oct 12, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Currently Full

Thu, Oct 5 - Sat, Oct 14, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Limited Spaces Left

Tue, Oct 10 - Thu, Oct 19, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Currently Full

Thu, Oct 12 - Sat, Oct 21, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Private Group

Tue, Oct 17 - Thu, Oct 26, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$5,295

Per person, double occupancy

Currently Full

Thu, Oct 19 - Sat, Oct 28, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$4,945

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist

Tue, Oct 24 - Thu, Nov 2, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$4,945

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Limited Spaces Left

Thu, Oct 26 - Sat, Nov 4, 2023

Air included Air Included

From
$4,745

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online

Select Year :

Tour Only

7 Days. Includes bike vacation only.

Single Supplement: From $295

Currently Full

Sat, Apr 29 - Fri, May 5, 2023

From
$4,045

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Call Required

Sat, May 6 - Fri, May 12, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call
Limited Spaces Left

Sat, May 13 - Fri, May 19, 2023

From
$4,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Call Required

Thu, May 18 - Wed, May 24, 2023

From
$4,345

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call
Limited Spaces Left

Sat, May 20 - Fri, May 26, 2023

From
$4,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Currently Full

Thu, May 25 - Wed, May 31, 2023

From
$4,345

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Call Required

Sat, May 27 - Fri, Jun 2, 2023

From
$4,345

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call

Sat, Jun 3 - Fri, Jun 9, 2023

From
$4,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Limited Spaces Left

Sat, Jun 10 - Fri, Jun 16, 2023

From
$4,345

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Private Group

Sat, Jun 17 - Fri, Jun 23, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Call Required

Thu, Sep 7 - Wed, Sep 13, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Request a Call
Currently Full

Sat, Sep 9 - Fri, Sep 15, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Currently Full

Sat, Sep 16 - Fri, Sep 22, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Currently Full

Sat, Sep 23 - Fri, Sep 29, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Private Group

Thu, Sep 28 - Wed, Oct 4, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Currently Full

Sat, Sep 30 - Fri, Oct 6, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Private Group

Thu, Oct 5 - Wed, Oct 11, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Currently Full

Sat, Oct 7 - Fri, Oct 13, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Limited Spaces Left

Thu, Oct 12 - Wed, Oct 18, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Currently Full

Sat, Oct 14 - Fri, Oct 20, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist
Private Group

Thu, Oct 19 - Wed, Oct 25, 2023

From
$4,295

Per person, double occupancy

Currently Full

Sat, Oct 21 - Fri, Oct 27, 2023

From
$4,045

Per person, double occupancy

Join Waitlist

Thu, Oct 26 - Wed, Nov 1, 2023

From
$4,045

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online
Limited Spaces Left

Sat, Oct 28 - Fri, Nov 3, 2023

From
$3,845

Per person, double occupancy

Reserve Online

For more information, call: 800-245-3868

182 other people have recently viewed this tour!

Other Tours You'll Love

View Related Tours

Stories From Europe

View All Stories

Is Your Extra Virgin Olive Oil up to the Standards of European Artisans?

March 24, 2023

Through no fault of our own, most of us have never tasted genuine extra virgin olive oil. There’s much debate in the United States about olive-oil purity—and unless you’re getting...

Continue Reading

Pedaling for Paella: Mallorca is a Cyclist’s Paradise

March 17, 2023

You don’t have to be a pro cyclist to enjoy biking Mallorca! The island’s tropical valleys, turquoise beaches, incredible biking infrastructure, and low-traffic cycling routes make VBT’s Spain: Balearic Islands,...

Continue Reading

Independent Cycling with Support in England’s Cotswolds

March 2, 2023

As Kelsei and Silvy explored the English countryside, they enjoyed the perfect balance of flexibility and support—with top quality inns, scenic biking, a friendly local host, and the freedom to...

Continue Reading

Request a

Free Catalog

Find Your next vacation with Over 200 Pages of tour information

Get Yours Today

Talk to a VBT

Tour Consultant

(800) 245-3868

Mon – Fri 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET

Talk to an Expert

Book Online

Reserve Instantly

Find your perfect tour and reserve a spot with our easy online booking.

Find A Tour

0 of 4
Tours Selected

[class^="wpforms-"]
[class^="wpforms-"]
[class^="wpforms-"]
[class^="wpforms-"]