Greek Highlights and Crete

Welcome to Athens! Upon arrival in the Greek capital, you will be met by our company representative and transferred to your hotel. Athens is the historical capital of Europe, with a long history dating from the first settlement in the Neolithic age. In the 5th Century BC (the “Golden Age of Pericles”) — the culmination of Athens’ long and fascinating history — the city’s values and civilization developed a universal significance. Over the years, a multitude of conquerors occupied Athens and built unique and splendid monuments — a rare historical palimpsest. In 1834, Athens became the capital of the Modern Greek state. In two centuries since it has become an attractive modern metropolis with unparalleled charm. You may enjoy the rest of the day to relax at leisure if you wish.

Overnight in Athens

After breakfast head on an Athens sightseeing tour. This tour will give you an opportunity to see the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Your expert guide will take you to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held in 1896. Continue and pass by the Prime Minister's Residence (the ex-Royal Palace) which you can find guarded by the Euzones in their colorful uniform. See the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament, and the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, and the Constitution Square. Visit the Acropolis to see the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and finally — \"the harmony between material and spirit\", the monument that \"puts order in the mind\" — the Parthenon. Continue your tour and visit the place where the statues found their home at last and admire the wonders of the classical era: The New Acropolis Museum. When the tour is complete, return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Athens

Optional: Athens at Night Walking Tour
Discover the most ancient and atmospheric quarters of Athens on a small-group night walking tour. Feel the weight of history while passing the Greek and Roman Forums, and admire views of the illuminated Parthenon and Acropolis from the outside as the city's nocturnal energy comes alive in pubs and cafes. Catch the sound of the ‘laterna’ barrel piano drifting through doorways as you wind along narrow streets of this romantic city.

In the morning our representative will transfer you to the port for your ferry to the magnificent island of Santorini. Apart from the fabulous caldera villages, Santorini is also famous for its romantic sunset, the exotic volcano, and the luxurious resorts. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. You may choose to spend your free time relaxing or explore the city at your own pace.

Overnight in Santorini

Optional: Santorini Wine Tour

Uncover the rich winemaking heritage of Santorini on this guided wine-tasting tour. Begin with a visit to the Wine Museum, where you’ll learn about the island’s unique viticulture, including vines that have thrived for over 400 years under the island’s protected designation of origin. Then, head to two carefully selected wineries to sample a variety of local wines.

This tour is perfect for wine lovers and curious travelers alike, offering expert insight, safe transportation, and delicious tastings along the way.

Tour Highlights:

Explore Santorini’s winemaking history at the Wine Museum

Visit two local vineyards and enjoy curated wine tastings

Learn from an English-speaking guide

Relax with included transportation for a safe and easy experience

Optional: Akrotiri Guided Tour
Santorini is renowned for its whitewashed houses and stunning sunsets, but the island also boasts several historical landmarks. Hop on a bus tour to explore traditional villages, visit the Akrotiri excavations, and admire a famous monastery. You'll also make stops at the iconic Red Beach and the black-sand shores of Perivolos Beach.

Optional: Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia, Sunset in Oia (May to Sep)
Take a break from the beach with this cruise around Santorini’s volcanic islands. Sail from one spot to another aboard a traditional Greek caïque boat, exploring the volcano at Nea Kameni (entrance fee not included), relaxing in the sulfur hot springs at Palea Kameni, and enjoying free time to wander around Thirasia. After the cruise, head to the village of Oia to witness a stunning Aegean sunset from Santorini’s cliffside.

Optional: Dinner Onboard Afroditi Caique

Take a break from the beach with a scenic cruise around Santorini’s volcanic islands. Hop aboard a traditional Greek caïque boat and visit Nea Kameni to explore the volcano (entrance fee not included). Unwind in the sulfur-rich hot springs at Palea Kameni, and enjoy some free time to explore the charming island of Thirasia. After the cruise, head to the village of Oia to witness a breathtaking Aegean sunset from the iconic cliffs of Santorini.

Enjoy free to explore Santorini on your own. One can only look and wonder at the beauty created by natural destruction in the island of the lost civilization of Atlantis, where you can see unforgettable sunsets and panoramic views... thus the lover’s paradise. The town of Fira’s whitewashed houses, narrow streets, open-air cafes, and glittering boutiques cling to a steep cliff, accessible by cable car or a donkey ride. 

Overnight in Santorini

Optional: Sailing Catamaran Tour in the Caldera
Set sail on Santorini’s most luxurious and fully-equipped yacht, where elegance meets adventure. Cruise in comfort and style while exploring the island’s iconic sights and diving into the crystal-clear blue waters for swimming and snorkeling. Your journey begins with a scenic sail along the caldera cliffs beneath the picturesque towns of Oia and Fira, passing by the famous volcano. The first stop is at the rejuvenating Hot Springs, where you can enjoy a natural mud bath. Continue past the islet of Aspronisi, the historic Akrotiri Lighthouse, and the striking Indian Rock formation. The next stop is the stunning White Beach, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in the serene Aegean waters. Back on board, indulge in a delicious barbecue featuring authentic Greek flavors, complemented by local wines and refreshing drinks. The final stop is at the iconic Red Beach, ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and capturing breathtaking photos. Your unforgettable cruise concludes at Vlychada Bay, where your private transportation will be ready to take you back.

Optional: Santorini Traditional Bus Day Tour
Embark on a captivating journey through Santorini’s most iconic and historic sites. Your day begins in Emporio Village, one of the island’s oldest and most traditional settlements. Wander through its winding alleys and admire the remarkably preserved 15th-century medieval fortress. Next, travel back in time at the Akrotiri Excavation Site—often referred to as the "Prehistoric Pompeii." This ancient city, frozen in time beneath volcanic ash from the 17th-century BC eruption, offers a fascinating glimpse into Santorini’s rich past. Take a break at the famous Perissa Beach, known for its striking black sand. Enjoy some leisure time to relax by the sea or savor lunch at one of the seaside tavernas. Then, visit a local winery to sample Santorini’s unique wines and learn about one of the oldest vineyards in Europe, shaped by the island’s volcanic soil and climate. Continue your journey to the summit of Profitis Ilias Mountain, the island’s highest point at 567 meters, where panoramic views of the Aegean await. Conclude your tour in the enchanting village of Oia—Greece’s most photographed destination. Stroll through its charming alleys and soak in the world-famous sunset, a perfect finale to your Santorini experience.

Optional: Caldera & Oia Sunset Boat Tour from Santorini
Depart by luxury bus to Athinios port and embark on a unique traditional boat. Our first stop is the volcanic island of Nea Kameni where we will walk an ascending soil path to approach the crater of the still active Volcano. We continue to the island of Palea Kameni where we can swim in the green sulphur waters or bath in the warm therapeutic mud. Next, the boat will sail to the picturesque island of Thirassia, where you can have lunch at one of the traditional seafront tavernas or swim at the beach next to the port.After Volcano, Hot Springs and Thirassia Island, boat reaches Armeni port of Oia. Disembark and take the steps or the donkey up to the village. Enjoy free time to admire magnificent panoramic views and the spectacular sunset. Head back to the meeting point 15 minutes after the sunset for your return. 

Today you will be transferred to the port for your ferry to Heraklion in Crete. Crete is a tapestry of splendid beaches, ancient treasures, and gorgeous landscapes, mixing vibrant cities and dreamy villages, where locals share their traditions, delicious cuisine, and generous spirit. Crete’s natural beauty is equaled only by the richness of its history. The island is the birthplace of the first advanced society on European soil, the Minoans, who ruled some 4000 years ago. Untouched by mass tourism, the villages are the backbone of Cretan culture and identity —– especially those which are tucked away in the hills and mountains. The island's spirited people still champion many of their unique customs, and time-honored traditions continue to be a dynamic part of daily life. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel. Enjoy free time to enjoy this beautiful destination at leisure.

Overnight in Heraklion

Enjoy breakfast before a full day at leisure to explore Heraklion. The town of Heraklion itself is very beautiful. You can go shopping in the vast array of shops and enjoy browsing through the vegetable market or eating lunch in one of the local restaurants. Rural tavernas often produce their own meat, cheese, olive oil, raki, and wine, and catch their own seafood.

Overnight in Heraklion

After breakfast in the hotel, spend the day at leisure to explore the island at your own pace or relax at the hotel.

Overnight in Heraklion

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel in Heraklion before your scheduled transfer to the airport of Heraklion to catch your flight to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, you will be met and transferred to the hotel for check-in.

Overnight in Athens

After breakfast at the hotel, you will check out in time for your transfer to the Athens International Airport for your flight home.