ITINERARY DETAILS
DAY 1
Athens
Arrive to Greece, the land of mythical Gods and ancient civilization. Your private driver will pick you up from Athens International Airport and take you to your five-star hotel. Enjoy your afternoon and evening exploring the vibrant culture and nightlife of Modern Athens. Ask your Leisure Travel Consultant for recommendations of their favorite restaurants, cafes and entertainment.
DAY 2
Athens - Half Day Athens Walking Tour
In the morning, your licensed English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel lobby, to begin your tour of the new Acropolis Museum. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to explore the Acropolis and its timeless temples of the Parthenon, Erectheion and Athena Nike. Walk up to the Hill of Philopappus to see the impressive funeral monument from the Roman era as you appreciate the widespread views of Athens and Piraeus. Subsequently, walk down to the hill of the Pnyx, an area used in Classical Athens as the meeting place for the democratic assembly. You can later enter the historical Plaka area, close to the Thiseion temple, dating back to the 5th century BC. Meander past the ancient Agora and its remarkably restored Stoa of Attalus, Hadrian's Library, and the picturesque Tower of the Winds. The return route takes you over the Hill of Mars, also known as Areopagus, where Saint Paul preached his Sermon on an unknown God, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, in 54 A.D., which is directly below the Acropolis. Continue your tour to the Odeion of Herodes Atticus, still used today as a summer venue for open-air concerts and theatrical performances. The last stop of the tour will be at Syntagma Square, where you will witness the changing of the Guards, at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, right below the Parliament building.
DAY 3
Athens, Santorini
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Athens airport to catch your flight to Santorini. Upon arrival, a representative will be waiting to transfer you to your luxury hotel. Spend the remainder of your day overlooking the spectacular views of the caldera and the stunning colors of the sunset. Enjoy dinner at one of the numerous restaurants while sipping wine from one of the local wineries. Ask your travel consultant for recommendations of their favorite restaurants.
DAY 4
Santorini
Explore the island on your own or take an optional Semi-Private Sunset Catamaran Cruise. The cruise begins from the Vlihada Marina, sailing past the red and white beaches to Akrotiri and the ancient light house. Your first stop will be at the volcano and hot springs for a quick dip, before proceeding to a secluded bay, perfect for swimming and snorkeling, as the onboard chef prepares your fresh seafood and steak barbeque. Following lunch, continue your sail through the caldera, passing the islands of Thirassia and Aspronissi, before returning to the Vlihada Marina.
DAY 5 & 6
Santorini
Enjoy your day of leisure. Ask your travel consultant for recommendations of their favorite beaches and activities to explore while visiting Santorini.
DAY 7
Santorini, Crete
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the port of Santorini to catch your 3-hour hydrofoil ferry to Crete. Upon arrival, a representative will be waiting to transfer you to your luxury hotel. Spend the remainder of your day exploring the natural wonders, local culture, and history of Crete. Ask your travel consultant for recommendations of their favorite activities and things to do while on the island.
DAY 8
Crete
Enjoy a relaxing day on your own or take a private half-day tour of Knossos Palace. Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to the main center of the Minoan Civilization, before visiting the Archeological Museum of Heraklion. Continue your exploration through the city with stops at the Old Port, the Venetian Walls, the Municipal Market, the Castle or Koules, museums, churches, fountains, and shops of your preference.
DAY 9 & 10
Crete
Use a day to relax at one of Crete's endless turquoise beaches or explore the deep history and culture of the island. Ask your travel consultant for recommendations of their personal favorites.
DAY 11
Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to the Heraklion airport, to connect with your departure flight via Athens International Airport.
