A luxury group tour with Sandy Gregory
Athens, Mykonos with Delos, Santorini and Crete
Sept 11 - 26, 2027
Sept 10 - 26, 2027
$12,820/person double-occupancy
$15,143/person single-occupancy
based on a minimum of 7 travelers
Pre-tour suggestions to Olympia, Delphi and Meteora
Thinking of traveling on your own with our Concierge Travel Services? Check out our suggested itinerary and we can curate the perfect trip for you.
Inquire here
Athens, Mykonos with Delos, Santorini and Crete
Sept 11 - 26, 2027
Sept 10 - 26, 2027
$12,820/person double-occupancy
$15,143/person single-occupancy
based on a minimum of 7 travelers
Pre-tour suggestions to Olympia, Delphi and Meteora
Thinking of traveling on your own with our Concierge Travel Services? Check out our suggested itinerary and we can curate the perfect trip for you.
Inquire here
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Please join Tour Director Sandy Gregory for this wonderful adventure through Greece, or contact us to help you create your own independent travel experience with our Concierge Travel Services.
Suggested time to travel: April-June and Sept/Oct |
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Pre-tour suggestion to Olympia and Delphi, with an optional day in Meteora
Greece Tour: 2 nights Athens 3 nights Mykonos, 4 nights Santorini 3 nights Heraklion, Crete 2 nights Rhymenon 1 night Athens Airport Hotel |
OPTION TO Olypmia, delphi and meteora
Day 1. Athens
Your driver will be waiting for you outside of baggage claim and transfer you to your hotel. Our 4-star hotel is very centrally located and a right on the Plaka. There is a bar/restaurant on the top floor of the hotel offering breathtaking views of the Parthenon.
Overnight in Athens
Day 2. To Olympia.
It's a four hour drive to Olympia, the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece, Dedicated to Zeus, the father of the gods. Olympia became the most important religious and athletic centre in Greece.
Overnight in Olympia
Day 3. Delphi
Situated at the foot of Mount Parnassou lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which boasts the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the centre of the world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe found where the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, was for many centuries, the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world and seat of the Pythian Games, the second most important games in Greece after the Olympics.
Tonight you can return to Athens, or consider adding another day to Meteora.
Optional Day 4. Meteora. Today we will travel to one of the most amazing places in Greece: Meteora. Meaning ‘suspended in air’, the name Meteora soon came to encompass the entire rock community of 24 of the biggest and most important monasteries in Greece. There were no steps, and the only access to the monasteries was by means of a net that was hitched over a hook hoisted up by rope overhanging the chasm. Monks descended in the nets or on long, retractable wooden ladders to the fertile valleys below to grow grapes, corn and potatoes.
After this tour, we’ll drive back to Athens.
Overnight in Athens
Your driver will be waiting for you outside of baggage claim and transfer you to your hotel. Our 4-star hotel is very centrally located and a right on the Plaka. There is a bar/restaurant on the top floor of the hotel offering breathtaking views of the Parthenon.
Overnight in Athens
Day 2. To Olympia.
It's a four hour drive to Olympia, the most celebrated sanctuary of ancient Greece, Dedicated to Zeus, the father of the gods. Olympia became the most important religious and athletic centre in Greece.
Overnight in Olympia
Day 3. Delphi
Situated at the foot of Mount Parnassou lies the Pan-Hellenic sanctuary of Delphi, which boasts the most famous oracle of ancient Greece. Delphi was regarded as the centre of the world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe found where the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, was for many centuries, the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world and seat of the Pythian Games, the second most important games in Greece after the Olympics.
Tonight you can return to Athens, or consider adding another day to Meteora.
Optional Day 4. Meteora. Today we will travel to one of the most amazing places in Greece: Meteora. Meaning ‘suspended in air’, the name Meteora soon came to encompass the entire rock community of 24 of the biggest and most important monasteries in Greece. There were no steps, and the only access to the monasteries was by means of a net that was hitched over a hook hoisted up by rope overhanging the chasm. Monks descended in the nets or on long, retractable wooden ladders to the fertile valleys below to grow grapes, corn and potatoes.
After this tour, we’ll drive back to Athens.
Overnight in Athens
DAY 1: SEPT 11. ARRIVE ATHENS. YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS! |
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Your driver will be waiting for you outside of baggage claim to transfer you to our hotel.
Our 4-star hotel is centrally located on the Plaka, offering breathtaking views of the Parthenon.
You’ll have time to explore the Plaka, walk down to the Parliament Building to see the famous Evzones and changing of the guard, and if you’re interested, take a tour of the Ancient Agora.
Tonight: Included dinner in Athens
Overnight in Athens, 2 nights with breakfast
Our 4-star hotel is centrally located on the Plaka, offering breathtaking views of the Parthenon.
You’ll have time to explore the Plaka, walk down to the Parliament Building to see the famous Evzones and changing of the guard, and if you’re interested, take a tour of the Ancient Agora.
Tonight: Included dinner in Athens
Overnight in Athens, 2 nights with breakfast
DAY 2: SEPT 12. A DAY IN ATHENS |
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This morning we will enjoy our private Athens tour. Travel in time through the city with a history of more than 5,000 years! Walk along streets where Pericles, Plato and the Apostle Paul laid the foundations for Western Civilization and enjoy the perfect blend of ancient worlds and modern times in a city vibrant with life! We’ll first enjoy a visit to the Acropolis Museum which will give us an excellent foundation for walking up to the Acropolis.
We are then on to discover another side of the city in the shadow of the famous Acropolis, where a kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, flavors, and textures awaits you. Embark on a fascinating journey through Greece’s rich culinary history as you explore a non-touristy neighborhood and become acquainted with authentic Greek cuisine.
Tonight is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Overnight in Athens
We are then on to discover another side of the city in the shadow of the famous Acropolis, where a kaleidoscope of colors, aromas, flavors, and textures awaits you. Embark on a fascinating journey through Greece’s rich culinary history as you explore a non-touristy neighborhood and become acquainted with authentic Greek cuisine.
Tonight is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Overnight in Athens
MYKONOS. SEPT 13. |
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For sunning, shopping and partying, Greece’s most famous cosmopolitan island is a whitewashed paradise in the heart of the Cyclades. Our resort hotel is a luxurious place to relax and enjoy.
Our 5-star hotel is located on Elia Beach in the southern most part of the island. The rooms look over the Aegean Sea. Amenities include:
• Private lounge chairs and umbrellas on nearby Elia beach
A wide range of water sports including water skiing, jet-skiing, wake boarding, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, para-sailing, addle boats and kayaking
• Beach bar service for beverages, smoothies and snacks
• Swimming pool, tennis court and a gym, a spa with Yoga and Pilates classe
• Free shuttle to and from Mykonos Town every 15 minutes
Day 3. Sept 13. Arrive Mykonos
Mykonos is the perfect place to enjoy an energetic beach scene, shopping and partying the night away. There are no “cities” on Mykonos, just the main port town, Mykonos Town, an enchanting maze of narrow lanes and alleyways that are fun to explore. Shops and restaurants are tucked into the classic white stone buildings that the Greek islands are famous for.
On our private tour we’ll explore the island via private bus, visiting Mykonos Town with its luxury shops and the windmills of Little Venice, and then meander on to some of the most famous beaches in Greece.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the resort pool, Elia beach and dinner poolside.
Included dinner at the resort
Overnight in Mykonos
Day 4. Sept 14. A Day in Mykonos. To Delos and an afternoon at your leisure
Delos. Archaeological buffs and lovers of legends can’t miss a trip to the sacred island of Delos, the archaeological jewel of the Cyclades. Believed to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, it’s one of the most important archaeological sites, historical and mythological place in Greece. We’ll take the ferry to the island and tour the excavations and museum before we ferry back to Mykonos town. You'll have a short introduction to the town where your tour will end and you'll have the afternoon and evening explore at your leisure.
The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Overnight in Mykonos
Day 5. Sept 15. Morning Tour of Delos
Walk to the port for ferry to Delos. 2-hour tour with some leisure time on Delos island. Meet your guide in Delos as you disembark. The ancient island of Delos is a very extensive and rich archaeological site that combines ancient art, history, and architecture with a unique location in the center of the Greek Cycladic islands. Since 1990 it is a Unesco World Heritage site. This sacred island of the ancient Greek world was the birthplace of Apollo – the god of the sun and daylight, and his twin sister Artemis – the goddess of the moon and the night light. Delos was an important cosmopolitan Hellenistic settlement and after its declaration as a free port became a center point of commercial activity in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Rich merchants and ship owners assigned artists and craftsmen to build luxurious houses richly decorated with frescoes and mosaic floors of outstanding beauty. At the end of the tour you take the boat and return to Mykonos.
Our 5-star hotel is located on Elia Beach in the southern most part of the island. The rooms look over the Aegean Sea. Amenities include:
• Private lounge chairs and umbrellas on nearby Elia beach
A wide range of water sports including water skiing, jet-skiing, wake boarding, windsurfing, catamaran sailing, para-sailing, addle boats and kayaking
• Beach bar service for beverages, smoothies and snacks
• Swimming pool, tennis court and a gym, a spa with Yoga and Pilates classe
• Free shuttle to and from Mykonos Town every 15 minutes
Day 3. Sept 13. Arrive Mykonos
Mykonos is the perfect place to enjoy an energetic beach scene, shopping and partying the night away. There are no “cities” on Mykonos, just the main port town, Mykonos Town, an enchanting maze of narrow lanes and alleyways that are fun to explore. Shops and restaurants are tucked into the classic white stone buildings that the Greek islands are famous for.
On our private tour we’ll explore the island via private bus, visiting Mykonos Town with its luxury shops and the windmills of Little Venice, and then meander on to some of the most famous beaches in Greece.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the resort pool, Elia beach and dinner poolside.
Included dinner at the resort
Overnight in Mykonos
Day 4. Sept 14. A Day in Mykonos. To Delos and an afternoon at your leisure
Delos. Archaeological buffs and lovers of legends can’t miss a trip to the sacred island of Delos, the archaeological jewel of the Cyclades. Believed to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, it’s one of the most important archaeological sites, historical and mythological place in Greece. We’ll take the ferry to the island and tour the excavations and museum before we ferry back to Mykonos town. You'll have a short introduction to the town where your tour will end and you'll have the afternoon and evening explore at your leisure.
The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Overnight in Mykonos
Day 5. Sept 15. Morning Tour of Delos
Walk to the port for ferry to Delos. 2-hour tour with some leisure time on Delos island. Meet your guide in Delos as you disembark. The ancient island of Delos is a very extensive and rich archaeological site that combines ancient art, history, and architecture with a unique location in the center of the Greek Cycladic islands. Since 1990 it is a Unesco World Heritage site. This sacred island of the ancient Greek world was the birthplace of Apollo – the god of the sun and daylight, and his twin sister Artemis – the goddess of the moon and the night light. Delos was an important cosmopolitan Hellenistic settlement and after its declaration as a free port became a center point of commercial activity in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. Rich merchants and ship owners assigned artists and craftsmen to build luxurious houses richly decorated with frescoes and mosaic floors of outstanding beauty. At the end of the tour you take the boat and return to Mykonos.
SANTORINI. 4 DAYS |
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There are not many places in the world where you can enjoy exquisitely clear waters while sitting on the rim of a volcano in the middle of the sea. Santorini boasts beautiful scenery, natural beauty, sunsets, romance, fine dining, wineries and boutique hotels. The island has become a celebrated vacation destination, so the town of Oia and Fira can be crowded during high season which is why we prefer to travel here in early May or late September.
Day 6. Sept 16. A Day in Santorini. Morning Tour.
Your time in Santorini will included a private tour of the island. This volcanic island of unusual rock formation and high cliffs jutting into the sea is the result of a massive volcanic eruption around 3,500 years ago that blew out the center of Santorini. The surrounding islands are the remains of the sides of the crater, and the sea has filled in the gaps, forming a beautiful bay and some of the most spectacular views. Your tour will include panoramic stops, and some time in the cultural village in Pyrogos, the highest point on Santorini.
Included dinner.
Day 7. Sept 17. A Day in Santorini.
Embark on an afternoon journey, charting a course through Santorini's captivating northern caldera villages. We gather up for an Odyssey of unparalleled beauty, historical tales, and stunning vistas beckons.
Our adventure commences at Firostefani, where the vast azure skies seamlessly blend with iconic blue domes. Every view here seems like a painter’s dream, with glimpses of the sparkling caldera adding to its enchantment. As you soak in its beauty, we gently ascend to Imerovigli. Known for its majestic vantage point, this village offers panoramic views of the Aegean like no other. Feel the gentle breeze, hear whispers of ancient legends, and let the vastness of the sea fill your soul. But no odyssey is complete without a grand finale. As the after-noon sun casts its golden hues, we make our way to Oia. A labyrinth of pastel-hued buildings and cobbled streets, Oia is where the world stops to admire the sunset. Witness the sky paint a masterpiece in shades of gold and crimson as the sun bids its dramatic farewell to the day.
Day 8. Sept 18. Afternoon Sunset Sail and Dinner.
You’ll have the morning to relax at the hotel pool or explore a little more of Santorini before our Private Sunset catamaran cruise. Enroute, we’ll cruise along the caldera, enjoy cocktails and a barbecue on board. You can take a dip off the boat, enjoy the music and experience the famous sunset of Santorini.
Day 9. Sept 19. A Day at Leisure in Santorini
• Think about hiking the cliff-path along the top of the caldera between Fira to Oia. 7 miles.
• The towns of Firostefani and Imerovigli,a bit beyond Fira are lovely villages of cobbled streets and whitewashed stairs. A photographer’s dream!
• Museum of Prehistoric Thera. This tiny museum in the heart of Thira houses frescoes and other archaeological treasures found during the excavation of Ancient Akrotiri, which was destroyed by the volcanic eruption that made Santorini look like it does today. It offers insight into early human life on the Greek Islands, making this an interesting place to check out if you’re keen to learning more about the island’s history. After your visit, go to the Akrotiri Archaeological Sight, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that just might have been the inspiration for Plato’s Atlantis. The remains are well-preserved and tells a fascinating story of one of the most sophisticated settlements in Greece.
Day 6. Sept 16. A Day in Santorini. Morning Tour.
Your time in Santorini will included a private tour of the island. This volcanic island of unusual rock formation and high cliffs jutting into the sea is the result of a massive volcanic eruption around 3,500 years ago that blew out the center of Santorini. The surrounding islands are the remains of the sides of the crater, and the sea has filled in the gaps, forming a beautiful bay and some of the most spectacular views. Your tour will include panoramic stops, and some time in the cultural village in Pyrogos, the highest point on Santorini.
Included dinner.
Day 7. Sept 17. A Day in Santorini.
Embark on an afternoon journey, charting a course through Santorini's captivating northern caldera villages. We gather up for an Odyssey of unparalleled beauty, historical tales, and stunning vistas beckons.
Our adventure commences at Firostefani, where the vast azure skies seamlessly blend with iconic blue domes. Every view here seems like a painter’s dream, with glimpses of the sparkling caldera adding to its enchantment. As you soak in its beauty, we gently ascend to Imerovigli. Known for its majestic vantage point, this village offers panoramic views of the Aegean like no other. Feel the gentle breeze, hear whispers of ancient legends, and let the vastness of the sea fill your soul. But no odyssey is complete without a grand finale. As the after-noon sun casts its golden hues, we make our way to Oia. A labyrinth of pastel-hued buildings and cobbled streets, Oia is where the world stops to admire the sunset. Witness the sky paint a masterpiece in shades of gold and crimson as the sun bids its dramatic farewell to the day.
Day 8. Sept 18. Afternoon Sunset Sail and Dinner.
You’ll have the morning to relax at the hotel pool or explore a little more of Santorini before our Private Sunset catamaran cruise. Enroute, we’ll cruise along the caldera, enjoy cocktails and a barbecue on board. You can take a dip off the boat, enjoy the music and experience the famous sunset of Santorini.
Day 9. Sept 19. A Day at Leisure in Santorini
• Think about hiking the cliff-path along the top of the caldera between Fira to Oia. 7 miles.
• The towns of Firostefani and Imerovigli,a bit beyond Fira are lovely villages of cobbled streets and whitewashed stairs. A photographer’s dream!
• Museum of Prehistoric Thera. This tiny museum in the heart of Thira houses frescoes and other archaeological treasures found during the excavation of Ancient Akrotiri, which was destroyed by the volcanic eruption that made Santorini look like it does today. It offers insight into early human life on the Greek Islands, making this an interesting place to check out if you’re keen to learning more about the island’s history. After your visit, go to the Akrotiri Archaeological Sight, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that just might have been the inspiration for Plato’s Atlantis. The remains are well-preserved and tells a fascinating story of one of the most sophisticated settlements in Greece.
CRETE. 5 DAYS. |
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Crete is the largest of all the Greek islands and the fifth-largest in the Mediterranean Sea. It has mountain villages, long sandy beaches, rocky bays, beach-bar-boogie & nightlife. Bathed in clear sunlight much of the year, the climate is one of the best in Europe. There is an abundance of wildlife, plants & flowers that are unique to the island. Breathe in the ever-present scents of wild herbs, taste fresh fruit, the best of the world’s olive oil and healthy, delicious cheeses. The island offers both developed tourist areas with resort hotels and also quiet coves, hidden beaches and invigorating mountain villages that reward the discerning traveler.
Day 10. Sept 20. Arrive in Crete
Tucked away in the northern part of the island is Heraklion, the island’s capital city, where we’ll start our time on the island. Our hotel is centrally located, walking distance to all the sights in town. From our hotel, we’ll take a walking orientation to the city winding through the streets of town to Lion’s Square. This square owes its name to the ornate Venetian fountain with lions that dominates the square. We’ll then stroll along 25th August Street to find some of the city’s finest buildings to hit the water at the Grand Venetian Walls of the city. Venetian conquerors left brilliant architectural monuments throughout the island and amazingly, even through the 20 years of siege with the Ottomans in the 17th century, many have survived to this day.
Included dinner in Heraklion. The Cretan diet is one of the best-known and healthiest culinary traditions in the world. This form of the Mediterranean diet exudes the unique way of life and terroir that can only be found on Greece’s biggest island. Cretans take immeasurable pride in producing this cuisine with solely Cretan products taken from the island’s unique geography.
Overnight in Heraklion
Day 11. Sept 21. Crete Tour, including Knossos Minoan Palace & Museum
Only few kilometers south of Heraklion is Knossos, the capital of King Minos and the center of the magnificent Minoan civilization. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and has been called Europe’s oldest city. Our visit will take us a step back in time and some 4000 years and open a window to the most ancient civilization of Europe. Knossos’ architectural feats include some of our first “skyscrapers”, with light wells and bathrooms, impressive pillars and an ingenuous drainage system, aqueducts, irrigation, paved roads and magnificent frescoes. We’ll finish our tour back in Heraklion at the famous Archaeological Museum.
You’ll have the rest of the day to explore and enjoy this lovely city.
Day 12. Sept 22. PHAISTOS PALACE - GORTYS ANTIQUITIES – MATALA BEACH
Discover the rich history and ancient beauty of Crete with our exclusive tour to Phaistos Palace and Gortys Antiquities. Begin your journey exploring the legendary Minoan palace of Phaistos, an awe-inspiring archaeological site nestled amidst rugged landscapes. Marvel at the well-preserved ruins, intricate frescoes, and the impressive architecture that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Minoan civilization.
Next, venture to the nearby ancient city of Gortys, home to remarkable ruins including a majestic Roman theater, the impressive Gortys Temple, and fascinating archaeological remains that narrate centuries of history. Walk through the remnants of ancient streets and imagine the vibrant life that once thrived here. Your journey continues to the stunning Matala Beach. This picturesque sandy shoreline stretches approximately 300 meters, featuring soft fine gravel and pristine, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Day 13: Sept 23. Driving day tour to Rethymnon and then on to Rethymnon.
Today we leave in Heraklion and travel to Rethymnon because the streets are so charming, the locals are so kind and the food is so good. It’s a seaside neighborhood that dates back to the 11th century. Here you’ll find prime examples of Venetian Renaissance architecture along with splashes of Turkish influence spread throughout the city.
Honey Museum – Tasting & Tour: Take part in a guided tour of the laboratory and explore the fascinating world of bees and beekeeping. This is a unique experience that highlights the history and production of honey in Crete. For us, honey is a source of life—an extract of natural flavors and aromas. Bees, these remarkable alchemists, fly from flower to flower, collecting nectar and hidden treasures from nature. Our honey is gath-ered from selected areas of Crete, where rare biodiversity and endemic vegetation give it a rich aroma and distinctive taste.
Pottery Workshop: We will continue our excursion to the village of Margarites, famous for its long-standing ceramic tradition. At the workshop, visitors from around the world can discover Cretan ceramic art. You will see how pottery is shaped on the wheel, decorated, and fired in the kiln to achieve its final form. We will be delighted to show you both modern techniques and traditional tools passed down through generations. If you wish, you can also try creating your own pottery with our guidance. Enjoy a complimentary hands-on pottery experience in one of the finest studios.
Included Dinner.
Overnight in Rethymnon
Day 14: Sept 24. Cooking Lesson
Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Crete with our Cooking Classes combined with a relaxing day at the beach. Cretan traditional cuisine is a reflection of life itself—simple, natural, and made with love and imagination. Join us in a charming, traditional village where we have been cooking for many years and learn the secrets of our beloved local dishes.
In this hands-on experience, you will gather fresh seasonal greens, herbs, fruits, wild greens, and enjoy the richness of local ingredients like fresh milk, meat, and the prized olive oil—the gold of Crete. Under the guidance of our experienced hosts, you'll prepare recipes inspired by our grandmothers, passed down through generations, and integral to the daily Cretan diet. Not only will you taste the delicious dishes you’ve created, but you'll also gain valuable insights into the Cretan way of life and the principles of the healthy Mediterranean diet. The menu can be customized for vegetarian guests, ensuring everyone partakes in this culinary adventure. After the cooking session, we invite you to relax at a beautiful nearby beach, where you can unwind, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the sun. Whether you prefer lounging under umbrellas, taking a swim, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty, this day offers a perfect blend of authentic cuisine and relaxing seaside bliss
Overnight in Rethymnon
Day 15: Sept 25. Included flight from Crete to Athens
Free time in the morning. Chania city tour before the transfer to the airport. This port town is filled with charming architecture which reflects its Turkish and Venetian past. The lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the entire world, and welcomes us to the plethora of restaurants along the port with beautiful views of the harbor.
Departure flight to Athens at 7:35 pm.
Overnight at Sofitel airport hotel.
Day 10. Sept 20. Arrive in Crete
Tucked away in the northern part of the island is Heraklion, the island’s capital city, where we’ll start our time on the island. Our hotel is centrally located, walking distance to all the sights in town. From our hotel, we’ll take a walking orientation to the city winding through the streets of town to Lion’s Square. This square owes its name to the ornate Venetian fountain with lions that dominates the square. We’ll then stroll along 25th August Street to find some of the city’s finest buildings to hit the water at the Grand Venetian Walls of the city. Venetian conquerors left brilliant architectural monuments throughout the island and amazingly, even through the 20 years of siege with the Ottomans in the 17th century, many have survived to this day.
Included dinner in Heraklion. The Cretan diet is one of the best-known and healthiest culinary traditions in the world. This form of the Mediterranean diet exudes the unique way of life and terroir that can only be found on Greece’s biggest island. Cretans take immeasurable pride in producing this cuisine with solely Cretan products taken from the island’s unique geography.
Overnight in Heraklion
Day 11. Sept 21. Crete Tour, including Knossos Minoan Palace & Museum
Only few kilometers south of Heraklion is Knossos, the capital of King Minos and the center of the magnificent Minoan civilization. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and has been called Europe’s oldest city. Our visit will take us a step back in time and some 4000 years and open a window to the most ancient civilization of Europe. Knossos’ architectural feats include some of our first “skyscrapers”, with light wells and bathrooms, impressive pillars and an ingenuous drainage system, aqueducts, irrigation, paved roads and magnificent frescoes. We’ll finish our tour back in Heraklion at the famous Archaeological Museum.
You’ll have the rest of the day to explore and enjoy this lovely city.
Day 12. Sept 22. PHAISTOS PALACE - GORTYS ANTIQUITIES – MATALA BEACH
Discover the rich history and ancient beauty of Crete with our exclusive tour to Phaistos Palace and Gortys Antiquities. Begin your journey exploring the legendary Minoan palace of Phaistos, an awe-inspiring archaeological site nestled amidst rugged landscapes. Marvel at the well-preserved ruins, intricate frescoes, and the impressive architecture that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Minoan civilization.
Next, venture to the nearby ancient city of Gortys, home to remarkable ruins including a majestic Roman theater, the impressive Gortys Temple, and fascinating archaeological remains that narrate centuries of history. Walk through the remnants of ancient streets and imagine the vibrant life that once thrived here. Your journey continues to the stunning Matala Beach. This picturesque sandy shoreline stretches approximately 300 meters, featuring soft fine gravel and pristine, crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and relaxation.
Day 13: Sept 23. Driving day tour to Rethymnon and then on to Rethymnon.
Today we leave in Heraklion and travel to Rethymnon because the streets are so charming, the locals are so kind and the food is so good. It’s a seaside neighborhood that dates back to the 11th century. Here you’ll find prime examples of Venetian Renaissance architecture along with splashes of Turkish influence spread throughout the city.
Honey Museum – Tasting & Tour: Take part in a guided tour of the laboratory and explore the fascinating world of bees and beekeeping. This is a unique experience that highlights the history and production of honey in Crete. For us, honey is a source of life—an extract of natural flavors and aromas. Bees, these remarkable alchemists, fly from flower to flower, collecting nectar and hidden treasures from nature. Our honey is gath-ered from selected areas of Crete, where rare biodiversity and endemic vegetation give it a rich aroma and distinctive taste.
Pottery Workshop: We will continue our excursion to the village of Margarites, famous for its long-standing ceramic tradition. At the workshop, visitors from around the world can discover Cretan ceramic art. You will see how pottery is shaped on the wheel, decorated, and fired in the kiln to achieve its final form. We will be delighted to show you both modern techniques and traditional tools passed down through generations. If you wish, you can also try creating your own pottery with our guidance. Enjoy a complimentary hands-on pottery experience in one of the finest studios.
Included Dinner.
Overnight in Rethymnon
Day 14: Sept 24. Cooking Lesson
Immerse yourself in the authentic flavors of Crete with our Cooking Classes combined with a relaxing day at the beach. Cretan traditional cuisine is a reflection of life itself—simple, natural, and made with love and imagination. Join us in a charming, traditional village where we have been cooking for many years and learn the secrets of our beloved local dishes.
In this hands-on experience, you will gather fresh seasonal greens, herbs, fruits, wild greens, and enjoy the richness of local ingredients like fresh milk, meat, and the prized olive oil—the gold of Crete. Under the guidance of our experienced hosts, you'll prepare recipes inspired by our grandmothers, passed down through generations, and integral to the daily Cretan diet. Not only will you taste the delicious dishes you’ve created, but you'll also gain valuable insights into the Cretan way of life and the principles of the healthy Mediterranean diet. The menu can be customized for vegetarian guests, ensuring everyone partakes in this culinary adventure. After the cooking session, we invite you to relax at a beautiful nearby beach, where you can unwind, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the sun. Whether you prefer lounging under umbrellas, taking a swim, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty, this day offers a perfect blend of authentic cuisine and relaxing seaside bliss
Overnight in Rethymnon
Day 15: Sept 25. Included flight from Crete to Athens
Free time in the morning. Chania city tour before the transfer to the airport. This port town is filled with charming architecture which reflects its Turkish and Venetian past. The lighthouse is one of the oldest lighthouses in the entire world, and welcomes us to the plethora of restaurants along the port with beautiful views of the harbor.
Departure flight to Athens at 7:35 pm.
Overnight at Sofitel airport hotel.
DAY 16: Sept 26. FLIGHTS OUT |