Athens, Santorini and Crete
This 9-day Greek vacation takes you to the capital, Athens, as well as the islands of Santorini and Crete.
Your Greece vacation begins in Athens, one of the world’s great historical capitals. Spend your time in the city exploring some of the most popular sites, focusing on the Acropolis, which is home to the Temple of Athena Nike and the iconic Parthenon. If you have time, also swing by the Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Olympics were held in 1896. That evening, drive through the city centre to see the Greek capital lit up beneath the stars before walking through the narrow streets of the oldest neighbourhood, Plaka.
From Athens, head to Santorini, the magical island home to whitewashed houses, windswept cliffs, and picture-perfect bliss. You can stroll along the 300m-high cliffs towering over the ocean or enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the island’s charming towns. The island is also home to the Minoan ruins of Akrotiri, one of the country’s best archaeological sites. While on Santorini, you’ll take a day to explore the surrounding volcanic islands and soak in the natural hot springs.
Your Greek vacation continues along to Crete and its capital city, Heraklion. You can survey the walls of Koules Fortress, visit world-class museums like the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and explore the Palace of Knossos. When you’re not exploring history, take advantage of the island’s golden beaches, thumping nightclubs, and famous Cretan dishes. Spend the rest of your time on the island revelling in the sunny climate and exploring the gorgeous stretches of beach and hill. Afterwards, return to Athens to spend one more day before your flight home.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are “from” per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request – please inquire. Rates not guaranteed until booked.
Athenian Callirhoe Hotel Athens
You will discover a distinctive building with elegant interior design and enjoy the very best in luxury and service while being spoiled with the “little things” a guest needs to make one feel at home. Entice yourself with our creative Mediterranean and International cuisine, admiring at the same time the magnificent Acropolis and Lycabettus view. Centrally located, in a short distance from all the city’s cultural highlights, attractions and commercial centre, it is ideal for leisure and business travelers.
Athens By Night
Your evening begins with a short panoramic drive through the city center and on the slopes of the sacred hill you will be able to see, admire and take photos of the illuminated Acropolis. Then a pleasant walk through the narrow picturesque streets of Plaka, the old city, will bring you at a Typical Greek Tavern where you will enjoy your dinner following a floor show with live music and Greek Folk Dances in traditional costumes.
Duration 3 Hours
Meal Plan – Buffet Breakfast
Duration 1 Night
Accommodation – Athenian Callirhoe Hotel Athens
Piraeus Port to Santorini on Catamaran
Duration 4 Hours
Athinios Port to Santorini
Duration 30 Minutes
Santorini Palace
The 4-star Santorini Palace is centrally located in Fira, Santorini’s capital, within walking distance to the old port, museums, shops, and restaurants. Guests may take full advantage of the resort facilities, the peaceful hotel spa atmosphere, keep up with their fitness in the fully equipped gym, relax by the pool, enjoy a walk on the Caldera’s promenade or even experience Fira cosmopolitan nightlife. All air-conditioned rooms open to a balcony overlooking the well-tended garden or the Aegean Sea. Facilities include a satellite TV and minibar. Each private bathroom is fitted with a bathtub and hairdryer. Guests at Santorini Palace can start their day with a buffet breakfast. The restaurant served international dishes during dinner times. Refreshing drinks and light meals are prepared at the snack bar by the pool.
Meal Plan – Buffet Breakfast
Duration 3 Nights
Accommodation – Santorini Palace
Leave the port of Athinios to embark on the traditional boat for your visit of active craters of the volcano on the top of the island of Nea Kameni, in Greek means “new burnt”… where you will stop for about 1 1/2 H.
Then sail to Palea Kameni, “old burnt”, where thermal springs provide natural warm-water bathing. While the surrounding water and beaches may be cold, and winds can be daunting. Your stop will be about 30m. Next destination will be Thirassia which is a typical cycladic village with a way of life as it used to be before the invasion of tourism. Tiny houses of various colours give a special character to these small settlements. Is an ideal place to taste some of the traditional plates of Santorini (lunch is not included in the price), to swim or to discover the simple village of Manolios by donkey. Here your stop will be about 1.5 – 2H.
When you arrive in your last destination the assistant will inform you the pick-up point and the time that the buses depart (that depends on the sunset time) . The village is approximately 150 meters above sea level. This distance covered or walking the traditional steps on feet (250 steps) or by donkeys. Oia was severely damaged in the 1956 earthquake and much work has been involved to implement its restoration. The beauty of Oia is unsurpassed. In fact, it is almost impossible to describe in words. Small white houses tier the hillside, interspersed by splashes of rich okra, deep fuchsia, cobalt blue, oyster pink and earthy red. Oia is one of the most photographed places in Greece. It has inspired artists, poets and every visitor who visits Santorini. Oia is best known for breathtaking sunsets; if truth be told, sunrise in Oia is also magical. In Oia there are two types of dwellings, the cave houses dug into the volcanic rock on the Caldera cliffs, and the Captains houses. The cave houses used to be the homes of ship crews, whereas the Captains houses belonged to the affluent class of ship owners. Many of the churches in Oia were dedicated to sailors.
Duration 6 Hours
Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.
Santorini to Heraklion on Catamaran
Duration 2 Hours
Heraklion Port to Heraklion
Duration 20 Minutes
Galaxy Hotel, Crete
We welcome you to the Galaxy Hotel, the ideal city hotel for exploring Heraklion! Our prime location, in between the city’s historical sites and the beating heart of the downtown center, allows our guests to fully experience the essence of Cretan culture, while enjoying the luxurious comfort of our serene environment. Heraklion’s attractions, gastronomy, nightlife and local habits are all within your grasp!
Meal Plan – Buffet Breakfast
Duration 3 Nights
Accommodation – Galaxy Hotel, Crete
Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.
Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.
Sofitel Airport Hotel
Sofitel Athens Airport welcomes you to the Greek capital. In an environment harmoniously combining heartfelt hospitality, modern surroundings and impeccable organization, you will find the ideal solution for luxurious accommodation and business meetings.
Enjoy a magnificent experience at Karavi restaurant with our gourmet cuisine and panoramic views or at the modern Mediterranean restaurant Mesoghaia, available 24 hours. Artemis bar is the perfect place to share a drink or even enjoy a light snack.
The only hotel at Athens airport, Sofitel Athens Airport extends a distinctive combination of French refinement and Greek hospitality to all business and leisure guests.
Meal Plan – Full Breakfast
Duration 1 Night
Accommodation – Sofitel Airport Hotel
Today is totally free and at leisure. You can take advantage of any optional activities available or simply relax.
