This island-hopping itinerary will introduce you to three distinct aspects of Greece – Athens, the center of ancient Greece; Santorini, the iconic island famous for its blue and white architecture and dazzling sunsets; and Crete, the largest Greek island with a very distinct culture. Enjoy each carefully selected segment, from wandering through the historical alleys of Athens to sailing across Santorini's blue waves to visiting the imposing gorges of Southern Crete.
After clearing customs, you will be met by a private driver for the transfer to your hotel, which is perched on the tip of a pine-clad peninsula. The rest of the day is spent at your leisure. The city center is only 30 minutes away.
Hotel: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens
After breakfast, embark on a tour of Delphi, surrounded by the lovely woods of Mount Parnassos. It is one of the most well-known and significant relics of ancient Greek civilization, a spiritual hub, named "the navel of the earth." Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Delphi was well-known for being the home of the Delphic Oracle, a high priestess who consulted on major decisions across the classical world. Your guide will lead you through this remarkable archaeological site, bringing to life the tales and legends of ancient Greece to life. After the tour enjoy a transfer back to your hotel in Athens.
Hotel: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens
Today, you take a 50-minute domestic flight to the iconic island of Santorini. After arriving, you take a private 30-minute transfer to your hotel and have the rest of the day to relax.
Hotel: Andronis Boutique Hotel
Set out this morning on a full-day cruise across Santorini's azure waters. From the hotel, your driver will take you to the marina in Vlychada, where the crew will be preparing for the onboard barbecue and dinner. The catamaran will then sail to Red and White Beaches for swimming, Akrotiri, Aspronisi and the Old Lighthouse, followed by the volcanic hot springs and Oia. The cruise concludes in Ammoudi Bay. Afterwards, return to the hotel with your private driver for the rest of the evening at leisure.
Hotel: Andronis Boutique Hotel
Following a relaxing breakfast, a private driver will transport you to Ammoudi (Oia's port), where your ferry to the island of Thirasia awaits. The guided tour of this island just east of Santorini will take you through vineyards, abandoned villages, cave houses, cathedrals and an ancient traditional bakery. The tour will conclude with a typical lunch provided at the Mitato, an old winery before you return to Santorini in the late afternoon.
Hotel: Andronis Boutique Hotel
This morning, meet your driver and guide after breakfast ahead of your island tour. You will walk from Pyrgos to Megalohori alongside beautiful mansions, explore quaint rural houses and discover the charm of Santorini's abandoned neighborhoods. You will also visit a family-owned winery to taste award-winning local volcanic wines. A visit to the Symposium Cultural Center can be arranged as an alternative for guests not drinking wine. Your guide will take you to the countryside, where you will mingle with locals and learn about traditional crafts before returning to the hotel.
Hotel: Andronis Boutique Hotel
After breakfast, enjoy a transfer to the port ahead of your two-hour ferry to Crete. Upon arrival, meet your private driver for the transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Hotel: Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites
Today, you will tour a traditional island village. You will be driven up the mountainside and meet a genuine Cretan uncle. You'll get hands-on experience creating classic delicacies like fresh tzatziki and mouth-watering stuffed tomatoes after a nice cup of Greek coffee. Enjoy preparing traditional Cretan cuisine with a few glasses of good wine, and while the meal is cooking in the wood-fired oven, you can slip on your swimsuit and dive into the pool, taking in the fantastic views of the valleys below. After lunch, you return to your hotel for an evening of relaxation.
Hotel: Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites
Today, meet your driver and guide to travel to Southern Crete where you will hike through the historic gorge before emerging at the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea on the beach of Agiofarago. On the way, you will visit the chapel of Agios Antonios and the cave-house of a monk. At the beach, you will have time to relax before putting on harnesses and helmets to participate in a rock-climbing session. After taking in the views of a natural lagoon, you return to your hotel for an evening of relaxation.
Hotel: Elounda Gulf Villas and Suites
After breakfast, meet your driver in the hotel lobby for a transfer to Heraklion Airport for the flight back to Athens. After checking into your hotel, you can enjoy your final day at leisure.
Hotel: Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens
Your visit to Greece comes to an end today, with a transfer back to the airport ahead of your return flight home.