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Athens, Santorini & Crete Itinerary: 2-Week Island Hopping Itinerary
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertFour nights in Athens is what lets the mainland chapter breathe, and it's the configuration I always recommend regardless of schedule pressure. The Cape Sounion afternoon and the Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio full day each need their own space; compressing both into fewer nights means one always loses. At Knossos, a guided commentary over the standard audio tour is worth it: the site layers Minoan original construction with Evans-era reconstruction, and without someone who can point to the difference, the Palace reads as confusing rather than revelatory. The Rethymno jeep safari into the Amari Valley is the Crete experience I'd protect over any beach afternoon; those mountain villages and the plateau above the coast show an island that the seafront hotels never reach.
Four nights in Athens is what lets the mainland chapter breathe, and it's the configuration I always recommend regardless of schedule pressure. The Cape Sounion afternoon and the Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Nafplio full day each need their own space; compressing both into fewer nights means one always loses. At Knossos, a guided commentary over the standard audio tour is worth it: the site layers Minoan original construction with Evans-era reconstruction, and without someone who can point to the difference, the Palace reads as confusing rather than revelatory. The Rethymno jeep safari into the Amari Valley is the Crete experience I'd protect over any beach afternoon; those mountain villages and the plateau above the coast show an island that the seafront hotels never reach.
Recommended route
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Athens
Day 1 - 4
Dominating the Attica region of Greece, the country’s capital, Athens, is one of the oldest cities in the world. For over two and a half centuries, the astonishing Greek temples and monuments of Athens have continued to intrigue and amaze visitors from around the world. This icon of western civilization seamlessly combines ancient history with modern architecture and a surprisingly lively atmosphere. This is particularly apparent in areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Thissio where visitors will find numerous extraordinary Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes, and shops, and narrow winding streets with historical treasures at every turn. Once you have enjoyed a history and art fix, try some mouth-watering Greek cuisine at one of the city’s fine local restaurants before indulging in the insatiable nightlife at the chic cocktail bars and waterfront dance clubs.
Your accommodation
Acropolian Spirit Boutique Hotel
Centrally located in Athens, Greece, the Acropolian Spirit Boutique Hotel is an excellent accommodation option for leisure and business travellers. The hotel offers well-appointed and comfortable rooms and suites equipped with central heating/cooling, TVs, mini-fridges, private bathrooms, hairdryers, safety deposit boxes, and toiletries. Guests can start each day with a delightful breakfast buffet on-site. Facilities and services include a 24-hour reception, a restaurant, a bar, room service, a lobby lounge, wake-up calls, and Wi-Fi.
Your activity
Acropolis & the Acropolis Museum
This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contraststhat make Athens such a fascinating city. Our expert guides will takeyou to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Gamesof modern times were held in 1896 (short stop). Continue and pass by the Prime Minister's residence (ex-RoyalPalace) guarded by the Evzones in their colorful uniform, the Templeof Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament and thememorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the ConstitutionSquare (Syntagma). On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the GoldenAge of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, theErechtheion, and finally "the harmony between material and spirit",the monument that "puts order in the mind", the Parthenon. Continue and visit the place where at last the statues found theirhome and admire the wonders of the classical era: The new AcropolisMuseum.
Start time: 08.45 and ends 13.30.
Group Size: Max pax 48
Oia
Day 5 - 7
Known as one of the most picturesque villages on the spectacular Greek island of Santorini, Oia, also known as Megalohori, is a quiet village scattered over a hillside on the island’s westernmost point. It features traditional white-washed Greek buildings and a labyrinth of steep alleys and narrow streets and is encircled by countless vineyards, providing it with its fame for top-quality wines. Visitors can sample an array of delicious varietals from the famous Boutari Winery, enjoy a mouth-watering traditional meal at one of the many village square tavernas, and immerse themselves in the local culture in a variety of ways. The town provides the opportunity to take cooking classes, learn the language, and participate in a Greek singing lesson. Don’t miss the local Greek music evenings at the Geromanolis tavern every Saturday night.
Your accommodation
White Pearl Villas
White Pearl Villas is seductively nestled on the cliffs of Oia Santorini, where the awe-inspiring sunset dazzles the eye of the beholder with its unreal fiery mix of red, blue, yellow, and orange hues and the infinity of the azure water stretching to the horizon. Guests can choose from a variety of villas, all beautifully decorated and well equipped. General facilities and services available for guests' convenience include a range of breakfast options, airport transfers, daily housekeeping, luggage storage, car and motorbike reservations, day excursions, tours recommendations and more.
Your activity
Volcan View Candlelight Dinner
For a majestic dining experience full of romance, enjoy a private candlelight dinner with outstanding views to the sunset and the imposing caldera. The candlelight dinner is offered at an isolated spot of the property, with exquisite sunset views that ensure absolute dining pleasure. Delicious dishes, made of the best local products, compose the perfect ambience for romantic moments in Santorini. Enchant your senses and feel the emotions overflowing!
Homemade bread
- TUNA Marinated with citrus, fava, Grape and pistachio
- MUSHROOMS Variety mushrooms with topinambur cream, soya glaze and sesame
- BEEF Slices with celeriac root, wild greens and lemon sauce
- SEAFOOD TARTAR With grilled lettuce, aioli sauce
Main Course
- FISH OF THE DAY Fillet with artichoke, asparagus and lemon egg sauce
Or
- LAMB With vegetables and lemon sauce with fresh oregano
Dessert
WALLNUTS CAKE With Tiramisu cream and caramel sauce
Heraklion
Day 8 - 9
The fifth-largest city in all of Greece, Heraklion serves as the island's capital on the island of Crete. This cosmopolitan centre boasts many thriving urban cafes and restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, and excellent shopping - all close to the renowned ancient ruins. The breathtaking, intricate and massive Palace of Knossos was, according to legend, designed to be so complex that it was impossible to find the way out, and its Labyrinth is known as the dwelling place of the Minotaur, famous in Greek Mythology. Other heritage attractions include the enormous Archaeological Museum, which displays relics from the Minoan and post-Minoan era; and the fascinating historic city centre. Make sure to see the Byzantine-era Cathedral of Agios Titos, one of the most important monuments in Crete.
Your accommodation
Knossos Beach Hotel
Located on the beach in Heraklion Crete, Knossos Beach Hotel is an excellent option for a seaside vacation. Accommodation options feature double rooms, bungalows, seafront rooms and luxury suites which are equipped with comfortable amenities to ensure guests enjoy a pleasant and relaxing stay. The property features a variety of dining and drinking establishments to suit all guests’ gastronomic expectations. Guests can make use of the three swimming pools, sporting facilities or indulge in a variety of wellness procedures at the on-site spa.
Chania
Day 10 - 11
The old port city of Chania is located on the beautiful island of Crete, guarding the entrance to Greece’s spectacular Chania Peninsular. Known as the ‘Venetian Harbour’ and by the names Hania and Chania, this magnificent city boasts a charming quarter filled with labyrinthine lanes, Turkish architecture, and beautifully restored townhouses. Hike through spectacular mountains and gorges, discover archaeological sites, and explore ancient monasteries. Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the Venetian harbour, sip on a cocktail at one of the many cafes lining the promenade, and sample some of Crete’s best cuisine. Don’t miss visiting the striking Venetian Lighthouse, as well as the wonderful Naval Museum, where you can see incredible displays from the Bronze Age until the present, including war relics, paintings, models of ships and nautical instruments.
Your accommodation
Domes Zeen Chania
Located on a private beach on the northwest coast of Crete, Domes Zeen Chania is an Arcadian idyll fit for the postmodern era. Berlin-based designers Lambs and Lions have combined mid-century, brutalist forms with stone, raw wood, and rattan to create a tropical aesthetic with a distinctly modern twist. The rooms are understated and feature large windows and terraces for basking in the Cretan sun. In keeping with the concept of ef zeen, a classic Greek term for wellness, the Domes also offers two gourmet restaurants, a beachfront spa, and classic island experiences such as cooking and pottery classes, wine tastings, and coastal walks. Children can have fun, too: the kids' club offers painting classes and sleepovers in a teepee (to give parents a night off).
Your activity
Excursion to Balos & Gamvrousa
Your adventure begins with a convenient pick-up from your hotel or one of our designated meeting points. Sit back and enjoy the scenic drive to the west side of Crete, where we’ll arrive at the port of Kissamos (Kasteli).
Our guide will provide all the important information about your cruise and collect the boat fare in advance, allowing you to skip the ticket lines at the port. Once everything is set, you’ll board the Gramvousa ferry and get ready to sail.
Around 10:30 AM, we’ll depart for Balos Lagoon—a relaxing one-hour cruise. Onboard, you can enjoy self-service meals, snacks, or drinks from the ship’s kitchen. Lounge on deck chairs, take in the breathtaking sea views, or relax indoors. As we sail, you’ll hear fascinating commentary (available in multiple languages) about Crete’s dramatic coastline and its geological history spanning over 2,000 years.
Our first stop is the island of Gramvousa, where you’ll have about two hours to swim in the crystal-clear waters or hike up to the historic Venetian fortress for panoramic views of the Aegean Sea.
Next, we’ll continue to Balos Lagoon, one of Crete’s most famous beaches. Spend three hours swimming, sunbathing, or exploring this natural paradise of turquoise waters and soft white sand.
In the late afternoon, we’ll head back toward Kissamos port, arriving around 5:40 PM. From there, we’ll return to Chania, arriving at approximately 6:30 PM, filled with memories of a truly unforgettable day.
Athens
Day 12 - 13
Dominating the Attica region of Greece, the country’s capital, Athens, is one of the oldest cities in the world. For over two and a half centuries, the astonishing Greek temples and monuments of Athens have continued to intrigue and amaze visitors from around the world. This icon of western civilization seamlessly combines ancient history with modern architecture and a surprisingly lively atmosphere. This is particularly apparent in areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Thissio where visitors will find numerous extraordinary Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes, and shops, and narrow winding streets with historical treasures at every turn. Once you have enjoyed a history and art fix, try some mouth-watering Greek cuisine at one of the city’s fine local restaurants before indulging in the insatiable nightlife at the chic cocktail bars and waterfront dance clubs.
Your accommodation
The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel
The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of Athens City, Greece, near the Kallimarmaro Stadium, the Acropolis, the Brand New Acropolis Museum, and Plaka. The hotel’s cosy and elegantly decorated rooms and suites feature tea/coffee-making facilities, central heating/cooling, workspaces, private bathrooms, minibars, hairdryers, flat-screen TVs, and laptop-sized safes. Accommodations with balconies are available. Facilities and services include restaurants, a bar, daily housekeeping, a sauna, a gym, and Wi-Fi.
