Greek Island Hopping: Mykonos, Santorini, Crete
From small-group & private tours to cooking classes, private transfers, the best hotels, and accommodations – we curate the most incredible authentic experiences through Europe for the entire family.
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Day 1
Arrival in Athens
Welcome to Athens and the Greek islands!
You are met on arrival and taken to your hotel. Depending on your arrival, enjoy a free afternoon exploring the city or a nice meal by the Acropolis.
Athens - The City
Athens’ heyday was around 400 years BC, that’s when most of the classical monuments were built. During the Byzantine and Turkish eras, the city decayed into just an insignificant little village, only to become the capital of newly-liberated Greece in 1833. Ahead of the 2004 Olympics, almost the entire infrastructure was transformed: the Metro, trams, new ring roads and viaducts have eased the pressure of the heavy traffic.
Athens is still a rather messy and chaotic place—it wouldn’t be Athens otherwise—and despite all the improvements, still retains a great deal of its oriental charm. The whole coastal stretch from Piraeus to the old Hellenikon airport has been improved with new plantings, viaducts and paths for walking. The Plaka district is becoming more and more popular and it is on the way to catching up with Psyrri, Gazi and Rouf as regards restaurants. Discover the beauties of the Anafiotika district, at the feet of the Acropolis, and visit the ancient village still housed in the midst of the city. In Exarchia, there is still a somewhat in-your-face anarchic atmosphere around the Technical University. Meanwhile, Kolonaki is becoming more and more chic.
Private Athens food tour in the afternoon
Immerse yourself in the world of Greek food. The smells and the range of products in specialty food shops and the bustle of open-air markets will all make your taste buds sing! Sample unique local delicacies, from small-batch olive oils and baklava to souvlaki and bougatsa (cream-filled phyllo pastry). Find out more about the Mediterranean diet, what it really consists of and why it’s so good for you.
All food & drink tastings arranged as part of the tour & English - speaking guide
Day 2
Athens - Half Day City Tour with Acropolis Museum
This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city.
Our expert guides will take you to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held in 1896 (short stop). Continue and pass by the Prime Minister's residence (ex. Royal Palace) guarded by the Euzones in their colorful uniform, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma).
On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion 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 their home and admire the wonders of the classical era: The new Acropolis museum.
Day 3
Travel to Mykonos
Mykonos - The Island
The tiny Cycladic island of Mykonos sprung to blossom as a tourist destination in the 60s and 70s, when it was first discovered by global glitterati and became featured in magazines as the new hot place to be for the "it" crowd. The island today has kept little of its past exclusivity (although celebrities do make appearances at some of its fashion boutiques every now and then), and welcomes diverse crowds every summer season. July and August are the busiest, with late spring and early fall allowing visitors to discover a quieter, more tranquil side to the island.
During high season, avoid the narrow streets of Mykonos Town (also referred to as "Hora", or "Chora") during daytime to escape cruise ship crowds and venture out to one of the island's many beaches, or try scuba diving under careful supervision of professionals from the island's many dive centres. The island, along with its tiny neighbour of Delos, featured prominently in Greek mythology and was first settled in 11th century BC. Excursions into the past may be made via the island's several tiny museums and the well-maintained Archaeological Site of Delos.
Our transfers will be waiting for you at the airport in Mykonos to take you to the hotel where you will stay for 3 nights.
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Transfer to the airport for your flight to Mykonos (35-50 min flight).
Days 4 and 5
Explore Mykonos
We suggest that you opt for a tour or a coast cruise to see the beautiful beaches of Mykonos. We can also arrange a day on a private boat, food and wine tasting by the beach. Spend an afternoon on the beach of check out one of the famous beach clubs on the island.
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City and Island Tour
Mykonos - Labyrinth and Landscape... A pearl in the Aegean Sea - blue sky, beautiful snow-white houses, lovely beaches everywhere...
Starting the City-and Island tour by walking the small and narrow streets, we have many possibilities to take nice photographs in the early morning, quiet city. We get orientation and information in the labyrinth of the old town as well as impressions of the small port and the churches in town. Of course we will see the famous wind-mills and find Petros The Pelican, the mascot of Mykonos. After this we are exploring the island with a bus, visiting some of the most famous beaches and the inner land- scape. We see fishermen and kaikis, small private chapels and houses built in typical Cycladic style.
In the second main village of Mykonos, Ano Mera, an idyllic place 6km from town, where the guests have enough free time for a stroll around the traditional square and they can visit the monk monastery Panagia Tourliani built in the 16th century. Next stop is Kalafatis beach were there is time to relax a little and have a coffee or a refreshment (not included in the price), before going back to town and to reach a place with a fantastic view all over the town and neighbor islands.
A Half-Day-Trip with a lot of impressions and useful information!
Operated: May - October
Every: Tuesday - Wednesday - Saturday - Sunday
Approx. duration: 4.5 hours
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Cruise the crystal clear waters of the Aegean sea and discover the most beautiful beaches of the protected south coast of Mykonos. Meeting time from 09.30 am at the bus / boat stop at Ornos Beach. We start at 10 am to cruise along the South Coast and relax on our traditional Greek Kaiki style ship while passing closely all the beautiful beaches of the South Coast. If weather permits we cross over to the uninhabited island of Dragonissi with its caves and stunning rock formations; these are full of minerals and create the most amazing colors in the water. With some luck we see the wild mountain goats and eagles. Afterwards we stop at the natural beach of Frangias where we have time for swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear water. We have a pick nick on the beach with wine, Ouzo and Greek snacks. Our next stop is at the picturesque bay of Kalatatis where you can relax and enjoy lunch in a beautifully located restaurant right by the sea. Lunch consists of a personal Greek salad, Tzatziki, bread, oven roast chicken with potatoes or a vegetarian pasta dish, 1/4 I of wine and water. After lunch you have time at leisure to spend on the beach or in the coffee bar by the sea. Also there is the possibility for plenty of water sports activities on Kalafatis beach. We then board our boat to continue for our next stop at the famous Paradise Beach. Here you have the opportunity for another swim or to see the party in the Tropicana Bar which has just recently been elected as one of the best beach bars worldwide. We cruise back to Ornos and on our way make a stop at Plati Yalos Beach with the possibility of disembarkation there.
Operated: May - October
Every: Monday - Wednesday - Saturday
Approx. duration: 9.5 hours
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Meeting time at the Ornos Bus station at 18.10 pm, departure at 18:30h. by the traditional Greek Kaiki.
The route takes us to Delos with a view to the ancient harbor and the ruins, then between Delos and the coast of Rhenia past the little islands "Ano and Kato Rematiaris" towards the South to the uninhabited islands "Prassonissia" where we can enjoy the magic light of the sun setting over Delos. On board there is a choice of drinks between sparkling wine, white wine, Gin 6 tonic, Ouzo, beer and soft drinks (max. 2 drinks per person) which is offered with small snacks.
Return to Ornos Bus station at 20.40 after experiencing a beautiful sunset.
Operated: May - October
Ind. pick up time: 18:10
Every: Sunday
Approx. duration: 2.5 hours
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See the hidden corners of the island of Mykonos many of them inaccessible unless by jeep. Enjoy breathtaking views, rural areas, beautiful beaches and the unique feeling of driving in a jeep! Meeting point at the Yacht Club / Old Port of Mykonos at 9:30 a.m. Our tour takes Us first along the coast to Houlakia beach and from there up to the light house. From there we drive through the area of Marathi past the dam and Panormos beach to the bay of Agios Sostis.
Then we drive to the area of Ano Mera where we have a stop at Paleokastro, the ruins of a Venetian Castle. We explore the area around Ano Mera with its agriculture and the nearby old abandoned mine. Lunch stop in a picturesque place (not included in the price). Then we continue along the south coast and drive past Kalatatis and Kalo Livadi through the green area of Halara. Our next stop is at Agrari Beach where we have time for a coffee and a swim. From there we head back for Mykonos town having as the last high light of the tour a photo stop at the old castle above the city. The tour ends at the Old Port at 6pm.
Don't forget to take beach equipment, sun protection, water and good shoes.
For the drivers: Please take also your driving license (to drive you must be older than 22).
Operated: May - October
Every: Monday - Wednesday - Thursday
Approx. duration: 6 hours
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Tinos Island is only 45 minutes away. The gorgeous neighbor of Mykonos, being three times bigger, has a lot to offer:
Tinos town and the most famous and important church of Greece, the Evangellistria, with its miraculous icon and magic atmosphere.
The women's monastery Kechrovouni, high up in the mountains, which is inhabited by 40 nuns.
The traditional village Volax, home to the basket makers.
The valley of the pigeon houses from the Venetian fime.
Pirgos, the center of the marble arts.
Continuously changing scenery of landscapes, traditional villages and views over the Aegean Sea and surrounding islands.
Please note that for the visit of the church and monastery there are strict clothing rules: sleeveless shirts and shorts are not permitted. Men must wear long trousers and women must wear skirts or trousers that go below the knee.
Operated: May - October
Every: Tuesday & Friday
Approx. duration: 10 hours
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Visit one of the most important archaeological sites of Greece: THE ANCIENT SACRED ISLAND OF DELOS!
Only a 45 minute boat ride away from Mykonos Delos was the center of the Cyclades of the ancient world, the island of light, birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, home to the first multicultural civilization and trade.
There is a lot to see: having been inhabited between 2500 and 69 BC. Delos boasts of many treasures remaining from these times like the ancient market place Agora, the famous terrace of the Naxos lions, the holy lake, the ancients living quarters and theatre that give you a lively vision of the daily life then; especially the houses of Dionysos, Kleopatra, the Trident, the Masks, the Dolphins with their mosaics are a fantastic experience of art not to be missed.
Furthermore there are the Temple of Isis, the Egyptian goddess, the Roman water system and cisterns and the wonderful museum with plenty of breathtaking mosaics, statues and many more objects found during the excavations. On our guided tour you depart at 10pm from the old pier in Mykonos Town and you return at 2.30 pm. If you wish to remain a little bit longer you can also take the last boat back at 3 pm in order to have some time at leisure or maybe climb on Mount Kynthos to enjoy the view over all the surrounding Cycladic Islands.
Operated: May - October
Daily Service!
Approx. duration: 4 hours
Day 6
Travel to Santorini
Santorini - The Island
The island's beauty has been waxed lyrical over the years, fully earning the epithet "kalliste" (the most beautiful). Along with "Strogili", this was one of the former names lent to the island over its troubled history. Its history is one of battles and conquers, of a tragic eruption and a blossoming renaissence – events that haven't altered Santorini's charm but that undoubtedly scarred it.
Together with the inhabited Therania and five other smaller islands, Thera (Santorini's Greek name) belongs to the namesake archipelago which is the vestige of a volcanic caldera. Places of unspoiled nature and postcard-like views, the islands are reachable by boat and bear the original appeal of the old-fashioned Santorini.
The main island is split further into picturesque villages masterly painted in dazzling blue and white hues, outlining the holiday resort's multi-faceted personality and its extraordinary variety of landscapes.
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Our transfers will be waiting for you at the hotel to take you to the port to take a ferry to Santorini (2 hr high speed ferry ride) and then from the ferry in Santorini to your hotel in Oia, Santorini for 3 nights.
Days 7 and 8
Explore Santorini
We highly recommend that you opt for a tour to visit the volcano and the hot springs, or the red, the white and the black beach, or just to marvel the famous sunset in Oia. We can also arrange a day on a private boat, food and wine tasting by the beach.
Pick the tours/experiences that you would like!
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Starting by bus from the pick-up point we arrive at the port of Athinios where we board the boat King Thiras. Our first stop will be the Volcanic Island of Nea Kameni where we walk up the ascending soil path and approach the crater of the still active Volcano to reach the crater.
After reaching the crater you walk down the dirt path to the boat to continue our journey to the Island of Paled Kameni where the boat will stop around 50 meters from the opening and you can swim in the green sulphur waters of the hot springs, wet your feet or just enjoy the view. The journey continues after the hot springs to Thirassia Island which was once part of Santorini before the big Explosion of the Volcano. There you will stay for two hours and you will have the opportunity to do some activities like swimming on the beach of Thirassia, have lunch next to the Sea or just explore the Village of Manolas with its winding steps and traditional houses.
King Thiras brings us then to the port of Oid underneath Oid Village where you will walk up the steps to reach Village in order to enjoy one of the most amazing sunsets in the world.
The tour ends 30 minutes after the sunset when you will gather at the pickup point in Oid where the bus will be waiting to bring you back to the point where you started from.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 10 hours
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Swim at the most beautiful beaches. The bus takes us to Athinios port where we board on our boat Manolios. Our first stop will be the Aspronisi Island a small island near the volcano where we stay approximately for 1 hour and 30 minutes for a swim and then have a light picnic. Our next stop will be the Red beach, where we drop anchor 60 meters from the shore and stay for swimming around 60 minutes, this beach is famous for the sharp red cliffs and the fine reddish pebbles. Our cruise will end sailing close to the volcanic rocks where you can take nice photos and then in Athinios port where we get on the buses for the return. Should take comfortable shoes, hat, sun cream, swimming suit and camera.
Operated: June - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 5 hours
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The first stop of the four will be in Mesa Gonia known as the Ghost Village of the island The Village is named this due to the large earthquake in 1956, where almost everybody left due to the destruction that the Earthquake caused.
Now many people have moved back to the village but the name has still remained. There you will walk around to see the traditional architecture of the village. After Mesa Gonia we will continue to the village of Pyrgos, with its Cycladic architecture, Byzantine churches and a Venetian Castle. The village is one of the highest points of the Island and the View is amazing overlooking the North West part of Santorini. From Pyrgos the bus takes you to Imerovigli, an old aristocratic Village built on the Caldera. There you will also find the rock of Skaros, which are the ruins of the most important castle. You will have again the opportunity to walk around and explore the Village and take plenty of photos. (Please note that in August the tour is not going to Imerovigli because the main road in Fira closes in the direction of Imerovigli. Instead of Imerovigli the tour will visit Santo Winery next to Pyros which is built next to the Caldera and is the biggest winery on the Island.) The last stop of our journey is the Beautiful Village of Oia, which has a breathtaking view over the caldera and volcano and has one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world. The atmosphere when the sun sets in to the sea is stunning and many artists come to Oia to get inspiration from the beauty of the landscape, architecture and the sunset.
After the sunset you will board the bus which will bring you back to the point you started from.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 5 hours
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This bus tour takes us to the Center of the island and on the highest point where you will visit the hidden gems of the area.
The first stop of the tour is the 16th century Monastery of Prophet Elias which was built on the highest point of the Island 550 meters above sea level. From there you will have a panoramic view of the whole island and it is breathtaking!!! After Profitet Elias we will continue to the village of Pyrgos, with its Cycladic architecture, Byzantine churches and a Venetian Castle. The village is one of the highest points of the Island and the View is amazing overlooking the North West part of Santorini. From Pyrgos we continue to Athinios where we board the boat King Thiras. Our first stop with King Thiras boat will be the Volcanic Island of Nea Kameni where we walk up the ascending soil path and approach the crater of the still active Volcano to reach the crater. After reaching the crater you walk down the dirt path to the boat to continue our journey to the Island of Palea Kameni where the boat will stop around 50 meters from the opening and you can swim in the green sulphur waters of the hot springs, wet your feet or just enjoy the view. The journey continues after the hot springs to Thirassia Island which was once part of Santorini before the big Explosion of the Volcano.
There you will stay for two hours and you will have the opportunity to do some activities like swimming on the beach of Thirassia, have lunch next to the Sea or just explore the Village of Manolas with its winding steps and traditional houses.
King Thiras brings us then to the port of Amoudi underneath Oia where you will walk up the steps to reach Oid in order to enjoy one of the most amazing sunsets in the world. The tour ends 30 minutes after the sunset when you will gather at the pickup point in Oia where the bus will be waiting to bring you back to the point where you started from.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 10 hours
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The tour starts with the bus transfer from the pick-up point to the Port of Athinios. From there it continues with the boat King Thiras to the lava island Nea Kameni where the boat will make a stop to give the explorers the opportunity to walk up the ascending soil path and approach the crater of the still active Volcano.
After seeing the crater you will walk back down the dirt path to the boat which will bring you to the second lava island Paled Kameni, where you will find the hot Springs.
The boat makes a stop around 50 meters from the opening and you can swim in the green sulphur waters of the hot springs, wet your feet or just enjoy the view. The tour continues after the hot springs to Thirassia Island which was once part of Santorini before the big Explosion of the Volcano. There you will stay for two hours and you will have the opportunity to do some activities like swimming on the beach of Thirassia, have lunch next to the Sea or just explore the Village of Manolas with its winding steps and traditional houses.
On the way back to Athinios port where the tour ends you will cruise with King Thiras under Oia where the best pictures can be taken of the amazing cliffs and the breathtaking scenery.
Once you arrive at the port the bus will be waiting to bring you back to the point you started from.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 6.5 hours
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The four starts with the bus transfer from the pick- up point to the Port of Athinios. There it continues with the boat Jason to the lava island Nea Kameni where the boat will make a stop and you will have the opportunity to walk up the ascending soil path and approach the crater of the still active Volcano.
After seeing the crater you will walk back down the dirt path to the boat which will bring you to the second lava island Palea Kameni, where you will find the hot Springs.
The boat makes a stop and you can swim in the green sulphur waters of the hot springs, wet your feet or just enjoy the view.
The tour continues after the hot springs to Thirassia Island which was once part of Santorini before the big Explosion of the Volcano. There you will stay for two hours and you will have the opportunity to do some activities like swimming on the beach of Thirassia, have lunch next to the Sea or just explore the Village of Manolas with its winding steps and traditional houses.
Leaving Thirassia the boat will sail to the best spot to enjoy the sunset. When the sun has set into the sea the boat makes its way back to the port of Athinios from where we will board the bus to bring us back to the point where you started from.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 4 hours
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The tour starts by bus from the pick-up point which brings us to the port of Athinios where you will board the boat Jason. Starting the tour the boat will sail to the Volcanic Island of Nea Kameni, there you will stop and have the opportunity to walk up the ascending soil path and approach the crater of the still active Volcano.
After seeing the crater you walk back down the dirt path to the boat which will bring you to the second lava island Palea Kameni, where you find the hot Springs. The boat makes a stop 50 meters from the opening where you can swim in the green sulphur waters of the hot springs, wet your feet or just enjoy the view.
The tour ends in Athinios port where you will board the bus to bring you back to the point you started from.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 4 hours
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This bus tour takes us to the Southern part of the island where you will visit the hidden gems of the area. The first stop of the tour is the 16th century Monastery of Prophet Elias which was built on the highest point of the Island 550 meters above sea level. From there you will have a panoramic view of the whole island and it is breathtaking!!! After the Monastery you continue to Megalochori which is one of the most traditional villages on the Island. Our escort will take you through the narrow streets where you will have the opportunity to admire the traditional architecture and the unique craftsmanship of the local Masons. Leaving Megalochori you will head towards the beautiful beach of Perivolos which is located at the south part of Santorini. Perivolos is an organized beach with black sand here you will stay for approximately 2 hours and have free time to go for a swim, eat in a local taverna or just relax and explore the area. The tour continues from Perivolos to a local winery where you will get to taste different local wines of the island. Akrotiri is the last stop on our tour and what better way to end the day. Upon Arriving a guide will be waiting for you to take you inside the archeological site to give you information and you will experience the Minoan site of the ancient world. The tour ends at the same place where you where picked up.
Guests cannot visit the Monastery in the inside.
Entrance to Akrotiri is not included in the price.
Wine tasting is included in the price of the tour.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 9 hours
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A transfer direct from Kamari Village to Ancient Thira.
The transfer is ideal for people who want to go to Ancient Thira without walking the entire path up to Ancient Thira.
The transfer is both ways.
Please note that guide and entrance fees are not included.
Operated: May - October
Daily!
Approx. duration: 2.5 hours
Day 9
Travel to Crete
Crete - The Island
Crete, the largest island in Greece, is one of the most popular travel destinations of the Mediterranean. It's an island with a thousand faces that combines everything a traveller might ask for: a rich history, several major attractions, a unique food culture, a vibrant nightlife, magnificent nature and pristine beaches.
On Crete flourished the first prehistoric civilization of note on European soil, that of the Minoan Bronze-Age, and its majestic palaces can still be visited today. In the long history of the island, a multitude of different cultures and conquerors have passed through, leaving behind important traces on the island. As a result, present-day Crete has a high level of historical, archaeological and cultural points of interest.
The heart of Crete beats in its cities: Chania, the Venice of the East, Renaissance Rethymno, cosmopolitan Heraklion and picturesque Agios Nikolaos, Sitia and Ierapetra. In addition museums and historical sites and buildings, you'll find many shops selling local products, lively bars and cafés, as well as restaurants where you can try the both delicious and healthy Cretan cuisine.
At the same time, Crete stands out for its unique natural environment. On one hand, a seemingly endless and indented coastline offers countless beaches for each and every taste. At the other extreme, there is a spine of high mountains ideal for hiking and mountaineering. Gorges to wander through, caves to explore, valleys to admire, all waiting the visitor’s glance. In Crete, you'll never fall short of things to do.
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Our transfers will be waiting for you at the hotel to take you to the port to take a ferry to Crete (2 hr high speed ferry ride) and then from the ferry in Crete to your hotel.
Days 10-12
Explore Crete
Spend a couple of days lounging on the famous beaches of Crete or explore the island's vibrant culture
Pick the tours/experiences that you would like!
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This specially designed tour around the old town and Venetian port will reveal Chania's status as a cultural crossroads.
Our walk will allow you to visit the most important sites, such as the Archaeological Museum, the Venetian fortifications, the Arsenals, the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the Etz Hayim Synagogue, and the Turkish quarters behind the inner harbour.
The tour will also bring out plenty of hidden spots off the beaten track, that reflect the eclectic mix of influences that has given Chania its very unique atmosphere.
A walk through time, the tour promises to help you gain an understanding of how the city's multilayered history has unfolded. While it has been well researched and planned, it is designed to be informal and "loosely" organized to allow for flexibilities that can add to your pleasure.
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This tour connects you with the city’s essence, that is made complete by delicious food and warm, outgoing people.
Join our knowledgeable guide to this mouth- watering walk around Chania’s historical district that combines a stroll through its most important sites and visits to authentic and colorful food shops and eateries.
We will get a glimpse into the past and living history of Chania, architecture and lifestyle as we walk the town, while exploring Crete’s flavors and aromas.
We will speak with the people behind the scenes and taste local culinary delights, such as the syrupy “loukoumades”, traditional “bougatsa” pie, rusks, cheese, olives, herbs & spices.
An easy walking pace is followed with resting stops that make the tour suitable for all fitness levels.
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A full day tour that explores the Palace of Knossos and the nearby city of Heraklion. The palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan civilization.
Accompanied by a first class guide who will offer in-depth approach and personal attention, you will explore the ruins and excavations of the vast ancient palace, and learn about the Greek mythological tales that are linked to it.
After exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms on the Knossos tour, you will travel into central Heraklion for a walk around its historical center and main sites and a visit to the recently renovated Archaeological Museum.
The most magnificent collection of Minoan art and culture in the world is housed in this museum, that is one of the most visited ones Greece, with an exhibition of artifacts, covering a period of 5.000 years.
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This tour will travel you through scenic countryside and offer a journey in the island's farming and culinary trails with an intimate perspective of today’s Crete.
Visits will include an estate producing olive oil, a local winery and a rustic family run eatery.
Biolea, our fist stop, is an ecological prototype farm cultivated by 6th generation owners that promote the traditional way of organic olive oil production – the olive oil is stone milled and cold pressed.
We will be guided around their premises and have an olive-oil tasting, accompanied by the owners. Continuing our exploration through a verdant landscape with orange and olive groves, we will visit a quaint winery, the realization of a lifelong dream of a Greek-American owner, who was born and raised in this small
village.Escorted by an expert, you will be navigate around the grounds and then taste their excellent wines. Driving along the foothills of the White Mountains, we will enjoy a delicious Cretan meal, a family run tavern that enjoys a great setting before the return journey to your hotel in the late afternoon.
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Heading to the west, we will first visit at a family-run olive oil estate set on the gently rolling hillsides in the outskirts of Heraklion.
Surrounded by olive groves this ecological prototype farm promotes the traditional way of organic olive oil production – the olive oil is stone milled and cold pressed. We will be guided around their premises and have an olive-oil tasting, accompanied by the owners.
We will then drive through the vine-growing region and visit a local winery surrounded by 7 hectares of vineyards.
The main focus here is to explore the further potentials of Cretan varieties as well as the capacity of foreign varieties to adapt to the Greek climate and eventually to be blended with native ones.
After a guiding around the production area and the cellars, you will continue with our hands-on cooking class.
You will prepare a number of traditional dishes under the directions of a local lady cook and will discover the secrets of the traditional Cretan diet and its healthy guidelines.
The experience will culminate at the table, where you will taste the estate’s wines and enjoy the lunch you prepared.
Included:
Private transportation in a luxury van
English speaking guide
Entrance and boat tickets
Full Lunch
Wine tasting
Olive oil tasting
Hands on cooking
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A relaxed short day tour that navigates the area’s quieter and authentic hinterland, a stone’s throw away yet in complete contrast with the lively and crowded resorts that stretch out along the coastline.
Our exploration will take us though rural villages, hilly landscapes, abandoned settlements and mills, atmospheric monasteries and white churches while mingling with locals in a quest to understand the island’s traditional way of life, that is both slow and laborious.
Our visits will include the villages of Houmeriako and Vrysses, the Monastery of Kremaston, the agricultural small town of Neapoli and the village of Fourni.
Here we will enjoy a homemade Cretan meal in a cosy family-owned taverna set in the village’s picturesque square, under the welcoming shade of a huge sycamore tree. We will return in the hotel in the early afternoon, taking in the sweeping panoramic views over Mirambelo Bay.
Included:
Private transportation in a luxury van
English speaking guide
Entrance and boat tickets
Light Lunch
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A walking tour that explores the historical trails, local vibe and culinary scene of Heraklion’s bustling center.
Follow our knowledgeable guide to a mouth-watering journey through the city’s most important sites combined with visits to authentic and colorful food shops and eateries.
We will get a glimpse into the past and living history of Heraklion and discover the wealth of Cretan gastronomy while snacking away on the best local treats in town. Learn the secrets of the Cretan diet by sampling its best products at the local market and a number of ‘old school’ spots that the locals love, some tucked away in its lesser-known backstreets.
An easy walking pace is followed with resting stops that make the tour suitable for all fitness levels.
Included:
English speaking guide
Luxury van transportation
Tastings and Treats
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This excursion is designed to offer the best of the surrounding area for guests wishing to enjoy a short exploration.
We will first drive to Plaka to embark a traditional fishing boat, and sail to the island of Spinalonga, fortified by the Venetians it is also known as the Leper Island, as that is where lepers from Crete and the rest of Greece were quarantined until 1957.
We will walk around the islet and explore the restored premises. Sailing back to Plaka we will drive to the town of Agios Nikolaos, for a stroll around its charming center, with lively cafes around the lake and nice little shops.
Our next stop will be at the 15th century church of Panagia Kera, to admire its magnificent frescoes, and we then will drive to the picturesque village of Kritsa, stretched by the slopes of Kastellos mountain, for a walk around its colorful alleys. Early afternoon return at the hotel.
Included:
Private transportation in a luxury van
English speaking guide
Entrance and boat tickets
Lunch
Day 13
Depart Home
Transfer to the airport for your flight back home. Enjoy breakfast and meet your transfer representative in the lobby of your hotel. He or she will help you with your luggage and escort you to the airport for your flight.
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