‘The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page’

(St Augustine)

Greece is home to some 6000 islands, 200 odd of which are inhabited, and the largest of them all is Crete.  Home to the world’s oldest olive tree and centre of Europe’s oldest civilisation, the Minoan (2700BC), this truly is Ancient Greece. In western Crete it is the Venetian influence which can be more keenly felt, in evidence in places such as Chania, with the lovely multi-coloured marina reminiscent of Burano and Portofino.  Across from Crete is the island synonymous with glamour and beauty: Santorini. Oía and Fira are the epitome of Greek charm: white washed houses dotted with blue domes.  And for those seeking an island more known to the Greeks than outsiders, then Naxos has it all. From the stunning Apollo Gate upon entering the harbour to the beautiful mountains and beaches, it’s no wonder the Greeks have kept it all to themselves.

Athens is one of the longest continually inhabited cities in the world and today it remains as vibrant as in its heyday. Streets crammed with cafes, bars and little shops, open up into agoras (market places) dating back thousands of years. The bluest of skies replicated in the bright colours dotted through the city in among the white marble of the streets.  It is here that you end your Greek adventure, marvelling at the Acropolis and Temple of Zeus, indulging in perhaps a spot of shopping in the chic Kolonaki area or enjoying some of the many delicious foods to be found across the city.
This trip is about indulgence, relaxation, beautiful beaches, impressive monuments and fun! 

Opa! 

You will be whisked away from the airport to your hotel where you can unwind, relax and enjoy a wander around the charming marina of Chania, perhaps taking  a walk out to the lighthouse to get the best views of the multi-coloured houses which adorn the harbour. You’ll soon see why this gorgeous town has been described as the Venice of the East. Then It’s then time for an evening meal and the chance to soak up the atmosphere in this picturesque place before the adventure ahead.

(B, D)
Overnight: Chania Crete 

Today you will head out to the charming village of Vouves, to visit the renowned Millennial Olive Tree, known to the locals as the Elia Vouvon. This ancient tree is estimated to be between 2,000 and 3,000 years old, making it one of the oldest olive trees in the world. Not only is it a marvel of nature but also a significant cultural and historical landmark. 

In the afternoon, hop on a private boat to visit some of the truly spectacular beaches along the Crete coast. A tasty picnic lunch of local produce will be provided. You will have plenty of time to luxuriate in the glorious turquoise and emerald green waters, or to stroll the white powdery beaches, with the mountain providing an impressive backdrop. Finish off by soaking up the famous Crete sunset!

The evening is free to spend at leisure. 

(B, L)
Overnight: Chania Crete

Rethymno was the first place in Greece to be named a European City of Wine in 2018, so it’s only appropriate that you will have the chance to partake in some wine-tasting during your visit. After a stroll around this lovely little town, and a glass or two of wine, you will also get a chance to explore the stunning Arkadi monastery and roll up your sleeves to participate in a Greek style cooking class before moving on to your final destination for the evening, Heraklion.

(B, L, D)
Overnight: Heraklion, Crete

Today you are off by high-speed jet to the idyll that is Santorini. This island was once a volcano that erupted many thousands of years ago, forming one of the world’s most photographed islands, with its half moon shaped bay, donkey strewn zig zagging paths to the top, crowned by its white houses & windmills that sparkle in the abundant sunlight. 

Upon arrival, you will drop of your bags at the hotel and set off to explore the lovely white-washed towns of Fira and Oia to admire the famous blue-domed churches. 

Later, you will head back to the hotel to relax by the pool and soak in the world famous Santorini sunset.   

(B,L)

Overnight: Santorini

This morning it’s time to head off to the stunning island of Naxos. The greenest of the islands, it’s home to imposing mountains, lush valleys and, of course, beautiful beaches. Upon arrival, after leaving your bags, it’s a moment to enjoy some beach time or a walk around the Chora (Naxos town).  

Naxos is known as a cheese lover’s paradise and you’ll get to see just why as, later in the day, you’ll get to experience one of this island’s most famous exports at a cheese tasting, sampling local specialities with the most tongue twisting of names such as xinomyzithra, a soft cheese resembling an Italian ricotta. Then time to freshen up before heading out for dinner in a lovely local restaurant. 

(B, D) 

Overnight: Naxos

This morning it’s time to head off to the villages exploring the lovely countryside of Naxos and seeing how the locals live up in the mountains. It's then on to enjoy some more delicious Greek food at lunch,  before a tasting of the local drink named Kitro, with its delicate aromas of sweet citrus fruit.

Then it's back down to the beaches where you can enjoy a dip in the sea. After some time to freshen up, it’s time for supper in a lovely location. Yammas!

(B, L, D)

Overnight: Naxos

Today, you will visit the stunning island of Koufonisia, a very special secret little island the Greeks would like to keep that way. Explore the little village, have a refreshing swim and enjoy a delicious lunch before returning to Naxos later in the day. 

Or if you would prefer to simply take it easy today, you can enjoy some more time in Naxos, exploring the town, visiting the local beaches and/or relaxing at the hotel. 

The late afternoon and evening are at leisure.

(B, L)
Overnight: Naxos

“Athens, the eye of Greece, Mother of Arts and Eloquence”

(John Milton, Paradise Lost)

This morning it’s time to fly back to Athens where you will be greeted by the lovely Gina from Athena, your own private guide. You will drive into the centre and enjoy some city sightseeing before dropping your bags off at the hotel. You will then have free time for lunch before visiting the Acropolis, its museum and the famous Parthenon, the most classic of symbols of Greek civilisation. 

At night you’ll head out for  a meal at a traditional Greek taverna where it’s less a case of singing for your supper than dancing for it. Opa! 

(B, D)
Overnight:  Athens

Today you have a day at leisure, to explore this lovely city a little more. You have the option of visiting one of her many amazing museums, such as the archaeological museum, perhaps indulge in some shopping in the Plaka, visit the Roman and Greek agoras or Temple of Zeus, or just enjoy a coffee or drink or two, watching the world go by.  If interested, you can walk to the top of Mount Lycabettus for a full view of Athens from its highest point. If less keen on the walk up, there is a funicular so you will have the chance to see the view too.

Tonight you have a final meal together before it’s time to say Yassas to Greece. 

 
(B, D)

Overnight:  Athens

It’s time to say goodbye to Greece, but we hope you will be back soon. After all, Greece is the world…

(B)