(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis) Athens, Santorini, Crete
This private family tour visits three of Greece’s most popular destinations—historic Athens, scenic Santorini and mythological Crete—offering the perfect combination of important cultural sights, educational adventure and seaside relaxation.
Begin in Athens and stay at a luxury hotel located in the city’s ancient heart, or opt to stay at a seaside resort not far outside the city. Enjoy flexible touring with your private guide and driver as you visit Athens’ top sights: the ancient Agora, the Acropolis, the spectacular new Acropolis Museum, the charming Plaka neighborhood, Lycabettus Hill, and the synchronized changing of the guard in front of the Parliament Building. If desired, also visit specialty museums and open-air markets, or enjoy some time to relax at the pool or beach (if staying at the Arion Resort).
Continue to Santorini for three nights. There, enjoy a half-day private tour that includes photogenic Oia and other island highlights. Another day, enjoy a private boat excursion around the island with opportunities for swimming and stopping at the island’s distinctive black- and red-sand beaches.
Next, visit Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands and ancient home of the enterprising Minoan civilization, which dates back more than 3,500 years. Tour the fascinating Palace of Knossos (where you’ll hear tales of King Minos and the famous legend of the Cyclops), and enjoy a half-day boat excursion to Spinalonga, an islet that was once home to ancient Greeks, Venetians, Turks and lepers (kids will most enjoy exploring its 16th-centry Venetian castle). Another day, enjoy a tour of Kritsa, a traditional mountain village known for its crafts and Byzantine art, or Lassithi to see the cave where the Greek god Zeus was born.
Itinerary Overview
Day 1
Arrive Athens Private transfer to hotel or resort for 2 nights
Day 2
Athens
Private tour of Athens
Day 3
Athens – Santorini
Transfer to Santorini for 3 nights
Day 4
Santorini
Half-day private tour
Day 5
Santorini
Privatehalf-day boat tour with stops at beaches
Day 6
Santorini – Crete
Transfer to Crete. Private tour of Palace of Knossos en route to Elounda for 3 nights
Day 7
Crete
Half-day private boat excursion to Spinalonga