Ruins, Wine, Scenic Hikes and The Sea
3 Nights in Athens
3 Nights in Athens
3 Nights in Athens
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Athens
Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodations. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Athens
Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour
Discover the myths behind the greatest landmarks in Athens. Learn about Greek gods and heroes, and discover what really hides behind ancient myths. At the same time visit the best landmarks and sites in Athens, such as the Acropolis (Parthenon, theater of Dionysus, temple of Athena Nike, temple of Erechtheion, and the sanctuary of Asclepius), Olympian Zeus’ temple, the Ancient Agora, and the temple of Hephaestus.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Athens
Indulge in Local Cuisine
Olive oil, vegetables, fish, and feta are key ingredients in Greek cuisine. Fresh vegetables, honey, fish, lamb, and cheese are added to create typically Greek flavors. Tzatziki, souvlaki, gyros, dolmathakia, spanakopita, loukoumades, authentic Greek yogurt, and amygdalota are just a few options to be enjoyed in local cafes and restaurants. We've picked some of the most delicious food tours for you to choose from.
Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Private Tour
Seeking an extraordinary Greek culinary experience to tease your senses? Follow an expert food guide on a quest to discover Athens by night, and experience exquisite Athenian delicacies. Enjoy the best views of Athens after dusk and explore sophisticated eateries to devour the finest of authentic Greek cuisine, including the best souvlaki in town! And to top it all off? A wine tasting focused on indigenous local varieties (plus ouzo!)
Delicious Athens Food Group Tour
Eat your way through Athens! Discover Greek flavors and their history, with a walk through some of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods, rarely visited by tourists. Taste olive oils, Greek cheeses, tsipouro drink, honey, souvlaki, tapenades, baklava, Greek coffee, sweets, and a variety of Greek tapas.
The Great Eats and Streets Private Tour
Athens came together through a mixture of cultures across the centuries, and there’s still a lot of that history around, in the food as well as in the city's neighborhoods. This tour explores the city's complex heritage, and its effects on contemporary Greek culture and cuisine.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Mykonos by Ferry
The Cycladean island of Mykonos awaits you today! A driver will pick you up from from your accommodation and take you to the port of Piraeus, where you'll catch your ferry to Mykonos. Although there are several departures each day, they're all very early so you'll need to be up with the lark for this leg of the journey. The ferry journey itself takes at least two and a half hours up to five and a half, depending on which departure is available.
2 Nights in Mykonos
2 Nights in Mykonos
2 Nights in Mykonos
Although Mykonos is mainly known for its glamorous nightlife and summer beach party scene, which has made it the center of attention among the world’s most affluent travelers and celebrities, who come to the island to enjoy its nights, the island has managed to preserve its historical charm. Mykonos’s unique architecture has long been a source of inspiration for architects, photographers and designers across the globe. The island’s architectural diversity and history are reflected in the hundreds of whitewashed churches and monasteries which are scattered across its barren landscape, the imposing windmills that once played a crucial role in the island’s economy, and its colorful pirate houses, which point to its turbulent past. Apart from the famed beaches that make headlines for their extravagant champagne parties and prices, there are plenty of natural, quieter beaches to savor and explore. Those looking to escape crowds can also find their paradise on Mykonos. Foodies find much to adore in the island's flavors, aromas, and sights. The island caters to the most discerning palates -- from dining in family-owned beach tavernas with your toes touching the sand, to renowned international establishments serving award-winning cuisine, or indulging on freshly grilled seafood prepared by a private chef on a secluded beach.
Although Mykonos is mainly known for its glamorous nightlife and summer beach party scene, which has made it the center of attention among the world’s most affluent travelers and celebrities, who come to the island to enjoy its nights, the island has managed to preserve its historical charm. Mykonos’s unique architecture has long been a source of inspiration for architects, photographers and designers across the globe. The island’s architectural diversity and history are reflected in the hundreds of whitewashed churches and monasteries which are scattered across its barren landscape, the imposing windmills that once played a crucial role in the island’s economy, and its colorful pirate houses, which point to its turbulent past. Apart from the famed beaches that make headlines for their extravagant champagne parties and prices, there are plenty of natural, quieter beaches to savor and explore. Those looking to escape crowds can also find their paradise on Mykonos. Foodies find much to adore in the island's flavors, aromas, and sights. The island caters to the most discerning palates -- from dining in family-owned beach tavernas with your toes touching the sand, to renowned international establishments serving award-winning cuisine, or indulging on freshly grilled seafood prepared by a private chef on a secluded beach.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Mykonos
Upon arrival at Mykonos' main port, you'll be taken to your accommodations.
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Mykonos
Wine and Local Products Tasting Group Tour COPY
The Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm is a family-owned small business aiming at offering an alternative culinary and cultural experience. A love for simplicity and everything natural can be felt everywhere. You will be welcomed as a family guest to taste three types of wine, accompanied by foods from the Cyclades, and to pet, feed and photograph the animals.
From Archeology to Folklore
The town of Mykonos offers a couple of museums for those who want to explore the culture and history of this Cycladic Island. The Archeological Museum is famous for its rich collection of vases but also includes a unique collection of sculptures, other ceramics, and jewels. The Aegean Maritime Museum displays replicas of rowing and sailing ships from prehistoric times to today. Lena's House is an authentic restored 19th-century middle-class home with a collection of European and local furniture, as well as a wide range of functional or decorative objects, from mirrors to gravures and embroideries. The Folklore Museum hosts an interesting collection of classic furniture, hand-made ceramics, Byzantine portraits, and much more.
Day 6
Day 6 - Traveling to Santorini by Ferry
Scenic Santorini awaits you today! A driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you to Mykonos' port where you'll catch your ferry to Santorini. The duration of the journey is around 2 hours / 3 hours 30 minutes based on your preferred departure time.
3 Nights in Santorini
3 Nights in Santorini
3 Nights in Santorini
“Intelligent adults come here and turn into infants,” Craig Walzer, owner of the Atlantis Bookstore. Santorini is every traveler's dream. The whitewashed houses and blue domed churches perched atop of soaring cliffs, the narrow cobblestone streets and unsurpassed views of crystal-clear blue waters -- these all greet you as you step foot on this fairytale land. Intertwining myth and reality, Santorini is every bit as beautiful as the countless postcards, magazine covers, and Instagram photos claim. The village of Oia is world-famous for its sunset, where thousands of spectators line up every evening to witness the magic as the sun bids farewell to the sky and the canvas lights up in fierce hues. Fortunately, the sunset can be enjoyed from much of the rest of this crescent-shaped island. Santorini is also home to Akrotiri, the Greek take on Pompeii. Inhabited since Neolithic times, this city was built up by the Minoans, a seafaring civilization that predated the ancient Greeks, only to be destroyed in the catastrophic eruption that shaped Santorini, which forms part of a massive volcanic caldera. Covered in ashes for millennia, Akrotiri is still being uncovered. We suggest visiting the neighboring center of the caldera, where you can enjoy hot springs, visit the volcanic crater, and enjoy stunning views of Santorini itself. Santorini’s unique ecology, climate and volcanic ash soil paved the way for a flourishing wine industry. Its indigenous varietals will make your stay even more enjoyable.
“Intelligent adults come here and turn into infants,” Craig Walzer, owner of the Atlantis Bookstore. Santorini is every traveler's dream. The whitewashed houses and blue domed churches perched atop of soaring cliffs, the narrow cobblestone streets and unsurpassed views of crystal-clear blue waters -- these all greet you as you step foot on this fairytale land. Intertwining myth and reality, Santorini is every bit as beautiful as the countless postcards, magazine covers, and Instagram photos claim. The village of Oia is world-famous for its sunset, where thousands of spectators line up every evening to witness the magic as the sun bids farewell to the sky and the canvas lights up in fierce hues. Fortunately, the sunset can be enjoyed from much of the rest of this crescent-shaped island. Santorini is also home to Akrotiri, the Greek take on Pompeii. Inhabited since Neolithic times, this city was built up by the Minoans, a seafaring civilization that predated the ancient Greeks, only to be destroyed in the catastrophic eruption that shaped Santorini, which forms part of a massive volcanic caldera. Covered in ashes for millennia, Akrotiri is still being uncovered. We suggest visiting the neighboring center of the caldera, where you can enjoy hot springs, visit the volcanic crater, and enjoy stunning views of Santorini itself. Santorini’s unique ecology, climate and volcanic ash soil paved the way for a flourishing wine industry. Its indigenous varietals will make your stay even more enjoyable.
Day 6
Day 6 - Arrival in Santorini
Upon arrival to Santorini's port, you'll be taken to your hotel in either Fira or Oia.
Blindingly White
Day 7
Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Santorini
Caldera Private Hike
Enjoy a guided walking tour on Santorini's most impressive path, right on the rim of the famous volcanic caldera. Follow the footsteps of ancient merchants, farmers and sailors, and experience a once in a lifetime adventure. This path takes you along the edge of the super volcano that inspired the myth of Atlantis.
Day 8
Day 8 - Your Second Full Day in Santorini
Black, Red, and White Beaches in a Day
As you may know, Santorini is not a typical destination with beaches of golden sand. This volcanic island's beaches have a different kind of charm, with unique geological formations creating divergent-colored beaches. Most are also well-organized, with plentiful opportunities for water sports. Perivolos and Perissa, also known as Black Beach, are considered to be the best beaches in Santorini. Red Beach is a natural phenomenon in the southern part of the island that is worth visiting. Vlychada Beach, with its incredible natural sand formations, is the island's best-hidden gem, a perfect spot for a romantic day by the sea. Use a water taxi or rent a car or ATV and explore all the different beaches Santorini offers.
Two Wineries with Sunset Picnic Group Tour
On this tour, you will explore Santorini's wine culture and visit two of the island's top wineries. You will get acquainted with the basic varieties, special aromas, and unique nuances of the island's wines at each winery. Your journey will unveil the life of local vintners, the vineyards shaped in circular "kouloura" formations, the traditional grape harvest carried on donkeys, grape crushing, the creation of grape must, and the intricate barrel aging process. Of course, you will indulge in guided wine tastings that reveal the tasting notes of these exceptional wines, thoughtfully paired with local snacks. The experience culminates in a sensory delight as you savor the distinguished flavors, expertly complemented by tapas to highlight their zest.
Day 9
Day 9 - Traveling to Heraklion by Ferry
Heraklion awaits you today! A driver will pick you up from from your accommodations and take you to the port where you'll catch your ferry to Heraklion. The journey takes around 2 hours.
2 Nights in Heraklion
2 Nights in Heraklion
2 Nights in Heraklion
Visitors to Heraklion, Crete's capital, are greeted by the imposing Venetian Koules Fortress, a reminder of the importance of this historic gateway to the rest of the island. A vibrant university town, Heraklion is home to some of the island's most important landmarks, such as the Knossos Palace, with its striking Bronze Age ruins, complete with colorful, stunning frescoes. Heading to the center, the bustling Old Town has many markets and cafes, along with neoclassical buildings and a 10th century church with impressed stained glass. Heraklion is a great base for exploring the island, but before you hit the road, take the time to stroll along its Venetian harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and offering spectacular views of the Koules Fortress.
Visitors to Heraklion, Crete's capital, are greeted by the imposing Venetian Koules Fortress, a reminder of the importance of this historic gateway to the rest of the island. A vibrant university town, Heraklion is home to some of the island's most important landmarks, such as the Knossos Palace, with its striking Bronze Age ruins, complete with colorful, stunning frescoes. Heading to the center, the bustling Old Town has many markets and cafes, along with neoclassical buildings and a 10th century church with impressed stained glass. Heraklion is a great base for exploring the island, but before you hit the road, take the time to stroll along its Venetian harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and offering spectacular views of the Koules Fortress.
Day 9
Day 9 - Arrival in Heraklion
Upon your arrival in Heraklion Port, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodations.
Day 10
Day 10 - Your First Full Day in Heraklion
Discover Crete's Capital
Bypass the concrete and head straight for the heart of Heraklion. Hit the backstreets and hidden pathways, checking out the highlights, sampling local treats, and discovering the forces that combined to make Heraklion the city it is today. This tour will help you get to know the city not just as it is now, but also as it was centuries ago, uncovering remnants of occupations by the Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians, Turks, and, yes, pirates.
Day 11
Day 11 - Traveling to Chania by Private Transfer
Today you're heading further west, to Chania. To make a day of it, and making the journey much more interesting we've included a stop on the way. We'll arrange for a driver to pick you up in the morning. En route, you'll visit the old town of Rethymno, an hour from Heraklion. There you will have a two-hour stop for exploration of the city. From there you'll continue your journey to your final destination in Chania. The total journey time, with stops, is around four hours.
3 Nights in Chania
3 Nights in Chania
3 Nights in Chania
Crete’s most romantic destination offers an irresistible sense of charm. Chania’s Old Town is undeniably captivating, with winding alleyways lined with charming boutique stores, fragrant jasmine trees and bougainvillea, and picturesque squares dotted with local taverns serving Cretan delicacies. The Venetian harbor opens up to panoramic views of the Aegean and the striking Egyptian Lighthouse, which once guided ships safely into the harbor. Traces of centuries of conquests are evident in the amalgam of cultures that intertwine in the cobblestone streets and historical districts of this enchanting town. The district of Splantzia is lined with reminders of the town's Ottoman period. In the afternoon, take a walk along the marina, lined with Venetian boathouses reborn as exhibition spaces and cafes. At sunset people gather by the harbor to witness the magical sunset or simply stroll along the esplanade.
Crete’s most romantic destination offers an irresistible sense of charm. Chania’s Old Town is undeniably captivating, with winding alleyways lined with charming boutique stores, fragrant jasmine trees and bougainvillea, and picturesque squares dotted with local taverns serving Cretan delicacies. The Venetian harbor opens up to panoramic views of the Aegean and the striking Egyptian Lighthouse, which once guided ships safely into the harbor. Traces of centuries of conquests are evident in the amalgam of cultures that intertwine in the cobblestone streets and historical districts of this enchanting town. The district of Splantzia is lined with reminders of the town's Ottoman period. In the afternoon, take a walk along the marina, lined with Venetian boathouses reborn as exhibition spaces and cafes. At sunset people gather by the harbor to witness the magical sunset or simply stroll along the esplanade.
Day 11
Day 11 - Arrival in Chania
Upon arrival to Chania you'll be taken directly to your accommodation.
Day 12
Day 12 - Your First Full Day in Chania
A Place to Rest & Be Happy
Experience the real Crete with a walk through one of its most picturesque cities. Chania is a kaleidoscope of different elements: ancient ruins, strong local culture and traditions, and delectable cuisine (and yes, you’ll get to taste some!). Escape the tourist traps and dive into secret corners and local neighborhoods — each stop has a story to tell!
Day 13
Day 13 - Your Second Full Day in Chania
Explore the European Hiking Path
Crete offers plenty of options for lovers of the great outdoors, especially hikers. In nearly any direction, you'll find traditional villages, high mountains, and beautiful beaches. Whether on your own or on a guided tour, hiking is a wonderful way to see the stunning beauty of the island’s natural landscape. Chania is surrounded by 150 hiking trails, but our favorite takes you through Samaria Gorge, a beloved gorge in the National Reserve of Lefka Ori, about an hour's drive from Chania. This gorge forms part of Crete’s most famous hiking route, the E4 trail, part of an EU-wide system of paths. Imbros Gorge is also worth a visit, as it's regularly ranked among the island's most beautiful and famous gorges.
Day 14
Day 14 - Departure Day
Sadly the time has come to leave Crete behind. We'll arrange for a driver to take you to Chania airport for your departing flight. The drive to the airport is about 30 minutes.
What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Athens
Mykonos
Santorini
Heraklion
Chania
package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
I highly recommend JayWay Travel for anyone planning a trip. Their personalized service and itinerary options are top-notch. The private transfers to each location and excursions made for a stress free trip as well. We had an unforgettable honeymoon we will cherish forever.
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Santorini, Heraklion, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion, Athens
Rating :
You wont be disappointed!
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Mykonos, Santorini
Rating :
Everything is taken care of. No need to confirm all your tours and transfers. You can just sit back and relax and enjoy your vacation.
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens
Rating :
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