Crete’s Coast & Culture

Welcome to Athens. You’ll be met by your private driver for a transfer to your hotel in the city center. This is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and perhaps try some Greek wine or you might enjoy a little independent exploring. The Plaka neighborhood that sits beneath Acropolis Hill is one of Europe’s most ancient settlements. Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets to see centuries-old ruins, Byzantine temples, and neoclassical buildings. This is also a great place to shop, with everything from the usual souvenirs to trendy jewelry and handmade leather bags. Perhaps try a few simple mezes (appetizers to share) in one of the enticing eateries.

Today, you’ll get to know Athens’ top attraction and some of its tastiest foods on a private five-hour walking tour. Climb to the top of iconic Acropolis Hill for a closer look at the grand Parthenon and multiple monuments dating to the 5th century BC. Your expert guide brings it all to life through fascinating stories behind the monuments and the city itself. The next part of the tour is food-focused, visiting specialty food shops renowned for sourcing the highest quality products from across Greece, artisans who’ve spent decades perfecting their recipes, and the central food market. Enjoy sweet and savory tastings throughout.

Meals Included:
Breakfast

Excursion Included:
Private Acropolis & a Taste of Athens tour

A private transfer will bring you back to Athens International Airport from your Athens hotel to catch your flight to Chania, Crete. One of the island’s most beautiful towns, the pedestrianized historical center boasts well-preserved monuments from the Venetian, Ottoman, and Neoclassical periods. The awe-inspiring Venetian harbor is one of the most romantic in all of Greece, and fun to wander with all sorts of shops, eateries, and great people-watching. After getting settled into your accommodation, enjoy exploring at your leisure, followed by dinner on your own with a wide range of restaurants to choose from just a short walk away.

Meals Included:
Breakfast

An exclusive walking tour of Chania’s Old Town takes you well beyond the popular tourist spots to discover hidden gems that only locals know about. Your guide will provide local insight while following the footsteps of Venetians, Ottomans, and Cretans who lived and worked here decades or centuries ago. Stroll the winding streets as your guide fills you in on the rich traditions, history, and myths of Crete. You’ll even meet some of the locals and dine as they do as you explore the historical center. Visit some of the traditional shops, enjoy a panoramic view over the harbor, discover ancient ruins, and much more.

Meals Included:
Breakfast

Excursion Included:
Private walking tour of Old Town Chania

Delve into the tastiest foods on Crete on this adventure that features the island’s flavors and an authentic look at Cretan life. You’ll journey into the high peaks of the White Mountains to meet your host who will tell you all about the local herbs, olive oil, and other local products that will be used in your cooking class. Explore the vegetable gardens before heading inside to help prepare delicious traditional dishes using these healthy, organic ingredients. You’ll get to enjoy local cheese paired with Cretan wine and a gorgeous mountain view before preparing appetizers like “Kalitsouni”, a Cretan cheese pie, “Tzatziki”, and “Ntakos”. Then sit down to enjoy the results of your efforts, feasting on the dishes you helped make along with a local, fruity wine followed by traditional jar desserts.

Meals Included:
Breakfast

Excursion Included:
Small Group Cretan Cooking Experience

Enjoy the scenery while traveling to Rethymno via private transfer, just over an hour from Chania. After settling into your accommodation, the remainder of the day is yours. This port city is intriguing, with a rich history that spans more than 4,500 years. You might want to simply wander, losing yourself among the narrow cobbled streets and alleyways of the Old Town, a historic seaside neighborhood dating to the 11th century. There are fine examples of Venetian Renaissance architecture and some Turkish influence, including mosque minarets. You’ll also find shops selling handcrafted items and sidewalk cafes for unwinding with Cretan wine.

Meals Included:
Breakfast

With a full day to explore at your own pace, you might want a few recommendations. While our Greek experts are always here to help, we suggest walking through the original gate, which dates back to the 16th century. It’s the only part of the original city wall that still stands today. Perhaps capture a photo of the Rethymno Lighthouse, built in the 1830s, and discover the star-shaped hilltop citadel. Constructed by the Venetians in the 16th century, it was captured by the Ottomans in 1646. Learn more about Rethymno with a visit to the Historical and Folklore Museum, displaying well-preserved local crafts.

Meals Included:
Breakfast

Your exploration of Crete has taken you to many fabulous places across the island, but your time here will soon come to an end. You’ll be met by your driver for a private transfer to the airport, where you’ll catch a return flight to Athens. From there, you can begin your journey home or head out on further travels. With so many outstanding destinations near and far, the sky’s the limit, and our expert travel staff will be happy to create a bespoke addition to your itinerary. Otherwise, safe travels. We hope to see you on another unforgettable trip soon.

Meals Included:
Breakfast