Athens, Crete | 5 days / 4 nights
Embark on a 5-day exploration, uncovering the key attractions of Greece with visits to both Athens and Crete.
Short Description
Day 1 | Welcome arrival to Athens Airport. We transfer you to the hotel. A free day.Hotel in Athens.
Day 2 | Sightseeing including Athens’s new city and old monuments. Acropolis Hill and New Museum entrance tickets.Free afternoon.Hotel in Athens.
Day 3 | Athens to Heraklion Crete.Transfer to Athens airport.Flight to Crete. Transfer to the hotel. Free afternoon. Hotel in Heraklion.
Day 4 | Crete Local private tour to Knossos. Free day.Hotel in Heraklion.
Day 5 | Departure from Heraklion Crete – Transfer to the airport
Itinerary
- Day 01. Arrival / Athens.
- Airport Arrival:
Upon landing at Athens airport, proceed through customs and collect your luggage.Look for your welcome assistance representative holding a sign with your name.Pick up Transfer to Hotel: Enjoy a comfortable private transfer from the airport to your hotel.Check-in and get settled in your room. Take a moment to relax and freshen up after your journey.
Afternoon & Evening:
At Leisure: Spend the rest of the day at your leisure. You can explore the hotel amenities, take a stroll around the neighborhood, or rest in your room.
Discover the highlights of Athens, including the historic Plaka neighborhood with its charming streets and traditional shops.
Cape Sounion Tou
r: Visit the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea, especially beautiful at sunset. Evening Walking Tour with Dinner:Take a guided evening walking tour through the city, ending with a delicious dinner at a traditional Greek taverna. Evening: Dinner: If you opt for an evening tour with dinner, enjoy the local cuisine and ambiance. Alternatively, dine at a local restaurant or your hotel’s restaurant. Try some Greek specialties like souvlaki, moussaka, or a fresh Greek salad.
Relax and Unwind: After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the hotel or nearby attractions. Return to your hotel to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Additional Tips: Confirm the pickup times and locations for any tours you choose to join.
Local Recommendations: Ask the hotel concierge for local recommendations and tips for exploring Athens.
Enjoy your time in Athens, experiencing its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine!
. You may check the full list of our optional tours/cruises here. - Day 02. City tour / Athens.
- After breakfast, the day starts with a half-day tour dedicated to exploring the city of Athens.
This half-day tour departs with a panoramic tour to the most important monuments and landmarks of the city of Athens including the Panathinaikon stadium, the Zappeion, the temple of Olympian Zeus, Syntagma Square, the Parliament, the tomb of the unknown soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, and the old Parliament.
We continue our guided visit to the "Sacred Rock" of Acropolis in order to admire the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaea & the Temple of Athena Nike.
Our tour ends with a visit to the new, spectacular Acropolis Museum . A marvel of architecture with a full exhibition of the glory of Ancient Athens. The museum is also voted one of the best museums in the world.
Transfer to your hotel or, alternatively, explore Plaka, the picturesque old part of the city, Wander the Streets: Stroll through the narrow, winding streets lined with neoclassical architecture, charming houses, and colorful bougainvillea. Visit Historical Sites:Discover historical landmarks such as the Roman Agora, the Tower of the Winds, and the Byzantine churches. Cafés and Taverns:Stop at a traditional café or taverna to enjoy a coffee, dessert, or a light meal. Try local specialties like baklava or loukoumades (Greek honey donuts). Shopping at Ermou Street:Walk to Ermou Street: From Plaka, it's a short walk to Ermou Street, Athens' main shopping street.Shopping Experience: Explore a mix of international brands, Greek boutiques, and department stores. Look for fashion, accessories, and souvenirs. Monastiraki Square:At the end of Ermou Street, visit Monastiraki Square, known for its lively atmosphere, flea market, and antique shops.
Evening: Dinner: Dine in Plaka: Return to Plaka for dinner in one of its many traditional tavernas. Enjoy dishes like souvlaki, moussaka, or a fresh Greek salad, accompanied by local wine or ouzo. Roof Garden Restaurants: For a special experience, choose a restaurant with a roof garden offering views of the Acropolis lit up at night.
Evening Stroll: Night Walk: After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the beautifully illuminated streets of Plaka and around the Acropolis. Visit Anafiotika: Discover Anafiotika, a hidden gem within Plaka with its Cycladic island-style houses and tranquil ambiance.
Return to Hotel: Relax: Head back to your hotel to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
Plan for Tomorrow: Review any plans or tours for the next day and get a good night’s rest.
Comfortable Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on cobblestone streets and through busy shopping areas. Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like Ermou Street and Monastiraki Square.
Enjoy your exploration of Plaka and shopping at Ermou Street, taking in the vibrant culture and history of Athens! - Day 03. Athens – Heraklion / Crete.
- Morning: Transfer to Athens Airport:Ensure you have your travel documents, tickets, and luggage ready.Arrange for transportation to the airport early enough to allow for check-in, security, and any potential delays.
Flight to Crete:Check-in for your flight and board at the designated time.Enjoy the short flight and the views as you approach Crete.
Arrival in Crete:Transfer to Your Hotel:
Upon landing, collect your luggage and look for your pre-arranged transfer service or taxi to your hotel. Check into your hotel and get settled in your room.
Afternoon & Evening:
Leisure Time:
Take some time to relax and freshen up after your journey.
Explore the hotel amenities and maybe have a light lunch or snack.
Explore the Island:
Head out to explore the nearby areas. You can visit local shops, cafes, and markets to get a feel of Crete.
Visit nearby beaches for a relaxing time by the sea.
Consider visiting some local attractions such as museums, parks, or historical sites.
Optional Tour:
If you are interested, you can join an optional tour. Some popular tours might include:
Guided city tours to explore major landmarks.
Historical and archaeological site visits.
Culinary tours to taste local cuisine and wines.
Adventure activities like hiking, sailing, or exploring caves.
Evening:Dinner:
Enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant. Try traditional Cretan dishes such as dakos, moussaka, or fresh seafood.
Relax and Unwind:
After dinner, you can take a leisurely walk, visit a local bar for a drink, or simply relax back at your hotel.
Make sure to check the local weather and any travel advisories before you head out, and enjoy your time in Crete! - Day 04. At leisure / Crete.
- Morning:
Visit Knossos Palace: Explore the Minoan Civilization:Head to Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete. Explore the ancient palace, learn about the Minoan civilization, and see the impressive frescoes and ruins.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and the midday heat. Midday:
Discover Elounda Beaches: Relax at Elounda:Head to Elounda, known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Spend some time swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Lunch:
Enjoy a seaside lunch at one of the local tavernas. Try fresh seafood and traditional Cretan dishes. Afternoon:
Boat Ride to Spinalonga: Historical Tour: Take a boat from Elounda to Spinalonga Island. Explore the historical island, which has a rich history as a former leper colony and Venetian fortress. Learn about the island’s past and enjoy the scenic views.
Travel Tip: Bring comfortable shoes for walking around the island.
Evening:
Taste Unique Cretan Food:
Dinner:
Return to your hotel or a local restaurant for dinner. Try traditional Cretan dishes such as:Dakos: Barley rusk topped with tomatoes, feta, and olives.Moussaka: Layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.Kalitsounia: Small cheese or herb pies.Sfakianes Pites: Thin pancakes filled with cheese and drizzled with honey.Raki: Traditional Cretan spirit to finish your meal.
Restaurant Recommendations:
Look for local tavernas that offer authentic Cretan cuisine and a warm atmosphere.
Late Evening:Relax and Unwind:
Evening Stroll:
Take a leisurely evening stroll along the beach or in the town center. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife or relax with a drink at a local bar.
Return to Hotel:Head back to your hotel to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Additional Tips:
Transportation: Consider renting a car for the day to easily move between these locations.
Alternatively, check for local tours that cover these spots.
Local Markets:
If you have time, visit local markets to buy souvenirs and experience the local culture. Enjoy your time in Crete, soaking in its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and delicious cuisine! - Day 05. Departure.
- Morning at leisure until the time to transfer to the port or the airport for your return to Athens or your home country.
Additional Information:
- Transfers: All are private with an English-speaking driver.
- Hotels: First Class (4*) on a bed and breakfast basis
Tourist Class (3*) and Superior Class (5*) rates are available upon request. - Extra Nights: Adding extra nights is possible in each destination upon request.
- Tours/Cruises: Typically group-based.
Private or small-group options are available upon request. - Seasonal Note: From November 1st to April 1st each year, this tour is operated upon request and uses airplanes for inter-island transfers or all routes due to ferry schedule limitations.
Schedule / Prices
Period: Daily departures between 01/11/2024 – 30/03/2025
Prices: All Prices are per person in Euro.
The bookings and prices are guaranteed up to 50 days before departure.
We accept requests for less than 50 days upon availability and price.
First Class (4*) Hotels | ||||
Arrival Dates | Single | Double / Twin | Triple | Child |
November | € 1105 | € 690 | € 610 | € 395 |
December — January | € 1135 | € 710 | € 625 | € 395 |
February | € 1160 | € 720 | € 635 | € 405 |
March | € 1105 | € 690 | € 610 | € 395 |
4* Hotel List
The hotels mentioned below are indicative and are subject to change depending on the availability.
Athens Hotels
Athens Zafolia Hotel, Polis Grand Hotel, The Golden Age Hotel of Athens, The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel
Heraklion Hotels
Olive Green Hotel, Lato Boutique Hotel, Castello City Hotel
Book Now
Included
- Accommodation on BB, 2 nights in Athens and 2 nights in Heraklion.
- Athens city tour with Acropolis and Acropolis museum, on SIC, including English speaking guide.
- Private transfers with English-speaking driver
- Flight ticket Athens – Heraklion, economy class.
- Meet & Greet service for tour briefing and orientation by an English speaking representative
- All entrance/admission fees to sites and museums
- All taxes and our services
Not Included
- Any meals other than those mentioned above
- Any drinks during included meals
- Any tips
- Any porterage at hotels.
- All personal expenses
- Everything that is not specifically mentioned in the "Included" section
Notes
- An “overnight stay” tax is applicable to all accommodations in Greece. This tax, is charged on a per room per night basis and amounts to € 3,00 for 3* hotels, € 7,00 for 4* hotels, and € 10,00 for 5* hotels. This tax is NOT included in our rates and should be paid locally on the spot by the clients.
- Any special request for an upgrade is accepted upon hotel availability or with extra cost.
- Entrance/admission fees to various sites and museums are set by the Greek government, and in case of change, prices will be adjusted accordingly. Currently, included entrance fees are based on rates valid as of November 1st, 2019.
- The above rates include a VAT of 24%. In case of a change in VAT, prices will be adjusted accordingly.
In order to forward us your reservation request and for further information and assistance, please, contact us at [email protected], at +30 6974823355 (WhatsApp), or fill out the following form.
GreeceTours.com – Seretis Travel Ike.
Email: [email protected]
Athens Office
61 Panepistimiou Ave. (El. Venizelou Ave), Omonoia Sqr., 10564, Athens
Tel +30 210 3241776, +30 210 3251295
Mob./Viber/WhatsApp: (+30) 6974823355