Discover Athens and Crete

7 days from £1270 per person

Combine the ancient wonders of Athens with the culture, history and beauty of charming Crete, on this seven-day trip discovering Greece’s capital city and largest island. Begin in Athens – the birthplace of democracy – where you will enjoy a walking tour discovering iconic landmarks including the Acropolis, Parthenon and Temple of Athena. Continue your journey to one of Greece’s most beloved islands, Crete, which is steeped in history and boasts endless natural beauty. Start your Cretan self-drive adventure in Heraklion home to some of the most important Minoan sites including Knossos Palace and the Archaeological Museum. Drive west to the enchanting city of Rethymnon before finishing in beautiful Chania, both renowned for their remarkable Venetian and Turkish architecture. All of our itineraries are tailored to your requirements – if you are interested in extending your time in Crete one of the team would be happy to advise further.

Athens – Heraklion – Rethymnon – Chania

Itinerary Highlights

During your time in ancient Athens, visit the UNESCO site of the Acropolis which has dominated the city for over 2,500 years. Explore the iconic Parthenon and Temple of Athena before marvelling at the beautiful panoramic views of the city.

Visit Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum which houses the world’s best collection of Minoan art and spend the morning at Knossos Palace – the most important Bronze Age site on Crete which was home to the Minoan civilisation.

Explore western Crete’s most enchanting cities – Chania and Rethymnon – both home to Venetian harbours and Ottoman architecture. Discover historic landmarks, embark on a walking tour and enjoy the region’s delicacies.

Itinerary: Discover Athens and Crete

Day 1 UK to Athens

Begin your journey this morning by boarding your international flight to Athens. On arrival you will be met and privately transferred from the airport to your hotel in central Athens. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure where you may wish to relax at the hotel or take a walk through the capital of the Hellenic Republic which effortlessly combines ancient history with contemporary culture. (N)

Accommodation in Athens: Herodion Hotel (or similar)

Day 2 Athens

Discover the ancient city of Athens today on a walking tour where you will begin at the magnificent Acropolis. Dominating the city for over 2,500 years, this UNESCO protected site was the religious centre of classical Athens. During your visit see the Parthenon, Erechtheion and Temple of Athena before stopping as the Acropolis Museum which houses hundreds of artefacts from the Greek Bronze Age to the Byzantine era. Later that afternoon enjoy a leisurely walk through the Plaka area in Athens exploring the local shops, cafes and pastry shops. (B)

Accommodation in Athens: Herodion Hotel (or similar)

Day 3 Athens to Heraklion

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Athens before your transfer to the airport where you will board a domestic flight to Crete’s capital, Heraklion. On arrival check in to your centrally located hotel. In the afternoon you may wish to visit the city’s excellent Archaeological Museum – one of Greece’s oldest and most important museums – which is home to world’s best collection of Minoan art. Enjoy an evening at leisure and wander through the narrow-cobbled lanes and atmospheric squares which are lined with traditional tavernas and boutique shops. (B)

Accommodation in Heraklion: Megaron Hotel (or similar)

Day 4 Heraklion

Today visit Knossos Palace - the largest and most important Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete which was home to the Minoan civilisation. Concentrating on the prehistoric era of the island, Knossos Palace reveals Crete’s unique history and depicts its ancient culture, art and ritual practices. Continue to the traditional Cretan village of Archanes which dates back to the 19th century. After a leisurely walk through the village enjoy a local Greek lunch in one of the village’s best tavernas. (B)

Accommodation in Heraklion: Megaron Hotel (or similar)

Day 5 Heraklion to Rethymnon – 80 km

This morning depart Heraklion and make your way to charming Rethymnon located in western Crete. En route we would recommend visiting Arkadi which is home to an Eastern Orthodox monastery. This beautiful piece of architecture that is situated on a fertile plain has recently been declared a European monument of freedom. Continue to the countryside village of Eleutherna which is famous for its archaeological museum, the first in Crete. Finally arrive at your destination, the charming city of Rethymnon. Explore the Venetian-Ottoman quarter, home to a 15th century fortress, colourful wooded-balconied houses, ornamental minarets and bustling tavernas. (B)

Accommodation in Rethymnon: Veneto Hotel (or similar)

Day 6 Rethymnon to Chania – 73 km

After breakfast continue your Cretan journey and drive to the island’s most beautiful city Chania. You may wish to embark on a walking tour of the city where you can learn about the history and archaeology of Venetian and Ottoman Chania. Visit remarkable landmarks including Firkas Fortress and wander through the enchanting district of Splanzia. You may also like to stop at Chania’s excellent Archaeology Museum. Spend your last evening enjoying local Greek delights on the city’s scenic waterfront. (B)

Accommodation in Chania: Porto Veneziano (or similar)

Day 7 Chania to the UK

After breakfast drive to Chania airport and drop your hire car off before boarding your international flight back to the UK. (B)

**KEY: N = No meals, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

What's included

International flights from the UK
Sightseeing with local English speaking guides
Car hire as specified

What's not included

Cost of visas
Travel Insurance
Expenses of a personal nature
Meals unless specified

Guide to Price

The above price is based on two people travelling together and sharing accommodation in low season. The price is only a guide and can vary according to selected airlines, hotels and date of travel. If you wish to travel with your family, friends or on your own we will be very happy to assist you with your arrangements.