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ATHENS, CHANIA, CRETE, HERAKLIO, RETHYMNO, SANTORINI
Signature Greece
Duration
8 Days
When to Go
April to October
Customization
Fully
Physical rating
Easy
Type
Private
(Including transfers and guided tours)

Embark on a captivating 8-day journey through Athens, Crete, and Santorini, blending ancient history, island beauty, and rich Mediterranean culture. Begin in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, where you’ll explore the iconic Acropolis, marvel at the Parthenon, and stroll through the charming Plaka district. Fly to Crete, Greece’s largest island, known for its diverse landscapes and ancient Minoan heritage. Explore the scenic cities and landscape of the northern coast and the authentic mainland with its traditional villages, vineyards, olive groves and Cretan cuisine. Enjoy time to relax on Crete’s stunning beaches  and if you are a history enthousiast, visit the Palace of Knossos, believed to be Europe’s oldest city, and discover Heraklion’s archaeological treasures. Next, take a full-day trip to the breathtaking island of Santorini, famous for its whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and dramatic caldera views. Wander through the charming streets of Fira and Oia, capturing timeless photos to cherish for a lifetime.

This tour includes 3 of the leading touristic destinations in Greece and it offers a blend of attractions and experiences to match the preferences of every traveler. It is presented with accommodation based in Heraklion area-Chersonissos but, like all other elements, it can be customized to your choice with respective adjustment of day activities. This trip is ideal for a luxury upgrade and for the honeymooners as well!

Highlights
  • Explore the ancient and modern heart of the Athens metropolis.
  • Visit the iconic Acropolis, home to the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum.
  • Immerse in Crete’s heritage and landscape treasures exploring the island’s northern cities and the authentic mainland.
  • Relax on Crete’s stunning beaches, with clear waters, golden sands, and plenty of sunshine for unwinding.
  • Step back in time at the Minoan ruins of Knossos palace, featuring intricate frescoes, grand architecture, and the famous labyrinth.
  • Explore the magnificent island of Santorini with the iconic architecture of whitewashed houses and the breathtaking volcanic caldera.
  • Explore the history of the island fortress of Spinalonga, once a leper colony, with scenic boat rides offering incredible views.
  • Visit this charming coastal town of Aghios Nikolaos in Crete, known for its vibrant harbor, lakeside beauty, and surrounding olive groves.
  • Go at leisure for shopping of luxury, popular international brands or local artisan products either in Athens or at the islands and enjoy their lively vibe.
  • Indulge yourself with typical Greek food, waterfront ocean views and romantic sunsets.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1
  • Arrival to Athens
    • Meet and Greet – Welcome to Athens: 
      Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you and escort you on a private transfer to your hotel in Athens city center.

      Rest of the Day – Explore Athens at Leisure:
      After check-in, you may relax and unwind after your flight or begin exploring the city at your own pace. The Athens city center is walkable and full of character. Stroll through the historic neighborhood of Plaka, located at the foot of the Acropolis, where charming alleys, traditional houses, and lively squares invite you to slow down and take it all in. Pause for a Greek coffee at a local café, pair it with a scoop of refreshing ice cream, and immerse yourself in the authentic Athenian atmosphere.

      As the day winds down, catch a breathtaking Athens sunset. Wander through Plaka’s picturesque streets or, if you’re feeling more active, hike up one of the scenic hills—Lycabettus Hill, Areopagus, or Philopappos Hill—for panoramic views over the city and the Acropolis glowing in the evening light.

Day 2
  • Athens Sightseeing
    • Breakfast at the hotel: Start your day with a delightful breakfast before setting out to explore the wonders of Athens.

      Acropolis and museum walking tour: Begin your day with a guided morning walking tour of the Acropolis and the world-famous Acropolis Museum, accompanied by a licensed guide. Your journey starts at the south slope of the Acropolis, where you will explore the Sanctuary and Theater of Dionysus, the birthplace of ancient theater. As you ascend the sacred hill, each step reveals a new wonder, from the monumental Propylaea, the grand entrance to the Acropolis, to the elegant Temple of Athena Nike, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and victory. The highlight of the visit is the Parthenon, the iconic symbol of classical Greece and one of the most significant monuments in world history. Continue on to the Erechtheion, a temple steeped in mythology, dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. Enjoy the panoramic views over the city and take lots of stunning photos to remember your visit to this iconic monument.

      Continue to the Acropolis Museum, where the story-telling brings the ancient ruins to life, offering a deeper understanding of ancient Greek culture and civilization.

      Rest of the day: After the tour, enjoy at leisure—browse the shops,  continue exploring the vibrant neighborhoods or take a lunch at the various restaurants all over the city. Plenty of choices there for you, either you choose Greek cuisine, international or ethnic from various countries including yours. We can give you some good tips and advice, whatever your choice!

      Evening: In the evening, join the vibrant nightlife at the various hotspots in the city center or head to the Athens Riviera coastline for a leisurely walk and a romantic dinner by the sea.

      Overnight accommodation is in Athens on a bed and breakfast basis.

      Optional :

      * For those seeking an extended experience of the city, you may opt for a five-hour guided Athens city tour by bus. This panoramic journey includes the most celebrated landmarks of the capital, from bustling Syntagma Square and the imposing Hellenic Parliament to the historic Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games.

      * Another option is the Benaki museum of Greek Culture, housed in one of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in Athens, near the National Garden and the Hellenic Parliament. The museum houses a unique exhibition on Greek culture arranged from prehistorical times to the 20th century and many artifacts will make you relate to the history and culture of your own country. If you choose to visit only one museum during your stay in Greece, then Benaki museum is a very good choice for you.

Day 3
  • Crete at leisure
    • Breakfast at the Hotel: Begin your day with a delicious breakfast before departing to the airport for your flight to Heraklion, Crete. This short flight connects you quickly from Athens to the largest island in Greece.

    • Arrival in Crete and Hotel Transfer (Rethymno or Chersonissos area): Upon arrival in Crete, enjoy a comfortable private transfer to your hotel. After check-in, spend your afternoon relaxing by the beach or swimming pool, soaking up the Cretan sun. Take a stroll through the city or town where you stay, admire the stunning ocean views, and savor a romantic dinner at a traditional seaside taverna.

    • Overnight Stay: Return to your hotel for a restful night on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 4
  • Northern coast day trip
    • Breakfast at the Hotel: Begin your morning with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a full-day excursion to the stunning northern coast of Crete.

    • Day Trip to Rethymno and Chania: Travel along the scenic northern coastline and arrive to  Chania, one of the most beautiful towns in Greece, famous for its Old Venetian Harbor, lighthouse, and colorful blend of Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek architecture. Explore the lively marketplace, wander through the labyrinth of alleys filled with boutiques and artisan shops, and capture the unique atmosphere of Crete’s cultural gem. Continue to Rethymno, the charming Venetian harbor town known for its picturesque old port, narrow cobblestone streets, and beautifully preserved Renaissance architecture. Stroll through the Old Town, admire the Fortezza fortress, and enjoy time to shop or relax at a seaside café.

    • * If your accommodation is based in Rethymno, your day trip to Chania will include a scenic cruise along the breathtaking Gramvousa Peninsula. Sail past dramatic coastal landscapes, visit the historic Venetian fortress of Gramvousa, and continue on to the world-famous Balos Lagoon, celebrated for its turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches.

    • Evening: At the end of the day, travel back along the northern coastline to your hotel. Overnight is on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 5
  • Authentic mainland Crete
    • Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your morning with a hearty breakfast before being picked up from your accommodation for an unforgettable Crete countryside tour exploring the authentic mainland of the island.

      Day Trip to the Authentic Crete Mainland: Your journey begins with a scenic drive through picturesque landscapes to a traditional Cretan farm in a mountain village, where you’ll meet local farmers, watch goat-milking demonstrations, and sample fresh organic products. Continue your adventure by 4×4 vehicle through a rugged gorge, enjoying panoramic views of the Cretan mountains, stopping to collect wild herbs, and discovering the unique flora of Crete. Arrive at a charming village and take part in a hands-on Cretan cooking class, guided by local chefs. Here you’ll prepare traditional recipes using seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients. Once your meal is ready, sit down to enjoy the dishes you created, perfectly paired with local Cretan wine, while learning more about the island’s rich culinary traditions.

      After lunch, the tour continues to the famous Lassithi Plateau, an area known for its agricultural heritage and windmills. Visit a pottery workshop where you can try your hand at traditional ceramic making, before exploring the village of Krasi, home to an ancient Venetian aqueduct and Crete’s legendary thousand-year-old plane tree. The final highlight of the day is a stop at a traditional olive oil mill, where you’ll uncover the secrets of olive oil production and enjoy an olive oil tasting in Crete, sampling some of the finest extra virgin olive oil the island has to offer.

      Evening: After this full-day experience combining gastronomy, history, and nature, return to your hotel with the evening free to relax at your leisure. Overnight accommodation in Crete is on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 6
  • Day trip to Santorini
    • Breakfast at the Hotel: Begin your morning with a nourishing breakfast before being transferred to Heraklion Port to board the high-speed ferry for your Santorini day trip from Crete. Relax as you cross the sparkling Aegean Sea and enjoy panoramic views on your way to Greece’s most famous island.

      Santorini Guided Tour: Upon arrival at Athinios Port, board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach for your Santorini guided tour. The first stop is the world-renowned village of Oia, famous for its postcard-perfect scenery, whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, and dramatic cliffside views over the caldera. You’ll have time to stroll through its charming alleys, browse boutique shops, and capture unforgettable photos of one of the most photographed places in Greece.

      The tour continues to Fira, the vibrant capital of Santorini, where you’ll enjoy approximately two hours of free time. Take the opportunity to shop for souvenirs, wander the narrow lanes filled with traditional architecture, savor lunch in a cliffside taverna, or simply relax with coffee overlooking the volcanic cliffs. For those seeking more adventure, an optional volcano and hot springs cruise from Fira is available during the summer season.

      In the late afternoon, return to Athinios Port for the ferry back to Crete. On the journey, unwind and reflect on the highlights of your Santorini excursion—from the breathtaking landscapes to the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Upon arrival in Heraklion, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

      Evening: Overnight in Crete with accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 7
  • Free day with options
    • Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel in Crete before embarking on a day filled with history, culture, and scenic beauty.

      Free Day with options such as a Spinalonga Cruise, or Knossos Excursion: You have the flexibility to enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or by the hotel pool, soaking up the Mediterranean sun. For a more adventurous experience, choose a Spinalonga day cruise, one of the most popular Crete sightseeing tours. Cruise along the sparkling Aegean Sea to Spinalonga Island, a historic Venetian fortress that later became a leper colony. Join a guided tour to explore the ancient walls, learn about its fascinating history, and capture stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Elounda. Continue to Kolokytha Bay, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters, relax on the sandy beach, and savor a freshly prepared lunch with chicken or vegetarian options. The tour ends with a scenic return cruise to Agios Nikolaos, where you can enjoy free time to explore the charming waterfront, visit local boutiques, or relax at a café by the marina.

      For travelers seeking a cultural and archaeological experience, an optional excursion to the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum is available. Discover the legendary Minoan palace, connected to the myths of King Minos and the Minotaur, and explore the museum’s world-class collection of Minoan artifacts, offering an unforgettable glimpse into ancient Crete.

      Overnight: Return to your hotel in the evening for a restful night on a bed and breakfast basis.

Day 8
  • Departure
    • Breakfast at the Hotel: Start your day with an early morning breakfast before a private transfer takes you to Heraklion Airport for your flight to Athens.

      Departure from Greece: Take an early morning flight from Heraklion to Athens and connect to your international departure, bidding farewell to Greece after an unforgettable 6-day journey. This trip has taken you through some of the most iconic destinations in Greece, like Athens, Crete and Santorini —memories that will last a lifetime.

      Customizable Private Tours: All our Greece private tours are fully customizable. If you wish to extend your stay or focus on special interests such as Greek food and wine tasting, family-friendly activities, culinary lessons, or in-depth history tours, we can create a tailor-made itinerary just for you. Together, we will design your perfect Greek holiday, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable journey through Greece’s most beautiful and historic destinations.

What is included
  • 2 private transfers from Athens International Airport to the Athens City Hotel for the inbound flight and from the Crete hotel to the airport for the outbound flight.
  • 2 private transfers from/to hotel-airport (or port) for the Crete trip.
  • 7 nights’ accommodation at your selected category.
  • An Acropolis and Acropolis museum walking tour.
  • A day tour to northern coast of Crete by A/C modern bus.
  • A day tour in mainland Crete by A/C modern bus.
  • An day trip to Santorini with transfers to/from the port included.
  • Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 1 traditional lunch on the day of the authentic mainland Crete.
  • Insurance coverage against fraud for our travel packages.
What is excluded
  • International and domestic flight(s) or ferries. It is recommended that the domestic flights to Heraklion airport and from Heraklion airport to Athens are booked together with the international flights with coordinated timings on departure. We could include to the package the flights/ferries as an additional arrangement and cost.
  • Visa procedure and fees.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Entry tickets to Acropolis and Acropolis museum. As some clients prefer to follow the walking tour but skip the entry to the sites, we do not include them in the package. In case that you wish to entry, we can purchase the tickets for you. The amounts per person are: €30 for the Acropolis site and €20 for the Acropolis museum.
  • Entry tickets to any other sites or museums.
  • Any pre and post stays.
  • Optional activities upon request.
  • Gratuities, tips and personal expenditure of any kind.
  • Hotel “Climate change resilience” tax, paid by the client on the spot at the hotels. The amounts are:
  • o 5 star hotel: 15 euros per room/per night.
  • o 4 star hotel: 10 euros per room/per night.
  • o 3 star hotel: 5 euros per room/per night.
Map
FAQs
  • What is the weather year around?

    Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination with diverse weather depending on the season. In summer (June to August) it is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). In spring (March to May) and in autumn (September to October) it is mild and pleasant, with temperatures that gradually rise and fall respectively, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) and a few rainy days. Great for both beach holidays and cultural exploration, with fewer crowds than in summer. In winter (November to February) it is cool and rainy on the mainland, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The islands can be quiet, and many tourist spots may close, but it’s a peaceful time for exploring cities like Athens.

  • How fit do I need to be to do this tour and what precautions I should take?

    There is no special difficulty in this tour, however, summer heat in Greece might be challenging if you’re not properly prepared. Here’s some essential travel advice to stay safe and comfortable:

      1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as they can dehydrate you.
      2. Wear a Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the harsh sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. A hat will shield your face and neck from sunburn. Also, wear UV-protection sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful rays, especially when spending time at the beach or sightseeing outdoors.
      3. Use Sunscreen: The Greek sun is strong, so apply sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30 or higher) and reapply every few hours, particularly if you’re swimming. Focus on areas like your face, neck, and shoulders.
      4. Seek Shade: If you’re sightseeing or walking around, take breaks in the shade during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM). Many cafes and restaurants offer shaded terraces, which can be a great place to rest.
      5. Dress Lightly: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. This will help keep your body cool and reduce the risk of heatstroke or heat exhaustion.
      6. Avoid the Midday Heat: If possible, plan your outdoor activities like sightseeing and hiking in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. The middle of the day can be uncomfortably hot, especially in the cities and islands.
      7. Be Careful with Water: Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Greece, but if you’re staying on an island or in more remote areas, bottled water is recommended. Also, ensure that you drink plenty of water before and after swimming to stay hydrated.

      By following these tips, you can enjoy Greece’s summer beauty while staying safe and healthy. Don’t forget to listen to your body—if you feel faint or dizzy, find shade and drink water immediately.

  • Are there any festivals worth visiting at the tour's locations?

    All destinations in Greece offer festivals that showcase their history, culture, and traditions, making them fantastic destinations for cultural enthusiasts year-round.

    All over Greece, there are 3 major festive seasons related to religion and going beyond that to the culture and tradition. This is Christmas and New Year in December, Easter in April (usually, it is not a fixed date but is always on Sunday and in Spring) and the celebration for Virgin Mary on 15 August. There are also 2 national days with school and military parades in all cities (25 March and 28 October). Halloween celebration is in February. Everywhere in Greece these festivals and celebrations are iconic and joyous!

    In addition to these festivals, one of the most celebrated events is the Athens & Epidaurus Festival (June to August), a grand cultural event that features performances of ancient Greek theater, classical music, and modern dance at iconic venues like the Herodeion ancient theater on the side of the Acropolis hill and the Epidaurus Theater, in about 2 hrs driving distance from Athens. To attend a performance of this festival is a truly amazing experience to cherish for a lifetime!

    During the summer months in Crete, don’t miss the Heraklion Summer Festival, a long-standing cultural institution of unfailing impact. It features major events in various forms of theatre, music, dance and cinema, in aiming to showcase local artistic potential, creativity and the capabilities of people keen to express themselves and share facets of their talent. The other cities of Crete organize similar events too.

    Also in Crete, many festivals and events take place to celebrate the harvest of many local products such as the grapes, the wine, the olive oil, the bananas and so much more!

    In Santorini, if you visit in August, attend the Ifestia Festival (Volcano Festival). It features a reenactment of a volcanic eruption with fireworks and a series of events, concerts and dance performances. In September the International Music Festival welcomes artists from the international music scene.

    Keep in touch with YONA TRAVEL for updated information about festivals and events during your vacation. Also, check our Blog with posts about the festivals and celebrations around Greece.

  • Is there any special dress code?

    Generally in Greece there is not a special dress code and you can just follow your own style. Only religious places request modest dressing with covered shoulders and knees, but most of them provide with their own skirts and pashminas to help you cover, if necessary. 

    For the summer season, a travel advice is that you dress lightly with loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, a hat and comfortable shoes to help you keep comfortable in the long days of sightseeing and your body cool and protected from heat exhaustion. Sunglassees and sun protection cream are highly recommended too.

  • How much should I tip for a service?

    There is not a standard rule and it is not compulsory. People tend to tip around 10-15% of the service price. Maybe, the exact amount depends on the place, occasion, order size and how much you needed or enjoyed the service. 

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

    ATHENS, CHANIA, CRETE, HERAKLIO, RETHYMNO, SANTORINI
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