Athens & Crete for Families

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival 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.

   Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

   

   Love at First Sight

   Athens has plenty of rooftop venues to take advantage of the opportunity to see the Acropolis shining at night. They have become popular hubs for nightlife among locals. One of our favorite rooftop bars is POINT A (Acropolis Point), which is the only bar that provides views of both the Acropolis and the modern elegant lines of the Acropolis Museum, lit beautifully at night. POINT A has a relaxed vibe and Greek cuisine with a twist. It’s perfect for couples and even families or groups of friends. If you happen to stay around the Monastiraki district, you should definitely visit A for Athens cocktail bar and restaurant, a popular venue among locals. Hytra and GB Roof Garden are full-on luxury restaurants and bars that can provide perfect romantic evenings. We guarantee that if you spend your first night dining at one of those places, you will quickly fall in love with the mind-blowing views and lively city.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Athens

   

   Acropolis for Families Private Tour

   Enjoy an unforgettable family tour of the Acropolis and gain intriguing insights into the fascinating tales that surround the world-famous Parthenon temple. Follow your family-friendly guide through the secret pathways of history while keeping your little ones engaged through entertaining puzzles and animated storytelling. Marvel at the famous masterpiece of the Acropolis for a fascinating experience that every family member will enjoy!

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   A Family-Friendly City

   Whether your little ones are big or small, they will love the activities Athens has on offer. Start your day at 10:30 in front of the Hellenic Parliament, where you can watch the changing of the Evzones guards dressed in their traditional colorful outfits featuring kilts and pom-poms. After lunch in one of many family-friendly restaurants, you can observe animals in the zoo, enjoy a ride in the red hop-on hop-off train that offers tours of the city center, or explore and learn in the Hellenic Children's Museum. If your kid has an adventurous soul, they're love Allou, Greece’s largest amusement park. We guarantee that you and your kids will love Athens!

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Athens

   

   Athens by Tuk-Tuk Afternoon or Evening 2-Hour Private Tour

   The past meets the future when you explore Athens from an electric tuk-tuk! Your ride will start by the Greek Parliament, then continue past many of the city's cultural landmarks on your way to Mt. Lycabettus, where you'll have some free time to enjoy its legendary views of the city, including the magnificent view of the Acropolis. You'll then descend back into Athens, exploring the center and several other memorable vistas, before your return to Syntagma Square.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Sculpt a Mythical Creature from Greek Myths Small Group Tour

   Unleash your creativity and discover the joy of clay sculpture in a warm, friendly atmosphere — just a few steps from the Acropolis. In this 2-hour hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the basics of shaping clay and create your own small animal figurine — like a fox, owl, or dog — inspired by the beauty and symbolism of Greek nature and mythology. Perfect for beginners, families, and travelers looking for a relaxing, creative experience in the heart of Athens.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Athens for Teens

   We realize that traveling with kids, especially teenagers, can be challenging. However, if you happen to be in Athens, your children will enjoy the trip as much as you. Eugenides Digital Planetarium offers shows that combine education and entertainment. The Allou Amusement Park is the biggest in Greece and we guarantee every adrenaline lover will have a lot of fun there. The Acropolis Museum offers several family tours led by experienced tour guides who will make your stay in the museum unforgettable. Exploring the George Averoff Battleship isn't just for those interested in military history. The Lycabettus Funicular ride up the highest mountain in Athens and amazing views is the activity that both youngsters and adults will love. Explore and enjoy!

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Traveling to Heraklion by Airplane / Arrival in Heraklion

   

   From Athens to Heraklion the best option will be to take a flight on one of the low cost airlines. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival:

   
   

   Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

   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.

   Upon arrival to Heraklion airport, our driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Keep the Kids Busy

   Heraklion is one of those places your family will love. Just outside the city, you can find a lot of activities that will keep all children busy, from toddlers to teenagers. A 20-minute drive will take you to the Cretaquarium - Thalassocosmos, a well-stocked aquarium. On the way back to Heraklion, you can have a lot of fun at the Watercity Waterpark, which features Europe's largest wave pool, as well as water slides and pools for all ages. The nearby Dinosauria Park is a much safer take on Jurassic Park. For a fun introduction to Greek mythology, head to Labyrinth Park. Kids will love solving the maze's educational puzzles as they try to escape from the Minotaur! If you're worried your kids may find Knossos boring, download the site's mobile app, which has a series of exciting audio stories about the place.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Heraklion

   

   Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour

   The Palace of Knossos is one of the most popular attractions in Crete, but its immense size, poor signage, and complex history means it’s worth visiting with a local guide. The best way to explore is on a guided walking tour, taking in highlights of the Minoan palace such as the Central Court, the Throne Room, the Tripartite Shrine, the Grand Staircase, and the Queen’s Hall. Next, you will then continue your tour with a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion where you can admire Minoan treasures.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

6. Day 6 Traveling to Agios Nikolaos by Private Transfer / Arrival in Agios Nikolaos

   

   Today you will be traveling from Heraklion to Agios Nikolaos. A driver will pick you up at your accommodation in Heraklion and bring you on a journey to Agios Nikolaos. The transfer takes around 1 hour. Please note this is a non-guided transfer.

   The heart, soul, and capital of Lassithi (Crete's easternmost region), Agios Nikolaos ("St. Nicholas") has attracted celebrities like Walt Disney since the 60s, but remains small and humble. The town's crown jewel is Voulismeni Lake, a lagoon that has served as an inner harbor since Napoleon's men connected it to the sea. Surrounding Voulismeni are numerous restaurants and cafes, offering charming views and romantic ambience. Agios Nikolaos enjoys a prime location within close proximity to the Lassithi's numerous traditional villages and historical sites. Lassithi's unspoiled beauty, from rugged mountains, to expansive plateaus and deep cliffs, make it one of the most exciting region’s of Crete, as do its important historical sites, with their traces of ancient civilizations. Nearby Spinalonga Island is an important part of Crete's history, thanks to its 15th century Venetian fortress, which later saw use as an infamous leper colony. The seabed of the nearby Mirabello Bay is the site of the ancient sunken city of Olous, the remains of which can be admired from a boat.

   You'll be taken directly to your accommodations upon arrival.

   

   Walk Around "The Lake"

   Agios Nikolaos centers on Lake Voulismeni, a small, circular lagoon ringed by steep rocky cliffs to one side and open-air cafés and seafood restaurants on the other. Linked to the sea by Napoleon's troops, Voulismeni is hardly ever referred to by name and is usually only called "the lake" on signs, maps, and in general conversation. The lagoon is especially lovely at night when the cliffs are lit up, creating reflections of a lively scene across the water. A variety of open-air restaurants line the lake, and others are perched atop the dramatic rock face overlooking the water. From up high, you can see beyond the lagoon to the sea behind. According to local legend, the goddess Athena used to bathe here, and the lake was long said to be bottomless (although to be fair, it is surprisingly deep).

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your First Full Day in Agios Nikolaos

   Explore an Abandoned Island

   Rising from Mirabello Bay, the tiny island of Spinalonga was fortified by the Venetians in the 17th century as part of their strategy to protect Crete from Turkish invasion. From 1903 to 1957, it found a new life as a leper colony. Despite the remote location, the lepers lived well. Today, the storied ruins are accessibly by boat from both Agios Nikolaos and Plaka, or as part of a private day trip.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   How Olive Oil is Made

   If you are wondering how all the wonderful olive oil you've been tasting is made, the "Cretan Olive Oil Farm" just north of town is the place to see it. You can tour the farm and learn how olives are raised and turned into oil with video displays. Kids can make their own ceramics on a pottery wheel, learn to make cheese, or even take part in Cretan cooking classes.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Traditional Olive Oil Production Group Tour

   Experience the original and traditional way of producing olive oil, in a traditional 140-year-old Cretan olive oil mill. This demonstration is the perfect way to learn about olive oil, and Crete's traditional culture.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour and 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Cretan Culture Panorama

   Immerse yourself in Cretan culture at the Cretan Olive Oil Farm, a 140-year-old, family-run estate and working olive mill. Explore the lesser-known side of Crete, join hands-on activities, and enjoy guided tastings that showcase the island’s traditions and flavors.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

8. Day 8 Your Second Full Day in Agios Nikolaos

   

   Winning Beaches

   Just down the coast from Agios Nikolaos, Voulisma Beach is a calm, shallow beach with azure waters. It is considered one of Crete's best beaches for its curving ribbon of soft sand backed by cliffs. Suppose you'd like to visit a place within walking distance of Agios Nikolaos' center. In that case, Kitroplateia Beach is a lovely crescent of pebbles and sand that looks across to the mountains on the opposite shore of Mirabello Bay.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Traveling to Chania by Private Transfer / Arrival in Chania

   

   Today you will travel from Agios Nikolaos to Chania. A driver will meet you at your accommodation in Agios Nikolaos and take you to Chania in 3 hours. If you'd like, we can arrange for a stop in Heraklion or Rethymnon to break up the journey. Please note this is a non-guided transfer.

   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.

   Upon arrival to Chania you'll be taken directly to your accommodation.

   

   Feast Your Eyes on the Old Venetian Harbor

   Dating back to the 14th century, Chania’s Venetian Harbor is a wonderful place for an introductory stroll. The harbor is a great place to catch the sunset, but we also recommend following the winding streets from the coast inland. For the best part of the Old Town, walk along Angelou Street, one of the nicest back alleys, with 16th and 17th century Venetian architecture. From there, you'll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, tavernas, bars, pastry shops, monuments, and galleries in every direction.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

10. Day 10 Your First Full Day in Chania

    

    Street Stories of Chania Group Tour

    Experience the unique beauty and culture of Chania by joining this fantastic foodies’ walking tour through one of Greece’s most picture-pretty cities. Chania has everything: ancient ruins, centuries-old monuments, strong local traditions, and exquisite cuisine that you get to taste during the tour.
    

    Escape the tourist traps and dive into secret corners and local neighborhoods — each stop has a story to tell and food is more than enough to skip lunch!
    

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 4 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Excitement From the Sea to the Mountains

    Western Crete is full of safe beaches, and other family-friendly opportunities. There are various organic farms stuffed with activities, from a traditional bee garden, making olive oil, or taking cooking classes. If your kids are drawn to the sea, they'll enjoy a tour with a glass bottom boat. You can also enjoy a half-day tour with the Little Fun Train, which takes you through fishing towns, gorges and olive groves. For some more excitement, visit the Limnoupolis Water Park, go horseback riding, or rent bikes and hit the mountain trails.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

11. Day 11 Your Second Full Day in Chania

    

    Elafonisi Beach and Milia Mountain Retreat Small Group Jeep Tour with Lunch

    Have you ever dreamt of being in a place with crystal clear turquoise waters and an endless sandy beach? Well, now you have the chance at famous Elafonisi beach, one of the top 10 best beaches in Europe. Enjoy your swimming there for more than 2 hours and then you will have the chance to have a delicious lunch at the well-known Milia Mountain Retreat a suggestion from - National Geographic Magazine.
    

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 8-9 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

12. Day 12 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.