Greece Off The Beaten Path

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.

   Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.

   

   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

   

   Athens Markets and Chronicles Group Tour

   Discover the treasures of Athens with a local by your side, exploring the streets filled with cultural, historic, and culinary icons. Follow the footsteps of the locals with your guide and experience the heart of Athens with its ruins, temples, markets, mosques, retail hot spots, and fresh produce. These are the same places and roads where the ancient Greeks walked more than 2000 years ago!

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Beat the Heat Acropolis Group Tour

   There's no better time to wander around the Acropolis than the afternoon or early in the morning when the crowds are long gone and the summer heat has eased. During this two-hour small group tour, you'll be shown around the most iconic landmark of Athens by a knowledgeable local guide.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

3. Day 3 Traveling to Monemvasia by Private Transfer / Arrival in Monemvasia

   

   Today, a private driver will take you to picturesque Monemvasia. Based on your preferred departure time in the morning, a driver will pick you up at your accommodations in Athens. Please note that this is a non-guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver. Along the way, you'll make a short stop to see Ancient Corinth and its archaeological site with a professional guide. The guide will meet you there and is only available for a tour of the archaeological site. The journey's duration is approximately 6 hours, including the time spent at the archaeological site, which will be up to 2 hours.

   A stranded rock in the Aegean Sea, a medieval castle town, and endless tales of conquerors and merchants render Monemvasia a true fairytale destination in Southern Greece. Often nicknamed The Gibraltar of The East, Monemvasia Castle is one of the finest examples of defensive architecture, offering travelers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend the night within the walls of a sleepy yet exciting fortress where time seems to have stood still. From walking along dramatic ramparts to sipping local sweet wine on a terrace overlooking the deep blue sea to waking up to the most majestic sunrise, Monemvasia will make you feel as if you're stepping inside a dream.

   Upon arrival to Monemvasia, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   A Delicious Stroll Around the Medieval Town of Monemvasia

   After checking into your accommodations, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the Lower Town, admiring the traditional stone houses and historic buildings along the way. The intricate layout of the lower town, with its winding twists and turns, creates a captivating maze-like experience that makes it effortless to lose oneself in the charm of this picturesque place. Then, stop at one of the tavernas to enjoy the famous Malvasia wine and savor the flavors of the region. Along the central street that links the city gates, you'll find most restaurants. While not readily visible from street level, many cafes and dining establishments boast delightful terraces situated on top of nearby buildings where you can indulge while enjoying panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding city walls.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Your First Full Day in Monemvasia

   

   Olives and Olive Oil Private Tasting Experience

   Experience a private olive oil tasting at Liotrivi Mansion's Olive Oil Museum. Sample five varieties of extra virgin olive oil and three types of table olives, gaining a deep appreciation for Laconia's rich heritage. Engage in hands-on grading to savor the essence of this precious land's legacy.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Monemvasia Lower and Upper Town Private Tour

   On this private tour of Monemvasia's Lower Town, 14 centuries of history await you in the 'Gibraltar of the East'. Explore living archaeological sites and delve into the city's rich maritime heritage, once a bustling port renowned for its exquisite wines. Ascend to the Upper Town's archaeological site, discovering remnants of aristocratic residences and marveling at the Haghia Sophia church with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Wander through hauntingly beautiful ruins and capture breathtaking panoramas, immersing yourself in Monemvasia's timeless allure.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

5. Day 5 Traveling to Nafplio by Private Transfer / Arrival in Nafplio

   

   Today, you will leave Monemvasia and travel to Nafplio. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations at your preferred departure time and take you on a 3-hour journey. Please note that this is a non-guided transfer.

   Steeped in history and almost unbearably romantic, Nafplio is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Greece. Nafplio's dramatic fortresses, neoclassical mansions, and nearby ancient ruins narrate the town's diverse history, a pivotal moment of which was when Nafplio became the first capital of modern Greece. While in Nafplio, you can take long seaside walks, savor authentic cuisine at quaint traditional restaurants, and visit UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, only a short drive away.

   Upon arrival to Nafplio, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.

   

   Chef's Table Group Experience

   Immerse yourself in the art of Greek cuisine with a four-course meal prepared before your eyes by a skilled chef in Nafplio. Indulge in a culinary journey paired with specially selected wines, all expertly combined to elevate your dining experience. Relax at the Chef's table, where you'll savor unique flavors and hear captivating stories behind each dish as you dine.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 2 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Nafplio

   

   Mycenae & Epidaurus Private Tour

   On this private guided tour, you will first visit ancient Mycenae, where myths of King Agamemnon come to life amidst UNESCO-listed ruins like the Cyclopean Walls and the Lion's Gate. Then, you will explore the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae to delve deeper into the civilization's sophistication and wealth. Then, journey to Epidaurus, home to a renowned ancient theater celebrated for its remarkable acoustic design. Discover its significance as a healing sanctuary dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius, and visit its museum, too.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 5 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Explore the City's Best Museums

   Nafplio, rich in history and culture, boasts several museums highlighting its past. The Archaeological Museum features a vast collection of Mycenaean and Classical artifacts, making it essential for Greek history enthusiasts. The Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation Museum, situated in an elegant neoclassical structure, exhibits traditional Greek costumes and textiles, offering insights into regional customs. Lastly, housed in the Trianon building, the National Gallery - Nafplio Annex showcases 19th and 20th-century works by Greek artists, providing a captivating journey through Greece's artistic heritage.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in Nafplio

   

   999 Steps to the Top!

   The hike to Palamidi Castle is one of the most popular and rewarding hikes in Nafplio. The castle sits atop a hill overlooking the city and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The trail to Palamidi Castle starts from the Old Town of Nafplio and winds its way up the hill. The path is well-marked, and there are several rest stops along the way where you can catch your breath and take in the stunning views. The trail itself is relatively easy, but it does involve a steep climb, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. To reach the top of the fortress, there are 875 steps, but the legend refers to them as being 999! Once you reach the top of the hill, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Nafplio and the surrounding area. Palamidi Castle itself is an impressive fortress with a series of walls, towers, and gates to explore.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Nafplio Sunset Private Biking Tour

   End your day cycling through Nafplio’s charming streets and along the seaside as the afternoon heat fades. Follow scenic routes around historic monuments and the rock of Acronafplia, arriving just in time to watch the sun dip behind the mountains.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

8. Day 8 Traveling to Heraklion by Private Transfer & Airplane, via Athens / Day Stop in Athens / Arrival in Heraklion

   

   Today, you will leave Nafplio and travel to Athens. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations based on your preferred departure time. The journey is about 2 hours long. Just so you know, this is a non-guided transfer. Along the way, there is an option where you can make a short stop to admire the breathtaking Corinth Canal and, for an additional fee, explore Ancient Corinth.

   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.

   

   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.

   

   Enter Via Koules Fortress

   Koules is an impressive Venetian fortress dating from the early 16th century. An easy and scenic walk from the shoreline along a breakwater takes you to the main entrance. It's an amazing place to go right after your arrival. Grand wooden doors open into rooms where artifacts from Venice's golden age are on display, while thick stone walls keep everything cool. Don't forget to climb to the roof to take in great views of the sea and across the harbor, the town itself.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

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

   Upon your arrival at Heraklion Airport, a driver will meet you and take you to your accommodation in Chania. On the way, you will stop for Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour. The duration of the transfer and tour combined is around 6 hours.

   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

    

    Explore the European Hiking Path

    Crete offers plenty of options for lovers of the great outdoors, especially hikers. In nearly any direction, you'll find traditional villages, high mountains, and beautiful beaches. Hiking is a wonderful way to see the stunning beauty of the island’s natural landscape. Chania is surrounded by 150 hiking trails, but our favorite takes you through Samaria Gorge, a beloved gorge in the National Reserve of Lefka Ori, about an hour's drive from Chania. This gorge forms part of Crete’s most famous hiking route, the E4 trail, part of an EU-wide system of paths. Imbros Gorge is also worth a visit, as it's regularly ranked among the island's most beautiful and famous gorges.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

    

    Sunset Luxury Catamaran Group Cruise to Ag. Theodoroi Island

    Experience a captivating sunset catamaran voyage, offering a semi-private escape from Chania. The program lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes and begins with a warm welcome featuring drinks and light snacks. After safety instructions, you will set sail toward the scenic waters near Agioi Theodoroi, where you can swim and enjoy water activities while soaking in the coastal views. Onboard, savor a selection of sushi, fresh fruit, and open-bar beverages, then relax on deck as the sun sets over the Cretan Sea.

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

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

11. Day 11 Your Second Full Day in Chania

    

    Cretan Villages Adventure Private Tour

    On our Cretan Villages Adventure tour, we will hit the road to the lush rolling hills area of the Rethymnon region where bucolic medieval villages and iconic historic sites are located. Let us introduce you to the authentic rural areas of Crete, a side of the island beyond the city centers that doesn’t see too many tourists by exploring abandoned historic monasteries and a medieval town, passing through the oldest olive groves in the Mediterranean and admiring ancient ceramic techniques!

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 9 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    The Battle of Crete

    For those interested in the WWII, we highly recommend visiting Chania's war monuments. Crete is home to hundreds of air raid shelters, pillboxes, gun emplacements, and larger bunkers, built by both sides during WWII. In 1941, the Germans completed their invasion of Greece by attacking Crete, in the first almost entirely airborne invasion. Although a German success, the vaunted German paratroopers took such losses that they were never deployed en masse again, spending the rest of the war almost entirely fighting as normal, if elite, ground forces. If you have time to visit only one place, visit the Souda Bay War Cemetery, built for Commonwealth soldiers, and a popular spot for visitors from Australia and New Zealand, which supplied most of the island's defenders. Although Crete would become a strategic backwater, both sides learned crucial lessons from this intense battle.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

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.