Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos & Crete

You’re on your way to Greece! Get ready to soak in the Mediterranean lifestyle as you explore Greece’s beauty, ancient wonders, and lively culture from the capital to the isles.

Arrive in Athens, the capital of Greece and “the cradle of democracy.” Settle in as you prepare to be a part of this immortalized city, home to the famous Parthenon and ancient monuments as well as to inviting neighborhoods where you can explore the heart of Greek culture.

Begin your day in Athens on a panoramic tour through the city, taking in the history of Athens’ many landmarks. Next, get to know Plaka, the lively neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis, brimming with welcoming restaurants and shops. Here, take time to explore and find a spot for lunch on your own, soaking in your surroundings while indulging in delicious Greek cuisine. Later, explore artifacts recovered from the Acropolis archeological site with a guided visit to the Acropolis Museum. Just steps from where ancient relics were recovered, the “new museum” (as the locals still call it) offers incredible views of the Acropolis. Later this evening, join your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

Today, get an up-close look at the iconic Acropolis and its monuments – universal symbols of classical antiquity. Marvel at the ancient history all around as you stroll beside the Parthenon on a guided tour of the incredible archeological complex. Next, experience an Impact Moment during a stop at a community-minded café and workshop. This café with a mission shines a light on stories of people from the community who have overcome homelessness through work and support of the unique art made onsite. After a light lunch at the café, the rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to explore more of Athens independently.

Get an early start today to set out for the island of Naxos! The journey begins by boarding the ferry with your luggage in hand. Once you’ve set your luggage down, settle in for views of the sea as the ferry stops at islands along the way. Arrive in Naxos, the prosperous, self-sustaining island and the largest of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea. After getting off the ferry, your first stop is to see the island’s emblem, the giant marble gate at the unfinished Temple of Apollo – Portara. Take free time for lunch on your own before settling in at your hotel. Tonight, gather for dinner at a nearby restaurant in the Chora (Naxos Town).

This morning, board a sailboat for a full-day cruise* to take in the beauty of Naxos and the nearby Lesser Cyclades islands of Koufonisia. After sailing along the eastern shore of Naxos, step off the boat onto the island of Kato Koufonisi with some time to explore. Enjoy a Greek barbeque lunch with local wines as well as the chance to take a dip in the Aegean Sea’s turquoise waters. Next, sail to Ano Koufonisi and take time to stroll along the island’s beautiful beaches and visit the small village. Sail on, back towards Naxos to Rina Cave, where you may wish to dive in and explore. Arrive back at your Naxos hotel this evening.

*On occasion, due to inclement weather, your boat trip in Naxos may be moved to the following day and your sightseeing activities will be swapped. While on the cruise, be sure to bring a bathing suit, towel, hat, and sunscreen.

Today, trade the seaside bustle of the Chora for the mountain villages of Naxos. First, visit the peaceful village of Halki, the former capital of the island, and feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you stroll its alleys. In the picturesque hilltop village of Apiranthos, take time to explore and slow down among the locals. Later, return to your hotel for some downtime. This evening, sample the local spirits, including Kitron (a liqueur exclusively made on Naxos), served with delicious bites at a third-generation family-owned distillery. Learn about the machinery and distillation process and gain an appreciation for the unique liqueurs made here.

Enjoy the morning at leisure. Later this afternoon with your suitcase in tow, board the ferry to Heraklion, Crete. After a ferry trip of approximately three hours, arrive to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands.

This morning, take a walk around Lion’s Square – the heart of Heraklion. Next, head to Knossos Palace for a guided tour of the site, a major center of Minoan civilization. Among these remarkably preserved ruins, imagine the everyday lives of ancient Minoans and recall legend, as this is considered the mythic place where King Minos kept the Minotaur in his labyrinth. As you travel through the Cretan countryside, take in the sprawling olive groves that have shaped Crete ever since olive cultivation began in Minoan times. In Archanes, visit a women’s cooperative café to learn about traditional Cretan dishes and enjoy a hands-on cooking class followed by lunch. Afterward, return to your hotel for an afternoon and evening at leisure.

Leaving Heraklion, head toward Chania today with a couple of stops along the way. Visit Margarites, a pottery village. Among the more than 20 pottery workshops in this village, visit the only one that uses both new and old (wood-fired) baking techniques. After watching a pottery demonstration, you can take the opportunity to shop for unique wares. Continue to Rethymnon with its beautiful old town and enjoy free time for lunch. Later, arrive in the city of Chania and gather for dinner at a local restaurant.

Set out to explore Chania’s old Venetian Harbor, the port city’s vibrant hub, built in the 14th century. As you stroll along the narrow streets, you may enjoy sips of Greek coffee or try a local pastry. Then, set out for Vouves to see the world’s oldest olive tree, estimated to be an astonishing 2,000–4,000 years old. Continue to a family-run olive mill and winery for a tasting of the oils and wines paired with a light charcuterie lunch. Back in Chania, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Today, it’s your choice! Visit the Archaeological Museum of Chania and explore its treasures on your own -OR- join a guided tour of Aptera’s archaeological site. Spend the afternoon in Chania any way you wish. Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers and celebrate the journey. Enjoy dinner and a performance of traditional Cretan folk dances – and join in during a dance lesson!

This morning, a short flight takes you back to Athens. Take the afternoon to soak in the city's energy or do some last-minute souvenir shopping. Tonight, gather for a drink and light fare, toasting to the end of your journey through Greece. Look out over the city and soak in the incredible sight of the Acropolis once more, aglow at night.

Your tour of Greece’s gems ends today.