Gems of Greece: Athens, Naxos & Crete - 2025
Overview
Highlights
- Sample the local Kitron, a liqueur only produced on the Greek island of Naxos.
- Enjoy tastings of Cretan olive oils and wines at a family-run olive mill and winery.
- Immerse yourself in Greek folk traditions during a Cretan taverna dinner with dancing.
- Connect with the mission of Shedia Home, a café and artists’ workshop in Athens that supports its community.
- Explore the culture and traditions of Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, where families go back generations and one of the few Greek islands full of year-round residents.
- In Archanes, get a local cooking lesson at co-op café preserving traditional Cretan recipes.
- Visit the famous Acropolis in Athens and the Acropolis Museum dedicated to its artifacts.
- Take a scenic day cruise from Naxos and sail among the Small Cyclades islands.
- Explore the ruins of Knossos Palace, a center of Minoan civilization and legend.
What's this trip about?
Itinerary
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. Then, explore artifacts recovered from the Acropolis archeological site with a guided visit to the Acropolis Museum. Just steps from where ancient relics we...
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 ...
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 prosper...
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. En...
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 Api...
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...
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 watchin...
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, es...
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.
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Dates & Availability
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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.
Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.
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