Hellenic Jewel Itinerary

Day 1: Athens

Pack your bags, you are off to Greece!

Day 2: Athens

Welcome to Athens! Upon arrival at Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, you will be greeted by your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative, who will drive you to your hotel. Enjoy the remainder of your day exploring Athens. You might stroll the old neighborhoods of Plaka, which mingle old & new Athens or explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Monastiraki and Kolonaki.

Day 3: Athens (B)

After breakfast, your day will begin with your private half day walking tour. Along with your English speaking licensed guide, you will visit the Acropolis and the awesome temples of the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Athena Nike. Your walk will continue to the Areopagus, or Hill of Mars. Finally, you pass the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, where you can still enjoy concerts and theatrical performances in the summer months. The tour will conclude with a visit to the Acropolis Museum exhibiting the glory of Ancient Athens.

Day 4: Athens / Western Crete (B)

After breakfast, your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the airport for your short flight to Crete. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and driven to your hotel. Chania is one of those rare cities in Greece, which is a mosaic of cultures, and history. Venetian influences as well as Jewish and Roman are evident through the various neighborhoods of Chania. Be sure to try our restaurant recommendations and sample some of Crete’s finest cuisine. 

Day 5: Western Crete (B, L)

Today you will begin your cultural journey with your Cretan Villages and Countryside Experience. This tour will take you through scenic countryside and offer a journey to Crete’s cultural and culinary trails. Visits will include the Akrotiri Peninsula, the province of Apokoronas, as well as the Fortress of Koules. The tour continues with a visit to the studio of a famous ceramist. Finally, a scenic drive along the foothills of the White Mountains, you will stop for a delicious rustic meal at a family-run tavern, overlooking the valley and the sea beyond.  

Day 6: Western Crete (B)

Your day is at leisure. You might consider a day trip to the Balos Beach lagoon for a day of relaxation. Leaving the port of Kissamos toward Gramvousa exploring the area and then arriving at Balos Beach for a day or swimming in the shallow turquoise waters of the lagoon. Balos Beach is one of the most picturesque and photographed beaches in Greece. 

Day 7: Western Crete / Eastern Crete (B)

After breakfast, your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative will pick you up from your hotel and drive you to the Eastern side of Elounda. Immerse yourself in the charm of Elounda and Mirabello Bay. Be sure to try our restaurant recommendations and sample some of Crete’s finest cuisine. 

Day 8: Eastern Crete (B)

Your day is at leisure. You might consider a day of relaxation, view a View of the Venetian castle on Kalydon Island, home to the Spinalonga fortress. Enjoy the local fare in Plaka.  

Day 9: Eastern Crete (B,L)

Today you will begin your journey with your Knossos Palace & Winery Tour. A tour for you to get an inside view of Cretan culture and history with the exploration of the ruins of Knossos Palace, one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan Civilization. Accompanied by a first-class guide who will offer in-depth approach and personal attention, you will explore the ruins and excavations of the vast ancient palace and learn about the Greek mythological tales that are linked to it. After exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms on the Knossos tour, we will visit a quaint local winery set on gently rolling hillsides, surrounded by vineyards. We will take a tour around premises and enjoy a taste of the estate’s wines accompanied by a light lunch of Cretan delicacies.

Day 10: Eastern Crete (B)

Today is your last day in Crete. Enjoy a day at the beach or the pool before your journey continues to Santorini. If you want to explore, consider exploring the vibrant capital of Agios Nikolaos, centered around Vouliagmeni, the sunken lake. Enjoy shopping, cafes and eateries, surrounded by red rocks and trees on the Western Slopes of the lake. 

Day 11: Eastern Crete / Athens / Home

Your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative will drive you to the airport for your short flight to Athens connecting to your flight home.

Key: (B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner

Note: The itinerary we have created above is flexible and can be tailored along with the destinations and activities offered. It represents a sample of the many alternatives that we offer.

Single Rooms: On all itineraries, single rooms are available to book a supplement. Speak to your travel specialist for pricing.

Customize this Journey: If you would like to customize this itinerary and create a Tailor-Made Journey for you and your companions, please e-mail us or speak to your favorite travel professional.