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 Erectheion 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 / 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. 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 5: 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 6: Crete (B)

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 tasting of the estate’s wines accompanied with a light lunch of Cretan delicacies.

Day 7: 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 8: Crete / Santorini (B)

Off to Santorini! Your Hellenic Holidays transfer representative will drive you to the port of Heraklion where you embark on a 2 hour sail aboard a high speed ferry to Santorini. Santorini is most known for its breathtaking views of the red and brown layers of volcanic ash that makes its famous cliffside. You will be driven to your hotel overlooking the majestic caldera. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the romantic atmosphere of the island. Perched on a cliff with breathtaking views of the sunsets and the sea below creates the perfect setting for the next few days.

Day 9: Santorini (B,L)

After breakfast enjoying caldera views, your morning will start with a  drive to the port of Vlichada or Ammoudi where you will embark on the sailing trip that we have arranged. You will sail to the Red and White beaches, the Venetian Lighthouse and the Sulphur Springs. During these visits, you will have the opportunity to swim and snorkel. You will then sail to a secluded bay where while you swim or relax, a lavish barbecue meal is being prepared for you to enjoy.

Day 10: Santorini (B)

Your last day in Santorini. You might consider visiting the famous village of Oia. Some enjoy the day by taking a donkey ride down from Oia to Ammoudi where they swim, eat and then return back to Oia to take in one of the world’s famous sunsets. Others explore Oia’s local souvenir shops or visit some of the local artists whose display their work of the landscape. What better way to end your stay in Greece, by dining at one of the local restaurants we recommend with those majestic views.

Day 11: Santorini / 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.