hotel jet tours greece

DESTINATION

A GREEK ODYSSEY

Travel dates:  September 14 to 20, 2024 

​7 days, 5 nights, including round trip air from Newark (EWR), 4* accommodations, some meals, sightseeing and taxes.

7 days - 5 nights starting at: $ 2,5 95 pp* in DBL occupancy from EWR

Long ago, Greek ports were the landing places for an endless tide of invaders from far off lands. Today Greece is an inviting playground for pleasure seekers. White-washed structures dot the horizon, set against skies of brilliant blue, while sun worshippers basking the beaches under Helios' golden gaze. Twisting cobblestone alleyways lead to tavernas where octopus salad and ouzo are in order. Ancient Minoan palaces and medieval fortresses whisper tales of pagan rites and knightly rituals. Join us on this Odyssey adventure!

Included Features:

·       Round-trip air transportation from Newark (EWR). Fuel surcharges and air taxes are included (valid at time of printing).

·       First class 4* hotel accommodations staying in centrally located hotels as follows:  5 nights in Athens at the Parthenon or Titania hotel (or similar).

·       Daily Breakfast, 2 lunch, 2 dinners.

·       Deluxe air-conditioned motor coach transportation for all transfers, tours and guided excursions.

·       Airport transfers with English speaking assistants

·       Porterage at the hotels (based on one bag per person).

·       Services of a professional tour director throughout the program and English-speaking local guides

·       Tour of Athens, as per itinerary, by private motor coach and English

·       speaking guide. Entrance fees to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum

·       One day cruise to the islands of Aegina, Hydra and Poros including lunch on board. An office representative will be with the group

·       Afternoon excursion to Cape Sounion, by private motor coach and English-speaking guide, followed by dinner at Kalyvia

·       Dinner at Kalyvia, including half bottle of local wine per person, or beer, or soft drinks

·       Entrance fees to Acropolis, Acropolis Museum and Temple of Poseidon in Sounio

·       VAT tax.

Day 1 – Sept 14, 2023:  Overnight Flight - Arrive Athens, Greece .  Board your overnight flight to Europe.

Day 2 - Sept 15, 2023:  Arrive Athens, Greece.  Arrive at the Athens airport and be met by our representative who will transfer you to the hotel. Enjoy an orientation tour of the city. Athens, the capital and largest city in Greece, dominates the Attica periphery. One of the world’s oldest cities, Athens is full of myths, mysteries, and legends. Steeped with a rich history that spans around 3,400 years, the city is home to many sacred ancient sites, monuments, and landmarks. A fusion of old and new, Athens is also a cosmopolitan metropolis buzzing with lively activity and vibrancy.  In the evening we will gather as a group in the Plaka district at the venerable Old Taverna, a local rooftop restaurant with a splendid view of the Acropolis. We will dine on delicious traditional Greek cuisine while admiring the beautiful views of ancient Athens. Overnight in Athens. (D)

Day 3 - Sept 16, 2023:  Tour of Athens:  After breakfast at the hotel, depart on a city sightseeing tour. From the Acropolis to Omonia Square, you'll see all the famous sites of ancient and modern Athens. Offering a perfect overview of the modern city, this guided tour will help you get your bearings if this is your first visit to Athens.  The Athens tour departs for a photo stop at Panathinaiko Stadium where the first Olympic Games took place in 1896. Proceed, passing by Zappeion and Temple of Olympian Zeus.  You will then drive past the Athens Trilogy which includes the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, and the National Library. Continue passing by National Garden, Hadrian's Arc, St. Paul's Church, Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown soldier, Schliemann's House (Numismatic Museum), Catholic Cathedral, Old Parliament, Constitution.  Square, Russian Orthodox Church, and finally ACROPOLIS. Continue the expert guided Athens sightseeing and Acropolis museum tour with a pleasant short walk passing by Herodion and Dionysos Theater, in order to visit the ACROPOLIS museum. Main attractions such as votives, statues from archaic period, Caryatids, and of course the Parthenon hall with the metopes, the pediments and the frieze will impress you.  Included lunch in Plaka the old quarters of the city followed by a walking tour of this quaint part of the city. (B, L)

Day 4 - Sept 17, 2023:  Optional full day tour to Delphi. After breakfast at the hotel, depart from our hotel for one day trip from Athens to Delphi to explore.  One of the most famous archaeological sites of Greece. Along the way, you will.  see the plain of Beotia, an agricultural center and you will also pass by the city of Theva, the birthplace of King Oedipus.  You will continue your Delphi day tour towards Mt. Parnassos, making a short rest stop outside the town of Levadia. You will drive then to DELPHI, known in ancient times as the navel of the world. Pass by Castalia Spring, visit at the archaeological site and view the monument of the Argive Kings, the treasury of the Athenians, the Athenian Stoa, the Polygonal Wall, the monument of Platea and  the Temple of Apollo famous for its oracle and Delphi museum, with its spectacular exhibits include the frieze of the Treasury of the Sifnians, the Naxian Sphinx, the Statue of Antinoos the metopes of the Athenian treasury, the famous bronze Charioteer, originally created to commemorate a victory during the 476 B.C. Pythian Games, and many other artifacts. After lunch on your own, return to Athens via the picturesque mountain village of Arachova, built on the south slopes of Parnassus, well known for its attractive hand-woven carpets, rugs and quilts, as well as for its Wine and cheese (short stop).(B)

Day 5 - Sept 18, 2023:  One day cruise to the Saronic islands of Aegina, Hydra and Poros.  At 8h15 the ship sails for the three beautiful islands of the Saronic Gulf. Within 2 hours, we will arrive to the island of Poros, the smallest of the three islands, separated from the Peloponnese by a narrow strait and offering a most enchanting view of Poros Town. Your time at leisure in Poros will be about 50 minutes. Immediately upon the ship’s departure from Poros, lunch will be served for passengers who have the first sitting. An hour and 15 minutes later, we enter the port of Hydra, whose amphitheater shape once served as a safe shelter for Saronic Pirates. You will have about 1 hour and 30 minutes at leisure to enjoy the unique charms of Hydra and while returning back on board you will receive a homecoming welcome.  Arrive to our last port of call, the island of Aegina. AEGINA is the largest of the three islands. Apart from its harbor there are numerous interesting sites to discover on the island. A "Traditional Greek Folk Show" with singers and dancers in original costumes will entertain you up to the final moment as the ship docks in Piraeus. Transfer to hotel. (B, L)

Day 6 - Sept 19, 2023:  Afternoon excursion to Cape Sounio, followed by dinner Kalyvia.  Cape Sounion is only 45 miles (70 kilometers) from Athens, making it the perfect lazy afternoon tour destination. The Cape's Temple of Poseidon is perched on a rocky hilltop overlooking the sea. The view across the Aegean is magnificent with one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the world, extending all the way to Kea and the Peloponnese on a clear day. The Temple of Poseidon was built in 44 B.C., and many of its original Doric columns are still standing. One of the columns has a graffiti left by none other than Lord Byron in the early 1800s. The precipice is a sheer 197-foot drop to the sea. On the way back to Athens, enjoy dinner at one of the famous tavernas at the village of Kalyvia. (B, D)

Day 7 - Sept 20, 2023  Departure.  After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home full of wonderful memories of your Greece Tour

*************

Call us for air pricing (all U.S. gateways available, optional Business - First class upgrades - adding extra nights to the above program).

The Ultimate 10-Day Greek Isles Island Hopping Itinerary – Where to Go in Greece

Alright, Jetsetters, there’s nothing quite like island hopping through the Greek Isles. Lately, I’ve been getting a ton of DM’s and questions on where to go in Greece for a honeymoon, an anniversary trip, a family trip, you name it. Which is why I wanted to write this post. The islands of Greece are popular for honeymooners, history buffs, families, and young collegiates alike! But with hundreds of islands to choose from, where do you even go first? From gorgeous white buildings built into the cliffs and breathtaking blue-domed churches that seem straight out of a storybook, to luxury hotels with infinity pools and all day beach parties, what’s the best Greece breakdown? Here is my perfect first-timer’s 10-day itinerary that hits all the major highlights of the Cyclades! Get ready for a bucket-list worthy trip!

Where to Go in Greece: The itinerary

Athens (1 day), santorini (3-4 days), paros or naxos (3 days), mykonos (2-3 days), day 1: athens.

The best international flights almost always run through Athens, however, you can fly directly into Santorini from several major cities, if you’d prefer. Still, Athens in my opinion is a must-see for a first-timer to Greece, so I like staying there for a night if you’ve never been. Once in Athens, you can get a reasonably priced flight into Santorini (only about 40 minutes), or take a ferry (5-8 hours). 

If you’re short on time, you can definitely head straight out to the islands. But if you have some time to spare or are particularly into history, there are many interesting archaeological sites worth seeing. The most famous of which is the Acropolis , and I would highly recommend the skip-the-line ticket if you are headed there! Other top points of interest in Athens are: The Temple of Zeus, the bustling central markets and grabbing food in Psirri Square!

Where to stay in Athens

If you’re looking for luxury Hotel Grande Bertagne would be my pick, for its location directly in the center of Athens. And for these views!

The Four Seasons Athens is the creme de la creme, if you want to be a little out of the city center, and if you’re not trying to break the bank or have a short stop-over go with the centrally-located, industrial-chic Ergon House!

Days 2-4: Santorini

Wearing this dress, one of my favs!

Santorini is a great mixture of romance, stunning views and adorable streets. When the word Santorini is mentioned, you probably envision beautiful white-washed buildings, the infamous windmills, and turquoise waters – but what you might not realize is that Santorini itself is actually a volcanic island. This makes for gorgeous volcanic beaches like The Red Sand Beach, as well as thermal hot springs!

If you want to get a good sense of the island in one-fell-swoop, consider booking a day cruise that will bring you to the hot springs, a few beaches and will also provide lunch!

If you’re into hiking and want incredible sweeping views of your surroundings, you can walk along a gorgeous and well-kept trail from Fira to Oia. The journey is around 6 miles but it allows you to explore four wonderful little villages (Fira, Firostefani, Imerovigli, and Oia), get breathtaking views along the caldera, and end with dramatic sunset views on Oia! If that sounds like a little too much you can always drive an ATV from village to village (my fav way to do it!)

Another MUST while you’re on Santorini is a wine tour or tasting! You can walk to wineries from Oia in only about 20 minutes! I  loved  spending the afternoon at Sigalas Winery, and highly recommend making the trip here during your Santorini vacation! I first heard about Sigalas at my favorite restaurant in  San Francisco , Kokkari. It’s a greek restaurant and every time I’m there I order Sigalas Winery’s Santorini white wine. So I just HAD to go in person! The wine is great, but the food is the real stealer of the show here. Order all of the wines to taste, and then the fava, and the tomato fritters to go with your wine, and thank me later.

Table of Contents

Where to stay in Santorini:

If you want to avoid the crowds, you’ll want to stay away from downtown Oia, but I highly recommend being walking distance to it if you’re going to be spending a lot of your time there (this is the heart of all the shopping, dining, and of course the instagrammable spots of Santorini with the blue-domed churches). 

Kirini Santorini is one of the Leading Hotels in the World, and it’s easy to see why. It’s only around 40 rooms, and feels like a complete oasis of its own, just 5 minutes outside of much-busier Oia. It’s completely secluded, private, and beautiful. The rooms are definitely the nicest I found in Santorini, with super-plush king sized beds and spacious cave-style suites.

Mystique Santorini is an absolute gem of a hotel, just 5 minutes walking from downtown Oia, but tucked away in a secluded paradise all its own (you can see it from Kirini, they’re in the same area). The pool, the food, the rooms, the views. 

Grace Hotel Santorini , an Auberge Resort, is easily one of the dreamiest places to stay in Santorini. Being in Imerovigli village, it has a panoramic view of the sunset (unlike Oia), and its tucked away location in Imerovigli makes it a much less crowded, more secluded choice for a hotel in Santorini (perfect for a honeymoon!).

Where to stay in Santorini for luxury on a budget:

Kima oia suites.

A sweet follower of mine highly recommended this gem of a hotel in Oia after staying here for her honeymoon and saying it was unbelievable!! The reviews are incredible and the location is absolutely IDEAL. The superior rooms have a jetted hot tub and a extremely spacious, romantic private balcony in the perfect location in Santorini – you can’t ask for anything better for a Greece honeymoon . 

Days 5-7: Naxos/Paros

Between Santorini and Mykonos lie two of the larger Cyclade islands: Naxos and Paros. They are a 2 hour ferry ride from Santorini and each have their own charm that makes them well worth a trip to.

If you’re looking for somewhere that feels quiet, peaceful, and somewhat undiscovered, Naxos is the spot for you! With its green rolling hills and mountains, small villages and numerous opportunities for hiking, this island is much more affordable and less crowded than the other Cyclades. Once you arrive you can rent a quad or a car and head for Naxos’ main town: Hora. There, you will see the island’s most iconic landmark: the Portara. It’s the only remains of a former temple dedicated to Apollo. Explore the traditional villages, fresh cuisine and secluded sandy beaches! For true seclusion, head out to Mikri Vigla Beach, Hawaii Beach or Aliko Beach, these are some of the quietest and most exotic beaches in all of Greece!

Where to stay on Naxos:  

Naxian on the Beach is a luxury boutique hotel that sits directly on the beautiful Plaka Beach, a short 15 minute drive to the main city of Naxos Town. All ten rooms have stunning oceanfront views and while the rooms are minimal, they include high end touches like steam showers and private outdoor sitting areas (some even have their own plunge pool). Breakfast (which is included in your room rate) is served in your room or in their delicious restaurant Tortuga just steps away from the beach. The Naxian has its own private daybeds for hotel guests directly on the beach where they can choose from an extensive list of over 100 different wines.

If you prefer your own private villa check out this luxury sea-front 4 bedroom , t his white-washed 3 Bedroom masterpiece or this 2-Bedroom penthouse with jacuzzi.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a bit more nightlife (not quite on the Mykonos level but getting there), go with Paros. Get your beach party fix at Punda beach. Or maybe the seaside village of Naoussa, for a chic and trendy seaside resort vibe. Wander the narrow washed alleyways dipping into shops or tavernas, or sit outside in the street and sip a coffee as you people watch. Paros is also incredible for water-sports, especially if you’re into windsurfing!

Where to stay in Paros

Parilio, a member of Design Hotels opened in August of 2019, and would be my pick hands down. A short 5-minute drive to the trendy town of Nassoua, the hotel exudes luxury with its modern architecture amidst the rolling landscape of Paros. An over the top breakfast (included in your rate), coupled with their beautiful pool and spa make it very hard to leave this resort. 

Summer Senses

Another incredible option is the Summer Senses , a beautiful 5-star hotel in the heart of Naoussa. With a minimalistic modern pool, traditional white-washed buildings and trendy beach themed rooms, you can’t go wrong.

If you prefer a romantic private villa, check out this gorgeous 2-bedroom!

Sennia in Naoussa

For a great value, this intimate hotel has only 12 -15 rooms and two nice infinity pools (one is an adult pool). Some of the rooms have gorgeous private pools. The location is ideal – it is a very close to walk into town for dinner and shopping and the breakfast buffet is included.

Days 8-10: Mykonos

Your final island-hopping destination will not disappoint. Just a 40 minute ferry ride from either Naxos or Paros, lies the jet-set island of Mykonos !

This matching couples vacation outfit is a must for Mykonos!

Boasting some of the most luxury hotels in all of Greece along with the most exclusive beach resorts and clubs. To top it all off, there are several picture perfect villages and the (in)famous windmills that you simply cannot miss. Spend your days soaking up the sun on a beach or wandering the narrow white-washed streets and shops. Make sure you catch a sunset at Little Venice, where the town meets the sea. It is the most romantic and artistic part of Mykonos, a perfect spot to end the day (or to get things started).

If day parties at luxurious beach clubs sound like the vibe you’re looking for, then you’re in the right place-head to Paradise Beach and Super Paradise beach. If, on the other-hand, you want a more relaxing beach day experience, you can head to Kalo Livadi, Elia, Ornos, and Lia. For a day of wine tasting at a local vineyard, check out Mykonos Vioma.

Jetset Tip: Mykonos is a small island, making parking hard to find. Car hire or the bus is easy here so save yourself some hassle (and money) and forgo the car rental here.

Where to stay in Mykonos

Probably the most well known luxury hotels in all of Mykonos, is the Cavo Tagoo cave hotel. This is where you want to go if it’s a honeymoon or special romantic getaway, it’s such a unique experience especially if you splurge on a Cave Pool room. If luxury is what you’re looking for, another great option is The Belvedere.

If you still want luxury but without the high price tag, consider Boheme Mykonos or go with a private villa on VRBO like this one .

On your last day schedule a ferry back to Athens. The ferry ride will take approximately a 2.5 hour ferry ride (on a fast boat, Seajets or Golden Star) to Athens. So plan accordingly depending on the time of your flight. Many people choose to spend their last night in Athens if they have an early flight the next day!

Enjoy your trip! Let me know any questions in the comments below! xx,

Check out these related blog posts:

What to pack for a trip to Greece – women’s outfit inspo for the Greek Isles

Mykonos travel guide

The best outfits for flying

The Best Bridal Party Kimonos for the Bride and Your Bridesmaids on the Wedding Day

The Ultimate Guide to The Road To Hana in Maui, Hawaii

WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Premium Greece in Depth

16 days | delight in the best of mainland greece and the cycladic islands.

Embark on a 16-day Premium journey exploring very the best of mainland Greece and the Cyclades. Whether it’s tracing a path through ancient ruins in Delphi, visiting secluded monasteries high in the Meteora Valley, or watching as the sun sets over the whitewashed buildings of Santorini, this is a country where the weight of history makes its presence felt. With plenty of opportunities to mingle with the locals, savour traditional Aegean cuisine and visit the acclaimed sites, this is a complete adventure into Greece’s sun-kissed heartland.

Trip overview

Our best 4-star accommodation and the highest level of service

All must-see locations plus authentic experiences exclusive to Premium

Trips led by our most experienced and highest-rated local leaders

• Step back in time as you travel with your local leader to the Athens Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Prodromos monastery, where you’ll enjoy a coffee with a local monk during a Premium Exclusive Experience.
• Understand the dazzling variety of Greek produce during Exclusive Experiences, including a kitron tasting at a local distillery in Naxos, meeting with a family of beekeepers in Itea and an afternoon of wine tasting in Santorini.
• Be amazed by the magical monasteries and ancient rock pinnacles of Meteora and learn about the natural and cultural history of one of Greece's most extraordinary sights.
• Learn the secrets of Greek cuisine in Naxos during an in-depth cooking class with a local, using organic ingredients from her garden to create regional specialties which you will then enjoy for lunch.
• Pickpocketing can be an issue in Athens, especially on public transport. If you keep your valuables concealed and secure while travelling on the metro or bus, you should have no problems.
• Summer temperatures in Greece can reach up to 40°C, so you will need to be able to cope with the heat if you're visiting during the warmer months. Please consider the time of year and your suitability to visiting during that season.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2024

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Your journey begins in Athens, Greece's storied capital. You’ll be collected from the airport by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. Then, you’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, there’s plenty to do and see, as you’re in one of the world's oldest cities! Maybe visit the Archaeological Museum of Athens to brush up on some history or go in search of the best souvlaki. After your meeting, head out for dinner with your group at one of Athens’ local restaurants and maybe toast the beginning of the adventure with a glass of raki or ouzo.

• Athenaeum Luxury Hotel or similar (1 night)
• Athens - Welcome Dinner at Local Restaurant
• Complimentary Arrival Transfer

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where and when the meeting will take place.

Today, you’ll get to know ancient Athens during visits to two of the city’s most famous sites. First, see the famous Acropolis – one of the Western world’s most important historical structures. Meet with an expert local guide who will provide profound insight into the history and legacy of the civilisations who lived in this ancient citadel. Start with an ascent to the top via the towering entrance, the Propylaia. When inside, you’ll see the Parthenon – the greatest Doric temple in the ancient world. Then, your leader will bring history to life as you visit the Temple of Olympian Zeus – the largest temple in all of Greece. Later in the afternoon, drive north to the town of Kalambaka, which sits at the base of the Meteora Mountains and when you arrive, have dinner at one of the local tavernas.

• Monastery Guesthouse or similar (1 night)
• Athens - Acropolis Archaeological Site Visit with Local Guide
• Athens - Visit to the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, travel into the hills to the incredible monasteries of Meteora. The ancient stone buildings, which sit precariously on soaring cliffs, make these mountains one of Greece's most extraordinary natural and cultural sites. Meet with a local guise and see the ruins of the Pantokrator Monastery, then carry on to two other monasteries, including Varlaam Monastery. Learn about the history of the area and how settlement dates back to the 11th century, when hermit monks first settled in the hidden caverns of Meteora. Then, you’ll head out on a hike through the lush forest and the huge rocks of Meteora with your leader by your side to answer questions on the landscape and the history behind it. You’ll then return to Kalambaka in the afternoon.

• Meteora - Hike & Monastery Visits with Local Guide

If you don’t wish to hike this afternoon, you can head back to Kalambaka for a free afternoon after touring the monasteries.

Have breakfast before travelling to Delphi this morning. When you arrive, visit the Delphi Museum and walk through the complex with a local guide to explore the Temple of Apollo – the most important building in the site. This is where statues and offerings to the gods were housed and where cult rituals took place. Continue to your overnight stop in Nafpaktos – this small, coastal town sits on glistening waters and is a relaxing place to explore and unwind.

• Nafs Hotel or similar (1 night)
• Delphi - Archaeological Site and Museum Visit with Local Guide

Your travel time today will be approximately 5.5 hours.

This morning, visit a family of local beekeepers to learn about honey production, see the beehives and of course taste some of the delicious local honey. Next, drive on to the archaeological site of ancient Olympia – a complex that once comprised temples and public buildings and was the site of the first Olympic Games. When you arrive, tour leader will show you the main stadium, gymnasium, wrestling school, priest houses, Temple of Hera, Temple of Zeus and the hippodrome. Visit the local museum with your local guide to brush up on the history and take a break from the heat. Continue to the medieval village of Dimitsana – home to your Feature Stay accommodation for the next two nights, Mikri Arktos Boutique Hotel. A stone building, your hotel sits in the middle of town and boasts a terrace, a dining area and a warm atmosphere.

• Mikri Arktos Boutique Hotel (feature stay) or similar (1 night)
• Olympia - Archaeological Site and Museum Visit with Local Guide
• Nafpakos - Beekeeping Experience & Honey Tasting

Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.

Today, join your local guide for an exploration of the central part of the Peloponnese peninsula and the spectacular Lousios Valley. Walk deep into the valley to the incredible working monastery of Prodromos. This wood and clay structure has stellar views over the valley below and was built into a rock face. Get a look into the lives of the local monks as they show you around their home and offer you a coffee or the local specialty, the Greek delight. See the splendid 14th-century frescoes decorating the rock walls inside the chapel. Then, visit the tenth-century Byzantine monastery of Philosophou. Learn how this monastery was the base for a secret school known as 'Kryfo Scholio', which was run by monks during Ottoman rule to teach Greek children their own language and religion. Later, visit the medieval village of Stemnitsa – known for its silversmiths – and Zigovisti for a traditional lunch before returning to Dimitsana for the afternoon.

• Central Arcadia - Lousios Valley Hike with Local Guide
• Central Arcadia - Philosophou Monestary Visit
• Central Arcadia - Prodromos Monastery Visit with Coffee & Greek Delight

Your walking time today will be approximately 3 hours or 7 km.

The roads in Central Arcadia are very windy. You might want to consider taking medication if you are prone to motion sickness.

This morning, visit the Mycenae archaeological site – a UNESCO World Heritage site, these ruins represent the most important cities of the Mycenaean civilisation. Then, drive to the seaside town of Nafplion (Nafplio) – the original Greek capital. Maybe head to one of the town's three fortresses or the seaside promenade. Before heading to Athens, stop for a tasting of Greece’s most celebrated drink – ouzo. A taste of this anise-infused alcohol will take you straight to the heart of Greek culture. Chat to the experts and learn how Greece’s national drink is made, then take some time to explore Nafplion at your own pace. Arrive in Athens in the late afternoon for a free evening. Maybe head out with your group for an optional farewell dinner at a local restaurant and cheers to beautiful adventure.

• Nafplion - Ouzo Tasting
• Mycenae - Archaeological site with guide

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Your adventure begins in Athens, Greece’s capital. There’s a lot to experience in this ancient city, so arriving a few days early is highly recommended. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel, where you’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, you might like to visit Athens’ iconic Acropolis or walk around the National Garden. After your meeting, get a taste of Greece’s celebrated cuisine during dinner with your group at a local restaurant in the vibrant Psiri neighbourhood.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

This morning, you’ll be transported to Athens' port at Piraeus, where you’ll board a ferry to Paros – a beautiful and relaxed island with a layered history. Ferries are a great way to travel between the islands and are essential to many remote islands in Greece's archipelagos. In the afternoon, get to know Paros during an island tour with a local guide. Start off in Parikia, the island’s main town, where you’ll visit the Ekatontapiliani church, also known as the Church of a Hundred Doors. Drive through the island’s mainland, passing by ancient marble quarries, then stop off at the village of Lefkes. Take some time to explore the village surrounded by verdant hills, olive and pine trees, then call into a cultural centre in Marpissa to learn about island life from a group of local women. Carry on to Naoussa – a village known for its whitewashed alleys, Venetian castle and scenic port.

• Hill Mill Paros Hotel or similar (1 night)
• Paros - Highlights of Paros Half Day Island Tour with Local Guide

Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

The day is yours to uncover more of Paros’ charms. There’s certainly no shortage of things to see and do on the island. You might like to take a guided morning hike along the coast – starting off at a fishing village and weaving through some of the island’s best beaches. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to visit the nearby island of Antiparos – a favourite secret holiday spot for royals and celebrities. Or maybe you’d like to spend the day relaxing on one of Paros’ many beaches, cooling off with dips in Aegean Sea. Speak to your leader for more information about the activities on offer today and for tips on how to make the most of this island.

Say goodbye to Paros this morning and catch a short ferry to Naxos. The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos has something for everyone – from beaches to an Old Town and hundreds of years of Venetian history. Take some time to settle in, then regroup in the late afternoon to learn about the town. Visit the Portara with a local guide – the giant marble doorway is the only remaining part of an unfinished temple of Apollo from 530 BC. Naxos is unique in the fact that it is the Cyclades’ only self-sufficient island, meaning all produce is grown and available on the island without imports. Because of this, the cuisine is hyperlocal and differs to the rest of the country. Try it for yourself this evening during a group dinner, where you will learn all about the regional specialties.

• Naxos Princess or similar (1 night)
• Naxos - Old Town Walk & Portara Visit

Drive to Eggares – a small farming village set in the region that produces most of the island’s produce. Learn about the importance of olive oil to Greek culture during a guided tour of an olive oil press museum. After your visit, you’ll put your new knowledge to good use as you travel to the nearby village of Galini for a hands-on cooking class. Meet with a local who will share her culinary knowledge with the group, leaving you with recipes you can cook up at home. First, collect fresh ingredients from your host’s organic garden and learn about cultivation and farming on Naxos. Then put the ingredients together to create a Naxian dish from scratch, enjoying the fruits of your labour for lunch. Pair your lunch with a tasting of local kitron. This citron liqueur, with a history stretching back to the 19th century and produced exclusively on Naxos, offers a taste of the island’s culture.

• Naxos - Cooking Class at a Local Home
• Naxos - Eggares Olive Oil Press

Today is free to explore more of Naxos as you wish. You may like to head to one of the island’s beaches or discover more of its history at a local museum. The Archaeological Museum of Naxos in Chora Naxos dates back to the 17th century and houses artefacts from the Neolithic to the early Christian periods, and the Geological Museum of Apeiranthos digs up the natural history of the island. If you’re after a sweet treat, walnut cake flavoured with local kitron is an excellent regional specialty. Your leader will be on hand to help tailor a day that suits your interests.

Depart Naxos in the morning and catch a ferry to Santorini. When you arrive in Santorini's capital, Fira, you’ll be met and transferred to your Feature Stay hotel – a whitewashed building in traditional Cycladic style, El Greco Resort wraps around the year-round swimming pool. Featuring modern, spacious rooms, this hotel also sits in a prime location for exploring Santorini. It’s only a short walk from the Archaeological Museum of Thera, so perhaps head there to learn about how previous civilisations lived on the island. Tonight, make sure you catch Santorini's world-famous sunset.

• El Greco Resort Hotel (Feature Stay) or similar (1 night)

Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

In the morning, embark on a hike along Santorini’s legendary caldera. The island you see today is what remains from a huge volcanic explosion that destroyed the early settlements and created a geographical caldera. The natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place. Your walk will take you along the north-western rim of the caldera, passing steep cliff faces and amazing views along the way. The walk ends in the town of Oia, built on a steep slope inside Santorini’s volcanic caldera. Famous not only for its scenery, Santorini’s microclimate and volcanic soil make it a top spot for wine production. Sip your way around the island with two special stops – the Symposium Cultural Centre, where you’ll learn about Greek wine and try it in traditional cups, and a family-run winery, where you’ll discover more about the history of wine production and taste the different varieties yourself.

• Santorini - Caldera Hike
• Santorini - Winery visit
• Santorini - Mythology and Wine experience
• Santorini - Thira Prehistoric Museum - EUR6
• Santorini – Black Sand Beach Umbrella and Sun Bed Rental - EUR75

Your walking time today will be approximately 3 to 5 hours or 12 km. The surface varies between gravel and loose volcanic scree. There are several uphill and downhill sections, and there are no shade or toilet facilities along the route.

In summer the leader may decide to start the hike as the sun rises to avoid the day's heat. Therefore, you may need to organise a takeaway breakfast, as the hotel will not serve breakfast this early. Please speak to your leader for more details if you have any concerns. As an alternative to the hike, you can take a taxi to Oia and meet up with the rest of the group there or enjoy a beach day.

Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you want to spend some more time in Santorini, just speak to your booking agent to organise additional accommodation.

14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners

Private vehicle, Ferry, Taxi

Hotel (11 nights), Feature stay (4 nights)

• Arrival airport transfer
• Tipping for accommodation, activities and transport
• Luggage transfer
• Daily breakfast and signature local meal experiences
• 24/7 on-ground support

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel. 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. There are a limited number of single supplements available per trip departure. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Crete Holidays

Holidays in crete.

For an unforgettable holiday with a fabulous Greek flavour, the charming island of Crete has it all. The largest island of Greece is a favourite with holidaymakers and it's not hard to see why. Crete holidays offer a fantastic range of things to do, whether you love full-on getaways with adventure-packed days, or laid-back beach breaks.

The gorgeous Mediterranean climate is one of the reasons why Crete holidays are so popular. Spending time on one of the picturesque sandy beaches is the perfect way to enjoy the blissfully warm summer temperatures of 26°C. The hard part is choosing which beach! Balos beach on Crete’s west coast is breathtakingly beautiful and a real favourite, while Matala in the south is full of character thanks to its mosaic-like cliffs and enchanting caves.

If you want a break from sunbathing, get involved in the beach watersports such as scuba diving, water skiing and windsurfing. To see Crete from a different perspective, take an exciting boat trip around the island, hike up the rocky terrain, or perhaps a wine tasting excursion will be more your style! To enjoy the local culture on your holiday to Crete, visit the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion, or for a unique experience, head out to the iconic Samaria Gorge National Park to admire the beautiful White Mountains.

But which resort will you choose on your Crete holiday? Among the most popular resorts are Agios Nikolaos, Elounda, Hersonissos, Malia and Rethymnon. The port of Agios Nikolaos is one of the most photographed parts of Crete and is filled with chic cafes, bars and restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Greek cuisine.

Elounda has everything you could possibly wish for on a chilled Crete holiday, yet there are a wide range of activities to get involved in, from boat excursions to sunbathing on the beautiful sandy beach. Then there's the famously lively resort of Malia which has so much more to offer than just a thriving nightlife - soak up the sun on the white sandy beach, or visit the Old Town if you fancy embracing the local culture.

Here at Hays Travel we have over 40 years of experience in booking unforgettable trips, and we offer a wide range of holidays to Greece and the Greek Islands, so there's something for every kind of holidaymaker. We have also been voted the UK’s Best High Street Travel Agent, and great value and customer service are our specialty - so why not speak to a member of our team to start planning your perfect Crete holiday!

Travel guide

Like any Greek island, holidays in Crete start with the beaches and with water based activities such as windsurfing, water skiing, boat trips and scuba diving. Make the most of the rugged terrain and stunning scenery with walking, horse riding, cycling or a Jeep safari. Sample the local wines on a wine tasting excursion. 

• Currency: Euro
• Average temp: 22°C/72°F
• Average flight time: 4 Hours
• Time Difference: +2 hours
• Most suited for: Families, Couples

Latest Crete Holiday Offers

• • Crete

Vasia Resort and Spa

Includes a saving of £50

£649 pp

TUI BLUE Insula Alba

Includes a saving of £340

£669 pp

Sunrise Apartments

Includes a saving of £20

£599 pp

Anastasia Hotel

Great Location

£579 pp

Abaton Island Resort & Spa

Includes a saving of £120

£1,299 pp

Miramare Resort & Spa

Beach front location

£659 pp

Asterias Village

£529 pp

Silva Beach

Includes a saving of £100

Rimondi Grand Resort & Spa

£60pp Deposit

£559 pp

Petra Village

views of the picturesque harbour

£249 pp

Crete Weather

Average monthly temperature in Crete (°C)

• Jan 15 °C
• Feb 15 °C
• Mar 17 °C
• Apr 20 °C
• May 24 °C
• Jun 27 °C
• Jul 29 °C
• Aug 29 °C
• Sep 27 °C
• Oct 24 °C
• Nov 20 °C
• Dec 17 °C

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New Luxury Vegan Hotel to Open in Rhodes, Greece in 2025

From the team behind Goji Vegan Hotel, the eco-chic Açai Hotel is set to open next year.

Tammie Ortlieb / Sep 13, 2024

Courtesy of Açai Hotel

Located on the island of Rhodes, Greece, just minutes from the iconic Old Town, Açai Hotel plans a summer 2025 launch. Indulge in the hotel’s 100% plant-based cuisine. Then, walk to shops, sandy beaches, and historic structures! The sustainable luxury hotel is the perfect spot for a honeymoon destination , solo getaway, or small team-building adventure. So, if you’re looking for a vegan hotel in Greece, read on.

New Luxury Vegan Hotel Opens in Europe

Açai is the sister hotel of Rhodes’ family-owned and operated Goji Vegan Hotel . The two are among some of the top vegan-friendly hotels in Europe . The new vegan spot promises eco-chic comfort with a planet-friendly design. Plus, suites offer free wi-fi, fully-equipped kitchenettes, and more. Choose from junior suites, garden views, jacuzzi options, and beyond. So, get started with your planning! Personalize your European vacation experience with the array of options at this new luxury vegan hotel in Europe.

Greek Hospitality and Sustainability

If you are looking for Greek hospitality and sustainability , then Açai is the place to go. The hotel’s owner, Giannis Xanthis, has incorporated an eco-friendly 100% plant-based diet into the resort’s menu. In addition, Açai utilizes solar panels and various waste-reduction methods. You will also find sustainable all-vegan bath products in the suites. All these sustainable measures come with the hospitality established through Xanthis’ flagship property, Goji Vegan Hotel.

The Açai Restaurant

But sustainability isn’t all you will find at this luxury vegan hotel in Rhodes, Greece. Get ready for some authentic Greek cuisine with a contemporary twist! The eco-friendly hotel hosts The Açai Restaurant, a 100% plant-based dining experience. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and led by Giorgos Kliafas, the spot is the only exclusive plant-based restaurant on the island of Rhodes, Greece. And like the rest of the resort, the kitchen prioritizes sustainability. From composting practices to eco-friendly packaging, your dining experience will be as kind to the earth as it is delicious.

For more information on this new luxury vegan hotel in Rhodes, Greece, visit AcaiRhodes.com .

Tammie Ortlieb

@tammieortlieb

Tammie has been with VegOut since its inception. Managing Editor and Maggie’s mom, she’s a former psychology professor who packed up her life and moved across the country from Michigan to California to follow a dream. Indie author, Mother Teresa-wannabe, and vegan for 18 years, she’s a big dreamer with a master’s degree in Developmental Psychology and an educational focus on well-being and thriving. When she’s not working through hyphens and commas, you’ll find her strategizing how to right the inequities of the world.

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