Crete and the Cyclades

This morning you will be collected from your hotel for your half-day coach tour of Athens and the new Acropolis Museum.

This tour gives you an opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Your expert guide will take you to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first Olympic Games of modern times were held in 1896 (short stop). Continue and pass by the Prime Minister’s residence (ex Royal Palace) guarded by the Evzones in their colorful uniform, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian’s Arch, the Parliament and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma).

On the Acropolis visit the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally “the harmony between material and spirit”, the monument that “puts order in the mind”, the Parthenon. Continue and visit the place where at last the statues found their home and admire the wonders of the classical era: The new Acropolis Museum. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight Athens.

Note: Due to certain restrictions in the visiting hours of the new Acropolis Museum the order of the program can be changed. Entrance fees included. Tour pick-up time from hotel should be confirmed with our local operator, usually the day prior. This tour does not operate during Greek National Holidays.

This morning you will be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your flight to Chania, Crete (flight not included in tour cost). On arrival at Chania Airport, collect your Group B Rental car and make your way to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for three nights. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Chania, located on the northwestern coast of Crete, is a picturesque city known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. Its charming Old Town features a blend of Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architectural influences, with narrow cobblestone streets leading to a vibrant harbour lined with cafes and shops. Surrounding Chania, the beautiful beaches and rugged mountains offer ample opportunities for outdoor activities, while the local cuisine, renowned for its fresh ingredients and traditional flavours, invites visitors to indulge in the tastes of Crete. Whether exploring ancient ruins or relaxing by the sea, Chania captivates with its unique blend of culture and natural beauty

Important Note:
The standard of the rental vehicles in Crete is generally lower than that of Central Europe and New Zealand. These cars are late model manual vehicles as opposed to new cars. They are well serviced, and reliable. Automatic vehicles can be requested, a surcharge applies. It is common practice that the car is delivered with a non-full (and quite often almost empty) tank. Make sure you fill in your tank before leaving town. At the end of our tour the car is expected to be returned with a similar level of fuel as when first delivered.

Two days at leisure to explore Chania and its region. With options ranging from jeep safaris, hiking, the national football museum, archaeological sites and the WWII War Cemetery, the Chania area is full of interesting options to keep you busy. Alternatively, you may like to just while away the hours on one of the many beautiful beaches.

Drive through small villages to Rethymnon where accommodation is reserved for one night. Spend the remainder of the day discovering the old town, the old Venetian harbour, the Venetian Fortezza (historic fortress with panoramic views). Alternatively, you might like to visit the Preveli Monastery. The original monastery, dedicated to John the Baptist, was destroyed by German forces during WWII when it was discovered to have sheltered Australian soldiers prior to their dramatic escape from the island by submarine. Overnight Rethymnon.

Depart for Heraklion where accommodation is reserved for two nights.  

Today we suggest a visit to the ruins of the Palace of Knossos. These ruins, rediscovered in the early 20th century, were the heart of the Minoan civilisation. Very little is known of these people, in fact the name “Minoan” was given them by the archaeologist who rediscovered the site. Upon seeing the various bull frescoes, it was claimed that this was the legendary city of King Minos, home of the Minotaur and its labyrinth. South of Knossos, at the foot of Juchtas Mountain (the mountain range resembles the face of a sleeping man, thus called “Sleeping Zeus”), is the village of Archanes, well known since the Minoan period for its vineyards. In the village there are beautiful restored Turkish houses.

Gain further insight into the Minoan civilisation back in Heraklion with a visit to the Archaeological Museum with its important finds from the Minoan period and the Cathedral of St. Minas, protector of the city.

Day at leisure to further explore the area. Overnight Heraklion.

This morning drive to Heraklion harbour to return your rental car then embark on a high-speed ferry to Santorini. After disembarking in Santorini you will be transferred to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for two nights.

No other place in the world resembles this unique Cycladic Island, believed by some to be the legendary lost continent of Atlantis which was swallowed by the sea when the volcano erupted. Santorini is known worldwide for its unique views and colourful sunsets.

Day at leisure to explore this beautiful island.  
The island of Santorini was created by the eruption of a super volcano called Thera in ancient antiquity. This eruption has been estimated to have ejected 100 cubic kilometres of material, making it one of the four most powerful eruptions of historic times. The concentric shaped islands that remain have created one of the most perfect natural harbours in the world, so it is no surprise that water activities are so popular here. Whether partaking a sailing charter, relaxing on a beach, or taking advantage of the many spectacular viewpoints, Santorini is a delightful location to enjoy the Mediterranean. Famed for the beautiful sunsets, be sure to find a good vantage point as the day winds down.

Today you will embark on a high-speed ferry to Paros. After disembarking in Paros you will be transferred to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for two nights. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day at leisure to explore the island of Paros.  
Paros, a stunning island in the heart of the Cyclades, Greece, is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. With its beautiful beaches Paros offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can explore traditional villages like Lefkes and enjoy vibrant nightlife in Naoussa. Whether you’re seeking cultural experiences, outdoor activities, or simply soaking up the sun, Paros is a captivating destination that embodies the essence of the Aegean.

This morning you will be transferred to Paros harbour. Commence your own arrangements.

• 24/7 local operator support in Greece
• 12 nights’ hotel accommodation
• Breakfast daily at hotels
• Arrival and departure transfers in Athens, Santorini and Paros on a private basis
• 6 days car rental (Cat B car) on Crete, Pickup Chania Airport/Drop Off Heraklion Port
• High speed Economy Class ferry tickets Heraklion-Santorini-Paros
• Athens sightseeing with Acropolis and Acropolis Museum (coach tour with English-speaking guide, entrance fees included)
• Greece Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel

• International airfares
• Government Climate Crisis Resilience Tax – to be paid directly to the hotel on check-out (ranges from EUR3-EUR15 – rates subject to change without notice)
• Domestic airfare Athens-Chania
• Optional tours and excursions
• Porterage
• Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
• Personal Expenses
• Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
• Visas (unless specified)
• Travel Insurance (compulsory)
• Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above