Family Adventure to Greece
Trip highlights
- Dive into the world of ancient Athens and Greek mythology
- Discover the mighty Knossos, the capital of Minoan Crete
- Sail through the Elounda Gulf on a private boat
- Explore the idyllic island of Paros
- Sail through crystal clear waters that make up the 'Small Cyclades'
-
A viewpoint on Acropolis hill with views to Athens
-
Building on the tiny island of Spinalonga
-
Sailing boats on azure waters of the Aegean Sea
-
An evening of twinkling lights on the island of Paros
-
One of the 'Small Cyclades' islands
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Private transfers
- Private tours and experiences
- Full support from your travel designer and concierge
- Help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
- Days 1–3 Athens
- Days 3–6 Crete
- Days 6–10 Paros
- Days 1–3 Athens
- Days 3–6 Crete
- Days 6–10 Paros
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
Two nights in Athens
There are few places where the past comes to life in quite the same way as in Athens. Often referred to as the cradle of western civilization, it’s a city bursting at the seams with culture, intrigue, and beauty. It’s not just a place for history buffs, it’s also one of the liveliest European capitals. The thriving culture means that there’s plenty to keep everyone amused between all the sightseeing. Learn about some of the greatest myths and legends in the world, in the place they came from.
Where you could stay
Athens
Overview
Located moments from Constitution Square and within walking distance to the city’s main attractions, the NEW Hotel provides one of Athens’ most modern lodgings with playfully cutting edge design in a place otherwise synonymous for antiquity.
There are 79 rooms and suites, all of which feature their own art installation and surrealist custom furniture, as well as comprehensive soundproofing, fine beds and blackout blinds. The Penthouse Suite is particularly noteworthy for its fine views to the Acropolis.
The rest of the hotel is strewn with bold design features and art, some made with remnants of the original hotel that once occupied the 50s modernist building, with the restaurant perhaps the most striking space. Open from breakfast until midnight, it serves new takes on Mediterranean cuisine, and oven-fresh bread and pastries from the bakery. There’s also a fabulous rooftop lounge, a bar and wellness area with a gym and spa.
→ Find out moreAthens
Highlights
- 320 rooms and suites
- Winter Garden restaurant
- Rooftop pool and bar
- Spa and fitness centre
- Indoor pool
Overview
The hotel was built in 1874 and is full of old-world charm. Each of its 320 rooms and suites are beautifully styled, with antique furnishings, chandeliers and traditional tiled floors.
With such spectacular views, you’ll want to head up to the rooftop pool and bar. Seeing the Acropolis illuminated at night is a truly spectacular sight so make sure you try one of their signature cocktails and enjoy the sparkling lights of the city.
There’s also plenty to draw you inside, including the bright and airy Winter Garden Lounge, an extension of the hotel’s beautiful lobby. The cellar is filled with over 3,000 bottles of wine and it’s well worth enjoying a drink at Alexander’s Bar which features an original 19th-centuty tapestry depicting Alexander the Great entering Gaugamela.
For when you need to relax and unwind, make a beeline for the spa and fitness centre, complete with indoor pool.
→ Find out more
The impact of your stay:
- City hotels, like the Hotel Grande Bretagne in Athens, serve as custodians of rich heritage, actively preserving a significant neoclassical building with a history dating back to 1842. Through dedicated efforts in conservation and restoration, the hotel ensures the enduring legacy of cultural heritage within its walls.
- Conducting a comprehensive plastic audit, the hotel addresses common sources of plastic waste with clear reduction targets. Initiatives include filtered water stations, replacing plastic straws with reusable alternatives, and collaborating with sustainable suppliers. The commitment extends to green cleaning practices, using non-toxic or plant-based solutions, and employing energy-efficient equipment. Recycling is prioritised with clearly labelled bins, complemented by staff and guest education on proper waste sorting.
- The hotel actively engages its staff in a wide range of local fundraisers, aligning with a robust commitment to community support. These initiatives include regular fundraising activities with various local charities, donation drives for clothing and books, weekly food donations to support the homeless and socially vulnerable groups, and regular contributions to local orphanages.
Athens
Overview
In a fine location in the centre of Athens, the 1930s King George Hotel is an updated classic.
There are 102 spacious rooms and suites, topped of on the ninth floor with the sprawling Penthouse and its incredible private rooftop pool with views out over the city to the Acropolis.
This vista can also be enjoyed from the Tudor Hall Restaurant, a grand venue which serves authentic Greek seasonal dishes with a modern twist.
As well as the ancient wonders of Acropolis, other famous sites and sights within walking distance include the Agora, Plaka district and Thissio neighbourhood, as well as many upmarket boutiques, world-renowned museums, and the city’s vibrant business district.
→ Find out more
Make it mine
In the city
Out of the city
An Athens mythology tour
Dive into the marvellous world of ancient Athens with a full-day experience with your expert private guide. Children will receive an interactive archaeological pack to help uncover stories from Greek mythology, decoding the hidden messages within the artefacts they left behind at the Acropolis, majestic temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora. Pay a visit to the Acropolis Museum, ingeniously designed to explain the importance of the exhibition through fun activities.
A farm experience outside Athens
During this experience, you’ll head to a farm located 45 minutes drive from Athens, in a rural area full of vines and growing fields, showcasing the best of the surrounding natural landscapes. Your day will start with cooking in the on-site open kitchen, as you enjoy a delicious BBQ. There are a number of activities you can partake in here at the farm, ranging from guided walks and animal encounters, to cocktail-making lessons and olive oil tasting.
Three nights on the Island of Crete
The village of Plaka is located in Mirabello Bay, opposite the island of Spinalonga on Crete‘s north east coast. This area boasts a charming collection of family-run restaurants, making it a lovely place to come and enjoy great food and the relaxed atmosphere of a Cretan fishing village.
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands with a rich ancient history, large towns along with areas of completely natural beauty. It’s often mentioned as one of the best family destinations, simply due to its huge variation of landscapes and activities, family friendly beaches and coves and welcoming atmosphere.
Where you could stay
Crete
Highlights
- 251 rooms, suites and villas
- Six dining venues
- Private beach access and beach club
- State-of-the-art spa
- Diving and water sports center
- Kids club
- Fitness centre
- Private cruises on a motoryacht or on a traditional caique
- Golf
- Tennis
Overview
A short walk from the authentic fishing village of Plaka on Crete’s north east coast, Blue Palace is a large luxury resort with everything you could hope for on a relaxing Grecian break by the sea.
A collection of 251 rooms, suites and villas sprawl down the hillside to the private pebble beach, enjoying views out to the historic island of Spinalonga. These range from rooms with balconies to those with private pools, two-roomed set ups ideal for families, and a collection of secluded villas.
There are six dining options, including a traditional Greek taverna for relaxed local fair, a smarter Asian restaurant and a steak house, linked by their chefs’ sourcing of the best regional produce. A collection of bars make the most of the views and the Isola Beach Club is a hip setting day and night.
The spa has 24 treatment rooms, state of the art facilities and a plethora of treatments available, while the Diving and Water Sports Centre is your hub for activities such as scuba lessons, snorkelling and wake boarding. Cruises aboard the motor yacht or traditional wooden caique are another great way to spend time at sea and young ones are kept more than entertained at the kids club.
→ Find out more
Make it mine
Island discovery
Luxury sailing
A private cruise and tour at Spinalonga island
The island of Spinalonga, in the Gulf of Elounda was originally a peninsula of Crete but during Venetian occupation in the 16th century the island was carved out of the coast for defence purposes and a fort was built there. The island was used as a leper colony until as late as 1957 and today it is uninhabited yet remains a popular tourist attraction and has appeared in numerous novels, television series, and a short film.
Exclusive private sailing in the Elounda Gulf
Enjoy a day out in the Cretan sea onboard your luxury catamaran sailing yacht. Relax on the deck, enjoy the sea breeze and scenery as you explore the coast of Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Plaka, sailing by the islet of Spinalonga, Kolokytha beach and some beautiful hidden coves. The exact route is decided by your skipper depending on weather conditions. You will be in good hands as you soak in the sun, snorkel and swim in crystal waters.
Four nights in Paros
Enjoy some time on the beautiful island of Paros, where clusters of white cubic houses are surrounded by sparkling turquoise waters. This is the perfect place to kick back and relax, exploring the glistening waters and idyllic coves and beaches.
While on Paros meet with an expert guide to discover ancient history, fascinating culture and delicious cuisine. Start an island tour in Parikia, the capital of the island and visit Ekatontapiliani church, an archeological museum which is home to the amazing statue of Medusa, the markets of Parikia, Kastro (Venetian fort) and then onto Naousa, the cosmopolitan village of the island. Then, head into the verdant and peaceful mountain scenery of Lefkes, the ancient capital of the island. Soak up the atmosphere in small villages and be sure to taste Greek coffee and homemade traditional ‘spoon sweet’.
Where to stay
Paros
Highlights
- 33 suites
- Restaurant
- Pool bar
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- Gym
Overview
Defined by striking yet traditional Cycladic architecture, and showcasing contemporary Greek design pieces which blend with artistic features from leading European designers, Parilio is a hotel of the utmost style and sophistication. Enjoying a wonderful location close to the beach, the hotel puts guests on the doorstep of what is recognised as ‘quintessentially Paros’, with the likes of secluded, pine-fringed coves and charming white-washed fishing villages within easy reach.
Themed by a soothing colour palette, natural materials and pieces of local art, as well as enjoying plenty of space, light and authentic character, the hotel’s 33 suites provide wonderful spaces in which to relax and feel at home during an escape to Paros. The suites differ in their offerings, with some enjoying wonderful features such as separate living areas and even private plunge pools or private swimming pools.
There are countless avenues for relaxation and rejuvenation during a stay at Parilio, and not solely through its proximity to the beach and the blissful natural surroundings of the island. The inviting and sleek sunloungers surround a delightful pool, where you can enjoy a refreshing afternoon soak or perhaps a cocktail from the poolside bar, while a magnificent Asian-styled spa offers a range of soothing treatments. Dining is also a rewarding experience here, with the hotel’s restaurant, Mr E, serving up seasonal Greek and Mediterranean fare in a light-filled space with huge arched windows.
→ Find out more
Make it mine
Get active
Go sailing
Hike, swim and cycle around Paros
Today you’ll get to admire spectacular coastal landscapes, explore awe-inspiring rock formations and swim at idyllic beaches. Led by an expert guide you’ll cover around 30 kilometres by bike and on foot from the Bay of Kolymbithres to Agios Ioannis Detis peninsula. You’ll climb Koukounaries Hill to discover the prehistoric Mycenaean Acropolis and at the beach you’ll find a small 17th-century monastery, and finally a 19th-century lighthouse at the rugged Cape Korakas.
Small Cyclades cruise
Board your luxury rib boat, meet your experienced crew and set off to explore the small island complex of Koufonisia, also known as the ‘Small Cyclades’; Iraklia, Schinoussa, Ano, Kato, Koufonissi and Donoussa. Home to breathtaking bays and sparkling waters. Everyone has their favourite here; Iraklia is known for its laid-back vibes, Schinoussa is rarely visited and so remains remote and natural, Koufonisia is known for its beaches and Donoussa for its scenic walks.
Start planning
your adventure
How it works
- Simply click ‘Start Planning’ or give us a call.
- We’ll get in touch within 24 hours and work with you to perfect the details of your trip.
- Sit back and relax while we plan a bespoke itinerary for you.
Why book with Jacada
Pesonalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
