Make Memories in Athens, Crete and Paros
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
Itinerary highlights
-
Dive into the world of ancient Athens and uncover 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 and discover the picture perfect islands that make up the 'Small Cyclades'
What's included
-
Luxury accommodation throughout
-
Private transfers and internal flights
-
Private tours and experiences perfect for families
-
Full support from your travel designer and concierge before, during and after your trip
-
Our help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
-
Expert guides in each destination
At a glance
Greece is a wonderful destination for families and we’ve handpicked our favourite experiences that will surprise and delight everyone from kids to grandparents. Your ten-day adventure starts in Athens, where you’ll delve into the country’s ancient history, learning about myths and legends as you explore the Acropolis, the temple of Olympian Zeus and the Ancient Agora.
A short flight will bring you to Crete, your island home for the next three nights. En route to your hotel, you’ll stop at Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island. It was once the seat of the legendary King Minos and its palaces are really something to behold. You’ll be based at the beautiful Blue Palace hotel near the village of Plaka, and it has everything you need for a few days of relaxation.
As well as having time to yourselves, you’ll have the opportunity to get out and explore with a cruise around the Elounda Gulf aboard your own private catamaran.
Your final stop will be the beautiful island of Paros. It has many of the same charms as other islands – low-lying white houses and blue domed churches – but it is much quieter than some of its neighbours. As well as exploring the island itself, you’ll head out to discover the ‘Small Cyclades’, a collection of five virtually uninhabited islands. They are all beautiful in their own right and offer a chance to see a side of Greece not many get to explore.
Example trip itinerary
Athens
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Athens
Accommodation in Athens
- 79 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Rooftop lounge
- Spa
- Gym
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.
- 320 rooms and suites
- Winter Garden restaurant
- Rooftop pool and bar
- Spa and fitness centre
- Indoor pool
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.
- 102 rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Gym
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.


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 civilisation, it’s a city bursting at the seams with culture, intrigue, and beauty. It’s not just a place for history buffs, however, 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.

Dive into the marvellous world of ancient Athens with a full-day experience at the world-famous sights the city has to offer.Children under 12 will receive an interactive archaeological pack to help uncover stories from Greek mythology as you explore the magical Acropolis and other landmarks. You'll explore the private and public lives of ancient Athenians by decoding the hidden messages within the artifacts they left behind. You'll also visit the majestic temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora and the Acropolis Museum. The museum tour is ingeniously designed to explain the true importance of the objects on exhibit through fun and interactive activities. Together with your private guide, you will make this journey through Greek mythology, including the actual historical events behind the myths, the social and political setting that gave these stories their meaning and the relevance they bear today.

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 live 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.
Transfer
Private transfer to Athens airport
Flight
Flight from Athens to Crete


A short distance south of the modern port town of Heraklion, Knossos was the capital of Minoan Crete. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and, with the first settlement dating back to 7000 BC, contender for Europe's oldest city. The 4000-year-old palaces are grander, more complex, and more flamboyant than any of their contemporaries. Seat of the legendary king Minos, it is the birthplace of thrilling stories, such as the myths of the Labyrinth with its Minotaur and of Daedalus and Icarus. Continue with a visit to The Heraklion Archaeological Museum which houses the most important collection of Minoan antiquities in the world.
Crete
Accommodation in Crete
- 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
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.


The village of Plaka is located in Mirabello Bay, opposite the island of Spinalonga on Crete's north east coast. A number of restaurants have sprung up over the last few years making it a lovely place to come and enjoy great food and the relaxed atmosphere of a Cretan fishing village.

The island of Spinalonga is located in the Gulf of Elounda next to the town of Plaka. Originally, Spinalonga was not an island but 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.
Spinalonga remained in Venetian hands even after the rest of Crete fell to the Ottomans and many Christians fled here to escape persecution. Over a century later it once again became a refuge, this time for Ottomans fearing Christian reprisal after the Cretan revolt. 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.

Enjoy a day out in the Cretan sea onboard your catamaran sailing yacht. It features all the modern navigation equipment and amenities, four cabins and two WC with shower. 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 to relax in a world of your own, soak in the sun, snorkel and swim in crystal waters.
Transfer
Private transfer to Heraklion Port
Transfer
Ferry to Paros
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Paros
Paros
Accommodation in Paros
- 33 suites
- Restaurant
- Pool bar
- Swimming pool
- Spa
- Gym
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.


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.

Your experience will start at Parikia town, the capital and main port of Paros where the majority of the island’s historical monuments and museums are located. The archaeological museum will be the first stop, home to the amazing statue of Medussa, a mythic creature of ancient Greece. Continue on to the impressive Orthodox Ekatontapiliani church devoted to the Virgin Mary, dating from the post-Byzantine era and the Byzantine museum which is housed inside the church itself. Enjoy a stroll through the narrow streets of Paroikia where you'll feel like you've travelled to another era. Pass beautiful neoclassical houses and a fortification wall (the so-called Frankish castle) dating from the Venetian era. After your historical and cultural exploration of Parikia town you will resume your island tour by visiting the mountain of Stroumblas and 400m from the level of the sea, Lefkes village, the most traditional and picturesque village of the island. As you walk, your guide will narrate the history of the village. There, at a small traditional café, you will be able to taste Greek coffee and homemade traditional 'spoon sweet'.

Today you get to admire spectacular coastal landscapes, explore awe-inspiring rock formations and cliffs and swim at idyllic beaches on a ride that will take you around the Bay of Kolymbithres to Agios Ioannis Detis peninsula. You'll also get to spend some time climbing Koukounaries Hill where you'll discover the remains of a prehistoric Mycenean Acropolis and panoramic bay views.
After that, you'll visit and swim at golden-sanded beaches with sculpted granite outcrops, and then reach a small 17th-century monastery by the sea. And finally, take a walk to the 19th-century lighthouse at the rugged, northernmost Cape Korakas from where the best sunsets can be seen on the island.
This circular trip can be customised to also include a short Naousa town and harbour tour. It includes between 15 and 19km of cycling, around 8km of walking and takes up to five and a half hours.

Escorted by an English speaking guide you will discover the rich and ancient history of the island, starting from the 4th millennium B.C. You will begging by Paroikia, capital of the island. Visit of Ekatontapyliani church. The biggest early Christian sanctuary of the Cyclades and also the third biggest of Greece. Then on to the archeological museum (closed on Tuesday) which exhibits the findings made during the various archeological excavations undertaken on Paros, but also on the neighboring island of Antiparos and Despotiko. Walk in the market street of Parikia until the Kastro (Venetian fort).
Then you will head to Naousa, the cosmopolitan village of the island. You will get to explore and have some free time for lunch. After you will discover Lefkes, ancient capital of the island, located in the verdant and peaceful mountains of Paros. At the end of the tour route back to the hotel.

At the beach of Seven and board your luxury rib boat. You'll set sail to explore one of the most sought after places in the Cyclades: the small island complex of Koufonisia, also know as the 'Small Cyclades', home to breathtaking bays and sparkling waters. To the south and east of Naxos, five tiny virtually uninhabited islands make up the Small Cyclades. These are Iraklia, Schinoussa, Ano (upper) and Kato (lower) Koufonissi (together known as Koufonissia) and Donoussa. Everyone has their favourite: Iraklia is known for it laid-back vibes, Schinoussa is virtually untouched, Koufonissia is known for its beaches and Donoussa for its scenic walks.
Transfer
Private transfer to Paros airport
Flight
Flight from Paros to Athens
We design private journeys for people who wish to go beyond the typical and experiencing something truly special. Our amazing team of travel designers, concierges and local guides work together to create unique journeys that get deep under the skin of where you’re visiting.
Other trips you may be interested in
Get in touch
Family Adventure to Greece
How we work
Greece is a wonderful destination for families and we’ve handpicked our favourite experiences that will surprise and delight everyone from kids to grandparents. Your ten-day adventure starts in Athens, where you’ll delve into the country’s ancient history, learning about myths and legends as you explore the Acropolis, the temple of Olympian Zeus and the Ancient Agora. A short flight will bring you to Crete, your island home for the next three nights. En route to your hotel, you’ll stop at Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on the island. It was once the seat of the legendary King Minos and its palaces are really something to behold. You’ll be based at the beautiful Blue Palace hotel near the village of Plaka, and it has everything you need for a few days of relaxation. As well as having time to yourselves, you’ll have the opportunity to get out and explore with a cruise around the Elounda Gulf aboard your own private catamaran. Your final stop will be the beautiful island of Paros. It has many of the same charms as other islands – low-lying white houses and blue domed churches – but it is much quieter than some of its neighbours. As well as exploring the island itself, you’ll head out to discover the ‘Small Cyclades’, a collection of five virtually uninhabited islands. They are all beautiful in their own right and offer a chance to see a side of Greece not many get to explore. | Whats included?
|
Days 1-3 |
Athens |
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to your hotel in Athens |
|
Accommodation in Athens
•
NEW Hotel - $$$$$
Located moments from Constitution Square and within walking distance to the city’s main...
•
Hotel Grande Bretagne - $$$$$
Looking out across the Acropolis, Syntagama Square and Lycabettus Hill, the Hotel Grande...
•
King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel - $$$$$
In a fine location in the centre of Athens, the 1930s King George Hotel is an updated...
|
|
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 civilisation, it’s a city bursting at the seams with culture, intrigue, and beauty. It’s not just a place for history buffs, however, 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. |
|
Athens mythology tour Dive into the marvellous world of ancient Athens with a full-day experience at the world-famous sights the city has to offer.Children under 12 will receive an interactive archaeological pack to help uncover stories from Greek mythology as you explore the magical Acropolis and other landmarks. You'll explore the private and public lives of ancient Athenians by decoding the hidden messages within the artifacts they left behind. You'll also visit the majestic temple of Olympian Zeus, the Ancient Agora and the Acropolis Museum. The museum tour is ingeniously designed to explain the true importance of the objects on exhibit through fun and interactive activities. Together with your private guide, you will make this journey through Greek mythology, including the actual historical events behind the myths, the social and political setting that gave these stories their meaning and the relevance they bear today. |
|
Athens farm experience 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 live 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. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Athens airport |
|
Flight from Athens to Crete | |
Private transfer to your hotel via Knossos A short distance south of the modern port town of Heraklion, Knossos was the capital of Minoan Crete. It is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete and, with the first settlement dating back to 7000 BC, contender for Europe's oldest city. The 4000-year-old palaces are grander, more complex, and more flamboyant than any of their contemporaries. Seat of the legendary king Minos, it is the birthplace of thrilling stories, such as the myths of the Labyrinth with its Minotaur and of Daedalus and Icarus. Continue with a visit to The Heraklion Archaeological Museum which houses the most important collection of Minoan antiquities in the world. |
|
Days 3-6 |
Crete |
Accommodation in Crete
•
Blue Palace - $$$$$
A short walk from the authentic fishing village of Plaka on Crete’s north east coast, Blue...
|
|
Three nights near Plaka The village of Plaka is located in Mirabello Bay, opposite the island of Spinalonga on Crete's north east coast. A number of restaurants have sprung up over the last few years making it a lovely place to come and enjoy great food and the relaxed atmosphere of a Cretan fishing village. |
|
Spinalonga private cruise and tour The island of Spinalonga is located in the Gulf of Elounda next to the town of Plaka. Originally, Spinalonga was not an island but a peninsula of Crete, but during Venetian occupation in the 16th century the island was carved out of the coast for defence purposes and a fort was built there. Spinalonga remained in Venetian hands even after the rest of Crete fell to the Ottomans and many Christians fled here to escape persecution. Over a century later it once again became a refuge, this time for Ottomans fearing Christian reprisal after the Cretan revolt. The island was used as a leper colony until as late as 1957 and today it is uninhabited yet remains a popular tourist attraction and has appeared in numerous novels, television series, and a short film. |
|
Private sailing in the Elounda Gulf Enjoy a day out in the Cretan sea onboard your catamaran sailing yacht. It features all the modern navigation equipment and amenities, four cabins and two WC with shower. Relax on the deck, enjoy the sea breeze and scenery as you explore the coast of Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Plaka, sailing by the islet of Spinalonga, Kolokytha beach and some beautiful hidden coves. The exact route is decided by your skipper depending on weather conditions. You will be in good hands to relax in a world of your own, soak in the sun, snorkel and swim in crystal waters. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Heraklion Port |
|
Ferry to Paros | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Paros | |
Days 6-10 |
Paros |
Accommodation in Paros
•
Parilio - $$$$$
Defined by striking yet traditional Cycladic architecture, and showcasing contemporary Greek...
|
|
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. |
|
Paros island tour Your experience will start at Parikia town, the capital and main port of Paros where the majority of the island’s historical monuments and museums are located. The archaeological museum will be the first stop, home to the amazing statue of Medussa, a mythic creature of ancient Greece. Continue on to the impressive Orthodox Ekatontapiliani church devoted to the Virgin Mary, dating from the post-Byzantine era and the Byzantine museum which is housed inside the church itself. Enjoy a stroll through the narrow streets of Paroikia where you'll feel like you've travelled to another era. Pass beautiful neoclassical houses and a fortification wall (the so-called Frankish castle) dating from the Venetian era. After your historical and cultural exploration of Parikia town you will resume your island tour by visiting the mountain of Stroumblas and 400m from the level of the sea, Lefkes village, the most traditional and picturesque village of the island. As you walk, your guide will narrate the history of the village. There, at a small traditional café, you will be able to taste Greek coffee and homemade traditional 'spoon sweet'. |
|
Hike, swim and cycle around Paros Today you get to admire spectacular coastal landscapes, explore awe-inspiring rock formations and cliffs and swim at idyllic beaches on a ride that will take you around the Bay of Kolymbithres to Agios Ioannis Detis peninsula. You'll also get to spend some time climbing Koukounaries Hill where you'll discover the remains of a prehistoric Mycenean Acropolis and panoramic bay views. After that, you'll visit and swim at golden-sanded beaches with sculpted granite outcrops, and then reach a small 17th-century monastery by the sea. And finally, take a walk to the 19th-century lighthouse at the rugged, northernmost Cape Korakas from where the best sunsets can be seen on the island. This circular trip can be customised to also include a short Naousa town and harbour tour. It includes between 15 and 19km of cycling, around 8km of walking and takes up to five and a half hours. |
|
Paros full day tour Escorted by an English speaking guide you will discover the rich and ancient history of the island, starting from the 4th millennium B.C. You will begging by Paroikia, capital of the island. Visit of Ekatontapyliani church. The biggest early Christian sanctuary of the Cyclades and also the third biggest of Greece. Then on to the archeological museum (closed on Tuesday) which exhibits the findings made during the various archeological excavations undertaken on Paros, but also on the neighboring island of Antiparos and Despotiko. Walk in the market street of Parikia until the Kastro (Venetian fort). Then you will head to Naousa, the cosmopolitan village of the island. You will get to explore and have some free time for lunch. After you will discover Lefkes, ancient capital of the island, located in the verdant and peaceful mountains of Paros. At the end of the tour route back to the hotel. |
|
Small Cyclades cruise At the beach of Seven and board your luxury rib boat. You'll set sail to explore one of the most sought after places in the Cyclades: the small island complex of Koufonisia, also know as the 'Small Cyclades', home to breathtaking bays and sparkling waters. To the south and east of Naxos, five tiny virtually uninhabited islands make up the Small Cyclades. These are Iraklia, Schinoussa, Ano (upper) and Kato (lower) Koufonissi (together known as Koufonissia) and Donoussa. Everyone has their favourite: Iraklia is known for it laid-back vibes, Schinoussa is virtually untouched, Koufonissia is known for its beaches and Donoussa for its scenic walks. |
|
Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Paros airport |
|
Flight from Paros to Athens |