A twelve day luxury discovery of Athens, Santorini and Crete
Personalised journeys from start to finish
Every trip helps support Conservation
Every detail taken care of
What's included
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Luxury accommodation throughout
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Private tours with expert local guides
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Private transfers and domestic flights
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Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during and after your trip
At a glance
Explore some of our favourite regions of Greece on this luxury 12-day trip to glorious Athens, sparkling Santorini and the historic island of Crete.
Begin with three nights in the cradle of western democracy, the Greek capital of Athens. With your private guide, visit the incredible Acropolis, home to the iconic Parthenon, as well as the winding old streets of Plaka. You’ll also venture out of the city to see the incredible mountainside ruins of Delphi.
Next up is the beautiful island of Crete, where you’ll stay in both Chania and near the village of Plaka on the north east coast. Take to the water on a private sailing trip through the Gulf of Chania and visit the impressive sight of Knossos, once the capital of Minoan Crete. Whilst staying at the Blue Palace near Plaka, you’ll have time to simply relax and enjoy your hotel and its surroundings.
From Crete, you’ll fly out to the glamorous isle of Santorini, the remains of a vast volcanic caldera whose sheer sides are covered with white and blue villages all looking out across the sparkling Aegean Sea. See the famous sunset from Oia, wander the labyrinthine of alleyways, taste award-winning wine at a traditional winery, and cruise the bays and beaches aboard your own private yacht.
Example trip itinerary
Athens
Transfer
Meet and greet at Athens airport
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Athens
Accommodation in Athens
- 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.
- 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.
There are few places where the past comes to life in quite the same was 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. A thriving café culture ensures you’re not left waning in between all the sightseeing and you’ll never have to venture far to enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Put the best of science, art and philosophy together in one creation and you have the definitive monument of human civilisation - the Acropolis. The Acropolis, and the Parthenon in particular, is the most characteristic monument of the ancient Greeks and it continues to stand as a symbol of democracy, Western civilisation and European unity. You'll also visit the New Acropolis Museum, which is housed in a state-of-the-art building designed by Swiss-born architect Bernard Tschumi.

In the foothills of the Acropolis is Plaka, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens. It is extremely picturesque and noted for its authentic character and traditional layout. The most beautiful part of Plaka is the settlement of Anafiotika with pretty Cycladic houses leading up to the Acropolis. Close by is Thissio, a wonderful neighbourhood that looks out towards the Acropolis, and where there are plenty of cafes from which to sip a coffee and drink in the views.
Monastiraki is also part of the heart of Athens and famous for its flea market. These historic neighborhoods are full of traditional and Neoclassical buildings, Byzantine churches, boutiques, cafes, bars and taverns.

The town of Delphi, a little over two hours from Athens, was the site of the 4th century BC Temple of Apollo. The temple's high priestess, also known as the Pythia, were the most important and authoritative oracles in Greece, and the most powerful women of the classical world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, set within a most spectacular landscape, was for many centuries the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world. The ruins of Delphi also contain the remains of Temple of Athena Pronaia, a stadium and a theatre, all surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, making for an incredibly evocative sight.
Transfer
Private transfer to Athens airport
Flight
Flight from Athens to Chania
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Chania
Chania
Accommodation in Chania
- 102 rooms
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Swimming pool
- Fitness centre
This seaside resort and spa is a beautiful Mediterranean escape where you can relax beneath the bright Aegean skies and gaze out at inviting blue seascapes. Find yourself surrounded by an oasis of tropical vegetation, banana, and palm trees. Set above the beach, the reception offers uninterrupted views of Chania town, thick bamboo fields and beyond. It’s the perfect place to call home while you explore Chania and its surrounds.
The 102 rooms range from lavish villas to well-appointed family bungalows. While away the hours beside the pool or head down to the resort’s private beach. The buildings have been designed to appear woven into their natural surrounds. The charming bungalows, inspired by a traditional Greek village, boast private gardens and have been built around a central gathering agora. The decor has been handcrafted using organic materials and textures reminiscent of those you’ll find in the tropical oasis outside.
Domes Zeen Chania offers an array of culinary options inspired by the wealth of flavours, colours and textures of Greece and Crete. Discover creative local and fusion dishes, prepared using freshly-picked ingredients.
- Nine rooms and suites
- Restaurant
- Bicycle hire
- Library
The Domus Renier Boutique Hotel has an enviable position on the sweeping waterfront of Chania’s Venetian harbour, the building itself the former home to the Reniers, one of Venice’s leading noble families.
There are just nine rooms and suites, each a unique blend of period features and modern comforts. Most enjoy views of the harbour and Egyptian Lighthouse while a couple have jacuzzis.
You couldn’t be better placed to explore Chania’s old town, either on foot or on the Renier’s bicycles. You can also take boat cruises out to Crete’s hidden beaches or (between October and March) learn the secrets of Cretan cuisine on cooking lessons and market tours with the restaurant’s wonderful chef.

Exuding a Venetian charm, Chania is the second largest city in Crete. Scenic monasteries, traditional houses and elegant mansions are part of what make the old part of town so special.

Visit some of the most important sites in Chania, including the Venetian fortifications, the Arsenals, the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the Roman Catholic cathedral, and the old Jewish and Turkish quarters behind the inner harbour. You'll also get the chance to explore hidden places off the beaten track, which perfectly capture Chania's unique atmosphere.

Meet your captain and walk the short distance to the marina where your vessel will be waiting for your sail through the Gulf of Chania exploring secluded beaches and islets and plunging in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea. A light lunch will be served on board.
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 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.
You'll also discover the charming town of Rethymno, a place which dates back to the Minoan period. It's beautiful old town and harbour is almost entirely the work of the Venetian Republic from the 16th century and is one of the best preserved on the island, as is 'Fortezza' citadel. The Ottomans also left their mark during their three centuries here, as did the Byzantines.
Plaka
Accommodation in Plaka
- 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.
Transfer
Private transfer to Heraklion Port
Transfer
Ferry to Santorini
Transfer
Private transfer to your hotel in Santorini
Santorini
Accommodation in Santorini
- 22 rooms
- Restaurant and bar
- Champagne lounge
- Pool
- In-room spa treatments
- Gym
After a day of exploring the island, sit back and enjoy a spectacular sunset while sipping a refreshing cocktail at Grace Santorini.
Contemporary design and traditional artworks and pieces of furniture make each of the 22 rooms unique and inviting. The bathrooms are large and luxurious. Make yourself at home in a sea view suite, or drink in the views of the caldera from The Villa. For a touch more privacy, opt for a suite with fragments of volcanic rock arranged across the windows, creating something of a “one-way” effect.
Whether you’re on honeymoon, or simply on holiday, Grace Santorini is the perfect place from which to experience what the village of Imerovigli has to offer.
Discover Mediterranean fusion at the Santoro restaurant where the menu is inspired by the flavours and produce of the Cycladic islands. Or enjoy evening drinks under the stars at the pool bar. The new Champagne and Cocktail Lounge has an extensive list of bubbly to choose from as well as exciting cocktails paired with dishes by the chef.
Treat yourself to an in-room spa treatment, or make use of the hotel’s boutique gym.
- 41 suites
- Restaurants and bars
- Swimming pool
- Spa
This sophisticated retreat offers elegance, luxury and exquisite views. Whether you opt for a stylish suite or private villa, Mystique is the ideal place to soak up the beauty of Santorini and recharge your body and mind.
The cliff-side resort’s 41 suites look out over the water towards the Aegean Caldera and volcano. Décor is island-inspired with gentle hues and soft textures. Wood and stone accents in the cave-styled rooms make for a natural, understated and calming atmosphere. Private Jacuzzis, fitness rooms and spacious terraces offer guests a comfortable haven.
Follow a cobblestone pathway to the plunge pool, or laze in the refreshing infinity pool and admire the view as you sip on a cocktail. Dining is an important part of your stay at Mystique, whether you’re more partial to traditional dishes or fusion flavours. Charisma Restaurant specialises in regional flavours and local ingredients, while Asea Lounge Restaurant’s menu features sushi and Japanese specialities. For a lighter bite, take a poolside table at Aura Bar, or sample the resort’s extensive wine collection at the Secret Wine Cave.
The natural focus that runs through Mystique is also incorporated into the design and treatments at the Elios Spa. The focus is on synchronising the body, mind and spirit with nature in a tranquil environment.
- 26 rooms
- Swimming pools
- Restaurant
- Spa
Décor in the 26 spacious suites is sophisticated and minimalist, playing off the iconic architecture of the region. Modern touches make for a comfortable stay, while views out over the caldera and the Aegean Sea and private pools allow for ultimate relaxation.
The white buildings and the fresh blues of the sea and pools make for a tranquil place to unwind. Freshen up in a luxurious rain shower, laze on a private veranda, take a dip in a private infinity pool, or enjoy a meal in an open-air dining area.
Whether you’re looking for a delicious breakfast to start the day, or a romantic meal under the night sky, Petra Restaurant serves an array of authentic Greek and Mediterranean dishes. Enjoy fresh fish at the poolside, while sipping on a refreshing cocktail.
The Canaves Oi Spa menu offers a selection of signature treatments to make your stay truly relaxing. The space was once a 17th century wine cave and hasn’t lost any of its charm, the perfect place to treat yourself.
Floating in the southern Aegean Sea is a little slice of Greek heaven. A huge volcanic eruption 3,500 years ago left a caldera which turned the then- circular Santorini into a crescent shaped island, one that has been charming visitors since they first arrived.
Santorini is the largest island of a small archipelago, wrapping its arms protectively around the islands of Palea, Nea and Thirasia. Sheer cliffs hundreds of metres high shield coves and beaches made up of red, white and black sand, while pretty villages of limewashed cubic houses creep up the sides, nestled into every nook and cranny.

Be introduced to the best of Santorini's gastronomy on this tour exploring the island's food and wine culture. Enjoy a delicious three-course meze menu of traditional dishes with recipes that stretch back generations and visit two family-owned wineries.

This private cruise, which lasts about five hours, combines swimming and snorkelling along with dinner on board while sailing across the sea as the sun sets.
During your tour, you'll have the opportunity to visit the hot springs, sail past the volcano and admire the beautiful coastline and beaches, and swimming at various locations at your leisure. As the sun is setting, you'll make your way back towards the port and enjoy the dreamy view.
Transfer
Private transfer to Santorini airport
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.
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Luxury Greece Highlights
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Explore some of our favourite regions of Greece on this luxury 12-day trip to glorious Athens, sparkling Santorini and the historic island of Crete. Begin with three nights in the cradle of western democracy, the Greek capital of Athens. With your private guide, visit the incredible Acropolis, home to the iconic Parthenon, as well as the winding old streets of Plaka. You’ll also venture out of the city to see the incredible mountainside ruins of Delphi. Next up is the beautiful island of Crete, where you’ll stay in both Chania and near the village of Plaka on the north east coast. Take to the water on a private sailing trip through the Gulf of Chania and visit the impressive sight of Knossos, once the capital of Minoan Crete. Whilst staying at the Blue Palace near Plaka, you’ll have time to simply relax and enjoy your hotel and its surroundings. From Crete, you’ll fly out to the glamorous isle of Santorini, the remains of a vast volcanic caldera whose sheer sides are covered with white and blue villages all looking out across the sparkling Aegean Sea. See the famous sunset from Oia, wander the labyrinthine of alleyways, taste award-winning wine at a traditional winery, and cruise the bays and beaches aboard your own private yacht. | Whats included?
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Days 1-4 |
Athens |
Flights & transfers
Meet and greet at Athens airport |
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Private transfer to your hotel in Athens | |
Accommodation in Athens
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Hotel Grande Bretagne - $$$$$
Looking out across the Acropolis, Syntagama Square and Lycabettus Hill, the Hotel Grande...
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King George, a Luxury Collection Hotel - $$$$$
In a fine location in the centre of Athens, the 1930s King George Hotel is an updated...
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NEW Hotel - $$$$$
Located moments from Constitution Square and within walking distance to the city’s main...
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Three nights in Athens There are few places where the past comes to life in quite the same was 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. A thriving café culture ensures you’re not left waning in between all the sightseeing and you’ll never have to venture far to enjoy the vibrant nightlife. |
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Acropolis and New Acropolis Museum tour Put the best of science, art and philosophy together in one creation and you have the definitive monument of human civilisation - the Acropolis. The Acropolis, and the Parthenon in particular, is the most characteristic monument of the ancient Greeks and it continues to stand as a symbol of democracy, Western civilisation and European unity. You'll also visit the New Acropolis Museum, which is housed in a state-of-the-art building designed by Swiss-born architect Bernard Tschumi. |
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Visit the markets and neighbourhoods of Athens In the foothills of the Acropolis is Plaka, one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Athens. It is extremely picturesque and noted for its authentic character and traditional layout. The most beautiful part of Plaka is the settlement of Anafiotika with pretty Cycladic houses leading up to the Acropolis. Close by is Thissio, a wonderful neighbourhood that looks out towards the Acropolis, and where there are plenty of cafes from which to sip a coffee and drink in the views. Monastiraki is also part of the heart of Athens and famous for its flea market. These historic neighborhoods are full of traditional and Neoclassical buildings, Byzantine churches, boutiques, cafes, bars and taverns. |
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Delphi full-day tour The town of Delphi, a little over two hours from Athens, was the site of the 4th century BC Temple of Apollo. The temple's high priestess, also known as the Pythia, were the most important and authoritative oracles in Greece, and the most powerful women of the classical world. According to mythology, it is here that the two eagles sent out by Zeus from the ends of the universe to find the navel of the world met. The sanctuary of Delphi, set within a most spectacular landscape, was for many centuries the cultural and religious centre and symbol of unity for the Hellenic world. The ruins of Delphi also contain the remains of Temple of Athena Pronaia, a stadium and a theatre, all surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, making for an incredibly evocative sight. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Athens airport |
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Flight from Athens to Chania | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Chania | |
Days 4-7 |
Chania |
Accommodation in Chania
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Domes Zeen Chania - $$$$$
This seaside resort and spa is a beautiful Mediterranean escape where you can relax beneath...
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Domus Renier Boutique Hotel - $$$$$
The Domus Renier Boutique Hotel has an enviable position on the sweeping waterfront of...
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Three nights in Chania Exuding a Venetian charm, Chania is the second largest city in Crete. Scenic monasteries, traditional houses and elegant mansions are part of what make the old part of town so special. |
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Tour of Chania's old town Visit some of the most important sites in Chania, including the Venetian fortifications, the Arsenals, the Greek Orthodox Cathedral, the Roman Catholic cathedral, and the old Jewish and Turkish quarters behind the inner harbour. You'll also get the chance to explore hidden places off the beaten track, which perfectly capture Chania's unique atmosphere. |
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Private sailing through the Gulf of Chania Meet your captain and walk the short distance to the marina where your vessel will be waiting for your sail through the Gulf of Chania exploring secluded beaches and islets and plunging in the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea. A light lunch will be served on board. |
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Private transfer to your hotel in Plaka, via Knossos and Rethymno 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 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. You'll also discover the charming town of Rethymno, a place which dates back to the Minoan period. It's beautiful old town and harbour is almost entirely the work of the Venetian Republic from the 16th century and is one of the best preserved on the island, as is 'Fortezza' citadel. The Ottomans also left their mark during their three centuries here, as did the Byzantines. |
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Days 7-9 |
Plaka |
Accommodation in Plaka
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Blue Palace - $$$$$
A short walk from the authentic fishing village of Plaka on Crete’s north east coast, Blue...
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Two nights in Plaka The village of Plaka is located in Mirabello bay, opposite the island of Spinalonga on Crete's north east coast. A number of restaurants have sprung up over the last few years making it a lovely place to come and enjoy great food and the relaxed atmosphere of a Cretan fishing village. |
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Spinalonga private cruise and tour The island of Spinalonga is located in the Gulf of Elounda next to the town of Plaka. Originally, Spinalonga was not an island but a peninsula of Crete, but during Venetian occupation in the 16th century the island was carved out of the coast for defence purposes and a fort was built there. Spinalonga remained in Venetian hands even after the rest of Crete fell to the Ottomans and many Christians fled here to escape persecution. Over a century later it once again became a refuge, this time for Ottomans fearing Christian reprisal after the Cretan revolt. The island was used as a leper colony until as late as 1957 and today it is uninhabited yet remains a popular tourist attraction and has appeared in numerous novels, television series, and a short film. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Heraklion Port |
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Ferry to Santorini | |
Private transfer to your hotel in Santorini | |
Days 9-12 |
Santorini |
Accommodation in Santorini
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Grace Santorini - $$$$$
After a day of exploring the island, sit back and enjoy a spectacular sunset while sipping a...
•
Mystique - $$$$$
This sophisticated retreat offers elegance, luxury and exquisite views. Whether you opt for a...
•
Canaves Oia Suites - $$$$$
Set into the cliffs in Santorini, Canaves Oia Suites and Spa is an elegant luxurious...
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Three nights in Santorini Floating in the southern Aegean Sea is a little slice of Greek heaven. A huge volcanic eruption 3,500 years ago left a caldera which turned the then- circular Santorini into a crescent shaped island, one that has been charming visitors since they first arrived. Santorini is the largest island of a small archipelago, wrapping its arms protectively around the islands of Palea, Nea and Thirasia. Sheer cliffs hundreds of metres high shield coves and beaches made up of red, white and black sand, while pretty villages of limewashed cubic houses creep up the sides, nestled into every nook and cranny. |
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Santorini food and wine experience Be introduced to the best of Santorini's gastronomy on this tour exploring the island's food and wine culture. Enjoy a delicious three-course meze menu of traditional dishes with recipes that stretch back generations and visit two family-owned wineries. |
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Private Santorini sunset yacht cruise This private cruise, which lasts about five hours, combines swimming and snorkelling along with dinner on board while sailing across the sea as the sun sets. During your tour, you'll have the opportunity to visit the hot springs, sail past the volcano and admire the beautiful coastline and beaches, and swimming at various locations at your leisure. As the sun is setting, you'll make your way back towards the port and enjoy the dreamy view. |
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Flights & transfers
Private transfer to Santorini airport |