Greece: From Athens to the Islands of Crete and Santorini

Location: Europe
Duration: 10 Days
Price: From $6,595
Activity Level: Moderate

Greece: From Athens to the Islands of Crete and Santorini

Location: Europe
Duration: 10 Days
Price: From $6,595
Activity Level: Moderate

Overview

Welcome to Greece! Experience a captivating 10-day journey through this ancient land, blending historical marvels, rich culture, and exquisite cuisine. Your adventure begins in Athens, where you’ll dive into its vibrant history by exploring landmarks like the Acropolis and Mars Hill, and enjoy local delicacies. Meet a Greek theater actress and visit the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio. Next, fly to Crete to discover Chania’s old town, meet a local fashion designer, and savor a cooking class in Rethymno. In Heraklion, explore the “village of jars,” participate in a ceramics workshop, and visit the Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace, topped with a wine tasting experience. Conclude your trip on Santorini, exploring Oia and Fira, enjoying caldera-side dining, and relaxing in geothermal hot springs. This Greek odyssey promises an unforgettable blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, leaving you with lasting memories.

Main Attractions

Ancient Wonders & Cultural Icons

Explore Athens’ iconic Acropolis and Ancient Agora, diving deep into the city’s rich history. Meet a leading Greek theater actress and gain insights into the world of Greek drama.

Local Artistry & Culinary Excellence

Travel to Cape Sounio and Crete, where you’ll engage with local fashion designers and indulge in a private chef’s culinary creations. Experience the charm of Chania’s old town and enjoy a hands-on cooking class in Rethymno.

Breathtaking Views & Relaxation

Discover the beauty of Santorini, wandering through the picturesque towns of Oia and Fira. Unwind in the island’s geothermal hot springs and savor the stunning views and serenity of this enchanting destination.

Map showing flight and ferry routes from Athens to Santorini and Chania, Crete, with an inset highlighting Greece's location next to Turkey.
A person in a white shirt and sunglasses stands in front of ancient columns, holding a camera.
Ancient ruins of Knossos Palace with stone structures, columns, and trees, under a clear blue sky.
People walking down a narrow, stone-paved alley lined with potted plants and white buildings.
Outdoor cafe area with tables and chairs beside white stairs decorated with colorful potted flowers and plants.
A person in a white shirt and sunglasses stands in front of ancient columns, holding a camera.
Ancient ruins of Knossos Palace with stone structures, columns, and trees, under a clear blue sky.
People walking down a narrow, stone-paved alley lined with potted plants and white buildings.
Outdoor cafe area with tables and chairs beside white stairs decorated with colorful potted flowers and plants.

Itinerary

Front view of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, with ancient stone blocks in the foreground and blue sky in the background.

Arrival in Athens

Arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH) by 3:00 pm today, where a group transfer to your hotel will be arranged once most guests have arrived. Private transfers are available for purchase if needed. This evening, join a lively welcome dinner to meet your fellow travelers, share stories, and discover the unique reasons each of you is excited to explore Greece, Crete, and Santorini.

Meals dinner
The Parthenon, an ancient temple with Doric columns, sits atop the Acropolis in Athens under a partly cloudy sky. Ruins and scattered stones surround the structure.

Discover Athens

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Acropolis and Mars Hill, exploring ancient buildings of immense historical significance, including the Parthenon. Continue to the Acropolis Museum to view a collection of artifacts from the Acropolis site. For lunch, embark on a tasting tour in a modern market, savoring local delicacies and Greek specialties. In the afternoon, visit the Ancient Agora, a key cultural and political center of ancient Athens.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Aerial view of the ancient Temple of Poseidon on a hill overlooking the sea, with surrounding landscape and distant mountains.

Insights and Scenic Views

Start your day with an engaging conversation with a renowned Greek theater actress, gaining insights into the role of women in ancient and modern Greece. Lunch will be at your leisure. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Cape Sounio, where you’ll visit the Temple of Poseidon and enjoy a gentle hike with stunning coastal views. Optionally, take a refreshing swim beneath the ancient temple. Gather for an early dinner before returning to Athens, where you can explore the charming Plaka neighborhood at your own pace.

Meals breakfast, dinner
Aerial view of a coastal town with a harbor, surrounded by turquoise water and lined with buildings. A stone pier with a small lighthouse extends into the sea under a clear blue sky.

Chania and Rethymno

Fly from Athens to Chania, Crete, and start your day exploring the Venetian architecture and historic alleys of Chania’s Old Town. Meet local fashion designer Elli Lyraraki at her workshop and learn about her creative process and Minoan art influences. Transfer to Rethymno (approximately a one-hour drive) for a guided walking tour of one of Greece’s best-preserved Medieval towns. Check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.

Meals breakfast, lunch
Group of people cooking together in a rustic outdoor kitchen, with ingredients and cookware on the table. Stone walls and wooden roof in the background.

Free Time and Cooking Workshop

Spend the day exploring Rethymno at your own pace—visit local landmarks, relax on the beach, or shop. Seek recommendations from your guide for suggested activities. In the evening, join a cooking workshop and dinner hosted by a local private chef, where you will learn to prepare traditional Cretan dishes.

Meals breakfast, dinner
A stone building with a wooden door and a small cross on its roof, surrounded by trees and a stone pathway under a cloudy sky.

Psiloritis and Heraklion

Explore the renowned “village of jars,” nestled at an elevation of 980 feet on the northern foothills of Psiloritis. Uncover ancient monasteries, towers, pathways, and chapels concealed in caves, forming one of Crete’s most breathtaking landscapes. Stroll through the village of Margarites, discovering its rich tradition in crafting household items, ritual vases, and storage vessels. Engage in a hands-on workshop at a ceramic studio, followed by a delightful lunch with the women from the community. Proceed to Heraklion for an evening tour of the vibrant portside capital. Check into your accommodation before enjoying dinner as a group.

Meals breakfast, lunch, dinner
Fishing boats moored in a vibrant harbor with buildings in the background under a clear blue sky.

Heritage and Wine in Heraklion

Begin the day with a visit to the tomb of the famous Greek writer, Nikos Kazantzakis. Tour the Archaeological Museum’s magnificent collection of art and artifacts before continuing to Knossos Palace, a cornerstone of Minoan civilization. Hear varying narratives of a history tracing its origins to the Neolithic era. Heraklion is home to several noteworthy wineries that contribute to the island’s rich winemaking tradition. Immerse yourself in the experience by visiting a local winery and savoring a delightful lunch. Return to Heraklion to spend your last evening in Crete at leisure.

Meals breakfast, lunch
View of Santorini with blue-domed buildings and a bell tower overlooking the sea, with sailboats in the water and a clear sky.

Santorini’s Beauty

Depart early in the morning on a high-speed ferry to Santorini. Enjoy a panoramic tour of the island. Lunch will be on your own today. Enjoy a guided walking tour of Oia, a picturesque, white-washed, blue-domed cliff-side town. Afterward, take some leisure time to explore the area at your own pace and enjoy lunch on your own. Check-in at your hotel and take in one of the most breathtaking sunsets in the world before meeting up with the group for dinner overlooking the caldera.

Meals breakfast, dinner
Scenic view of a coastal village with white buildings, a vibrant blue sea, and colorful flowers in the foreground under a clear sky.

Santorini Exploration and Farewell

Enjoy a slow morning, taking time to explore the winding alleyways and boutiques of Fira on your own. After lunch on your own, proceed to the port for a catamaran sailing cruise around the caldera (contingent on weather conditions). Marvel at the awe-inspiring views of white-washed cliffs from below and indulge in a refreshing swim in the geothermal hot springs. Enjoy a festive farewell dinner on board with your new AdventureWomen friends. Take in another stunning sunset before returning to your hotel.

Meals breakfast, dinner
Group of seven people posing on stone steps in front of an old stone building.

Departure

After an early breakfast, transfer to Santorini airport (JTR) for your departing flight. Connect through Athens for your journey home. A group transfer to the airport will be provided for most guests, with private transfers available for other times if needed.

Meals breakfast
View of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece, featuring the illuminated Parthenon atop a rocky hill with surrounding ruins and greenery under a clear blue sky.

Accommodations

Please note that all amenities were current when written and are subject to change at any time.

Hotel room with a large bed, two chairs, and a desk. A sliding glass door opens to a balcony with a view of an ancient hilltop structure in the distance.

Elia Ermou

Nestled in the heart of Athens, a mere 800 meters from the Acropolis, Elia Ermou Athens Hotel offers accommodation in luxurious and comfortable rooms. Ideally situated on Ermou Street, guests can relish the Acropolis view from the Athens View Balcony or unwind with a rejuvenating treatment at the Wellness Center.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, flatscreen TV, coffee/tea maker, safe, minibar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

A modern hotel with palm trees stands beside a crosswalk. The building features multiple balconies and an illuminated entrance.

Aquila Porto Hotel

Inspired by the stunning northern coastline of Crete, Aquila Porto Rethymno captures the essence of a refined urban resort, situated less than 0.5 mile from the city of Rethymno. This cosmopolitan retreat allows guests to relax, dine, and explore Rethymno’s most beautiful and historic sites. This urban oasis features beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, recently renovated to offer views of either Rethymno beach or the city harbor. The accommodations showcase a refreshing color palette inspired by their sophisticated surroundings, catering to the needs of every traveler.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, cable / satellite TV, minibar, bottled water, coffee / tea maker, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Modern hotel room with a large bed, desk, and chair. There is a sink and mirror near the entrance. Natural light comes through a window with curtains.

Olive Green Hotel

Located in the heart of Heraklion city, the Olive Green Hotel stands out as a technologically advanced and eco-conscious establishment. The name “Olive Green” reflects the hotel’s essence and style. “Olive” signifies the strength, timelessness, peace, and well-being associated with the olive tree, embodying Crete’s purity and wild beauty. “Green” highlights the hotel’s commitment to ecological principles and modern sustainability standards.

AMENITIES: complimentary toiletries, flatscreen TV, safe, minibar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Aerial view of a modern, multi-story white building with balconies, outdoor seating, and small pools, surrounded by trees.

Kalisti Hotel & Suites

Kalisti Hotel & Suites is conveniently located in the heart of Fira Town. Just minutes from the caldera rim, museums, galleries, fine restaurants, shopping, and nightlife, the hotel offers easy access to all the attractions. Guests can unwind by the largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool in town, accompanied by the “Pergola Pool Bar” serving exotic drinks and light snacks throughout the day.

AMENITIES: toiletries, hair dryer, coffee / tea maker, bottled water, cable / satellite TV, safe, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

What People Are Saying

AdventureWomen provided me with an adventure of a lifetime! I loved every second of it and I learned so much more about Greece and saw way more of Greece than I thought I would. I can’t wait for my next adventure.

What People Are Saying

This trip was an unforgettable journey through Greece! From exploring ancient Athens and stunning Santorini to immersing ourselves in Crete’s rich culture, every moment was magical. The blend of history, local cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes made it an experience of a lifetime.

What People Are Saying

An exceptional adventure filled with cultural insights, delightful cuisine, and stunning vistas. Each destination offered unique experiences, and the connections made with fellow travelers enriched the journey even more. Highly recommend this trip for anyone looking to explore Greece’s beauty and heritage!

Dates & Pricing

Start Date End Date Availability Pricing Booking Link
Sep 12 Sep 21
Sold Out
$6,595*
Oct 17 Oct 26
Space Available
$6,595*
Standard Room, Single
$8,095 total, $800 deposit
Standard Room, Double
$6,595 total, $800 deposit

*Additional Pricing Information: 2025 Optional Single Accommodation: $1,500

Arrival: Arrive in Athens, Greece (ATH) by 3:00 PM on Day 1

Depart: Depart Santorini, Greece (JTR) any time on Day 10

What's Included

  • Accommodations as per itinerary based on double occupancy
  • All meals as listed in the itinerary
  • Activities as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking guide (s) throughout the trip, except on day 5
  • One group transfer on arrival and departure
  • All ground transportation
  • Athens to Chania airfare (one way)
  • Fast ferry fare from Crete to Santorini (one way)
  • Drinking water available from taps to refill personal bottles
  • Gratuities for hotel staff and waitstaff

What's Not Included

  • International airfare to and from Greece
  • Optional activities
  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic beverages (unless otherwise specified)
  • Fees for passport, visas, immunizations, or travel insurance
  • Cost of hospitalization or evacuation
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Gratuities for main guide and driver

FAQs

Absolutely! We happily welcome all women regardless of race, creed, or sexual preference, as long as you are physically capable of doing the activities on your chosen trip. Our guests range from 18-85+! It is important to us to talk to each guest to make sure each woman chooses the right trip for her physical ability and interest.

You can process your registration on our online booking system or over the phone. Most deposits are $800. In many cases, and unless otherwise indicated, your deposit is transferable if you notify us in writing 120 before your trip departs.

Be sure to check the ‘What’s Included’ section of the trip you are interested in. Once you get to the departure city and meet the group, we often include most meals, all accommodations, all activities (although there might be an optional activity at an additional cost), transportation while on the adventure, qualified local guide(s) and some trips also include an AdventureWomen Ambassador. Our trips do not include airfare to/from the arrival and departure cities. However, internal flights are included in some itineraries so please read the itinerary carefully.

Absolutely! In fact, we encourage it! Many of the women who travel with AdventureWomen come solo. For those that do not choose a single supplement, we pair you with a roommate. Usually, when we change accommodations on a trip, we will change roommates if we can, so you get a chance to know others in our group. A limited number of single supplements may be available for an additional charge.

That depends entirely on the trip! AdventureWomen adventure travel trips are rated according to the physical fitness level demanded by the included activities.

  • Moderate: These adventures exercise your mind more than your body and are designed for women who prefer a leisurely, less rigorous experience. For example, you could walk up to 2 miles per day through cities and villages, stand in museums for a few hours, relax on a boat, or view wildlife from a vehicle.
  • Active: Adventures that get you on your feet! You should be in good physical condition where you are comfortable walking on uneven surfaces, such as cobblestone streets, biking manicured nature trails or kayaking calm waters.
  • High Energy: These adventures are designed for women who enjoy a physical challenge and crave being on the go! You should be prepared for itineraries that include (but are not limited to): a full day of biking on a rolling terrain, hiking 5-8 miles on moderate to steep trails, being active at high altitudes, whitewater rafting, or skiing.
  • Challenging: Adventures that get your heart rate pumping, these are demanding yet deeply rewarding and designed for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. You should be in excellent physical condition, and be able to hike up to 10 miles, in steeper, more rugged terrain.