Trip Overview

Welcome to Greece! Embark on a captivating 10-day trip through the heart of Greece, experiencing a harmonious blend of ancient wonders, cultural encounters, and culinary delights. Start your journey in Athens, the modern capital of Greece. Athens was the cultural center of the ancient world as well as home to many notable Greeks, perhaps the best-known being the philosopher Socrates, and the playwright Sophocles, author of Oedipus Rex.

During your adventure, you’ll get to know your expert Greek guide, who will help you discover the secrets of Athens and of each island you will explore. You’ll meet other incredible individuals on your journey. They will help make your experience a fun and personally fulfilling adventure and will cheer you on as you reach beyond your comfort zone and embrace new challenges!

Athens: the Ancient Capital

Upon landing in Athens, transfer to your accommodations and immerse yourself in Greek hospitality. Enjoy a welcome dinner, setting the tone for the adventure ahead. Explore Athens’ iconic landmarks, including the Acropolis and Mars Hill. Indulge in local delicacies and navigate the historic Ancient Agora. Meet a leading actress of the Greek Theater before journeying to Cape Sounio, and marvel at the Temple of Poseidon.

Crete’s Charms Unveiled

Fly to Chania in Crete, where the old town beckons with its historical charm. Engage with a local fashion designer before transferring to Rethymno and enjoy a leisurely day, partaking in a cooking class and a delightful dinner with a private local chef.

Cultural Immersion in Heraklion

Continue your journey with a visit the famed “village of jars”. Unleash your creativity in a ceramic studio workshop. Transfer to Heraklion, exploring the tomb of a famous Greek writer, the Archaeological Museum, and the legendary Knossos Palace. Delight your senses with a visit to a local winery, savoring the flavors of Greek wines.

Santorini’s Timeless Beauty

Board a high-speed ferry to Santorini, where the enchanting Oia awaits exploration by foot. Dine against the backdrop of the caldera, savoring the magic of the island. You will also wander through Fira independently, take a refreshing dip in the geothermal hot springs before bidding farewell to this captivating land.

This Greek odyssey promises an unforgettable fusion of history, culture, and gastronomy, leaving you with cherished memories as you depart from Santorini.

Main Attractions

  • Explore Athens and its famous Acropolis and Ancient Agora
  • Meet one of the leading actresses of the Greek Theater
  • Venture to Cape Sounio and Crete, connecting with local designers and savoring a private Chef's creations
  • Discover the "village of jars", engage in a ceramic workshop, and delve into Heraklion's rich history
  • Visit Santorini, exploring Oia and Fira before relaxing in geothermal hot springs

What You'll See and Do

  • Archaeology
  • Boating
  • Cooking Class
  • Cultural Exploration
  • Historical Sites
  • Local Delicacies
  • Sightseeing
  • Swimming
  • UNESCO Site
  • Walking
  • Wine Tasting
  • Women-To-Women Exchanges
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If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Trip Itinerary

The AdventureWomen itineraries are subject to change depending on the chosen departure date. To view a specific departure itinerary, simply click on the "Browse Detailed Itinerary" button above and select your date.

Day 1

Arrive in Athens, Greece

Arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH) by 3:00 pm today.

A group transfer from the airport to the hotel will be provided when most guests arrive (exact time to be determined). Private transfers at other times are available for purchase.

Enjoy a lively welcome dinner where you can connect with your fellow travelers this evening. Share stories and discover the unique reasons each woman in your group is excited to explore Greece, Crete and Santorini.

Dinner

Overnight: Elia Ermou

Day 2

Athens

Begin the day with a visit to the famous Acropolis and Mars Hill. The Acropolis is a prominent ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. It includes several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena. The Acropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of classical Greek civilization. Mars Hill, also known as the Areopagus, is a rocky hill located near the Acropolis in Athens. In classical times, it served as a prominent court for legal and political matters.

Continue with a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Its primary purpose is to exhibit and protect the significant archaeological findings from the Acropolis, spanning from the Greek Bronze Age to the Roman and Byzantine periods.

For lunch, embark on a tasting tour in the modern market, sampling local delicacies and authentic Greek specialties from traditional neighborhoods.

Head to the Ancient Agora, a political and cultural hub of ancient Athens, where great thinkers, priests, and statesmen would have crossed paths.

Enjoy dinner as a group tonight.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Elia Ermou

Day 3

Athens

Start your day with a conversation with a prominent actress from the Greek theater, gaining insights into the roles of women in both ancient and modern settings.

Embark on a scenic drive offering panoramic views of the Saronic Gulf, culminating in the arrival at Cape Sounio. Steeped in myth and ancient history, the Temple of Poseidon, honoring the Greek god of the sea, dominates the southernmost tip of Attica, where the horizon melds with the Aegean Sea. Explore the adjacent National Park, indulging in a gentle hike that reveals breathtaking vistas of a rugged coastline. Legend has it that the enchantment of swimming beneath the ancient temple surpasses the magic of standing beside it—those intrigued are encouraged to take a refreshing dip!

Return to Athens in the evening with time to explore the cobblestone streets of the Plaka neighborhood at your leisure. Dinner will be on your own tonight.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Elia Ermou

Day 4

Rethymno

Transfer to Athens airport for a morning flight to Chania, Crete.

Surrounded by beautiful Venetian mansions, fountains, and elaborate churches, wander through the maze-like alleys and cobblestone streets on a walking tour of Chania’s Old Town. Take in vestiges of Arab, Byzantine, Venetian, and Turkish occupations.

Meet with Elli Lyraraki, a local fashion designer and clothing manufacturer, at her workshop. Discover how her creative process is influenced by Minoan art. Elli, who initially studied music and interior design, collaborated with her husband—well-versed in the ancient craft of sandal-making—to establish a modest workshop. Together, they craft a diverse range of handmade leather products, including sandals, wedge-heel shoes, ballerinas, bags, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces.

Transfer to Rethymno (approximately 1 hour drive) for a guided walking tour of one of Greece’s best-preserved Medieval towns.

Check into your hotel, and enjoy an evening at leisure. Dinner will be on your own tonight.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Pearl Beach Hotel

Day 5

Rethymno

Take a day to independently discover the charm of local landmarks, bask in the sun on the beach, or explore the diverse array of shops in town. Additionally, seek recommendations from your guide for a curated list of suggested activities.

Gather in the evening for a cooking workshop and dinner hosted by a local private chef.

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Pearl Beach Hotel

Day 6

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 to delve into the local craft, followed by a delightful lunch with the women from the community.

Proceed to Heraklion for an evening tour of the vibrant portside capital, accompanied by an orientation to your neighborhood. Check into your accommodation before enjoying dinner as a group.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Overnight: Marin Hotel

Day 7

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.

Breakfast, Lunch

Overnight: Marin Hotel

Day 8

Santorini

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.

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Santorini Palace

Day 9

Santorini

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. Reflect on the cherished memories you’ve created and celebrate the conclusion of an amazing journey through this truly remarkable country. Take in another stunning sunset before returning to your hotel.

Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight: Santorini Palace

Day 10

Departure

After an early breakfast at your hotel, transfer to the Santorini airport (JTR) for your departing flight. Connect through Athens to your flight back home. A group transfer to the airport will be provided when most guests depart (exact time to be determined). Private transfers at other times are available for purchase.

Breakfast

 

Please note: AdventureWomen will attempt to adhere to the itinerary as much as possible. However, certain conditions (political, climatic, environmental, and cultural) may necessitate changes in the itinerary. AdventureWomen reserves the right to alter any itinerary at any time, if necessary. We will attempt to notify participants of changes as far in advance as possible. Costs incurred by such changes will be the responsibility of the participants.

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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Traveling to Greece



Arrival and Departure Information

September 12, 2025 Departure:

Arrival: Arrive in Athens, Greece (ATH) by 3:00 PM on September 12, 2025.

Depart: Depart Santorini, Greece (JTR) any time on September 21, 2025

We are happy to help you make your flight and travel arrangements. If you’d like to do anything prior to or following the AdventureWomen trip, we’d be delighted to help you arrange any trip extensions you’re interested in.

Note: The recent trend in travel is for travelers to finalize their plans much closer to departure time than was customary in the past. While we try to be as flexible as possible booking last-minute registrants, we must release hotel rooms two to three months prior to departure! Please keep this in mind when making your travel plans.

Preparation and Packing  

Please use the following guides as a reference when preparing for your adventure. We also encourage you to adapt the guides to your travel style as well as the destination’s forecasted weather.  

Gratuities  

Gratuities are a personal decision and are at your own discretion based on your level of satisfaction with the service provided. Gratuities are dependent upon the number of guests on your departure, and they vary greatly from trip to trip. As a general reference, AdventureWomen suggests you plan for $200-$225 (or more) worth of gratuities for this adventure. Specific tipping recommendations for your trip will be provided to you closer to your departure date and may fluctuate due to inflation, exchange rates, and the number of travelers on your trip. 

Passports and Visas

Citizens of the United States must have a passport valid for six months beyond your travel dates with at least two blank facing pages. If you do not have a passport, please apply now!

US Passport holders will need a visa to visit Turkey. We will provide detailed information before your departure on how to obtain your visa.

Activity Level

We rate this trip as Moderate. Our Moderate 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. Please note that this is a general description of what you might encounter; for specific details about your trip, please consult the itinerary.

We recommend training before your trip (with your doctor’s permission) to make the most of your adventure. With this itinerary in mind, we have a partnership with Trailblazer Wellness, a woman-owned, women-run company that will design an individualized fitness plan just for you! Best of all, AdventureWomen guests get a 10% discount with the code AVW. Learn more on the Trailblazer Wellness website.

Health Considerations

Make an appointment with a travel clinic, as they may have recommendations for vaccines and medications based on the destination as well as your age, health, and past vaccination history.

For more health information, go to www.cdc.gov/travel and navigate to the page about Turkey.

How to Register

Call the AdventureWomen office at (800) 804-8686 to determine space availability and register for this trip. We can complete your registration, including taking your credit card deposit over the phone.

If you prefer, you can register online by clicking “Sign Up for this Trip” on the trip page.

Please be sure to read the AdventureWomen policies before registering!

Forms and Final Payment

The deposit for this trip is $800. You can transfer your deposit to another trip with no additional fee if you notify us within 120 days of the original trip departure date. We can hold your deposit for up to six months as a credit. Failure to book a new trip within this timeframe will result in the forfeiture of your deposit.

Once you book, you will need to fill out and return to AdventureWomen:

  • Information Form
  • Booking Conditions Form
  • Copy of Flight Information
  • Copy of Issuing Page of Passport (Photo Page)
  • Supplement Health and Safety Form

Final payment is due to AdventureWomen in a cash form (check, money order, or wire transfer). A maximum of $1,500 per person can be put on a credit card, which includes your deposit.

September 12, 2025: Final Payment Due Date: June 14, 2025

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
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Download Extended Itinerary

What's Included

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 wait staff

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

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary

Accommodations

Elia Ermou

Nestled in the heart of Athens, a mere 800 meters from the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum, Elia Ermou Athens Hotel offers accommodation in luxurious and comfortable rooms. Ideally situated on Ermou Street, Athens' bustling commercial hub, guests can relish the spectacular Acropolis view from the Athens View Balcony or unwind with a rejuvenating treatment at the Wellness Center. The charming Plaka and vibrant Monastiraki are a mere 400 meters away.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, flat screen TV, coffee/tea maker, safe, minibar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Pearl Beach Hotel

Perched along the northern coast of Crete with a commanding view of the Aegean Sea, Pearl Beach is nestled in a lively resort area, just steps away from the beach and a short drive from the heart of Rethymnon town. Positioned on the promenade leading to Rethymnon's historic center, the hotel boasts a sandy beach right in front. Guests can enjoy the private beach area reserved exclusively for them. The hotel's interiors feature bright and fresh decor with plush furnishings. Enjoy a leisurely drink from the poolside bar or unwind in the garden area adorned with palm trees, offering natural shade.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, flat screen TV, safe, minibar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Marin Hotel

Marin Hotel is a contemporary establishment situated in the heart of Heraklion city, and strategically positioned near every notable sight and monument in the area. Marin Hotel boasts a complete renovation, featuring 44 rooms of various types designed to cater to every guest's needs. The rooms offer an ideal sleeping environment with high-quality pillows and mattresses, complemented by a light and minimalistic style that fosters a sense of relaxation and tranquility.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, flat screen TV, safe, minibar, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

Santorini Palace

Santorini Palace stands as the first resort in Santorini, just a few feet away from the Caldera cliff and its captivating panoramic views of the volcano. This hotel seamlessly blends beautiful Cycladic architecture with expansive open spaces, resort amenities, and close proximity to interesting sites. Guests can fully immerse themselves in the resort's facilities, unwind in the tranquil atmosphere of the Hotel Spa, lounge by the pool, or stroll along the Caldera's promenade.

Amenities: complimentary toiletries, hair dryer, flat screen TV, safe, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi

 

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

If you're curious about this trip, we would be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Call us ~ 1.800.804.8686
Email Us
Browse Detailed Itinerary

Download Extended Itinerary