Family Tour of Greece

(9 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Athens, Santorini, Crete

This private family tour visits three of Greece’s most popular destinations—historic Athens, scenic Santorini and mythological Crete—offering the perfect combination of important cultural sights, educational adventure and seaside relaxation.

Begin in Athens, the capital of Greece and a showcase of ancient civilization. During private touring with your expert guide, visit the city’s top sights such as the breathtaking Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient ruins (including the Parthenon), and the wonderful Acropolis Museum. Also explore the Agora, local markets, and the charming, taverna-lined Plaka neighborhood. Depending on your interests, other options include riding the funicular up Mount Lycabettus or visiting specialty museums such as the Benaki Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art, National Museum of Contemporary Art and Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. Also enjoy culinary touring to learn about local ingredients and sample local dishes. If desired, take an excursion along the beautiful coast to Cape Sounion to watch the sunset at the ancient Temple of Poseidon. There will also be time to enjoy the city’s excellent restaurants and lively neighborhoods.

Continue to unforgettable Santorini, a beautiful volcanic island with dramatic landscapes, and stay in a luxury resort overlooking the caldera. During private touring, visit the photogenic clifftop village of Oia and tour the fascinating ruins of the ancient city of Akrotiri. Also enjoy time at leisure to relax at your resort. One day, if desired, enjoy a hike along the caldera or a scenic bike ride, perfect for the whole family. One afternoon, enjoy a private boat excursion in the caldera with opportunities for swimming and stopping at the island's distinctive black- and red-sand beaches.

Conclude in Crete, the largest of the Greek Islands and ancient home of the enterprising Minoan civilization, which dates back more than 3,500 years. During private touring around Elounda, visit the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the village of Kritsa to see Byzantine frescoes and browse for local crafts, explore the ruins of the Doric city of Lato perched in the beautiful hills, and take a boat to Spinalonga, an atmospheric island with a ruined fort and a fascinating history. Also visit a local olive oil estate to sample extra-virgin olive oil. Upon request, a hiking excursion can be arranged through one of the island’s beautiful gorges or to the cave where, according to legend, Zeus was born. There will also be time to relax at your luxurious seaside resort and enjoy the shops and restaurants in the charming nearby beach town.

Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange additional activities such as a cooking class focused on Cretan recipes or a tour of the Minoan Palace of Malia.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 Arrive Athens VIP airport assistance. Private arrival transfer to hotel for 2 nights Day 2 Athens Full-day private tour, including optional culinary touring Day 3 Athens – Santorini Private transfer to airport for flight to Santorini. Private arrival transfer to resort for 3 nights Day 4 Santorini Private island touring, including biking or hiking Day 5 Santorini At leisure. Late afternoon private sunset cruise in the caldera Day 6 Santorini – Crete Private transfer to port for highspeed ferry to Crete. Private arrival transfer to resort for 3 nights Day 7 Crete Full-day private tour, including olive oil tasting Day 8 Crete Privately guided excursion to the island of Spinalonga or hiking excursion Day 9 Crete – Depart Athens Private airport transfer for flight to Athens. VIP connection assistance to onward flight

Hotels

Athens: Four Seasons Astir Palace, King George Hotel or Hotel Grande Bretagne Santorini: Andronis Arcadia Hotel or Canaves Epitome Crete: Rosewood Blue Palace or Daios Cove

Cost

$18,230 Per person (based on four travelers/two rooms) $22,725 Per person (based on two travelers/double occupancy)