Your trip, your timeframe…

Why not explore the beautiful islands of Greece on your own?  With my in-depth my knowledge and expertise and in-country partners we can make this paradise a dream come true.  I highly recommend boutique hotels with character in central locations, and cooking classes (one of my favorite experiences while there!)

A Sample Itinerary of my favorite trip!

Day 1:  Depart from the US, bathing suits in hand!

Day 2:  First stop, Athens.  Stay in a boutique design hotel, next to the Acropolis Museum and within the Plaka, the wonderful pedestrian streets filled with shops and restaurants.

1. AcropolisDay 3:  A special day with a local private guide who will entertain you with history and local flavor as you visit the Acropolis, the Acropolis Museum, the Ancient Greek & Roman Agora, the neighborhoods of Monastiraki of and Plaka.  She will take you to a hidden gem of a restaurant for lunch.

Day 4:  A private transfer will take you to the Athens Airport, where you will catch a flight to Crete and settle into the city of Chania, one of the most beautiful and picturesque cities in Greece.  A paradise for foodies! 

Chania_500_2

The old town is built around the Venetian port and is also a relatively integral area where Venetian buildings and later Turkish elements compose a unique architectural style. Due to the historic center of Chania with its Venetian walls defining thCasa Delfinoe borders between the old and new city and its ramparts, the city has been pronounced as preserved. Enjoy this lovely city for 2 full days.

 

Optional Activities:

Tastes of Crete Cooking Class, featuring hands-on instruction, delicious home- cooked food, along with wine and cheese tasting. The atastes of cretectivity is hosted in an 17th century farmhouse surrounded by organic gardens, just a short drive from Chania.

 

 

 

Hiking in the Samaria Gorge: Enjoy a guided 16km hike through the longest and most impressive of Europe’s limestone gorges.  At the base of the gorge you can enjoy a refreshing swim and lunch at one of the local tavernas. After Samaria Gorgean hour’s sail to the nearby port, you will be transferred back to Chania in the evening.

 

 

Day 7: Travel by private driver to Rethymnon.

RethymnonRimondiRethymnon, a city built in antiquity, is rich in ancient history, most notably through the Minoan civilization. Traits of old aristocracy can be found, though 16th century buildings, arched doorways, stone staircases, Byzantine and Hellenic- Roman remains, the small Venetian harbour and narrow streets. The city’s Venetian-era citadel, the Fortezza is one of the best-preserved castles in Crete.

Optional Activities:

Knossos Tour:  A tour that explores the Palace of Knossos and the nearby city of Heraklion. The palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan civilization. 1. Crete KnossosAccompanied by a first class guide who will offer in-depth personal attention, you will walk around the ruins and excavations of the vast ancient palace, and learn about the Greek mythological tales that are linked to it. After exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms on the Knossos tour, you will travel into central Heraklion for a walk around its historical center and main sites and a visit to the recently renovated Archaeological Museum.

 

Day 9:  Board the ferry with first class seats and enjoy the trip to Santorini, one of the most beautiful spots on earth.  This iconic destination is mosOia Villa 3t known for its breathtakOia Villa 2ing views of the red and brown layers of volcanic ash that make up its famous cliffs. We have suggestions on the most romantic places to stay!

 

 Optional Activities:

Food and Wine Tour:  The day starts with a visit to a volcanic vineyard. Stroll past the unique basket vines and learn about the local viticulture that09 22 11_0509_edited-1 makes Santorini’s vine-growing respected worldwide for its distinctive means of production. During the tour, visit 2 traditional wineries and taste the island’s delicious wines including Assyrtiko, Nykteri and Vinsanto. Then help a local chef prepare a feast of classic Greek delicacies and island specialties, and savor them alongside a glass of Greek wine or a firewater, such as Ouzo. Savor the fruits of your labor at the end of your cooking lesson!  (Best food on the entire island!)

 

Saling Day:  Sailing close to the caldera cliffs passing under Oia, Imerovigli, Fira and Volcano. First stop is at the hot springs for 30 minutes for swimming and mud

bath at the warm waters. Towels and snorkeling equipment included. Sailing close to Aspronisi, Akrotiri and Indian rock. Second stop at the White beach for about an hour for swimming, snorkeling and for the barbeque on board. The menu includes local delicacies with meat, salads, fruits and drinks such as Santorinian wine and soft drinks. Last stop is at the Red Beach for swimming and snorkeling for about 30 minutes.

 

Day 12:  Hop aboard your ferry for the trip to Mykonos, where you will stay in the city center to explore the food and nightlife, and for complete

Mykonos_City

Mykonos is one of the most well-known Greek islands thanks to the vibrant nightlife of the Chora. But the beauty of the beaches, the variety of quality Greek and international cuisine and the traditional Cycladic architecture and landscape makes it an ideal destination for anyone.

Optional Activities:

 

Delos Tour:  This UNESCO World Hertage site is one of the most important archaeological sites of the eastern Mediterranean. You will visit, amongst others, the museum of Delos he remains of the Temples of Apollo, the sanctuary of Artemis, the old city and the theatre and then, walk down the celebrated Lion Street.

Delos

 

 

 

 

 

Day 14:  Early morning flight to Athens, to join your flight home!

 

Please call or email Shelley with questions about this itinerary, or about putting together a trip like this with your friends!

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