Greek Island Getaway: Crete & Santorini

Itinerary

• Day 1: Overnight flight

  Board your overnight flight to Athens, the cradle of Western Civilization and one of the oldest cities in the world. NBD.

• Day 2: Arrive in Athens + Welcome Dinner

  Welcome to Athens! 2,500 years ago, it was kind of a happening place, and still is today—with fewer people in togas walking around.

  Today's highlights:

  • Meet an EF representative and fellow travelers as they arrive at the airport.
  • Transfer to your hotel to check in and check out your room.
  • Get acquainted with Athens on a brief walk around the city with your Tour Director.
  • Enjoy a Welcome Dinner of local cuisine and drinks with your group.
• Day 3: Tour Athens + overnight ferry to Crete

  Today, you’ll get to know the real Athens with a real local guide. And after you’ve had your fill, head to the port for your overnight ferry to Chania, a seaside town on the island of Crete.

  Today's highlights:

  • Step back in time at the historic Acropolis of Athens with your local guide.
  • See the Propylaea, the Theatre of Dionysus, and a bunch of other structures you’ll need your guide’s help to pronounce.
  • Take in incredible panoramic views of Athens from the citadel’s hilltop vantage point.

  Free time suggestions

  Ancient Agora of Athens: Visit the ruins that were once the central gathering place for ancient Greeks and do your best Socrates impression.

  National Archaeology Museum: It’s considered one of the greatest museums in the world, housing everything from Greek sculptures to Egyptian Antiquities.

• Day 4: Explore Chania

  Chania is one of Crete’s most picturesque coastal cities, with a maze of narrow streets and family-owned shops. Byzantine, Arab, Ottoman, and Venetian architecture and culture have all left their mark—talk about a melting pot.

  Today's highlights:

  • Hop off the ferry and head to your accommodation in Chania.
  • Get your bearings with an introductory walk around town.
  • Join your group for an evening excursion to a local spot of your Tour Director’s choosing.
• Day 5: Beach day in Chania

  In true island-life fashion, you have no obligations today. If you feel like sticking your feet in the sand, your Tour Director will organize round-trip transportation to a nearby beach.

  Free time suggestions

  Chania waterfront: Walking along the old Venetian harbor is perfect for all you leisure-enthusiasts out there. Simply enjoy the views or stop in at any of the restaurants, cafes, or shops.

  Chania Lighthouse: Looking for a place to watch the sunset? This 16th century lighthouse near the harbor should do the trick.

• Day 6: Travel to Heraklion + optional Archaeological Museum

  Enjoy a scenic drive through olive groves and mountainous terrain from Chania to Heraklion. The Old Town is known for its massive stone fortifications, astounding Venetian and Turkish fountains, and urban sophistication.

  Today's highlights:

  • Board your private bus to Crete’s modern and urban capital, Heraklion.
  • Walk around and get to know the place with your Tour Director.

  Knossos and Heraklion Archaeological Museum (extra cost)

  Calling all history and art buffs. Tour palace ruins, frescoes, and a museum of masterpieces.
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 7: Free day in Heraklion

  When in Heraklion, do as its namesake, Hercules, would do. But instead of defeating Hades, your heroic feats ought to include catching some sun and eating way too many kebabs.

  Free time suggestions

  Koules fortress: Discover the ancient world at Koules fortress and take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.

  Ammoudara Beach: Experience ultimate relaxation on the golden sand of Ammoudara Beach. You didn’t come all the way to Greece to stay inside, did you?

• Day 8: Travel to Santorini + optional wine tasting & village tour

  Hop aboard a short ferry ride to Santorini, the Cycladic Island famous for its white and blue buildings, volcanic landscapes, and picture-perfect sunsets that require no filter. Enjoy some free time and an optional wine tasting in the evening.

  Free time suggestions

  Oia: Everyone goes to this town for a reason. Oia is where you’ll find the iconic blue-domed churches and whitewashed buildings you’ve been waiting for.

  Ammoudi: Head to this small fishing village on the northern coast of Santorini for the freshest seafood you’ve ever had, served with scenic views of the harbor.

  Cliffside wine tasting & village tour (extra cost)

  Quaint villages, wine, and a breathtaking sunset—it doesn’t get more Greek than this.
  
  Why wait? Save money by booking this optional excursion before your trip departs.

• Day 9: Free day in Santorini

  Join your Tour Director for a hand-picked group activity or plot your own adventure—the day is completely yours.

  Free time suggestions

  Red Beach: As the name suggests, this beach is red—literally. The sand gets its color from the black and red pulverized volcanic rock…yay, science!

  Fira: Santorini’s capital town is hustle meets bustle meets nightlife. No matter what time of day you go, there’s always something to do.

• Day 10: Travel to Athens + Farewell Dinner

  Back to the azure waters of the Aegean, this time returning to Athens via ferry. Once you’re back on land, go exploring one last time before dinner with your group.

  Today's highlights:

  • Board your ferry to Athens.
  • Return to the streets of Athens to hit any of the sights you may have missed.
  • Share some laughs (and maybe shed a few tears) at an included Farewell Dinner.
• Day 11: Fly home

  Antio, filoi!
  Translation: Goodbye, friends. Your next destination awaits—home. But this isn’t goodbye. It’s “See you later.” The only question is, where?