Exploring Ancient Greece from Athens to Crete | Yampu Tours

Custom Travel Experiences Since 1998

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Exploring Ancient Greece from Athens to Crete

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PRIVATE TOUR - 10 DAY SAMPLE ITINERARY

FROM £$ 9369

Private Tour Highlights

  • Explore the port city of Heraklion, known for the Palace of Knossos where the Europe's oldest known civilization traded gold, ceramics, and saffron.
  • Witness the splendor and timeless beauty of the Parthenon as well as its other monuments and the magnificent panoramic view of Athens.
  • See the Pan-Athenian Stadium, the all-white marble stadium where history was made as the site of the first modern Olympic Games.
  • Wander the ruins of Olympia, where the Olympic Games got their beginnings as a festival to the gods as far back as 700 BC.
  • embark a traditional wooden fishing boat, and sail to the island of Spinalonga, once known as as the Leper Island.
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum of Delphi, one of the most important in Greece.
Interested in this tour?   Let us build you a customized quote based on your budget.

Tour Overview

Step back in time and witness one of the most important civilizations in western history while spending ten days Exploring Ancient Greece from Athens to Crete.

Upon arrival to the oldest city in Greece, visitors will be welcomed with a delightful Greek dinner accompanied by stunning views of the Parthenon, the perfect introduction to the historically powerful civilization and empire. The next day, visitors will take in the most iconic sites of Athens with stops in Constitution Square, the Pan-Athenian Stadium, then the Temple of Zeus before moving on to the highlight of the city, the Acropolis.

Continuing the voyage, the tour takes travelers through the mainland to witness famed greek sites including the where the first Olympic games were held in 776 BC and the Archaeological Museum of Delphi with its rich collections of architectural sculpture and detailed statues. Leaving the mainland, travelers will continue on to the island of Crete for a taste of the island’s history, along with its rich culture.

 

Inclusions
Price includes domestic and regional flights within the itinerary; all hotel accommodations including daily continental or buffet breakfast and daily city tax; all transfers between airports and hotels with assistance and baggage handling; guided tours in English including entrance fees.
Exclusions

International airfare (unless specifically included), airport departure taxes that must be paid on-site, gratuities, meals not mentioned, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages with meals, early / late check-out, room service, visa fees/services, and other personal items or services not mentioned.

Best Time to Travel
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Best Good Consult

Package Price: From £$ 9369

Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.

Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.

Trip Type:

All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!

Tour Itinerary

Day
1

International Flight to Greece

Overnight International Flight to Athens, the capital of Greece.

Overnight International Flight to Athens, the capital of Greece.

Day
2

Athens' Kuzina Dinner

Upon arrival to Athens, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
Athens is the capital of Greece. It was also at the heart of Ancient Greece, a powerful civilization and empire. It had many fine buildings and was named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom and warfare.

Tonight, you will enjoy a delicious dinner at Kuzina located on the pedestrian street of Adrianou (approx. 10-minute walk from your hotel). Kuzina has a wonderful terrace with exceptional views to the enlightened Parthenon and Attalos arcade. Experience a Mediterranean cuisine with a modern touch.
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Day
3

Athens City Tour with Visit to Acropolis & the New Acropolis Museum

Drive past the neo-classical buildings of the Academy, the University, and the National Library, and on to Omonia Square before moving on to Syntagma or "Constitution Square" (the heart of central Athens). Opposite is the Parliament building where the National Guards (Evzones) in their colorful uniform skirts and pompom shoes guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

See the Pan-Athenian Stadium, the all-white marble stadium where history was made as the site of the first modern Olympic Games. Nearby, the Temple of Zeus is separated from modern Athens by the tall stone structure Hadrian's Arch. Also view the Pnyx (the meeting place for the Assembly of the ancient city of Athens), the Theseum and the Agora with the reconstructed Stoa of Attalos. Then, on to the Acropolis, at the base of which stand the ancient theatres of Dionysos, and the still used Odeon of Herodes Atticus. Opposite is Philopapos Hill offering a magnificent panoramic view of Athens. The highlight is the visit to the Acropolis.

This comprehensive visit will reveal to you the splendor and timeless beauty of the Parthenon as well as its other monuments including the Propylaea, the Temple of Wingless victory, and the Erectheum.

The tour then ends with a visit to the New Acropolis Museum which holds more than 4,000 ancient works, including some of the best surviving classical sculptures that once adorned the Acropolis. The new facility, 21,000 square meters (226,000 square feet) of glass and concrete, was designed by the New York-based architect Bernard Tschumi. The new Acropolis Museum is one of the largest in Europe and houses the archaeological findings related to the Acropolis hill and the Parthenon.

Take this opportunity to leave the hustle and bustle of Athens behind for a relaxing and scenic drive along the coast of the Saronic Gulf of the world famous Aegean. View the splendid beaches and seaside resorts of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, Varkiza, Lagonissi and Anavissos as well as dozens of natural bays, to Sounion (a fashionable resort) to visit the Temple of Poseidon, the ancient God of the Seas, perched high on the cliff. The peninsular on which the temple is situated offers a unique view of the Saronic Gulf. Being there at the right time will enable you to view one of the most breathtaking sunsets to be seen. This half day tour can be extended to include lunch or dinner by the Poseidon temple.
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Day
4

Mycenae Site, Museum & Epidaurus Ancient Theatre Tour

Today, you will start your tour of mainland Greece. Depart to Nafplion (approx. 2 hours). En route, you will visit the main archaeological sites of interest including Mycenae site and museum and the Epidaurus Ancient theatre. After the visits, transfer to your hotel for overnight.

Today, you will start your tour of mainland Greece. Depart to Nafplion (approx. 2 hours). En route, you will visit the main archaeological sites of interest including Mycenae site and museum and the Epidaurus Ancient theatre. After the visits, transfer to your hotel for overnight.

Day
5

Archaeological Site of Olympia Tour

Today, you will continue your journey to Olympia (approx. 3 hours). Visit the Archaeological site of Olympia.

The site of Olympia, in a valley in the Peloponnesus, has been inhabited since prehistoric times. In the 10th century B.C., Olympia became a center for the worship of Zeus. The Altis - the sanctuary to the Gods - has one of the highest concentrations of masterpieces from the ancient Greek world. In addition to temples, there are the remains of all the sports structures erected for the Olympic Games, which were held in Olympia every four years beginning in 776 B.C.

After the tour, continue to your hotel for overnight.
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Day
6

Olympia - Galaxidi

Today, you will depart to Galaxidi (approx. 3 hours). En route, you will visit the Deplhi Archaeological Museum.

The Archaeological Museum of Delphi, one of the most important in Greece, exhibits the history of the Delphic sanctuary, site of the most famous ancient Greek oracle. Its rich collections are comprised primarily of architectural sculpture, statues and minor objects donated to the sanctuary. These reflect its religious, political and artistic activities from its early years in the eight century BC to its decline in Late Antiquity.

Arrival to Galaxidi for overnight.
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Day
7

Galaxidi - Athens - Heraklion

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and transferred to Athens airport (approx. 3 hours) for your flight to Heraklion.

Upon arrival to Heraklion, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

Heraklion, also known as Iraklio, is a port city and the capital of the Greek island of Crete. It's known for the Palace of Knossos, just outside the city. The vibrant Old City is of most interest to visitors, and it's worth taking some time to see. In ancient times, Heraklion was the port of Knossos, where the Minoans, Europe's oldest known civilization (they lived on Crete between 2700 BC and 1450 BC) traded gold, ceramics, and saffron.
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Day
8

Knossos & Archaeological Museum Tour

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Explore 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. Accompanied by a first-class guide who will offer in-depth approach and personal attention, you will explore 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 make a visit to the recently renovated Archaeological Museum. The most magnificent collection of Minoan art and culture in the world is housed in this museum, that is one of the most visited ones Greece, with an exhibition of artifacts, covering a period of 5,000 years.
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Day
9

Spinalonga, Aghios Nikolaos & Kritsa Tour

This excursion journeys along the north-east coast and first visits the cosmopolitan resort of Elounda. Continuing to the village of Plaka, we will embark a traditional wooden fishing boat, and sail to the island of Spinalonga; fortified by the Venetians it is also known as the Leper Island, as that is where lepers from Crete and the rest of Greece were quarantined until 1957. We will walk around the islet and explore the restored premises. Sailing back to Plaka we will drive to the town of Agios Nikolaos, for a stroll around its charming center, with lively cafes around the lake and with nice little shops.

Our next stop will be at the 15th century church of Panagia Kera, to admire its magnificent frescoes, and we then will drive to the picturesque village of Kritsa, stretched by the slopes of Kastellos mountain, for a walk around its colorful alleys. In the late afternoon return to the hotel.

Note; Because of the extensive walking, comfortable shoes and a hat are recommended. Panagia Kera is closed on Mondays.
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Day
10

International Flight Home

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to Heraklion airport for your flight to Athens then your international flight home.

At the appropriate time, you will be met at your hotel and privately transferred to Heraklion airport for your flight to Athens then your international flight home.

Athens, Greece

Nafplio, Greece

Olympia, Greece

Galaxidi, Greece

Heraklion, Greece

Places You'll See

  • Athens

    Serving as the capital of Greece today, the ancient city was once the heart of the ancient Greece Empire and the birthplace of western civilization. Today, the city is still largely dominated by classical Greek landmarks dating as far back as the 5th century BC. This includes the hilltop citadel of Acropolis that hosts ancient buildings and temples such as the Parthenon, devoted to the goddess of wisdom and patron of the city, Athena.  Aside from the fascinating historic landmarks, visitors will also enjoy the local cafes, museums and the nearby beaches of Attica.

  • Nafplio

    Only a 2-hour car ride from Athens, located on the Peloponnese peninsula is the town of Nafplio. Considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in mainland Greece, Nafplio’s romantic charm draws visitors to explore its quaint streets and historic monuments. Visitors will appreciate the endless number of beaches as well as delicious dining establishments throughout town. Points of interest include the island fortress of Bourtzi, an archaeological museum, and pedestrian-friendly streets such as Megalos Dromos with endless shops and cafes.

  • Olympia

    Once serving as one of the most influential Greek sanctuaries, the ancient city of Olympia was the birthplace of the Olympic Games and home to numerous temples devoted to the Greek gods, Zeus and Hera. Today, fragments of the ancient buildings remain including the temple of Zeus, the first Olympic stadium grounds, bathhouses, treasuries, and the Gymnasium where athletes trained and socialized. After Rome conquered much of Greece, the “pagan” games had been banned with the increasing popularity of Christianity. It was not until 1896 that the games took place once again, but in Athens.

  • Galaxidi

    Galaxidi has a long maritime history as a port city, locally referred to as Hirolakas, or ‘Widows’ Port’ where wives of seamen once awaited in hopes of their husbands’ return. Visitors can learn about the port’s Naval history at the Maritime Museum before strolling along the quaint streets and taking in the village’s traditional architectural elements, centuries old backstreets and opulent mansions. Visitors will not only enjoy the idyllic views, but also some of the freshest seafood and Greek cuisine in the Mediterranean.

  • Crete

    The largest island in Greece, Crete provides visitors with an array of opportunities along its varied landscapes with remnants of brilliant civilizations throughout its history. Though Crete is famed for its brilliantly idyllic beaches, visitors will also enjoy many land experiences including hiking to discover Roman and Turkish ruins, touring the local olive farms and vineyards, and dining on some of the most delicious seafood.

Hotel Options

4 Star Properties

Athens : Hera Hotel

Nafplio : Amalia Nafplio Hotel

Olympia : Amalia Olympia Hotel

Galaxidi : Ganimede Hotel

Heraklion : Ibis Styles Hotel

5 Star Properties

Athens : Electra Metropolis Athens

Nafplio : Amphitryon Hotel

Olympia : Hotel Europa Olympia

Galaxidi : Ganimede Hotel Galaxidi

Heraklion : Megaron Hotel (VIP Room)

Testimonials

Michele

Traveled April, 2016

Best customer care & itineraries

I am recently returned from my third trip organised by Yampu, this time to Costa Rica. As always, it was fabulous from start to finish!

I do look around initially when planning my holidays but each time Karolina offers the best customer care & arranges by far the best itineraries. Value for money is excellent & they keep in constant contact before during & afterwards to make sure everything is going well.

The standard of accommodation & guides they use is superb & they actually listen to your requests as opposed to copying a generic page from their website…. Do I highly recommend Karolina & Yampu? YES!  Will I use them again? YES!  Save time & effort & just use Yampu is my travel tip  🙂

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Kurt & Rosabel, family of 5

Traveled August, 2010

I consider using your company again

The trip was fantastic. No complaints about the accomodations and I was truly impressed with the transportation arrangements. The guides from the various companies were courteous, polite and extremely helpful whenever a problem arose. The atmosphere on the Caribbean coast (Tortuguero) was completely different from that encountered on the Pacific coast (Guancaste), as was each location along the way. I honestly can’t say I preferred on spot over the others, though perhaps I was little more outspoken about the comforts of Arenal Springs compared to rest. The two beach spots along the Pacific were memorable for the ocean and all the things we did there.All the above said, I have no problem recommending your firm, and yourself in particular, to any of my friends and acquaintances regarding having you help them with their travel plans. Indeed, I have done so repeatedly today and will continue to do so into the future. It also goes without saying that I consider using your company again when Rosabel and myself start planning our next vacation or adventure trip.

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Pamela

Traveled August, 2014

I will definitely think of Yampu when I plan my next vacation.

I will definitely think of Yampu when I plan my next vacation. The English speaking guides in Thailand were excellent. Our entire trip was flawless and we will always remember this vacation

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