10-Day Athens, Northern Greece and Heraklion Tour Code: 938-20683 europamundo 2606530

We'll embark on a city tour of Athens with a local guide, visiting landmarks such as the Presidential Mansion, the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held, the National Library, and the bustling squares of the city center. We'll also explore the newer neighborhoods that developed after the 2004 Olympic Games. The tour will conclude at the Acropolis (admission not included). In the evening, we'll provide a transfer to the historical neighborhood of Plaka, renowned for its charming Greek tavernas and opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich folklore of this country.

We'll depart early in the morning towards northern Greece, stopping at Kamena Vourla, a charming seaside tourist hub surrounded by stunning landscapes. We'll then proceed north, stopping at the Thermopylae Mountain Pass, the historic site of the famous battle. Next, we'll visit Kastraki, a picturesque village with beautiful views of the entire valley, where you'll have free time for lunch. Afterward, we'll explore the Meteora, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission to one of its renowned monasteries is included. Dinner will be provided in Kalabaka.

We'll journey south through the Thessaly region, where you'll experience stunning landscapes, before reaching Delphi. Here, we'll explore the exquisite archaeological site overlooking the Gulf of Corinth, with breathtaking views. There will be time for lunch. Following that, we'll head to the Hosios Loukas Monastery, renowned as one of the most beautiful Byzantine monasteries in Greece and a World Heritage Site. Its magnificent 11th-century mosaics are truly remarkable. We'll then continue our journey towards Athens, arriving in the evening.

You'll have free time in the morning to enjoy the city, visit museums, or shop. In the afternoon, we'll transfer to the Piraeus Port to board a night ferry, featuring cruise-like amenities. You'll stay in a double cabin and spend the night on board.

Arrival at 7:00 a.m. in Heraklion on the island of Crete. We'll travel along the coast towards the west of the island. Our first stop is Rethymno, a beautiful coastal city of Venetian origin, dominated by its medieval castle. Next, we'll visit Chania, a captivating city with an impressive fortress and stately mansions. Chania has been contested by Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, Genoese, Turks, Egyptians, and Greeks throughout its history. We'll return to Heraklion at the end of the day.

Today, we'll embark on an excursion to the Palace of Knossos, where we'll delve into the Minoan culture that laid the foundation for Greek civilization four thousand years ago (admission and guided tour included). After our visit, we'll travel through the island's tall mountains and journey southward to the shores of the Libyan Sea, arriving at Agia Galini-a picturesque town with winding streets, a charming fishing port, and crowded taverns. You'll have time for lunch and, if you wish, a swim in the sea. We'll return to the capital of Crete at day's end.Note: From November to April, due to the end of the summer season and business closures, we'll visit the picturesque town of Matala instead of Agia Galini. Matala is renowned for its beautiful beach and unique landscapes of cliffs with carved caves.

We'll travel along the coast towards the east of the island. Our first stop will be in the small town of Kritsa to visit Panagia Kera, a 13th-century church renowned for its exquisite frescoes (admission included). Afterward, we'll arrive at Agios Nikolaos, a picturesque town with a natural port. You'll have time to stroll and enjoy lunch. Next, we'll continue to Elounda, a former city-state turned into a beautiful tourist enclave. Here, we'll embark on a boat ride to Spinalonga Island to visit the Fortress of Spinalonga, an ancient Venetian fortress later used as a leper colony for many years. After the visit, we'll return by boat and head back to Heraklion for accommodation.

Early in the morning, we'll transfer to the port and board a high-speed ferry to Santorini, arriving between 09:00 and 10:00 a.m. From there, we'll journey by bus through stunning landscapes to Oia, undoubtedly the most spectacular town on the island: vibrant white streets, beautiful cliff views, remnants of a castle, and windmills. You'll have time for lunch and a leisurely stroll. Later, we'll visit Fira, the island's capital. Those interested can descend to the port by cable car or donkey and admire the cruise ships. Afterwards, we'll proceed to the port to board a high-speed ferry departing around 03:15 p.m. Arrival in Athens expected around midnight.Important Note: From November to mid-April, the high-speed ferry service from Heraklion to Santorini is suspended. During these months, we will travel from Heraklion to Athens by plane instead.

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.