In the sun-drenched hills of Greece, where myths mingle with the scent of olives and sea breeze, lies a voyage that tantalizes the senses. Athens, where ancient ruins stand proud amidst bustling streets, serves as the gateway to this culinary odyssey. Santorini, with its iconic caldera views and whitewashed villages, beckons with promises of Aegean bliss. Crete, the cradle of Minoan civilization, invites exploration of its rugged landscapes and rich history.
But this isn’t just a journey through landscapes; it’s a celebration of Dionysian delights. From the vineyards of Attica, where grapes have been cultivated for millennia, to the volcanic soil of Santorini, yielding wines of unparalleled character, and the fertile plains of Crete, home to indigenous grape varieties, each destination offers a unique terroir to explore.
Here is an amazing itinerary suggested by White Cube Travel – Travel Agency Greece
DAY 1 – Welcome to Athens
Welcome to Greece! One of the world’s oldest cities, the birthplace of Democracy, Arts, Science and Philosophy of the Western Civilization.
Upon your arrival you will be greeted by your very own private Chauffer who will whisk you away to your preferred luxury hotel of choice in the city centre where you will spend the first night of your epic Greek Holiday with White Cube.
The centre of Athens has plenty to offer. The city center isn’t just the commercial centre but also an ideal area to wander around. You will chance upon numerous archaeological sites, artisans, quirky cafés and bars and plenty of incredible Greek souvenirs and artifacts as you explore the areas of Plaka, Psirri and Monastiraki.
If you feel that you would like a bit of guidance in order to take on this incredible city, you may opt for the option of an Athens orientation tour which will be available to you.
Alternatively, if you wish to relax you may rest in your luxury hotel or take a short relaxing walk along the cobblestoned streets of your neighborhood, exploring and discovering at your own pace or enjoy a delicious meal of Greek delicacies in one of the many tavernas located in your area.
DAY 2 – Welcome to Santorini
After a delicious breakfast, you will catch your ferry (or Flight), riding the waves as you sit back and enjoy the Aegean Blue as you head to Santorini, a truly unique Greek destination.
Intriguing history, awesome volcanic landscape, cosmopolitan atmosphere, breathtaking sunsets, stunningly deep blue sea and the volcano are just some of the reasons that make Santorini the most popular holiday destination in Greece. As your ferry sails into the rim of the Caldera you will see the steep cliffs and be engulfed by a metaphysical energy that is unique to the island of Santorini.
The Cyclades Style houses with cave style architecture, with traditional whitewashed houses dug into volcanic rock, blue domes churches and paved paths, and of course breathtaking views of the rocky cliffs and the Aegean Blue promise you an ethereal experience.
On your first day on this magnificent island, we encourage you to explore the cobbled streets and breathtaking views of your village and sample the amazing local cuisine in one of Santorini’s many incredible restaurants and tavernas. A must-do is to dine at a restaurant atop one of the steep cliffs overlooking the majestic Caldera for a truly otherworldly experience.
DAY 3 – Santorini Wine tour
Today is a day dedicated to the Drink of the Gods – Wine!
Santorini’s signature Assyrtiko wines are rare and distinctive. They are born from the indigenous Assyrtiko grape, cultivated in some of the world’s oldest vineyards, some of which are around 3500 years old, sown and grown in the rich volcanic soil of Santorini.
Assyritiko-Santorini world class still dry white wine can be drunk young or aged. Under the guidance of an expert Sommelier, you will be led through the entire wine production process starting with the selection and variety of grapes and ending with the bottling of the finished product. You will be able to sample and savour these precious, truly ageworthy wines, including one of the most renowned ones – the sweet Vin Santo.
Since no wine tasting would be complete without food, all the wines are expertly paired with meze style bites, making this tour a memorable experience and indulgence for all your senses.
DAY 4 – Santorini day at leisure.
Take advantage of your day in Santorini and enjoy your day at leisure. As the most famous of all the Greek islands, characteristic to Santorini are its dramatic volcanic cliffs, whitewashed cube shaped houses and its cinematic sunsets.
One nautical mile and a short ferry ride away is the island of Thirasia, a treasure nearly untouched by civilization. This little island was a part of Santorini but was separated in the volcanic eruption of 1600 BC. Thirassia houses the beautiful black beach of Korfos. And the hike up to its highest point is well worth if just for the stunning photo opportunities it offers.
Alternatively, you may visit a local spa or head to Perisia or Kamari with their flat sandy beaches and miles of crystal clear water.
Visit one of Santorini’s famous Villages, considered among the most beautiful on the Greek Islands. Oia and Fira are the most famous as they are perched on the edge of the caldera and offer amazing views of the Aegean sea and the volcano.
If you’re still itching for more, take a trip down the 800 broad, zigzagged steps from Fira to the port below. This is an experience you’ll remember, particularly if you take the traditional donkey ride on the way back up (a cable-car is also available)!
For your last night in Santorini a traditional Santorini taverna meal with local cuisine and delicious local wines is a must!
DAY 5 – Welcome to Crete
Today you will say goodbye to Santorini and hello to Crete. After breakfast at your hotel, you will be chauffer driven to the port of Santorini to catch your 3-hour hydrofoil ferry to the majestic island of Crete. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a representative who will make sure that you get to your luxury hotel of choice in safety and comfort.
Crete happens to be the largest island in Greece. It was home to the majestic Minoan civilization from the Bronze age, whose earliest beginnings were believed to be from 3500BC. Its customs, the feisty spirit of the locals, rich history, exquisite cuisine, wild natural beauty and the generosity of its people gives it a truly unique vibe and sets it apart from the other islands of Greece. As Nikos Kazantzakis (Crete’s most celebrated author of the book Zorba the Greek) once wrote – “The mystery of Crete runs deep. Whoever sets foot on this island senses a mysterious force coursing warmly and beneficently through their veins, sensing their soul beginning to grow”
You will have the remainder of the day to get a feel of this wonderful island by doing a little exploration of your own. Our travel consultant is at your service should you require any tips or recommendations for things to do on the island.
DAY 6 – Knossos and Wine Experience
Today is the Day of the Great Labyrinth Tour where you will have a chance to immerse yourself in the relics and practices of The Minoans from the Bronze age. Along with an official licensed tourist guide you will be transported in a premium class vehicle to the Palace of Knossos, the mythical Labyrinth of Homer. Your guide will take you through the Minoan Palace of Knossos and you will hear all about the historical significance of this magical place. You will be mesmerized by the art on the walls and the mosaic work of the palace and sense the strong mystical energy of the palace itself.
Next you will experience a session on the Minoan Ritual Dance, based on the ancient Minoan Art depictions and Ancient Literature, conducted by a professional Choreographer and dance teacher.
You will then be treated to a traditional Cretan lunch in a taverna in the mountains around Knossos before you head off for a wine tasting and bottling session. We will take you to a Cretan winery where you will have the chance to sample different types of wine produced locally in the region. You will be introduced to Raki, a local spirit made of grapes. You will learn about the traditional process of wine distillation and bottling and have a chance to try your own hand at it. Definitely an experience not to be missed!
DAY 7 – Explore Crete, Lasithi Plateau
On your last day on this amazing island, you can either enjoy your day at your own pace or you may take a trip to the Lasithi Plateau – a trip we highly recommend!
The breathtakingly beautiful Lassithi Plateau is about 70kms west of Heraklion city. It is located in a peaceful and fertile region with rich vegetation and hundreds of windmills and is surrounded by the wild peaks of the Dikti Mountain range.
The Dikti mountains house an ancient Minoan sacred cave where Titaness Rhea is believed to have given birth to her son Zeus. The locals call it “Psychro” after the village that it is closest to.
This cave is believed to be one of the most visited archaeological sites in Greece. If you do choose to visit this cave – you will be blown away by its spectacular beauty and rich history. Wild aromatic herbs perfume the mountain air around it and you will feel as though you were a part of Ancient Greece as you walk along its relatively untouched oak tree lined stony path. Not to mention the panoramic views that will take your breath away!
DAY 8 – Athens – Acropolis Site & Acropolis Museum Tour
On this day you will board a short flight back to Athens, where you will enjoy the last memorable day of your Greek experience.
There is no better way to finish your trip in Greece than visit the most iconic site of Athens, The Acropolis.
Once you have checked in to your hotel you will be met by your own personal guide who will take you for a fully informed tour of the Acropolis of Athens, an ancient citadel located on a rocky hill that rises above the city of Athens. It contains the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historical significance. The most famous of these is the Parthenon, built in the 5th century bc and dedicate to the Goddess Athena,
Afterwards, continue to the new Acropolis Museum, where nearly 4,000 artifacts are on display providing a detailed insight into the everyday life of Ancient Greece and completing your Acropolis experience.
Finally, we recommend that for your last dinner in Greece you choose from one of many roof top restaurants overseeing the ethereally lit up Acropolis hill at night.
DAY 9 – Athens Departure Day
It is now time to say goodbye to Greece. We hope you have had the holiday of your dreams! You will be met by a chauffeur who will drive you to Athens international airport where you will board your flight home fully relaxed and rejuvenated and filled with rich memories of your time in Greece.
As you traverse this wine-soaked landscape, prepare to indulge in the rich tapestry of Greek oenology. From crisp Assyrtikos to velvety Agiorgitikos, from aromatic Vidiano to robust Kotsifali, each sip tells a story of the land from which it springs. Accompanied by local delicacies, from fresh seafood in Santorini to hearty Cretan fare, every meal becomes a symphony of flavors.
So, raise your glass to the Greek gods of wine and embark on a journey that will awaken your palate and ignite your senses. From Athens to Santorini and Crete, let the vineyards be your guide as you uncover the soul of Greece, one sip at a time. Cheers to the adventure ahead.
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