Mythical Crete: The Land of Women

Arrive in Athens and take a taxi to your hotel, the delightfully artistic 5-star New Hotel. It's steps from the Plaka, perfect for a leisurely stroll or sightseeing. Relax and recover from your travels while you enjoy the hotel's creative decor and warm ambiance. Check out the rooftop bar and lounge for a stunning view. 

We'll pick you up at the hotel for a guided tour of the Acropolis Museum in the early evening. As we walk through the halls, our expert guide will share fascinating stories and insights about the artifacts found here.

After the museum tour, we will return to the New Hotel, where welcome drinks and dinner await us at the Art Lounge. Enjoy a delightful meal while taking in stunning views of the Acropolis, setting the stage for our upcoming adventures.

Start your day with a delicious hotel breakfast. Then, we'll pick you up for a comprehensive tour of the Acropolis. You'll explore one of the wonders of the world as our knowledgeable guide explains the significance of this ancient citadel. 

We'll return to our hotel to check out after the tour and head to the airport for our domestic flight to Chania. Upon arrival, we'll head to the charming Domus Renier Hotel. 

In the early evening, we’ll set out on a "Sites and Bites Walking Tour," for an exploration of Chania's rich history and culinary delights. Our tour begins in the old town near the hotel, where we'll visit Venetian and Ottoman monuments, such as the Firkas Fortress, the Venetian Church, the Franciscan Monastery as well as the Ottoman District of Splanzia just to name a few. Later we'll sit down for a tasting of authentic locally made Cretan specialities after learning about the island. 

Rest will come easy tonight. 

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before we head out for our morning of Greek gastronomy. You'll participate in a hands-on cooking class, learning to prepare traditional Cretan dishes from a local "Yaya" (grandma) who uses only local ingredients. Afterward, we'll devour the delicious lunch we've made together.

Next, we'll tour a picturesque village in the heart of Crete. As we walk the charming streets, immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. We’ll visit traditional homes, and shops selling handmade crafts. If we're lucky, we'll meet some friendly locals eager to share their stories.

Admire the rustic architecture and vibrant flowers while enjoying a break at a cozy café with a cup of Greek coffee or a glass of local raki.

In the evening, we’ll dine at Pallas Chania, a renowned restaurant with exquisite cuisine and stunning harbor views. This dining experience is just one of the day's culinary highlights, featuring dishes fresh from the sea and locally grown projects. Notice the gentle sea breeze as it blows through your hair and reflect on the day's adventures as the sun sets over the water.

Have a leisurely morning and a light breakfast at our hotel. 

Then, we are off to enjoy a late boozy brunch with a wine and food pairing, a perfect start to a day dedicated to gastronomy.

We'll continue with an olive oil tour and tasting, where you'll learn about the production process and sample some of the finest olive oils. Cretans consume more olive oil than anywhere else in the world. On our way back, we'll visit the oldest olive tree in the world, a living testament to Crete's rich agricultural heritage.

Dinner tonight is on your own or with your new friends. 

Begin your day with breakfast before embarking on a scenic ride across the island. Along the way, we'll stop in Heraklion for a leisurely lunch, allowing us to explore this vibrant city.

After lunch, we'll continue our journey to Minos Palace. Nestled along the coast, 5-star Minos Palace offers stunning views and serene surroundings. If the weather permits, take this opportunity to take a dip in the sparkling waters during your free time. 

Tonight, we'll make the most of this beautiful seaside retreat eating at one of its many sea-view restaurants.

After breakfast we'll head to Kritsa Village for a walking tour. You'll visit a weaving workshop to learn about traditional Cretan crafts. 

We’ll stop in for a homemade lunch at a women’s cooperative, savoring authentic local dishes made with love.

In the afternoon, we'll stroll through the charming coastal town of Agios Nikolaos, where you'll have some free time to explore and shop. Meet women artisans in their unique shops, hear their stories, and check out their handmade products before we return to the hotel.

Dinner is at your leisure this evening. Why not order room service tonight or enjoy some Greek tapas and a cocktail with a stunning sea view at our hotel.

After breakfast, we'll visit the Knossos Palace, one of Greece's most important archaeological sites. An expert guide will take us through the magnificent ruins, sharing stories of the ancient Minoan civilization that once thrived here. 

As we explore the palace's grand halls and intricate frescoes, we'll learn about the powerful goddesses the Minoans worshipped and the influential role of women in their society. Women held significant positions in religious and public life, with priestesses conducting rituals and ceremonies. Notably, palace frescoes depict women participating in sacred rituals, like the famous "Ladies in Blue" fresco, highlighting their esteemed status.

Following the tour, we'll head to a local winery for a picnic amidst the vineyards. Enjoy a selection of Cretan wines and a tasty picnic lunch in the serene landscape. 

In the evening, we'll gather for a memorable farewell dinner to celebrate the incredible journey we've shared.

We’ll start the day with breakfast boxes due to our early departure. You'll be picked up for your transfer to the Heraklion Airport, where you'll catch your domestic flight to Athens connecting up with your international flight home. 

Αντίο, Adio, Farewell. We hope the memories made and friendships formed will last a lifetime.