10 Day Tour in Athens, Santorini, Crete, and Balos Lagoon Cruise

Imagine a journey that whisks you away to the heart of Greece, where ancient ruins and captivating landscapes intertwine. This 10-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Athens, Santorini, Crete, and the enchanting Balos Lagoon, inviting you to uncover the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders. From the iconic Acropolis to the sun-drenched islands, this itinerary promises an immersive experience that will leave you enchanted. But the true allure lies in the unexpected delights that await, as you delve deeper into the stories that have shaped this remarkable destination.

Quick Points

• Immerse in the ancient history and iconic landmarks of Athens, including the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum.
• Witness the captivating sunsets and caldera views in the picturesque island of Santorini.
• Explore the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos and learn about olive oil production on the island of Crete.
• Cruise to the stunning Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa, showcasing Greece’s natural beauty and rich history.
• Enjoy seamless transportation, comfortable accommodations, and flexible tour options throughout the 10-day journey.

Discovering Athens: Acropolis & Museum

Commencing the tour in Athens, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the iconic Acropolis and its renowned museum.

The Acropolis, perched atop a rocky outcrop, is home to the magnificent Parthenon, the pinnacle of Classical Greek architecture. Accompanied by a private guide, visitors will uncover the rich history and significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Acropolis Museum, located at the base of the Acropolis, displays an impressive collection of ancient Greek artifacts, including the famous Caryatids and the Parthenon Marbles.

Guests will gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic and cultural achievements of ancient Athens through this guided exploration.

Santorini Sunsets and Caldera Views

After exploring the historical wonders of Athens, travelers embark on the journey to the enchanting island of Santorini.

The tour provides a private transfer to the port, where they board a fast ferry to this iconic Greek destination.

In Santorini, they’ll witness the breathtaking caldera views, white-washed buildings, and vibrant sunsets that have captivated visitors for centuries.

The private transfer service ensures a seamless transition between the island’s highlights, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the unique charm of Santorini.

With ample time to discover the island’s picturesque villages, indulge in local cuisine, and enjoy the stunning natural landscapes, this portion of the tour promises an unforgettable Grecian experience.

Exploring Crete’s Knossos and Olive Groves

From Santorini, the tour continues on to the largest Greek island of Crete.

There, visitors will explore the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos, once the center of Europe’s oldest civilisation. A private guided tour takes them through the intricate maze of corridors, throne rooms, and frescoed walls.

Afterward, the group visits a local olive oil estate for a tasting and learning about the island’s prized olive production.

Here are three highlights of the Crete experience:

1. Discovering the vibrant history and mythology of the Minoans at Knossos.
2. Savoring the rich, peppery flavors of Crete’s acclaimed extra virgin olive oil.
3. Wandering through the picturesque olive groves and experiencing traditional Greek hospitality.

Cruising to Balos Lagoon and Gramvousa

Sailing across the shimmering Aegean waters, the tour group embarks on a day cruise to explore the stunning Balos Lagoon and the historic Gramvousa Island.

The vibrant turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches of Balos Lagoon captivate visitors, offering a serene and picturesque setting.

Guests then venture to Gramvousa, an island with a Venetian castle dating back to the 16th century. Here, they can hike to the castle’s ruins and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and coastline.

The day cruise provides an opportunity to witness Greece’s natural beauty and rich history, making it a highlight of the 10-day tour.

Private Transfers and Domestic Air Travel

The tour includes private transfers to and from the hotels, ports, and airports in each destination, ensuring a seamless and efficient travel experience.

The package includes:

1. Fast ferry tickets from Piraeus port, Santorini, and Crete, allowing for convenient and hassle-free island hopping.
2. Domestic air tickets from Crete to Athens, which include 23kg check-in luggage and one carry-on per person.
3. Complimentary pickup from the Athens International Airport, hotels, or cruise ships, making the start and end of the tour as seamless as possible.

These transportation arrangements are designed to provide a comfortable and stress-free journey, allowing travelers to focus on enjoying the stunning sights and experiences of Greece.

Comfortable Accommodations and Fast Ferry Rides

Throughout the 10-day tour, travelers will enjoy cozy accommodations tailored to their group size. Private transfers and fast ferry tickets provide seamless transportation between destinations. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group, the tour offers flexible room configurations to suit your needs.

Accommodation	Details
Double Room	2 people per room
Triple Room	3 people per room
Private Single	1 person per room

The fast ferry tickets ensure a comfortable and efficient journey between Piraeus port, Santorini, and Crete, allowing you to maximize your time exploring these beautiful Greek islands.

Optional Tours and Guides at Your Disposal

Alongside the included activities, travelers have access to an array of optional tours and guides to further enhance their Greek experience. This allows guests to customize their journey and dive deeper into the rich culture and history of the country.

Some of the optional offerings include:

1. Private guided tours of significant archaeological sites like the Acropolis, Knossos, and other renowned locations.
2. Exclusive olive oil tastings to learn about the production and nuances of this revered Greek staple.
3. Bespoke experiences tailored to individual interests, whether it’s exploring local cuisine, hiking scenic trails, or discovering hidden gems off the beaten path.

These optional tours and guides provide travelers with the flexibility to craft their perfect Greek adventure.

Booking, Cancellation, and Additional Details

Booking the 10-Day Tour in Greece is straightforward. Travelers can choose their pickup location, whether it’s Athens International Airport, their hotel, or a cruise ship.

The booking process is confirmed at the time of reservation, and travelers will need to provide their names and genders for ticket issuance. A detailed itinerary is provided after booking, and an updated version is sent one week prior to the trip.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller friendly, and service animals are allowed. Participants can communicate with the tour operator via mobile or chat, and a printed version of the itinerary is available upon request.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 6 days in advance.

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your preferences. The provider offers optional tours and guides, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and needs. Flexibility is key to ensuring you have an enjoyable and personalized vacation.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is not specified. However, the tour accommodations indicate options for groups of 2, 3, or 1 person, suggesting the tour can accommodate small groups or individual travelers.

Are There Any COVID-19 Safety Protocols in Place?

This tour operator follows COVID-19 safety protocols, including mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing, and increased sanitization of vehicles and accommodation. Guests must provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test prior to the start of the tour.

Can I Book Additional Activities During the Tour?

Yes, there are additional tour options available that can be booked during the tour. The itinerary includes private tours and activities, and the tour operator can arrange any optional tours or guides upon request.

How Does the Travel Insurance Work for This Package?

The travel insurance details for this package aren’t explicitly provided. However, the tour offers free cancellation up to 6 days prior, suggesting travelers may have the option to purchase additional travel insurance coverage separately.

The Final Verdict

This 10-day tour offers an extraordinary journey through Greece’s captivating destinations. From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the stunning Balos Lagoon, travelers will enjoy the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. With comfortable accommodations, domestic flights, and a variety of optional tours, this comprehensive package ensures an unforgettable experience exploring the highlights of Athens, Santorini, Crete, and beyond.