3 Day Tour Santorini, Crete to Discover the Beauty of the Islands

Set out on a captivating 3-day journey that unveils the enchanting beauty of Santorini and Crete, two of Greece’s most alluring islands. Starting from Athens, this tour whisks you away to the ancient wonders of Crete, where you’ll explore the legendary Palace of Knossos and learn about the island’s rich cultural heritage. But the real treat lies in the stunning island of Santorini, with its picturesque coastal towns, the iconic village of Oia, and the natural beauty that will leave you spellbound. As you delve deeper into this itinerary, prepare to be enchanted by the sheer splendor that awaits you.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Athens.

Key Points

• Explore the ancient Minoan civilization with a private tour of the Palace of Knossos and visit the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion, Crete.
• Experience the picturesque island of Santorini, with visits to the charming coastal towns and the iconic village of Oia.
• Discover natural wonders like the Red Beach and Hot Springs in Santorini.
• Enjoy a seamless island-hopping experience with included domestic flights, ferry transfers, and private transfers.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 6 days in advance.

Tour Overview

This 3-day tour from Athens offers travelers an opportunity to explore the stunning islands of Crete and Santorini.

With 7 reviews and an overall rating of 4.5 stars, this tour provides a comprehensive itinerary at a price from $1,558.64.

Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 6 days in advance and the tour includes domestic flights and ferry transfers.

The trip covers key highlights like the Palace of Knossos, Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, and optional activities in Santorini such as a sunset cruise and visits to natural wonders.

Travelers will have the convenience of private transfers, 2 nights’ accommodation, and the flexibility to explore these magnificent Greek islands.

Itinerary Details

The 3-day tour begins in Crete, where travelers will take a flight from Athens to Heraklion.

They’ll enjoy a private 2-hour tour of the famous Palace of Knossos, followed by a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

The day also includes:

• An olive oil tasting at a local farm (2 hours, admission free)
• A ferry transfer to the stunning island of Santorini
• Free time for shopping, dining, and optional activities like a semi-private sunset cruise to the Caldera

On the final day, guests explore Santorini’s highlights, including the Hot Springs, Red Beach, and White Beach, before heading back to Athens by ferry.

Crete Highlights

On the first day of the tour, visitors explore the captivating island of Crete. They start with a private tour of the Palace of Knossos, a remarkable archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the ancient Minoan civilization.

Next, they visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, which houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the region.

The day continues with an olive oil tasting at a local farm, where guests can learn about the island’s rich culinary heritage.

Throughout the day, travelers are immersed in Crete’s vibrant culture, ancient history, and breathtaking landscapes, setting the stage for the adventures that await them on the second day of the tour.

Santorini Exploration

Embarking on the second day, visitors ferry across the azure waters from Crete to the iconic island of Santorini.

Upon arrival, they’re greeted by the island’s charming coastal towns, where they can explore at their leisure.

The highlights of Santorini include:

• Strolling through the picturesque village of Oia, known for its white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and spectacular sunset views.
• Discovering the natural wonders of the island, such as the Red Beach and the Hot Springs.
• Indulging in a semi-private sunset cruise, where they can admire the stunning Caldera and enjoy an onboard BBQ buffet.

The day in Santorini promises a perfect blend of culture, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

Included Experiences

Travelers can look forward to an immersive cultural experience throughout this 3-day Santorini and Crete tour.

The first day takes them to Crete, where they’ll explore the iconic Palace of Knossos and the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. They’ll also enjoy an olive oil tasting at a local farm.

The second day features a ferry transfer to Santorini, where they can explore the charming villages, beaches, and enjoy an optional sunset cruise.

On the final day, guests have free time in Santorini before transferring back to Athens via ferry.

The tour includes domestic flights, ferry transfers, private transfers, and 2 nights’ accommodation, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

Pickup and Timing

The tour typically begins at 8:00 am, with pickup available from accommodations in Athens or the Piraeus Port. This early start allows for a full day of exploration across the stunning Greek islands.

The pickup process is convenient and hassle-free:

• Guests are collected from their hotels or cruise ship terminals, ensuring a seamless beginning to the adventure.
• The tour provider arranges all necessary transfers, including domestic flights and ferry crossings, so travelers can sit back and enjoy the journey.
• Punctuality is key, as the itinerary is carefully orchestrated to make the most of the limited time on each island.

Accessibility and Participation

This tour caters to a wide range of participants, welcoming travelers with varying mobility levels.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it an inclusive option for those with special needs or preferences. Most travelers can easily participate in the activities, which include walking tours, ferry transfers, and optional excursions.

The domestic flights allow for carry-on luggage, though additional checked bags may incur extra costs.

With a focus on accessibility and inclusivity, this tour ensures that visitors of all abilities can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Crete and Santorini.

Luggage Allowance

The tour’s domestic flights allow for carry-on luggage, providing travelers with the convenience of packing light.

However, checking in additional luggage does incur an extra cost.

This tour’s luggage policy offers several advantages:

• Streamlined airport experience with only a carry-on bag
• Ability to explore the islands without the hassle of heavy luggage
• Cost-effective option for those traveling with minimal belongings

Travelers can pack essentials, such as a change of clothes, toiletries, and any necessary medications, in their carry-on bag, ensuring a stress-free journey throughout the Crete and Santorini tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

The tour itinerary can be customized to fit your preferences. You can adjust the activities, duration, and other aspects of the tour to create a personalized experience that aligns with your interests and needs.

What Types of Dietary Accommodations Are Available on the Tour?

The tour offers dietary accommodations, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Travelers can request special meals when booking, and the tour staff will work to accommodate any dietary needs or restrictions.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration in Crete or Santorini?

The tour package doesn’t explicitly offer an option to extend the stay in Crete or Santorini. However, travelers can inquire about customizing the itinerary and adding extra nights on the islands at an additional cost.

Can I Book the Tour for a Private Group or Is It a Group Tour?

This tour can be booked for a private group, though it’s typically run as a group tour. Travelers have the flexibility to customize the itinerary or extend their stay on Crete or Santorini if desired.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students, Seniors, or Families?

The tour offers discounts for students, seniors, and families. Travelers can inquire about availability and pricing when booking. The tour operator give you flexible options to accommodate different budgets and group sizes.

Recap

This 3-day tour through Santorini and Crete offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the captivating beauty and rich history of these renowned Greek islands. From the ancient wonders of Knossos to the breathtaking landscapes of Santorini, this comprehensive experience promises an unforgettable journey that will leave travelers enchanted and eager to return to these enchanting destinations.