Greek Wonders: Athens & Aegean Islands - Superior

Greek Wonders: Athens & Aegean Islands - Superior

10 Days

Greek Wonders: Athens & Aegean Islands - Superior

10 Days Starting and ending in UK/Ireland

Visiting: Paros, Antiparos, Kolympethres Beach, Naxos, Crete, Spinalonga, Knossos, Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos

Tour operator:

Exoticca

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 30

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of the Aegean Sea with our "Greek Crossing: Paros, Naxos & Crete - Superior" tour. This meticulously crafted holiday offers you the chance to explore the enchanting islands of Paros, Naxos, and Crete, each boasting its unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Your adventure begins with international flights from the UK/Ireland to the picturesque island of Paros, followed by seamless ferry rides connecting you to the stunning shores of Naxos and the legendary Crete. Throughout your 7-night stay in superior category hotels, you'll enjoy modern amenities, welcoming atmospheres, and 7 delightful breakfasts to start each day on the right note. From the serene beaches to the ancient ruins, this tour promises a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, all while ensuring your journey is comfortable, convenient, and absolutely unforgettable.

Highlights

  • Athens

  • Crete

  • Naxos

  • Paros

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Uk/Ireland - Paros

Location: Paros

Accommodation Name: Parosland Hotel

Get ready to delve into the wonders of one of the greatest civilizations of all time and depart from the UK/Ireland on an international flight to Paros*. This beautiful Greek island in the Aegean Sea is famous for its beaches and traditional villages. Arrival at Paros airport and transfer to the hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this charming island at your own pace. We recommend taking a stroll through the picturesque streets of Naoussa. Overnight stay in Paros.*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day 2 : Paros

Location: Antiparos, Kolympethres Beach, Paros

Accommodation Name: Parosland Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy the day at your own pace: we recommend that you visit Kolymbithres Beach, known for its unique granite formations and crystal-clear waters, and take a walk through the picturesque village of Parikia, full of charming cafes and restaurants. Alternatively, consider our optional cruise* around Antiparos (with beach exploration and barbecue). Overnight stay in Paros.*Optional cruise around Antiparos (beach exploration and barbecue): discover the wild and untouched beauty of Antiparos Island. Take an unforgettable cruise around the island and explore Panteronissi, where the turquoise waters resemble a natural pool. Then sail around the cliffs and admire the wild morphology of the southeast coast surrounded by cliffs that plunge into the sea, forming a succession of caves, including Mastihari Cave. The captain will choose the best spots for each cruise according to weather conditions. In the evening, enjoy a barbecue prepared by your captain!

Day 3 : Paros - Naxos

Location: Paros, Naxos

Accommodation Name: Porto Naxos

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, head to the port of Paros to take the ferry to Naxos. Upon arrival on the island, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon discovering the charm of the island at your own pace. Overnight stay in Naxos.

Day 4 : Naxos

Location: Naxos

Accommodation Name: Porto Naxos

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you'll have a peaceful day to explore the beautiful island of Naxos. Why not take a walk on one of its immaculate white sandy beaches or indulge in local cuisine? Additionally, we recommend reserving a full day to discover the charming nearby villages. We also recommend an exciting full-day bus tour of Naxos*. Overnight stay in Naxos.*Optional full-day bus tour of Naxos: Explore Naxos on a full-day guided bus tour. Begin your journey on the island's golden beaches, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Visit picturesque mountain villages, stroll along narrow cobblestone streets, and experience local life. Discover fascinating historical sites like the Temple of Apollo with its famous Portara, and the imposing Naxos Castle, offering panoramic views of the island. Immerse yourself in Naxos' rich culture and history, tasting local cuisine and learning about the traditions that make this beautiful Greek island unique.

Day 5 : Naxos - Creta

Location: Crete, Naxos

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ibis Styles Heraklion Central

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy the morning as you please and, at the indicated time, transfer to the port of Naxos to take the fast ferry to Crete. Upon arrival on the island, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Overnight stay in Crete.

Day 6 : Creta

Location: Crete, Spinalonga, Knossos

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ibis Styles Heraklion Central

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. You have free time to relax or explore the renowned archaeological site of Knossos, one of the most important and well-known palaces of Minoan civilization, related to the myth of the Labyrinth and the Minotaur, and the story of Daedalus, Ariadne, and Theseus. You can also visit the island of Spinalonga and its traditional villages. Overnight stay in Crete.

Day 7 : Creta

Location: Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ibis Styles Heraklion Central

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you'll also have free time to relax and explore the wonders that Crete offers at your own pace. We suggest visiting its charming villages, like Agios Nikolaos, vibrant and steeped in history, with numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs in a typical and picturesque setting. If you're passionate about Cretan history and culture, you can't miss the rich cultural offerings of Heraklion. Additionally, you can marvel at the impressive Byzantine frescoes, the finest in all of Greece, found in various churches scattered throughout the island. Overnight stay in Crete.

Day 8 : Crete - Uk/Ireland

Location: Crete

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel*. At the indicated time, transfer to Crete airport for your international return flight home. Arrival in the city of origin in UK/Ireland and end your trip.*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

What's Included

  • Departures from main UK/Ireland departure airports

    Departures are available from the main airports in the UK and Ireland, providing convenience and accessibility for travelers.

  • International flights

    International flights from the UK/Ireland to Paros at the start of the tour, and from Crete back to the UK/Ireland at the end, are included.

  • 7 nights hotel accommodation

    Stay for 7 nights in superior category hotels across the Greek islands, offering comfort and local charm.

  • 7 breakfasts

    Enjoy 7 breakfasts throughout your stay, providing a great start to your day.

  • All air taxes and fuel surcharge

    All air taxes and fuel surcharges are included, ensuring no hidden costs.

  • Ferry rides

    Regular ferry from Paros to Naxos and fast ferry from Naxos to Crete in economy class are included, offering scenic views of the Aegean Sea.

  • ATOL Protection

    The tour is ATOL protected, offering financial security and peace of mind.

What's Not Included

  • Meals other than breakfasts

    Any meals other than the 7 breakfasts provided are not included and will be at the traveler's expense.

  • Optional tours and personal expenses

    Optional tours, such as the cruise around Antiparos and the full-day bus tour of Naxos, as well as personal expenses, are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers for their safety and peace of mind.

  • Airport transfers outside of the tour schedule

    Airport transfers outside of the tour's scheduled arrival and departure times are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel includes international flights from the UK/Ireland to Paros, and from Crete back to the UK/Ireland. Experience the beauty of the Aegean Sea with regular and fast ferry rides between the islands of Paros, Naxos, and Crete.

Accommodation

Stay in superior category hotels across the Greek islands, offering comfort and local charm. Enjoy modern amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.

Meals Included

9 breakfasts.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodations can I expect?

    You can expect to stay in superior category hotels across the Greek islands, offering comfort and local charm with modern amenities.

  • What are the highlights of the tour?

    The highlights of the tour are Crete, Naxos, and Paros.

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts.

  • What countries does the tour visit?

    The tour visits Greece.

  • How do we travel between the islands?

    Travel between the islands includes regular and fast ferry rides from Paros to Naxos and from Naxos to Crete in economy class.

  • Are there any inclusions regarding flights?

    Yes, the tour includes international flights from the UK/Ireland to Paros, and from Crete back to the UK/Ireland, as well as all air taxes and fuel surcharge.

  • Where can I check the latest Travel Restrictions?

    It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. It is also the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding government embassies and/or consulates as appropriate.

  • What recommendations should I follow before traveling?

    Passport validity: It is the traveler's responsibility to verify and comply with the passport, visa, and travel requirements applicable to your itinerary. You should check the requirements for your own specific circumstances with the corresponding embassies and/or consulates as appropriate. Requirements change so please check the up-to-date requirements in advance of your departure date. In many cases, countries now require that passports are valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure from their borders.

  • How can I upgrade my flight?

    If you would like to make an upgrade to your flight or ask for a quotation, please contact us with all the information. Our customer success agents will answer your request as soon as possible.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes of flights and related services are not permitted after the booking is confirmed. If you wish to make any significant amendment affecting the flights, you will need to cancel it as per the terms & conditions applicable to your booking and make a new booking. If you require more information about your cancellations policy please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section). If you would like to proceed with the cancellation or require assistance please contact us.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    The COVID-19 pandemic not only created an unparalleled impact on health and economy globally, but it has also changed fundamental behaviors with regards to traveling. In response to such changes, Exoticca provides extra peace of mind for all reservations made from 18th January, 2022 onwards by including Covid 19 Protection. Testing positive for COVID-19: If you or anyone else traveling with you on your booking cannot travel due to testing positive for COVID-19 you will be given the option to reschedule your trip or receive 100% of the trip value in Exoticca travel credit. **Proof of infection must be provided in the form of an official COVID-19 positive test result. For more information on the details of the Covid 19 Protection Policy, please go to the relevant Terms and Conditions for your booking (See Cancellation Policy section).

  • Travelling to the USA or Canada?

    Traveling to the United States: Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ESTA is an online application system, developed by the United States government to pre-screen travelers before authorizing them to board a plane or ship bound for the United States. Starting on the 12th of January 2009, any person entering the United States under the Visa Waiver Program must have an approved ESTA travel authorization. This includes travelers who travel to the United States to catch a connecting flight. An ESTA does not guarantee entry to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials determine the admissibility of travelers upon arrival. For more information click here. If a traveler is found to have visited a country designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism (09.11.2022, Countries: Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Syria), the traveler is no longer eligible to participate in the Visa Wavier Program and must apply for a visa to enter the United States. Traveling to Canada: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) An Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is an entry requirement for citizens of visa-exempt countries traveling to Canada by air. This includes travelers who travel to Canada to catch a connecting flight. An eTA is linked electronically to the traveler's passport and is valid for a maximum of five years or until the passport expires, depending on which of these two scenarios occurs first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new eTA. An eTA does not guarantee entry to Canada. When you arrive in Canada, a border services officer will ask to see your passport and other documents to determine whether you are admissible to enter Canada. For more information click here. Traveling to a Schengen member country (Europe): Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) The ETIAS travel authorization will be needed to enter a Schengen member country by air, land, or sea. From November 2023, visitors that do not need a visa to enter Europe will be able to register with ETIAS. ETIAS will become a mandatory entry requirement. The ETIAS for Europe will grant travelers authorization to visit the ETIAS countries that are all members that compose the Schengen zone. The ETIAS visa waiver has been designed for short-term stays of up to 90 days. For more information click here.

  • COVID-19 vaccination recommendations and other vaccines?

    It is the responsibility of the traveler to verify and comply with the health requirements, proof of testing, and vaccination applicable to your itinerary both at the destinations and for, if applicable, countries where you have a connecting flight. Requirements change quickly and you should check the updated guidance well in advance of departure as well as shortly before departure. Check with the migration and health authorities for the country of origin, destination, and stopover to learn more about vaccination requirements.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Once your purchase is complete, you will receive confirmation by email and all your travel documents will be uploaded on to your booking and the Exoticca customer account (which you'll be provided details of). These will include: transport details, hotels, itinerary, important notes, and insurance policy (if applicable).

Reviews of this operator

Jane S  

South America with Exoticca

04-Jun-2023

Most of the time we were travelling as a couple although we kept bumping into others in a simialr situation. Wherever we went there was someone there to welcome us and take us to our hotel, tell us about arrangements for the next few days and to generally look after us. Guides always turned up as expected and were all of a very high standard. We never felt concerned about what was due to happen the next day - it always did! Tours were always of interest. Accommodation which was charm class was perfectly acceptable and if not in the centre of town, taxis were always easy to use and safe whether a white pick up van in the Galapagos or a tuk tuk in Peru. I had a slight accident while there and I have to say that Exoticca guides etc could not have been more helpful. I would not hesitate to recommend Exoticca to anyone thinking of using them. We had an amazing experience in Peru, Ecuador and the Galapagos.

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647e07eb706f837cb1f86880
Diana Gwynn  

Imperial Cities and Desert

20-May-2023

Really excellent way to see Morocco. Our first experience of Exoticca and we were impressed with all the arrangements and attention to detail. The local guides were excellent and our driver Ayoub the absolute best - helpful, kind, knowledgeable and funny. What an outstanding young man! We are definitely recommending Exoticca to our friends and are interested in exploring other countries with you. Many thanks!

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647ccf3f81ea8608ae6d5e06
S A (Google Reviewer)  

Exoticca was a great experience....

11-Apr-2024

Exoticca was a great experience. Very well planned itinerary and our tour driver Leo was excellent. We were lucky to get good weather for the most parts and were given good guidance about local attractions. The hotels were well located and of a good quality. Overall a very pleasant experience. We will travel with Exoticca again.

Kimberly Penna (Google Reviewer)  

I very much enjoyed my...

10-Apr-2024

I very much enjoyed my trip to Portugal with Exoticca. I love that you're able to book the flight at the same time as the vacation booking because you won't get stuck with a bunch of layovers like other tour companies spring on you at the last minute. I felt like the trip was very organized and well-planned. I also like that I was back in my hotel room everyday prior to 6:00 p.m. so I had the whole night to myself to do whatever I wanted rather than being stuck on a bus for hours. I will definitely be booking with Exoticca again.

P Holly (Google Reviewer)  

The staff and food was...

10-Apr-2024

The staff and food was impeccable at the 3 country clubs (Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, Maasai Mara) where we stayed. Our guide was very informative and timely. The only issue is we wished we could've stayed longer at each country club to enjoy the amenities. If there is a next time, we would plan for that.

Dale Foster (Google Reviewer)  

We had a great time...

29-Mar-2024

We had a great time and great experience on our recent trip to South Africa through Exoticca. Very good value with the pricing and very organized and good communication from them. It was a busy trip with so much to see and someday I would like to go back to Capetown and spend a month or so. The safari in Kruger National Park was awesome and we saw every animal there was including the Big 5. And because of traveling to and from Kruger and the safari, we made some lifelong friends. Looking forward to traveling through Exoticca again as I have had my eye on other trips they offer.

Muhammad Zubair  

Jordan and Egypt trip with Exotica

30-May-2023

Our whole trip was meticulously planned. Our guides were really helpful and informative. Special mention to Adnan in Jordan and Mohamed Raouf in Egypt our guides they made this trip lot more interesting. Accommodations and flights to food everything was amazing. Both the countries were amazing and an overall amazing experience

https://uk.trustpilot.com/reviews/647533e4706f837cb1f40c85
Cathy Wallace (Google Reviewer)  

One of the best trips...

09-Apr-2024

One of the best trips ever from start to finish. Great choice of accommodations , very well organized, excellent guides and so much fun. Ecuador and the Galapagos was our trip! Very helpful and polite on the phone with booking process . Very impressed, will definitely book with Exoticca again 😊

JB  

Saw most of what was on the itinerary…

04-Jun-2023

Saw most of what was on the itinerary… Saw most of what was on the itinerary but not the best guide (our Exoticca guide in Ecuador was great but ones since then less so). More free time would have been good ( we didn't even get the free time listed on the itinerary) especially at lunchtimes. Beautiful scenery ranging from the sand dunes to the snow capped mountains. Date of experien

https://uk.trustpilot.com/users/642ae4e995d55f0014af4543
XQ Tong (Google Reviewer)  

The tour of 'Essence of...

12-Apr-2024

The tour of 'Essence of Patagonia & Cultural Capitals - Argentina & Chile' was a great experience and good value for the money. It gave us plenty of free time at most locations to explore on our own. The full day guided tours in Patagonia on both Argentina and Chile sides were great.

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Exoticca allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform exoticca, 0 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Exoticca requires a minimum deposit of 60% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of exoticca charges.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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