Greece Off The Beaten Path
With its diversity and utter beauty, Greece has a lot in store for those willing to look beyond its mainstream destinations. This twelve-day itinerary takes you on a trip through the stunning landscapes of mainland Greece before you make your way to the country's largest island. Your journey starts in Athens, the century-old Greek capital, where rich history and fascinating contemporary vibes walk hand in hand, offering you a travel experience to remember. From there, head south, to the edge of the Peloponnese Peninsula, where a mesmerizing castle town awaits. Built on a rock in the Aegean Sea, Monemvasia is a medieval town that won't let you take your eyes off of it. Next up is Nafplio, the first capital of Greece that never fails to impress visitors with its sea views, quaint Old Town, and countless archaeological sites within easy walking or driving distance. After a brief stop in Athens, you continue your trip to Crete, an island that has it all. From delicious local cuisine and superb wine to spectacular beaches and mountainous landscapes to mighty fortresses and sun-drenched ancient ruins, Crete is an island destination for all tastes and all seasons. In Heraklion, you'll be amazed by the city's exciting ambiance and authenticity while Chania provides the setting for the perfect ending to your Greece trip with its romantic Old Port, narrow alleys, and old-fashioned markets.
One of our team members in Greece will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best Greece has to offer, including things to see and do and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
2 Nights in Athens
2 Nights in Athens
2 Nights in Athens
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Athens
Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Our representative will then meet with you to answer any questions you have and to get you settled for the rest of your trip.
Love at First Sight
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Athens
Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour
Discover the myths behind the greatest landmarks in Athens. Learn about Greek gods and heroes, and discover what really hides behind ancient myths. At the same time visit the best landmarks and sites in Athens, such as the Acropolis (Parthenon, theater of Dionysus, temple of Athena Nike, temple of Erechtheion, and the sanctuary of Asclepius), Olympian Zeus’ temple, the Ancient Agora, and the temple of Hephaestus.
Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour
As the sun sets, embark on a truly decadent foray into Greek gastronomy and viticulture. This immersive food tour includes two authentic eateries, followed by a wine tasting, in which an expert sommelier takes you through five different varieties, plus ouzo.
Day 3
Day 3 - Traveling to Monemvasia by Private Transfer
Today, a private driver will take you to picturesque Monemvasia. Based on your preferred departure time in the morning, a driver will pick you up at your accommodations in Athens. Please note that this is a non-guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver. Along the way, you'll make a short stop to see Ancient Corinth and its archaeological site with a professional guide. The guide will meet you there and is only available for a tour of the archaeological site. The journey's duration is approximately 6 hours, including the time spent at the archaeological site, which will be up to 2 hours.
2 Nights in Monemvasia
2 Nights in Monemvasia
2 Nights in Monemvasia
A stranded rock in the Aegean Sea, a medieval castle town, and endless tales of conquerors and merchants render Monemvasia a true fairytale destination in Southern Greece. Often nicknamed The Gibraltar of The East, Monemvasia Castle is one of the finest examples of defensive architecture, offering travelers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend the night within the walls of a sleepy yet exciting fortress where time seems to have stood still. From walking along dramatic ramparts to sipping local sweet wine on a terrace overlooking the deep blue sea to waking up to the most majestic sunrise, Monemvasia will make you feel as if you're stepping inside a dream.
A stranded rock in the Aegean Sea, a medieval castle town, and endless tales of conquerors and merchants render Monemvasia a true fairytale destination in Southern Greece. Often nicknamed The Gibraltar of The East, Monemvasia Castle is one of the finest examples of defensive architecture, offering travelers the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend the night within the walls of a sleepy yet exciting fortress where time seems to have stood still. From walking along dramatic ramparts to sipping local sweet wine on a terrace overlooking the deep blue sea to waking up to the most majestic sunrise, Monemvasia will make you feel as if you're stepping inside a dream.
Day 3
Day 3 - Arrival in Monemvasia
Upon arrival to Monemvasia, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.
A Delicious Stroll Around the Medieval Town of Monemvasia
After checking into your accommodations, take a stroll through the narrow streets of the Lower Town, admiring the traditional stone houses and historic buildings along the way. The intricate layout of the lower town, with its winding twists and turns, creates a captivating maze-like experience that makes it effortless to lose oneself in the charm of this picturesque place. Then, stop at one of the tavernas to enjoy the famous Malvasia wine and savor the flavors of the region. Along the central street that links the city gates, you'll find most restaurants. While not readily visible from street level, many cafes and dining establishments boast delightful terraces situated on top of nearby buildings where you can indulge while enjoying panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding city walls.
Day 4
Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Monemvasia
Monemvasia Lower and Upper Town Private Tour
On this private tour of Monemvasia's Lower Town, 14 centuries of history await you in the 'Gibraltar of the East'. Explore living archaeological sites and delve into the city's rich maritime heritage, once a bustling port renowned for its exquisite wines. Ascend to the Upper Town's archaeological site, discovering remnants of aristocratic residences and marveling at the Haghia Sophia church with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Wander through hauntingly beautiful ruins and capture breathtaking panoramas, immersing yourself in Monemvasia's timeless allure.
Day 5
Day 5 - Traveling to Nafplio by Private Transfer
Today, you will leave Monemvasia and travel to Nafplio. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations at your preferred departure time and take you on a 3-hour journey. Please note that this is a non-guided transfer.
3 Nights in Nafplio
3 Nights in Nafplio
3 Nights in Nafplio
Steeped in history and almost unbearably romantic, Nafplio is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Greece. Nafplio's dramatic fortresses, neoclassical mansions, and nearby ancient ruins narrate the town's diverse history, a pivotal moment of which was when Nafplio became the first capital of modern Greece. While in Nafplio, you can take long seaside walks, savor authentic cuisine at quaint traditional restaurants, and visit UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, only a short drive away.
Steeped in history and almost unbearably romantic, Nafplio is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Greece. Nafplio's dramatic fortresses, neoclassical mansions, and nearby ancient ruins narrate the town's diverse history, a pivotal moment of which was when Nafplio became the first capital of modern Greece. While in Nafplio, you can take long seaside walks, savor authentic cuisine at quaint traditional restaurants, and visit UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, only a short drive away.
Day 5
Day 5 - Arrival in Nafplio
Upon arrival to Nafplio, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.
Nafplio Town Private Walking Tour
This charming walking tour, with a licensed guide, is around Nafplio, Greece's first modern capital. Wander the old town's enchanting alleyways and immerse yourself in captivating tales and rich heritage. Discover architectural wonders like the First Parliament and the Archaeological Museum. Delve into Nafplio's fascinating history and timeless allure.
Day 6
Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Nafplio
Mycenae & Epidaurus Private Tour COPY
On this private guided tour, you will first visit ancient Mycenae, where myths of King Agamemnon come to life amidst UNESCO-listed ruins like the Cyclopean Walls and the Lion's Gate. Then, you will explore the Archaeological Museum of Mycenae to delve deeper into the civilization's sophistication and wealth. Then, journey to Epidaurus, home to a renowned ancient theater celebrated for its remarkable acoustic design. Discover its significance as a healing sanctuary dedicated to the god of medicine, Asclepius, and visit its museum, too.
Explore the City's Best Museums
Nafplio, rich in history and culture, boasts several museums highlighting its past. The Archaeological Museum features a vast collection of Mycenaean and Classical artifacts, making it essential for Greek history enthusiasts. The Peloponnesian Folklore Foundation Museum, situated in an elegant neoclassical structure, exhibits traditional Greek costumes and textiles, offering insights into regional customs. Lastly, housed in the Trianon building, the National Gallery - Nafplio Annex showcases 19th and 20th-century works by Greek artists, providing a captivating journey through Greece's artistic heritage.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Nafplio
999 Steps to the Top!
The hike to Palamidi Castle is one of the most popular and rewarding hikes in Nafplio. The castle sits atop a hill overlooking the city and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. The trail to Palamidi Castle starts from the Old Town of Nafplio and winds its way up the hill. The path is well-marked, and there are several rest stops along the way where you can catch your breath and take in the stunning views. The trail itself is relatively easy, but it does involve a steep climb, so be prepared for a bit of a workout. To reach the top of the fortress, there are 875 steps, but the legend refers to them as being 999! Once you reach the top of the hill, you'll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Nafplio and the surrounding area. Palamidi Castle itself is an impressive fortress with a series of walls, towers, and gates to explore.
Chef's Table Group Experience
Immerse yourself in the art of Greek cuisine with a four-course meal prepared before your eyes by a skilled chef in Nafplio. Indulge in a culinary journey paired with specially selected wines, all expertly combined to elevate your dining experience. Relax at the Chef's table, where you'll savor unique flavors and hear captivating stories behind each dish as you dine.
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to Heraklion by Private Transfer & Airplane, via Athens
Today, you will leave Nafplio and travel to Athens. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations based on your preferred departure time. The journey is about 2 hours long. Just so you know, this is a non-guided transfer. Along the way, there is an option where you can make a short stop to admire the breathtaking Corinth Canal and, for an additional fee, explore Ancient Corinth.
Day Stop in Athens
Day Stop in Athens
Day Stop in Athens
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.
Day 8 - Day Stop in Athens
Day 8 - Day Stop in Athens
From Athens to Heraklion the best option will be to take a flight on one of the low cost airlines. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival:
1 Night in Heraklion
1 Night in Heraklion
1 Night in Heraklion
Visitors to Heraklion, Crete's capital, are greeted by the imposing Venetian Koules Fortress, a reminder of the importance of this historic gateway to the rest of the island. A vibrant university town, Heraklion is home to some of the island's most important landmarks, such as the Knossos Palace, with its striking Bronze Age ruins, complete with colorful, stunning frescoes. Heading to the center, the bustling Old Town has many markets and cafes, along with neoclassical buildings and a 10th century church with impressed stained glass. Heraklion is a great base for exploring the island, but before you hit the road, take the time to stroll along its Venetian harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and offering spectacular views of the Koules Fortress.
Visitors to Heraklion, Crete's capital, are greeted by the imposing Venetian Koules Fortress, a reminder of the importance of this historic gateway to the rest of the island. A vibrant university town, Heraklion is home to some of the island's most important landmarks, such as the Knossos Palace, with its striking Bronze Age ruins, complete with colorful, stunning frescoes. Heading to the center, the bustling Old Town has many markets and cafes, along with neoclassical buildings and a 10th century church with impressed stained glass. Heraklion is a great base for exploring the island, but before you hit the road, take the time to stroll along its Venetian harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and offering spectacular views of the Koules Fortress.
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in Heraklion
Upon arrival to Heraklion airport, our driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation.
Enter Via Koules Fortress
Koules is an impressive Venetian fortress dating from the early 16th century. An easy and scenic walk from the shoreline along a breakwater takes you to the main entrance. It's an amazing place to go right after your arrival. Grand wooden doors open into rooms where artifacts from Venice's golden age are on display, while thick stone walls keep everything cool. Don't forget to climb to the roof to take in great views of the sea and across the harbor, the town itself.
Day 9
Day 9 - Traveling to Chania by Private Transfer
Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour
The Palace of Knossos is one of the most popular attractions in Crete, but its immense size, poor signage, and complex history means it’s worth visiting with a local guide. The best way to explore is on a guided walking tour, taking in highlights of the Minoan palace such as the Central Court, the Throne Room, the Tripartite Shrine, the Grand Staircase, and the Queen’s Hall. Next, you will then continue your tour with a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion where you can admire Minoan treasures.
Today you're heading further west, to Chania. To make a day of it, and making the journey much more interesting we've included a stop on the way. We'll arrange for a driver to pick you up in the morning. En route, you'll visit the old town of Rethymno, an hour from Heraklion. There you will have a two-hour stop for exploration of the city. From there you'll continue your journey to your final destination in Chania. The total journey time, with stops, is around four hours.
3 Nights in Chania
3 Nights in Chania
3 Nights in Chania
Crete’s most romantic destination offers an irresistible sense of charm. Chania’s Old Town is undeniably captivating, with winding alleyways lined with charming boutique stores, fragrant jasmine trees and bougainvillea, and picturesque squares dotted with local taverns serving Cretan delicacies. The Venetian harbor opens up to panoramic views of the Aegean and the striking Egyptian Lighthouse, which once guided ships safely into the harbor. Traces of centuries of conquests are evident in the amalgam of cultures that intertwine in the cobblestone streets and historical districts of this enchanting town. The district of Splantzia is lined with reminders of the town's Ottoman period. In the afternoon, take a walk along the marina, lined with Venetian boathouses reborn as exhibition spaces and cafes. At sunset people gather by the harbor to witness the magical sunset or simply stroll along the esplanade.
Crete’s most romantic destination offers an irresistible sense of charm. Chania’s Old Town is undeniably captivating, with winding alleyways lined with charming boutique stores, fragrant jasmine trees and bougainvillea, and picturesque squares dotted with local taverns serving Cretan delicacies. The Venetian harbor opens up to panoramic views of the Aegean and the striking Egyptian Lighthouse, which once guided ships safely into the harbor. Traces of centuries of conquests are evident in the amalgam of cultures that intertwine in the cobblestone streets and historical districts of this enchanting town. The district of Splantzia is lined with reminders of the town's Ottoman period. In the afternoon, take a walk along the marina, lined with Venetian boathouses reborn as exhibition spaces and cafes. At sunset people gather by the harbor to witness the magical sunset or simply stroll along the esplanade.
Day 9
Day 9 - Arrival in Chania
Upon arrival to Chania you'll be taken directly to your accommodation.
Feast Your Eyes on the Old Venetian Harbor
Day 10
Day 10 - Your First Full Day in Chania
Street Stories of Chania Group Tour
Explore the European Hiking Path
Crete offers plenty of options for lovers of the great outdoors, especially hikers. In nearly any direction, you'll find traditional villages, high mountains, and beautiful beaches. Hiking is a wonderful way to see the stunning beauty of the island’s natural landscape. Chania is surrounded by 150 hiking trails, but our favorite takes you through Samaria Gorge, a beloved gorge in the National Reserve of Lefka Ori, about an hour's drive from Chania. This gorge forms part of Crete’s most famous hiking route, the E4 trail, part of an EU-wide system of paths. Imbros Gorge is also worth a visit, as it's regularly ranked among the island's most beautiful and famous gorges.
Day 11
Day 11 - Your Second Full Day in Chania
Cretan Villages Adventure Private Tour
On our Cretan Villages Adventure tour, we will hit the road to the lush rolling hills area of the Rethymnon region where bucolic medieval villages and iconic historic sites are located. Let us introduce you to the authentic rural areas of Crete, a side of the island beyond the city centers that doesn’t see too many tourists by exploring abandoned historic monasteries and a medieval town, passing through the oldest olive groves in the Mediterranean and admiring ancient ceramic techniques!
The Battle of Crete
Day 12
Day 12 - Departure Day
Sadly the time has come to leave Crete behind. We'll arrange for a driver to take you to Chania airport for your departing flight. The drive to the airport is about 30 minutes.
What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Athens
Monemvasia
Nafplio
Athens
Heraklion
Chania
package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
I highly recommend JayWay Travel for anyone planning a trip. Their personalized service and itinerary options are top-notch. The private transfers to each location and excursions made for a stress free trip as well. We had an unforgettable honeymoon we will cherish forever.
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Santorini, Heraklion, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion, Athens
Rating :
If you want to truly enjoy your trip, not worry and have detail orientated support and planning then JayWay Travel is the way to go. I felt totally taken care of, never silly for any questions i asked and I just got to enjoy my trip with the peace of mind that the whole JayWay team was taking care of us.
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Santorini, Heraklion, Chania
Rating :
Our JayWay experience was 100% perfect from beginning to end. The JayWay team was professional, knowledgeable, helpful, supportive and responsive throughout and, most importantly, they made both the planning of the trip and the trip itself easy and FUN! We loved our trip and we love JayWay!!
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Santorini, Heraklion, Chania, Athens
Rating :
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