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Greece Off The Beaten Path

12 Days / 11 Nights

Athens, Monemvasia, Nafplio, Athens, Heraklion, Chania

from$3,825 per person

Travel and LeisureFodorsUSA TodayNew York TimesNational GeographicWashington PostVogue

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.

Route for Athens, Monemvasia, Nafplio, Athens, Heraklion, Chania tour

2 Nights in Athens

2 Nights in Athens

3 days in Athens
3 days 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

Suggestion to explore on your own

Athens has plenty of rooftop venues to take advantage of the opportunity to see the Acropolis shining at night. They have become popular hubs for nightlife among locals. One of our favorite rooftop bars is POINT A (Acropolis Point), which is the only bar that provides views of both the Acropolis and the modern elegant lines of the Acropolis Museum, lit beautifully at night. POINT A has a relaxed vibe and Greek cuisine with a twist. It’s perfect for couples and even families or groups of friends. If you happen to stay around the Monastiraki district, you should definitely visit A for Athens cocktail bar and restaurant, a popular venue among locals. Hytra and GB Roof Garden are full-on luxury restaurants and bars that can provide perfect romantic evenings. We guarantee that if you spend your first night dining at one of those places, you will quickly fall in love with the mind-blowing views and lively city.

Love at First Sight

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Athens

Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour

Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 4 hours

Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour

Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Small Group Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

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.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 4 hours

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.

Monemvasia by Private Transfer with a Guided Visit to the Archaeological Site of Ancient Corinth
We also offer the following excursions in Athens

Acropolis for Families Private Tour
Moderate2 hours
Ancient Corinth Tour & Nemea Wine-Tasting Private Tour
Moderate9 hours
Athens Highlights Mythology Private Tour
Moderate4 hours
Athens Markets and Chronicles Group Tour
Light4 hours

2 Nights in Monemvasia

2 Nights in Monemvasia

3 days in Monemvasia
3 days 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.

Private Cooking Class Experience

Private Cooking Class Experience

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Join a local chef on a journey into selective Greek gastronomy, uncovering ancient culinary secrets amidst lush surroundings. Step into the enchanting oasis of Liotrivi Historical Mansion's garden, where nature and culinary delights converge in your outdoor kitchen. Here, you will engage in hands-on cooking sessions using fresh local ingredients, refining your skills under expert guidance. Culminate your experience with a sensory feast of what you have prepared, elevating Greek gastronomy to new heights in a celebration of culture and culinary artistry.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

Day 4

Day 4 - Your First Full Day in Monemvasia

Monemvasia Lower and Upper Town Private Tour

Monemvasia Lower and Upper Town Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

A Delicious Stroll Around the Medieval Town of Monemvasia

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

A Delicious Stroll Around the Medieval Town of Monemvasia

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.

Nafplio by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Monemvasia

Liotrivi Mansion Private Tour with Meal
Easy1 hour 30 minutes
Monemvasia Lower Town Private Tour
Light1 hour 30 minutes
Olives and Olive Oil Private Tasting Experience
Easy1 hour
Private Hike on the Paths Around the Watermills in Bali Gorge
Moderate3 hours

3 Nights in Nafplio

3 Nights in Nafplio

4 days in Nafplio
4 days 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

Nafplio Town Private Walking Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 1 hour

Day 6

Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Nafplio

Mycenae & Epidaurus Private Tour

Mycenae & Epidaurus Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 5 hours

Explore the City's Best Museums

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

Explore the City's Best Museums

Day 7

Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Nafplio

999 Steps to the Top!

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

999 Steps to the Top!
Chef's Table Group Experience

Chef's Table Group Experience

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

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.


Activity Level : Easy
Duration : 2 hours

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.

Athens by Private Transfer
We also offer the following excursions in Nafplio

Epidaurus Private Tour
Light2 hours and 30 minutes
Mycenae Private Tour
Moderate2 hours and 30 minutes
Nafplio Group Cooking Class
Easy3 hours
Private Cooking Class with Wine Tasting and Food Pairing in a Winery
Easy3 hours

Day Stop in Athens

Day Stop in Athens

1 days in Athens
1 days 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:


Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

Heraklion by Air

1 Night in Heraklion

1 Night in Heraklion

2 days in Heraklion
2 days 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

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

Enter Via Koules Fortress

Day 9

Day 9 - Traveling to Chania by Private Transfer

Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour

Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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.


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

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.

Chania by Private Transfer with a Stop in Rethymno
We also offer the following excursions in Heraklion

Heraklion Bites and Sights Group Tour
Light4 hours
Heraklion Traditional Cretan Cooking Private Class With Transportation
Light4 hours and 30 minutes
Heraklion by Catamaran Group Cruise
Easy5 hours
Heraklion by Catamaran Group Sunset Cruise
Easy5 hours

3 Nights in Chania

3 Nights in Chania

4 days in Chania
4 days 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

Suggestion to explore on your own

Dating back to the 14th century, Chania’s Venetian Harbor is a wonderful place for an introductory stroll. The harbor is a great place to catch the sunset, but we also recommend following the winding streets from the coast inland. For the best part of the Old Town, walk along Angelou Street, one of the nicest back alleys, with 16th and 17th century Venetian architecture. From there, you'll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, tavernas, bars, pastry shops, monuments, and galleries in every direction.

Feast Your Eyes on the Old Venetian Harbor

Day 10

Day 10 - Your First Full Day in Chania

Street Stories of Chania Group Tour

Street Stories of Chania Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Experience the unique beauty and culture of Chania by joining this fantastic foodies’ walking tour through one of Greece’s most picture-pretty cities. Chania has everything: ancient ruins, centuries-old monuments, strong local traditions, and exquisite cuisine that you get to taste during the tour.
Escape the tourist traps and dive into secret corners and local neighborhoods — each stop has a story to tell and food is more than enough to skip lunch!


Activity Level : Light
Duration : 4 hours

Explore the European Hiking Path

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

Explore the European Hiking Path

Day 11

Day 11 - Your Second Full Day in Chania

Cretan Villages Adventure Private Tour

Cretan Villages Adventure Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

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!


Activity Level : Moderate
Duration : 9 hours

The Battle of Crete

Suggestion to explore on your own

For those interested in the WWII, we highly recommend visiting Chania's war monuments. Crete is home to hundreds of air raid shelters, pillboxes, gun emplacements, and larger bunkers, built by both sides during WWII. In 1941, the Germans completed their invasion of Greece by attacking Crete, in the first almost entirely airborne invasion. Although a German success, the vaunted German paratroopers took such losses that they were never deployed en masse again, spending the rest of the war almost entirely fighting as normal, if elite, ground forces. If you have time to visit only one place, visit the Souda Bay War Cemetery, built for Commonwealth soldiers, and a popular spot for visitors from Australia and New Zealand, which supplied most of the island's defenders. Although Crete would become a strategic backwater, both sides learned crucial lessons from this intense battle.

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.

We also offer the following excursions in Chania

Balos and Falassarna Beach Small Group Jeep Tour with Lunch
Light7-8 hours
Chania Wine, Food & Sunset Group Tour
Light4 hours
Elafonisi Beach and Milia Mountain Retreat Small Group Jeep Tour with Lunch
Moderate8-9 hours
Real Cretan Cooking Group Experience
Light6 hours

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

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Athens Airport Transfer
Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour
Athens - Monemvasia Private Transfer with Ancient Corinth Private Tour

Monemvasia

2 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Monemvasia Lower and Upper Town Private Tour
Monemvasia - Nafplio Private Transfer

Nafplio

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Nafplio Town Private Walking Tour
Mycenae & Epidaurus Private Tour
Nafplio - Athens Private Transfer

Athens

Athens - Heraklion Flight

Heraklion

1 Night Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Heraklion Airport Private Transfer
Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour
Heraklion - Chania Private Transfer with a stop in Rethymno

Chania

3 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast (hotels only)
Street Stories of Chania Group Tour
Cretan Villages Adventure Private Tour
Chania City - Chania Airport Private Transfer

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
Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

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.
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