Family Journey to Greece
Enjoy this Family Journey to Greece where you will see the best of Santorini, Chania and Elounda.
11-Day Journey
Your Journey
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Experience
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What's Included in your Family Journey to Greece
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2-Nights Accommodation in Santorini, Greece
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2-Nights Accommodation in Chania, Greece
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7-Nights Private Villa in Elounda, Greece
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Internal Flight, Car and Ferry Transportation
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Tours and Attractions as noted in the Itinerary
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24/7/365 Support from your Travel Designer and our Team
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All Journeys Customized to Your Wishes
Your Family Journey to Greece Itinerary
Day 1-2 Santorini, Greece
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Where your inner senses of living are divine, allowing you to #ExpressYourNature
Arcadia Hotel is the newest member of the Andronis family of luxury hotels, villas, and honeymoon retreats on the idyllic island of Santorini.
Named after the mythical home of the God Pan, Arcadia was a place of natural harmony and pastoral enchantment, a sense that we are devoted to having in order to encourage our guests to express their real nature. This earthly Arcadia is on the fringe of picturesque Oia, close enough to walk to the center but distant enough to ensure peace and privacy.
The all-suite hotel offers you the highest standards of comfort and elegant living space, keeping with the Andronis reputation of excellence and personalized service. Every luxury suite has a pool designed to capture the magical views of the Aegean Sea and the island’s unforgettable sunsets, bringing you closer to the true, natural beauty of the surroundings.
ACTIVITIES in SANTORINI, GREECE
Arrive in Santorini
Santorini, known since ancient times as Thira, is one of the most famous islands in the world. The fact that you can sit in front of the caldera, enjoy local dishes, a drink or a coffee while gazing at the remarkable beauty of an active volcano is priceless!
The towns in Santorini are a sight to behold as they spill over the land. Their stoic white-washed houses, domed-shaped architecture, and colorful displays present itself as a unique welcoming party―as they cling to the remnants of the caldera.
Known for its sunsets, watch the sky turn fifty shades of candy floss pink, lavender purple, and blazing orange as the sun departs for the day.
The island is more than just sunsets and cliffs. Luxury hotels with sea-front balconies, an infinity pool, fine dining, to comfortable beds―it’s got everything you need to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.
Santorini has rapidly evolved into a gastronomy destination. The island features everything from fusion food at fine dining areas to traditional platters at taverns. Then there are the trendy gyro-joints and scrumptious seafood that complete the food scene. Adding to this are the robust Santorinian wine and the intoxicating concoction of refreshing cocktails served all over the island.
Santorini is ABSOLUTELY beautiful, and it’s one of the few places in the world that looks EXACTLY like all of the famous photos. Its beauty makes Santorni a must see when visiting Greece.
Head to Ammoudi Fish Tavern before checking into your hotel
Love for Greek cuisine, continuous search for local products by small farmers and fishermen, persistence, diligence and specialized knowledge about fresh seafood have managed to rank Ammoudi Fish Tavern among the top seafood restaurants in Santorini.
A family-run restaurant with an open air patiooffers three levels of unique architecture, stylish maritime decor and views that will mesmerize your day or night. A warm and unpretentious place ideal for those who seek an authentic experience.
Arrive at your Accommodations
Arrive at your hotel and enjoy your Dazzling Santorini Sunset Pool Suite. Aptly named, this spacious, open-plan suite dazzles guests with its expansive sunset views.
The Sunset Suite is a perfect haven for couple and offers 42 m2 of cleverly designed space, including a master bedroom, a bathroom with shower and a private veranda and infinity pool. The luxurious finish and detailing are beyond your expectations, in honour of your stay and the unique beauty of the island.
Cocktails at Sun Spirit Sunset Bar and the famous Santorini Sunset – Reservation (Sunset is at approximately 8:39PM)
Drinking sundowners beside windmill sails, gazing down across the caldera, is a Santorini must. Sun Spirit is the perfect spot for sunset drinks. The terrace has two levels, but grab a seat on the higher one as the views from the lower level tend to be obstructed by gathering crowds looking for the perfect sunset photo op. The drinks are on the pricier side, but you’re paying for that all-important view. Arrive early for the best seats.
This is the magnificent restaurant of Canaves Oia Hotel. It is more than a restaurant. With stunning views to the sunset and some of the best food in Greece, incredible service, keep that in mind as it’s a gastronomical and fine dining experience that can be compared with the best restaurants in the US or Europe. There are 6 and 7 course dinners to select from.
1/2 Day Private Sunset Catamaran Sail
The next day, meet your driver in the lobby of your hotel and head to Ammoudi. Get ready for a day of adventure and exploring! Start beneath the spectacular cliffs of Ammoudi Bay and sail to the neighboring- and once a part of Santorini- island of Thirassia. Here you can swim at the crystal clear waters and admire the views to the Santorini caldera.
Next head to the Sulfur Springs for a dive at the volcanic waters where you feel the power of the volcano and the benefits of swimming in its therapeutic waters. The route will take you to the Lighthouse of Akrotiri, built by the French two centuries ago and the intriguing Indian Face Mountain where you will take some amazing photos.
At the beach of Mesa Pigadia or the Red Beach (depending on weather conditions and the wind) your crew will start cooking the delicious tastes that you will enjoy on-board; here you will have the chance to enjoy another dive and use the snorkeling gear to discover the underwater thrills.
After the delicious dinner you’ll sail to the Old Port of Fira and following the caldera coastline reach the hidden church of Eftapedes, the bay of Armeni minutes before you sail to enjoy Santorini’s spectacle; the amazing sunset! After living the experience of viewing the sunset on board we dock at the bay of Ammoudi where your driver will be standing by to take you back to the hotel!
No better way to end your trip to Santorini.
Day 3-4 Chania, Greece
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Forging a spirit of togetherness
At Domes Zeen we emphasize community, sustainability, and slow living in an elegant setting. Nestled in a protected cove, a short drive from the Town of Chania, and offering spectacular views of the town and the sea, Domes Zeen is a destination in itself. We create the ultimate sensation of togetherness right in the heart of your Cretan sanctuary.
Immerse yourself in a gourmet dining experience surrounded by the splendor of nature. Retreat to your private villa for restful moments on your private terrace or balcony before falling asleep under the stars to the silence of nature. This is your Domes Zeen experience, designed to awaken all senses.
ACTIVITIES in CHANIA, GREECE
Arrive Chania
A city of many tales, ancient, old and contemporary, Greek and yet not only. Chania is one of the most appealing and worldwide popular tourist destinations of Greece, attracting every year, all year round, thousands of visitors and faithful lovers who repeatedly return to this mistress/city that has been so generously blessed by nature and densely woven by history.
The Venetian Harbor is the city’s main sea promenade. Walking past old buildings that have countless stories to recount, and through the colorful cafes, shops and restaurants, it feels like you have entered a film set of an all-time classic period piece movie.
Arrive at your Accommodations
- Sapphire Pavilion Private Pool – Haute Living -(max 2 adults plus 1 child up to 12 years old), 1 King, Sofa bed, Mini fridge.
- Access to Haute Living Room from 10:00hrs to 23:00hrs, an elite lounge with elevated services
- What s App number for direct communication with Domes Concierge Experts
- Domes Exclusive check in experience & pillow menu selection
Chania by Night Private Tour
On this tour you will discover the beautiful Old City of Chania, and explore the Old Venetian Port. You will visit the Splantzia area which was the Turkish district of Chania – the central gathering place for the Turkish population and the exterior of the east Venetian walls, Kum Kapi area (a village of poor North African slaves used to live there in the old days) .
This region was called in Turkish Kum Kapisi (Gate of the Sand) from the Venetian gate which is still preserved in our days. Today “Kum Kapi” is a developed district of the city which gathers thousands of visitors every summer who come to enjoy the view to the sea and the numerous cafeterias and restaurants.Historical information will be also available through the audio guide system.
The monuments you will see are: The Municipal Market of Chania, The Temple of Aghioi Anargyroi, The Temple of Aghia Ekaterini, The Dominican Temple of Aghios Nikolaos – Hiougkar Tzamisi (the Mosque of ‘Igemonas’), Splantzia, The Gate and Rampart Sabbionara, Koum Kapi,The Venetian Walls,The Venetian “Neoria”, The Grand Arsenal,The Byzantine Wall,Giali Tzamisi,The Jewish Synagogue,The Egyptian Lighthouse, The Navy Museum, The “Firka” Fortress.
Dinner Reservations
Optional Tours for the next day:
Sun, Sea & Divinity: an Epicurean’s Trip Across the Akrotiri Peninsula
Explore the varied attractions and highlights of the peninsula of Akrotiri
- Get acquainted with the history of Crete at the Venizelos graves
- Witness the spectacular scenery of Seitan Limania bay from a prime viewing spot
- Let your local destination angel enrich your adventure with insights and stories about the Cretan lifestyle
- Soak up the tranquil beauty of the monastery of Agia Triada, meet the monks & taste the olive oil and wine they produce
- Swim in the turquoise waters of the famous Zorba beach at Stavros
- Savour delicious Cretan recipes in a seafront taverna
Wonders of Crete: Elafonisi Beach, Chrisoskalitissa Monastery and Cretan Mountain Cuisine
Embark on an idyllic escape to the south west of the island (Long Day but an incredible experience)
- Enjoy exclusive sunbed and umbrella service arranged by your private destination angel
- Soak up the beauty of Elafonisi’ famous pale pink sands while swimming in azure waters
- Visit the storied monastery of Chrisoskalitissa
- Savour authentic Cretan tastes at a taverna located in a unique mountain settlement
Cretan Taste Safari: Chania Town and White Mountain Villages (Can add a cooking class)
- Taste the best street food in Chania Old Town on a private gastronomic journey
- Wander the lanes of the historic quarter and Venetian port with your destination angel and hear illuminating insights and stories
- Learn about local eating habits and how Chania’s multicultural gastronomy has evolved through the centuries
- Enjoy an authentic adventure to the White Mountains
- Visit an off the beaten path taverna and taste delicious Cretan recipes amid panoramic views
Day 5-12 Elounda, Greece
ACCOMMODATIONS:
A contemporary refuge with expansive views
This spectacular 8 bedroom holiday home features large outdoor areas and meticulously built interiors. It is situated on a slope that provides striking views over the bay of Elounda and is bordered by the rolling countryside of Crete. The home takes use of its elevated location by having extensive stone-paved terraces that provide room for outdoor settings, including lounge chairs in the shade, a sizable eating area, and a pool with an infinity edge and blue water. Every level of the house, which is constructed in levels, has a cozy veranda with sweeping views.
ACTIVITIES in ELOUNDA, GREECE
Arrive in Elounda
Elounda is a small fishing town on the northern coast of Crete, oten referred to as Schisma by locals . It belongs to the municipality of Agios Nikolaos in the prefecture of Lasithi.
Elounda village is also the main jumping off point for visits to the former leper colony of Spinalonga Island, made famous by the Victoria Hislop bestseller “The Island”, which has since been made into a Greek TV series (the standard by which all books are judged these days).
Elounda Bay is known for its luxurious resorts frequented by the rich and famous but there is plenty to see and do for the average joe as well. Nice beaches, fabulous views, hiking, history and, obviously, a long list of popular seafood restaurants.
Elounbda is formed of seven districts and an uninhabited island. The district of Schisma is densely populated and is considered the “downtown”. The other districts are Agia Paraskevi, Epano Elounda, Kato Elounda, Epano Pines, Kato Pines, Mavrikiano and Kalydon.
Arrive at your Accommodations
A gorgeous property with wide-ranging views, the interior features open spaces with multiple windows that let in the outside air and catch panoramic views of the surroundings.
The interior design is modern, chic, and carefree. Modernist-inspired designer furniture is paired with a soft color scheme of white, beige, and dove grey. The bedrooms are roomy, opulently furnished, and pleasantly view-open. The villa has a sizable gym with a table tennis table.
Private Chefs Dinner at the Villa
The next day enjoy your Breakfast at the Villa and a day of Leisure before heading out to a dining experience.
Cretan Fine Dining Experience at the Old Mill
Cretan Fine Dining Experience in one of Elounda’ most exclusive hotels, The Old Mill at Elounda Mare.
Set around an ancient millstone, the Old Mill is a fine-dining restaurant in a blooming garden over the waters, with an astounding menu and wine list which has devoted fans returning over and over again for the past 30 years.
The innovative Cretan Fusion cuisine at the Old Mill has a timeless character which has always appealed to the most demanding palate and has received multiple “Toque d’Or” awards as one of the finest restaurants in Greece.
The next day after Breakfast at the villa, Depart for a day at Heraklion
Arrive in Heraklion
Along with Chania, Heraklion is one of the most popular places to stay in Crete, and many visitors are torn between one or the other. Heraklion is also the location of the island’s major airport, so many visitors will arrive in the city when they first get to Crete.
One of the biggest difference is that while Chania is a little more historic and character-filled, Heraklion is a little more lively, thanks to its large student population.
Overall, the nightlife tends to be a little more local-focussed than Chania, which is more popular with visitors. Similarly, Heraklion offers many great local restaurants which are sure to please foodies!
Perhaps the biggest draw of staying in Heraklion is that it is within easy reach of the ancient city of Knossos, perhaps Crete’s most iconic landmark. There are also a number of other historic sites in the city, which will keep history buffs intrigued.
After Knossos, you simply can’t miss the great beaches that are within easy reach of Heraklion, and perhaps enjoying a glass of wine as the sun sets over them. Do keep in mind that Heraklion has more of a ‘city’ atmosphere than Chania and elsewhere on Crete.
Private Tour Knossos, Archaeological Museum & Old Town of Heraklion with licensed guide (8-Hours)
With your licensed kid-friendly guide you will delve into the island’s colorful past and travel back 4,000 years at the Palace of Knossos, and learn of ancient civilizations at the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
First stop: Knossos Archaeological Site
Go back 4.000 years to the time of the oldest civilization in Europe. Knossos flourished for approximately two thousand years. It had large palace buildings, extensive workshop installations and luxurious rock-cut cave and tholos tombs. As a major center of trade and the economy, Knossos maintained ties with the majority of cities in the Eastern Mediterranean. Learn about the rich lifestyle which began circa 2000 BC and was typified by magnificent monumental buildings
Next: Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of the largest and most important museums in Greece, and among the most important museums in Europe. It houses representative artifacts from all the periods of Cretan prehistory and history, covering a chronological span of over 5,500 years from the Neolithic period to Roman times.
Then: Old Venetian Harbor of Heraklion
Old Town, located next to the modern center of Heraklion will allow you to see the past and the present of Crete. The narrow, steep streets of the Old Town will bring you back in the centuries of Venetian and Ottoman rule, protected by a circuit of massive defensive walls, . Inside, its pedestrian-only streets are lined by aristocratic buildings, churches, and boutiques, and open onto leafy squares with fountains and busy cafés. The most notable monument along the harbor is the 16th-century Venetian Fort of Koules. Fishing boats line the shore, where a walkway runs along the waterfront.
Highlights:
- Experience the world-famous archaeological site of Knossos Palace with a licenced certified kids friendly guide
- Admire the archaeological marvels of the iconic Heraklion museum
- Enjoy skip the line access at both sites
- Your local destination angel will enlighten you on the essential history and legends of the Minoan civilization
- Get acquainted with Heraklion’s centre
- Savour authentic Cretan tastes at a local taverna in Archanes
- Return to your villa and enjoy the next day at leisure
Discovering East Crete, Greece (6-Hours)
After your day at leisure, enjoy this next day with a 6-hour tour of East Crete. With your guide and driver you will visit visit Monasteries, Churches, Agios Nikolaus City, Spinalonga Island, visit an olive oil factory where learn how olive oil is made with modern and old machines and we get to taste different kind of olive oil . we have a traditional Cretan Lunch in the old village of Mochos where we visit a few beautiful churches.
After lunch we hit the road to get back where we started.
Omalia Olive Press Visit an olive oil factory to taste different kind of olive oil , learn about olive oil and see how olive oil is made .
Lake Voulismeni: Lake Vouliasmeni, a former sweet water small lake that later got connected to the sea. It is located in the center of Agios Nikolaus City.
Krasi: village where the oldens Plane tree in Crete is located.
Alternative Crete: In the old village of Mochos we go for a walk around visiting the old churches, walking through the narrow streets exploring the place and then enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch with home made wine at the main square of the village.
Highlights:
- Visit Agios Nikolaos and walk around famous Lake Voulismeni
- Enjoy an authentic journey to the Cretan mountains and the traditional alpine villages
- Your destination angel will bring alive the wild Cretan landscape with religious insights and historical tales
- Visit the mysterious cave of Zeus
- Savour authentic Cretan tastes at a family run taverna in Krisi village
- Visit the well known Cretaquarium
The next day enjoy a Private sailing in the Elounda Gulf
Enjoy a day out in the Cretan sea onboard your catamaran sailing yacht. It features all the modern navigation equipment and amenities, four cabins and two WC with shower.
Relax on the deck, enjoy the sea breeze and scenery as you explore the coast of Agios Nikolaos, Elounda and Plaka, sailing by the islet of Spinalonga, Kolokytha beach and some beautiful hidden coves.
The exact route is decided by your skipper depending on weather conditions. You will be in good hands to relax in a world of your own, soak in the sun, snorkel and swim in crystal waters.
Enjoy a Cretan BBQ lunch onboard by your skipper and crew.
Hightlights:
- Enjoy the beautiful coast of Elounda, Agios Nikolaos and Plaka from the water on a private exquisite boat cruise around the Mirabello Bay
- Work on your tan, snorkel and swim in secluded beaches behind historic Spinalonga and picturesque Kolokytha island
- Enjoy a local on-board meal
- Travel back in time to the storied island of Spinalonga and enjoy a private guided tour.
The next day Discover the Traditional Life of Crete: Cretan Farm Experience
Today you will head south of the Heraklion region. Among a breathtaking landscape, you will experience a day in an authentic Cretan farm and learn about the traditions of the area from ancient times to the 20th century.
Make and bake bread in the wood oven as people used to do in ancient times and learn how to produce traditional Cretan “tyrozouli” cheese from the farm goats’ fresh milk.
The king of west Crete culinary tradition, the Cretan Pies, could not but be a part of your day in the farm! Your hosts will reveal to you the tastiest secrets of preparing delicious Cretan pies, as well as other typical Cretan specialties.
Maybe the most fun part of your experience are the farm animals that are there for you to feed them. With the help of your hosts you’ll will milk the goats and collect the hens’ eggs
Feel free to watch the animals during their everyday life in the farm, while the hosts will explain to you all about a farmer’s everyday tasks in Crete.
Learn All about the Olive Oil & Raki Production
The Cretan Olive Oil is present in every traditional Cretan household! Your hosts will talk to you about the Olive Oil production of Crete and the caltivation of the Olive Tree, practiced on the island for thousands of years. They will show you an old traditional Olive Oil Mill and explain the stages of the traditonal Olive Oil making.
Raki, a local spirit based on grapes, is another significant part of the Cretan tradition, produced in the Cretan households since antiquity! You will explore the ancient way of Raki making in an ancient Still.
After you will a enjoy a wonderful meal, including all the traditional specialties you prepared, as well as unique Minoan – Style specialties cooked on the hearth fire. Fresh and pure vegetables from the farm and fresh eggs!
Hightlights:
- Τry traditional Cretan cheese and learn the secrets of cheese-making in Crete
- Unwind with a palatable wine tasting experience at a family-owned boutique winery
- Experience the original and traditional way of olive oil production. This is a hands-on olive oil making experience, suitable for guests who want to realize our ancestors’ olive oil production process.
- Enjoy a traditional Cretan meal
After your Farm Experience, Celebrate your Private Cooking Lesson with a Chef and Birthday Dinner at Villa
Cook, Taste, and Enjoy local Cretan cuisine, Greek good, and some excellent cooking techniques. This traditional cooking lessons is led by a professional cook. This is a hands-on class.
Return home with Memories that Last a Lifetime
Contact your Travel Advisor
Lisa Crawford
Luxury Travel Advisor, Founder, and CEO
Contact Lisa Crawford today at 954-456-0419