• Select an Extension:
• - Please Select an Extension - Athens Crete

Crete

Post-Trip, 4 Days

Delve into Minoan culture and the history of King Minos. Visit the Palace of Knossos and the beach side village of Matala. Take a boat across the bay to visit the island of Spinalonga and its magnificent 16th-century Venetian fortress, and plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the bay for a swim and barbecue.

---

Itinerary - 4 Days

Day 1 — Marina Zea/Athens/Crete, Greece

On Day 9 of the Sailing the Greek Isles itinerary, we will fly from Athens to Heraklion and begin our discovery with a Cretan lunch, after which we check in at the fine Hotel Galaxy, our home for three nights. This afternoon we will have an introductory talk about the island of Crete, Minoan culture and the kings that ruled the island in Greek mythology. Dinner will be at the hotel tonight.
(B,L,D)

Day 2 — Crete

Today is devoted to Minoan culture, immersing ourselves in the history of King Minos. We start at the imaginatively reconstructed Palace of Knossos, which gives an indication of the advanced level of Minoan civilization. We then drive to the south coast for a stop in the beachside village of Matala. After lunch, visit the Minoan ruins of the Phaestos Palace in its spectacular hilltop setting. With images of Knossos fresh in our minds, it is fascinating to walk among the ruins of Phaestos and feel them come to life. We return to Heraklion in time for dinner.
(B,L,D)

Day 3 — Crete

Today we visit the tranquil eastern part of Crete. We begin by driving to the fishing village of Elounda, and take a boat in the bay to visit the historic island of Spinalonga. Spinalonga, at one time a leper colony, is known for its magnificent 16th-century Venetian fortress. Continue to a small bay with crystal-clear water for a swim and casual barbecue aboard the boat. In the early afternoon, we return to Elounda and continue to Agios Nikolaos, one of the most beautiful port towns in Crete, where there is free time to explore and shop. We return to Heraklion, and dinner is on your own this evening.
(B,L)

Day 4 — Crete/Athens/U.S.

Transfer to the airport for a flight to Athens and connecting flights home.
(B)