Overall Trip Highlights

• Acropolis & Parthenon – Take in Athens’ most iconic masterpiece from the top of the city, where history meets breathtaking panoramic views.
• Knossos Palace & Mythology – Step into the legendary heart of Europe’s earliest civilization, where ancient stories and royal ruins come to life. 
• Santorini Caldera  – Arrive to one of the most dramatic landscapes in the world—cliffside villages, sparkling seas, and luxury at every turn.
• Iconic Whitewashed Villages & Blue Domes – Wander through the dreamlike Cycladic streets that define Greece—chic, timeless, and postcard-perfect.
• Chania Old Town – Stroll through a romantic Venetian harbor town filled with boutique shops, waterfront cafés, and timeless coastal beauty.
• Cretan Cooking Experience – Enjoy an upscale hands-on culinary class celebrating fresh local ingredients, traditional recipes, and the joy of gathering around the table.
• Private Olive Oil & Winery Tastings – Sip and sample Crete’s finest wines and golden olive oils in the countryside, surrounded by warm hospitality and vineyard views.
• Oia Sunset: A Golden Hour Moment – Toast with a glass of wine as the sun dips into the Aegean, creating a sunset experience unlike anywhere else.
• Volcanic Islands & Hot Springs Cruise – Sail across Santorini’s caldera on a beautiful boat outing with volcanic landscapes, mineral-rich waters, and endless photo moments.
• Akrotiri: Greece’s Lost City – Explore an extraordinary ancient settlement preserved in ash for thousands of years—an archaeological wonder with an air of mystery.
• Island-Hopping in Style – Travel between Greece’s most beautiful islands by ferry, enjoying scenic sea views and the effortless rhythm of island life.

Don’t just tour Greece, Experience Greece!

Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’. 

Day by Day summary of Transfers

Day One: Arrival in Athens 

Day Two: TRANSFER DAY Group Flight Athens to Crete (Check in 3 nights)

Day Three: Crete

Day Four: Crete

Day Five: Crete new hotel (Check in 1 night)

Day Six: TRANSFER DAY Crete to Santorini – High Speed Ferry – Staying Santorini (Check in 3 nights)

Day Seven: Santorini 

Day Eight: Santorini 

Day Nine: TRANSFER DAY Group Flight Santorini to Athens (Check in 3 Nights)

Day Ten: Athens 

Day Eleven: Athens 

Day Twelve: Departure from Athens – Check Out.

Day 1: Welcome to Athens!

Arrive at Eleftherios Venizelos Athens International Airport at your convenience and be greeted with a warm welcome! We’ll facilitate group transfers to a conveniently located airport hotel, making your arrival seamless and setting us up perfectly for our early departure to Crete tomorrow.

Today’s main goal: Beat jet lag before our Greek adventure begins!

This evening, gather for a special welcome dinner to meet and mingle with your fellow travelers. Afterward, enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation as we prepare for the unforgettable days ahead.

Highlights

• Arrival in Athens – Take in your first glimpse of Greece’s vibrant capital as you transfer from the airport, where ancient history and modern energy meet.

• Convenient Overnight Stay – Relax in a comfortable hotel near the airport, ideal for an easy transition into the journey and tomorrow’s flight to Crete.

• Welcome Dinner in Athens – Connect with your group over a shared meal and toast to the beginning of an unforgettable Greek escape.

Fun Fact: Athens has more than 4,000 years of recorded history, and many of its ancient landmarks are still part of everyday city life.

Day Two: Crete Beginnings in Coastal Chania

This morning, we’ll continue our journey with a short inter-country flight from Athens to the stunning island of Crete.

Welcome to Chania – a coastal gem known for its postcard-perfect harbor, rich history, and relaxed Mediterranean charm. Upon landing, we’ll be transferred to The Tanneries Hotel & Spa, a beautiful seaside retreat overlooking the Cretan Sea.

After checking in and settling into our luxurious surroundings, we’ll head out together to begin experiencing the vibrant heart of Chania. This afternoon, we’ll explore the charming harbor area, where colorful waterfront cafes, historic architecture, and lively local energy create an unforgettable first impression of the island.

With its blend of Venetian elegance, Turkish influences, and timeless Mediterranean beauty, Chania is the perfect place to begin our time in Crete.

Highlights

• Flight to Crete – Travel from mainland Greece to one of the country’s most captivating and culturally rich islands.
• Stay at The Tanneries Hotel & Spa – Settle into an elegant coastal sanctuary with sweeping views of the Cretan Sea.
• Harbor Walk in Chania – Enjoy a relaxed group stroll through the picturesque waterfront, filled with history, charm, and local flavor.

Fun Fact: Chania’s Old Town was once a major Venetian trading port, and its famous lighthouse is one of the oldest in the Mediterranean, reflecting centuries of Venetian and Ottoman influence.

Day Three: Chania Exploration & Cretan Countryside Cooking Experience

Today is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and hands-on connection to Crete’s legendary food traditions.

After breakfast, we’ll head into the heart of Chania for a guided walking tour through the enchanting Old Town. Together, we’ll explore cobblestone streets lined with centuries of history, where Venetian elegance meets Turkish influence at every turn.

We’ll wander past charming boutiques, lively local markets, and colorful hidden corners, taking in the vibrant character of this coastal town. Our walk will bring us along the picturesque Old Venetian Harbor, the perfect setting to experience the morning rhythm of Chania – perhaps with a pause for a Greek coffee by the sea.

This afternoon, we’ll journey into the stunning White Mountains countryside for an unforgettable culinary experience.

At a family-owned cottage surrounded by nature, we’ll take part in a hands-on cooking class using fresh, organic ingredients. Together, we’ll prepare traditional Cretan dishes before sitting down to enjoy the meal we’ve created, paired with local wines and spectacular countryside views.

Highlights

• Walking Tour of Chania’s Old Town – Discover the historic heart of Crete through winding lanes, Venetian architecture, and vibrant local life.

• Old Venetian Harbor Stroll – Take in the seaside beauty of one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic waterfronts.

• Cretan Cooking Class in the White Mountains – Learn to prepare traditional island dishes in a warm, family-run setting.

• Dinner with Local Wines – Share a memorable meal together surrounded by sweeping mountain and sea views.

Fun Fact: Crete is famous for its hospitality – locals often refer to it as philoxenia, meaning “friend to the stranger,” a tradition deeply rooted in Greek culture.

Day Four: Pink Sands Escape to Elafonissi

Today we escape to one of Crete’s most breathtaking natural wonders – the famous pink-sand shores of Elafonissi.

Where turquoise waters meet sunlit sand and the sea stretches endlessly toward the horizon, Elafonissi feels like a dream. This day is designed as a private, tailored experience, allowing us to relax and enjoy the beauty of western Crete in comfort and style.

Traveling in a chauffeured VIP vehicle with a knowledgeable local guide, we’ll arrive at Elafonissi Beach and spend the morning soaking in its unforgettable coastline – from the blush-tinted sands to the shallow, crystal-clear waters.

Weather and time permitting, enjoy a curated picnic right on the beach, featuring local snacks and Cretan wine as we take in the extraordinary scenery.

Midday, we’ll head to a nearby family-owned tavern for lunch, savoring authentic Cretan flavors in a warm and welcoming local setting.

This evening, we’ll return back to Chania for dinner, ending the day with a relaxing meal after our sun-soaked island escape.

Highlights

• Private VIP Excursion to Elafonissi – Enjoy a full-day escape to Crete’s most iconic beach, tailored to our group’s pace and preferences.

• Pink Sands & Crystal Waters – Spend the morning unwinding on Elafonissi’s world-famous shoreline.

• Beach Picnic Experience (weather permitting) – Enjoy local snacks and wine right on the sand with sweeping sea views.

• Lunch at a Family-Owned Tavern – Savor authentic Cretan cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.

• Dinner Back in Chania – Return for a relaxed evening meal after a day of coastal beauty.

Fun Fact: Elafonissi’s pink hue comes from tiny crushed seashells mixed into the sand, giving the shoreline its unique and magical blush tone.

Day Five: A Timeless Journey to Knossos and the Vineyards of Crete 

This morning, we bid farewell to Chania as we check out from our hotel and journey east across the island toward Heraklion – the cultural heart of Crete.

Today is a beautiful blend of ancient history and modern indulgence. Traveling in the comfort of a chauffeured vehicle, we’ll step back thousands of years at the legendary Palace of Knossos, where the myths of the Minotaur and the labyrinth still echo through the ruins. With an expert guide, we’ll explore the remarkable frescoes and stories of the Minoan civilization, one of the oldest in Europe.

From there, our journey continues into the rolling landscapes of Crete’s wine country. Surrounded by sunlit vineyards and centuries-old olive groves, we’ll enjoy tastings at a boutique winery, discovering the distinctive flavors and traditions of Cretan winemaking.

This afternoon, we arrive in Heraklion, where we’ll deepen our connection to the island’s past with a visit to the world-renowned Archaeological Museum before enjoying time to experience the city’s lively atmosphere and culinary charm.

Highlights

• Check Out & Scenic Transfer Across Crete – Travel in comfort as we make our way from Chania to Heraklion.
• Guided Tour of Knossos Palace – Walk through Crete’s most iconic archaeological site with a specialized history expert.
• Boutique Vineyard Tastings – Explore central Crete’s wine routes and sample award-winning local vintages.
• Heraklion Archaeological Museum – Discover extraordinary artifacts that bring Minoan history to life.

Fun Fact: The Palace of Knossos is considered Europe’s oldest city complex, dating back over 3,500 years and inspiring the famous Greek legend of the labyrinth.

Day Six: Arrival and First Impressions of Santorini 

Today, we trade Crete’s rich history for the jaw-dropping beauty of the Aegean as we make our way to the legendary island of Santorini.

After checking out from our hotel in Heraklion, we’ll enjoy a private transfer to the port and board a high-speed ferry bound for Santorini. As we approach the island, you’ll begin to see the dramatic cliffs rising from the sea – a first glimpse of the caldera views that make this destination so unforgettable.

Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to our boutique hotel and check in, settling into a stunning setting perched above the Aegean, with breathtaking caldera views all around.

This afternoon, we’ll begin a private Cultural Highlights Tour, the perfect introduction to Santorini’s most iconic landscapes, villages, and traditions. With a knowledgeable local guide, we’ll explore the island’s most celebrated sites — from panoramic viewpoints and medieval hilltop towns to volcanic beaches and world-renowned wine culture.

Highlights

• Ferry Journey to Santorini – Cruise across the Aegean Sea to Greece’s most iconic island destination.

• Boutique Hotel Check-In with Caldera Views – Settle into a spectacular cliffside retreat overlooking the sparkling blue horizon.

• Private Cultural Highlights Tour – Discover Santorini’s signature sights with an expert local guide. 

• Lunch in Santorini – Enjoy a leisurely meal at a hand-selected restaurant during the tour.

Fun Fact: Santorini’s caldera is actually a flooded volcanic crater, formed when the island collapsed after a massive eruption thousands of years ago.

Day Seven: Ancient Akrotiri & Seaside Relaxation

Day Eight: Private Santorini Caldera Sunset Cruise

Today is designed for pure Santorini magic — a relaxed morning followed by an unforgettable evening on the water.

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day with time to soak in the island atmosphere. You may choose to unwind at the hotel, enjoy the caldera views, or visit the fascinating Atlantis Museum, where interactive exhibits explore the legend of the lost city and its connection to Santorini’s volcanic history.

Later this afternoon, we’ll be picked up from our hotel and transferred to the port, where we’ll step aboard a luxurious Lagoon catamaran for a private sunset cruise across the Santorini caldera.

As we sail through the sparkling Aegean, we’ll stop at some of the island’s most iconic coastal landmarks — from the dramatic Red and White Beaches to the warm volcanic hot springs. Between swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing on deck, the experience is equal parts adventure and indulgence.

As the sun begins to set, we’ll enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner prepared onboard, paired with an open bar and panoramic views of Santorini’s cliffside villages glowing in the evening light.

This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to experience Santorini! 

Highlights

• Morning Leisure or Atlantis Museum Visit – Relax at the hotel or explore exhibits uncovering Santorini’s connection to the Atlantis legend.

• Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise – Sail the world-famous Santorini caldera aboard an elegant Lagoon catamaran.

• Swim Stops at Red & White Beach – Dive into crystal-clear waters at Santorini’s most striking volcanic beaches.

• Volcanic Hot Springs Experience – Soak in the warm mineral waters near the island’s volcano.

• Sailing Past Santorini Landmarks – Glide by Akrotiri, the Ancient Lighthouse, Aspronisi, and dramatic rock formations along the coast.

• Sunset BBQ Dinner & Open Bar – Enjoy a freshly prepared Greek meal and unlimited drinks as the sun melts into the Aegean Sea.

Fun Fact: The advanced Bronze Age civilization that lived on Santorini before its eruption is sometimes linked to the Atlantis legend because of its sophisticated cities and sudden disappearance.

Day Nine: Farewell Santorini & Return to Athens

This morning, we bid farewell to the breathtaking island of Santorini as we make our way back to Athens for the final chapter of our Greek adventure.

After checking out from our hotel, we’ll enjoy a smooth private transfer to the airport and board a short flight to Athens.

Upon arrival, we’ll begin our day on the mainland with lunch at a local restaurant, savoring classic Greek flavors and taking in the vibrant energy of the capital.

Afterward, we’ll set out on a private guided excursion to Cape Sounio, one of the most scenic and historic coastal sites in Greece. Perched high above the Aegean Sea, the legendary Temple of Poseidon offers sweeping views and a powerful connection to Greece’s ancient past.

Following our visit, we’ll return to the heart of Athens and check in to our stylish hotel, perfectly located for experiencing the city’s culture, charm, and evening atmosphere.

Highlights

• Flight from Santorini to Athens – Travel back to the Greek capital with a quick and comfortable morning flight.
• Lunch at a Local Restaurant – Enjoy a delicious welcome back to Athens with authentic Greek cuisine.
• Private Tour to Cape Sounio – Visit one of Greece’s most iconic coastal landmarks with an expert guide.
• Temple of Poseidon Visit – Explore the dramatic clifftop ruins overlooking the sparkling Aegean Sea.
• Hotel Check-In in Central Athens – Settle into a beautiful hotel in the heart of the city for the final days of the journey.

Fun Fact: The Temple of Poseidon has stood watch over the Aegean for more than 2,400 years and was an important landmark for ancient sailors returning home to Athens.

Day Ten: Athens Icons & Evening Wine Pairing Experience

Today brings us to the very soul of Greece – a day spent among the legendary landmarks and living history of ancient Athens.

This morning, we’ll set out for a private guided experience at the iconic Acropolis, rising high above the city as a symbol of civilization, art, and democracy. With an expert guide, we’ll explore the sacred hilltop where temples have stood for thousands of years, uncovering the stories that shaped the ancient world.

As we walk beneath the towering columns of the Parthenon, you’ll stand in one of the most awe-inspiring sites in Europe — a place once central to the lives of philosophers, scholars, and citizens of Athens’ golden age.

Our journey continues at the Acropolis Museum, where beautifully preserved sculptures and artifacts offer a deeper glimpse into the brilliance of classical Greece.

This evening, we’ll gather for a memorable culinary finale: a private Greek food and wine pairing experience. Together, we’ll enjoy the flavors of the region through expertly paired tastings, celebrating Greece’s rich traditions of hospitality and cuisine.

Highlights

• Guided Tour of the Acropolis – Explore Athens’ most iconic landmark with a knowledgeable private guide.

• The Parthenon & Ancient Monuments – Witness one of the world’s greatest symbols of classical architecture and democracy.

• Acropolis Museum Visit – Discover remarkable treasures that deepen the story of ancient Athens.

• Evening Greek Food & Wine Pairing – Enjoy an immersive tasting experience featuring local dishes and regional wines.

• A Perfect Blend of History & Hospitality – Experience Athens through both its legendary past and vibrant culinary culture.

Fun Fact: The Acropolis has endured wars, earthquakes, and centuries of change – yet it still remains the defining symbol of Athens more than 2,500 years later.

Day Eleven: Athens Heritage Walk & Farewell Dinner Celebration

On your eleventh day in Athens, delve deeper into the historical and cultural heart of the city with a private guided walking tour through its most celebrated landmarks.

Starting with a transfer from Hotel to the iconic Panathenaic Stadium, you will traverse the longest pedestrian archaeological park in Europe, uncovering the layers of Athens’ ancient and modern heritage.

Your expert local guide will lead you through the lively streets and hidden alleys, uncovering secrets of the city’s past and present. Conclude your day with a refined dining experience at Dionysos Zonar’s, an elegant restaurant set against the stunning backdrop of the Acropolis, offering a perfect blend of classic Greek cuisine and sophisticated ambiance.

Highlights

• Private Athens Walking Tour – Discover the city’s most beloved landmarks with a knowledgeable local guide.
• Panathenaic Stadium Visit – Begin at the historic stadium that hosted the first modern Olympic Games.
• Archaeological Park Stroll – Walk through Europe’s longest pedestrian archaeological route, rich with ruins and history.
• Hidden Streets & Local Stories – Experience Athens beyond the postcards through vibrant neighborhoods and cultural details.
• Farewell Dinner at Dionysos Zonar’s – Celebrate your final evening with refined Greek cuisine beneath the Acropolis.

Fun Fact: The Panathenaic Stadium is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble – a true Athenian masterpiece.

Day Twelve: Farewell Friends

After a final breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to say goodbye to the incredible journey we’ve shared through Greece.

This morning, we’ll check out of our hotel and transfer to Athens International Airport beginning as early as 8:00 AM, with group transportation arranged to ensure a smooth and comfortable departure.

As you head home, may you carry with you not only souvenirs from Greece, but also lasting memories of sunlit coastlines, ancient wonders, meaningful moments, and the friendships formed along the way.

Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.