Ferry to and from Crete (Island) with Blue Star Ferries

Highlights

• Upon arrival at Athens International Airport (ATH), transfer to the city center via metro, express bus, or taxi. The metro takes approximately 40 minutes to Syntagma Square.
• Wander through the charming, neoclassical streets of Plaka, Athens' oldest neighborhood, offering easy access to major ancient sites.
• Experience the lively atmosphere of Monastiraki Square, a bustling market district known for its street life and shopping.

Highlights

• Ascend to the Acropolis of Athens, an ancient citadel crowned by the Parthenon, offering major classical ruins and panoramic city views.
• Explore the Parthenon, the defining monument of Athens, dedicated to the goddess Athena.
• Discover the Acropolis Museum, a world-class institution housing superb archaic sculptures and Parthenon marbles in a striking modern building.

Highlights

• Wander through the Ancient Agora of Athens, a grand ancient temple that was central to Athenian civic and religious life.
• Visit the monumental Temple of Olympian Zeus, whose towering Corinthian columns make it one of Athens’ most recognizable ancient sites.
• Spend time at the National Archaeological Museum, Greece’s premier archaeology museum, spanning prehistory to late antiquity with masterpieces from across the country.

Highlights

• Witness the ceremonial changing of the guard at Syntagma Square, the central square before Parliament.
• Explore the Museum of Cycladic Art, an outstanding museum known for its elegant figurines and thoughtful contemporary presentation of ancient Greek culture.
• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Athens, perhaps revisiting a favorite neighborhood or discovering a new one.

Highlights

• Discover hidden gems in Athens' diverse neighborhoods, soaking in the local atmosphere.
• Indulge in authentic Greek cuisine, perhaps trying moussaka, souvlaki, or spanakopita at a local taverna.
• Enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps with a final view of the illuminated Acropolis, before your journey to the islands.

Highlights

• Board your ferry from Athens (Piraeus Port) to Santorini. The journey averages 6 hours 42 minutes, with tickets starting from €48.
• Upon arrival at Thira Santorini Port, transfer to your accommodation and begin exploring the island.
• Enjoy an evening stroll through Fira, the bustling island capital, with its dramatic cliffside scenery and caldera promenades.

Highlights

• Explore Fira, the island's capital, with its caldera promenades, shops, and dramatic cliffside scenery.
• Embark on the scenic Fira to Oia hike, a long trail linking the main caldera villages, offering some of the island’s best walking and volcanic views.
• Witness the unforgettable sunset from Oia Castle, ruins of a 13th-century Venetian castle famed for its panoramas.

Highlights

• Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, a major archaeological museum displaying frescoes, pottery, and finds from Akrotiri.
• Explore the Akrotiri archaeological site, an ancient Minoan city preserved by volcanic ash.
• Relax at Perissa Beach, known for its unique black volcanic sand and clear waters.

Highlights

• Wander through the picturesque villages of Imerovigli and Pyrgos, offering stunning views and a quieter atmosphere.
• Admire the Anastasi Church in Imerovigli, a large whitewashed church with a prominent blue dome.
• Savor local specialties like Santorini fava, a creamy yellow split pea purée, and white eggplant, prized for its sweetness.

Highlights

• Board your ferry from Santorini to Mykonos. The fastest ferry covers the distance in 1 hour 50 minutes, with tickets starting from €89.
• Upon arrival at Mykonos port, transfer to your accommodation and prepare to explore.
• Spend the evening exploring Mykonos Town (Chora), loved for its labyrinthine alleys, whitewashed houses, and boutiques.

Highlights

• Visit the iconic Kato Mili Windmills, 16th-century windmills overlooking Chora and the sea, a defining symbol of Mykonos.
• Explore Little Venice, Chora’s charming waterfront quarter with balconies over the sea and narrow lanes.
• Wander through the labyrinthine alleys of Mykonos Town (Chora), admiring the whitewashed buildings and unique Cycladic atmosphere.

Highlights

• Visit the historic Panagia Paraportiani, a whitewashed church complex famed for its seaside setting and classic Cycladic architecture.
• Explore the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos, which displays finds from nearby Delos, illuminating ancient Cycladic life.
• Relax at one of Mykonos's renowned beaches, enjoying the island's famous sun and sea.

Highlights

• Depart from Mykonos by ferry, arriving at Heraklion Port in Crete. The ferry journey averages 7 hours 58 minutes, with tickets starting from €116.
• Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation in Heraklion, the island's capital.
• Spend the evening getting acquainted with Heraklion, perhaps enjoying a traditional Cretan meal.

Highlights

• Explore Knossos Palace, the Minoan Bronze Age palace linked to King Minos and the Labyrinth, Crete’s signature archaeological site.
• Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Crete’s leading museum, displaying masterpieces from Minoan sites.
• Enjoy the vibrant city of Heraklion, perhaps sampling local Cretan dishes like dakos or gamopilafo.

Highlights

• Stroll along Chania’s atmospheric Old Venetian Harbor, lined with Venetian, Ottoman, and neoclassical buildings.
• Admire the prominent Chania Lighthouse, best seen on a waterfront walk, especially at sunset.
• Wander through the historic maze of alleys and courtyards in Chania Old Town, one of Crete’s most enjoyable areas.

Highlights

• Discover Rethymno Old Town, a lively quarter with colorful lanes, small squares, and preserved architecture.
• Visit the Fortezza of Rethymno, a massive Venetian fortress offering panoramic views of the town and sea.
• Enjoy traditional Cretan cuisine in Rethymno, known for its rustic flavors and fresh ingredients.

Highlights

• Consider a trip to the southern coast to discover a secluded beach or charming coastal village.
• Explore one of Crete's famous gorges, such as the Samaria Gorge (seasonal) or a smaller, more accessible option.
• Enjoy the island's varied landscapes, from olive groves to rugged mountains.

Highlights

• Visit a traditional Cretan village to experience local customs and hospitality.
• Sample local products such as olive oil, honey, and raki, perhaps directly from a producer.
• Enjoy a leisurely day, soaking in the relaxed pace of rural Crete.

Highlights

• Visit the Arkadi Monastery, a historic site with a landmark church and strong links to Cretan resistance.
• Explore the Archaeological Museum of Chania or Rethymno, depending on your location, for more regional insights.
• Discover a hidden cove or enjoy a scenic drive through the Cretan countryside.

Highlights

• Spend time relaxing at a beautiful Cretan beach, soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
• Indulge in a final, authentic Cretan meal, savoring the island's unique flavors.
• Browse for local souvenirs, from handmade crafts to delicious regional products, to remember your trip.

Highlights

• Depart from Heraklion International Airport Nikos Kazantzakis (HER), the primary airport on Crete.
• Alternatively, consider departing from Chania International Airport (CHQ), which also offers international connections.