Greek Escape plus 2 nights in Crete

Greek Escape plus 2 nights in Crete

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9 Days From

$1939

$1845

Greek Escape plus 2 nights in Crete

9 Days Starting and ending in Athens, Greece

Visiting: Athens, Olympia, Delphi, Crete, Heraklion

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

KGOX-2024

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1939 $1845 Barrhead discount: -$94

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Greece with the "Greek Escape plus 2 nights in Crete" tour. Begin in the historic city of Athens, where you'll explore the Acropolis and Panathenaic Stadium. Travel through ancient sites like Corinth, Mycenae, and Epidaurus, and enjoy a scenic drive to Olympia for a cooking demonstration. Discover the archaeological wonders of Delphi and learn traditional Greek dances. Fly to the stunning island of Crete, where you'll visit Heraklion's Venetian Walls and taste local delicacies. Conclude your adventure with a free day in Heraklion before returning to Athens. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights

  • Visit the Acropolis and Panathenaic Stadium in Athens

  • Photo stop at the Corinth Canal

  • Guided visit of the excavations and museum in Mycenae

  • Guided visit of the 2,300-year-old open-air theatre in Epidaurus

  • Scenic drive through the Arkadian Mountains

  • Guided visit to the archaeological site and museum in Olympia

  • Learn how to dance the sirtaki in Delphi

  • Visit the picturesque mountain town of Arachova

  • Guided walking tour of Heraklion including the Venetian Walls, St. Minas Cathedral, and the Church of St. Titus

Places You'll See

Zafolia

Amalia Nauplia

Europa

Amalia Delphi

Galaxy Hotel Iraklio

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Athens,Greece

Location: Athens

Accommodation Name: Zafolia

At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.ARRIVE IN ATHENS, GREECE Welcome to Athens! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.

Day 2: Athens

Location: Athens

Accommodation Name: Zafolia

Meals Included: Breakfast

ATHENS Marvels & Myths ATHENS Guided sightseeing includes a visit to the Acropolis and a stop at the Panathenaic Stadium. Free time this afternoon and evening. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOT Explore the heart of Ancient Greece, in the historic empire where 5th-century BC landmarks, including the Acropolis, never fail to amaze! See the Panathenaic Stadium, one of the venues of the first modern Olympic Games.

Day 3: Athens,Corinth,Mycenae,Epidaurus,Nauplia

Location: Athens

Accommodation Name: Amalia Nauplia

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

ATHENS–CORINTH–MYCENAE–EPIDAURUS–NAUPLIA Greek History & Heroes CORINTH CANAL Photo stop. MYCENAE Guided visit of the excavations and museum.EPIDAURUS Guided visit of the 2,300-year-old open-air theatre before continuing to Nauplia. (B,D) 132mi/212kmTOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEM The outdoor auditorium of Epidaurus combines perfect mathematic proportion with excellent acoustics. This fascinating archaeological treasure was used for the healing of patients from all over Greece and was dedicated to Asklepios, the god of healing.

Day 4: Nauplia,Olympia

Location: Olympia

Accommodation Name: Europa

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

NAUPLIA–OLYMPIA Ruins & Recipes Scenic drive through the Arkadian Mountains. OLYMPIA Join a guided visit to the archaeological site and the museum. Attend a [LF] cooking demonstration this evening and learn how to make traditional Greek tzatziki appetizer. (B,D) 112 mi / 181 kmLOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Dip into the delicious tradition of Greek tzatziki – a mix of yogurt, cucumbers, garlic, salt, olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, and herbs such as dill, mint, parsley, and thyme. Learn how to make this quintessential recipe loved the world over.

Day 5: Olympia,Delphi

Location: Delphi

Accommodation Name: Amalia Delphi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

OLYMPIA–DELPHI Digs & Dances DELPHI Join a guided visit of the excavations and Archaeological Museum. This evening [LF] learn how to dance the sirtaki in a dance class while sipping a glass of Ouzo. (B,D) 149mi/239kmLOCAL FAVORITE CULTURE & TRADITION Dance in the steps of Zorba the Greek to learn the sirtaki. This passionate and dramatic dance goes very well with a glass of ouzo, the anice-infused drink the locals love.

Day 6: Delphi,Arachova,Athens,Heraklion,Crete

Location: Crete

Accommodation Name: Galaxy Hotel Iraklio

Meals Included: Breakfast

DELPHI–ARACHOVA–ATHENS–HERAKLION, CRETE Mountains & Islands ARACHOVA Visit the picturesque mountain town.ATHENS Fly to Heraklion. (B) 118 mi / 190 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS The largest island in Greece, Crete captures all the wonder you have imagined a Greek island to be – a brilliant landscape of ancient ruins, lively sidewalks, and stunning beaches.

Day 7: Heraklion

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Galaxy Hotel Iraklio

Meals Included: Breakfast

HERAKLION Cultural capital HERAKLION Guided walking tour includes sights of the Venetian Walls, St. Minas Cathedral, and the Church of St. Titus. [LF] Taste a Greek Koulouri. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SIGHTS & BITES The bustling capital of Crete boasts over 3000 years of history and multi-cultural influences. While walking along its narrow streets see the most famous historic and cultural sites. Join the locals and taste a Koulouri one of the most popular Greek street foods.

Day 8: Heraklion,Athens,Greece

Location: Heraklion

Accommodation Name: Galaxy Hotel Iraklio

Meals Included: Breakfast

HERAKLION–ATHENS, GREECE Myths & Legends HERAKLION Free day. Return flight to Athens. (B)FREE TIME TIPSEXPLORE MORE of Heraklion, a place of myths and legends; known as the birthplace of Zeus and epitomised by the legends of Daedalus and Icarus, the Minotaur, and the labyrinth at the incredible Minoan Palace of Knossos.

Day 9: Athens

Location: Athens

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.ATHENS Safe Travels Until We Meet Again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

What's Included

  • Welcome Drink

    Meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink on the first day in Athens.

  • Guided Sightseeing in Athens

    Includes a visit to the Acropolis and a stop at the Panathenaic Stadium.

  • Guided Visit to Mycenae

    Includes a guided visit of the excavations and museum in Mycenae.

  • Guided Visit to Epidaurus

    Includes a guided visit of the 2,300-year-old open-air theatre in Epidaurus.

  • Cooking Demonstration in Olympia

    Attend a cooking demonstration and learn how to make traditional Greek tzatziki appetizer.

  • Guided Visit to Delphi

    Includes a guided visit of the excavations and Archaeological Museum in Delphi.

  • Sirtaki Dance Class

    Learn how to dance the sirtaki in a dance class while sipping a glass of Ouzo in Delphi.

  • Visit to Arachova

    Visit the picturesque mountain town of Arachova.

  • Guided Walking Tour in Heraklion

    Includes sights of the Venetian Walls, St. Minas Cathedral, and the Church of St. Titus.

  • Taste a Greek Koulouri

    Taste a Greek Koulouri, one of the most popular Greek street foods, in Heraklion.

show more

What's Not Included

Tour Director Services in HeraklionServices of the Tour Director end on day 6. Heraklion portion includes services of a local expert.

Notes

This tour requires walking on uneven terrain, especially at archaeological sites, which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
Services of the Tour Director end on day 6. Island portion includes services of a local expert.

UNESCO Sites

Acropolis Athens|Archeological Site of Delphi|Archeological site of Mycenae|Archeological Site of Olympia|Sanctuary of Asklepios at Epidaurus

Accommodation

Athens: Zafolia, Nauplia: Amalia Nauplia, Olympia: Europa, Delphi: Amalia Delphi, Heraklion: Galaxy Hotel Iraklio

Meals

8 Breakfasts, 3 Dinners

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of activities are included in the tour of Athens?

    In Athens, the tour includes guided sightseeing with a visit to the Acropolis and a stop at the Panathenaic Stadium. There is also free time in the afternoon and evening.

  • What unique experiences are offered in Olympia?

    In Olympia, you will join a guided visit to the archaeological site and museum. Additionally, there is a cooking demonstration where you will learn how to make traditional Greek tzatziki.

  • What special activity is planned in Delphi?

    In Delphi, you will join a guided visit of the excavations and Archaeological Museum. In the evening, there is a dance class where you will learn how to dance the sirtaki while sipping a glass of Ouzo.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Heraklion?

    In Heraklion, the tour includes a guided walking tour with sights of the Venetian Walls, St. Minas Cathedral, and the Church of St. Titus. You will also have the opportunity to taste a Greek Koulouri.

  • Are there any free days during the tour?

    Yes, there is a free day in Heraklion where you can explore more of the city, known for its myths and legends, including the incredible Minoan Palace of Knossos.

  • What happens on the last day of the tour?

    On the last day of the tour, your vacation ends with breakfast in Athens.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    The accommodations include Zafolia in Athens, Amalia Nauplia in Nauplia, Europa in Olympia, Amalia Delphi in Delphi, and Galaxy Hotel Iraklio in Heraklion.

  • What is the role of the Tour Director and local experts?

    The services of the Tour Director end on day 6. The Heraklion portion of the tour includes services of a local expert.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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Sunday - Monday

Dec 01, 2024 - Dec 09, 2024
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  • Low Deposit

    Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.

    Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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