fbpx

Peregrine Travel Centre

The Best of Greek Islands

The Best of Greek Islands

From $ 7,495 AUD

Book Now Request a callback
Email Us Print
,

Description

Did you know that Crete is home to Europe’s oldest city? On this 15-day trip, you’ll explore ancient ruins as well as the coastal villages off the Aegean Sea and beautiful Crete Islands. Take a ferry along the Cyclades Islands, sip wine in the vibrant port city of Chania and wander through the ruins at Knossos – the former capital of Minoan Crete. Hike the Caldera Rim to Oia in Santorini, unwind in the secluded seaside village of Sougia and learn about the ancient capital of Athens from your local leader.

Trip Name
The Best of Greek Islands
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
15
Capacity
12
Highlights
  • Unwind in the small fishing village of Sougia. Maybe walk along the coastal trails, take a swim in the warm waters or simply relax on the beach with a cold drink in your hand during your free time.
  • Discover Chania on an orientation walk through the colourful port town. Discover one of its most loved commodities during a wine tasting and maybe join a local workshop to learn to bake kalitsounia (pastries).
  • Explore Crete’s natural wonders on foot during a hike through the Agia Irini Gorge, learning about its historical significance and rare wildlife as you go.
  • Let the rest of the world melt away as you swim and snorkel in the warm waters of the Aegean Sea.
  • Wander through the coastal village of Syros. When night falls, indulge in delicious seafood dinners in traditional tavernas as Rembetika music floats around you.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. , OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Athens
Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. As there's not much time to explore Athens on this trip before you head out to the islands, arriving a few days early is recommended. Highlights include the renowned changing of the guard at Syntagma (Parliament) Square, the National Gardens, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the original Olympic Stadium and of course the Acropolis, where you can enter the Pantheon and enjoy fabulous views over the city. Maybe join an Urban Adventure day trip, such as 'Taste of Athens' or 'Markets, Ruins and Ancient Athens'. You could also take a day trip to the Peloponnese peninsula via ancient Epidavros and the Corinthian canal. After the welcome meeting, perhaps head out for some gyros and ouzo with your new travel companions.
Day 2 - Syros
Today travel by metro to the port of Piraeus, then catch a relaxing scenic ferry to Syros (approximately 4 hours). In the heart of the Cyclades, Syros offers a rare opportunity to see the islands as the Greeks do. One of the Aegean's most underrated islands, the island features typical whitewashed houses, farms, terraced fields and gorgeous sandy beaches. Your leader will take you for an included lunch at a local traditional restaurant before you wander the main town of Ermoupolis, home to well preserved neoclassical mansions and 19th-century tenement blocks. Syros is also home to delicious sweets. Stop at a family run traditional loukoumi workshop where you will be shown the procedure of how these multi-coloured fruit-flavoured jellies (also called Greek Delight) and chalvadopita (hazelnut, almond or honey-filled wafers) are made - make sure you try some of them. You'll have plenty of time to explore tomorrow, so perhaps kick up your feet at a waterfront cafe and watch the setting sun turn the houses pink.
Day 3 - Syros
Take a walk through the fortress-like town of Ano Syros, which offers great views of the Aegean Sea. Wander the narrow alleyways, pass handmade-souvenir shops and keep an ear open for traditional Rembetiko music floating out of the family-run tavernas. Enjoy free time to further explore Syros at your own pace. Discover abandoned windmills, ancient ruins and charming villages on a network of stone-paved tracks that crisscross the island. Perhaps head to the various archaeological sites on the island, or you might prefer to simply hole up on a beach for the afternoon. Outside of Ermoupolis are many small tranquil coves, while the most popular beaches are on the southern side of the island. While some are sandy and others pebbly, all boast crystal clear waters for swimming in. In the evening, take taxis to a taverna to a remotely located village in the rugged northern part of the island to sample delicious local specialities during an included meal, all while watching the sun set over the Aegean Sea.
Day 4 - Mykonos
Today board a two-hour ferry to Mykonos, a beautiful island named in honour of Apollo's grandson. Known in ancient Greek mythology as the battlefield where Zeus fought the Gigantes, today the island is best known for its decadence, style, and nightlife. Join your leader for a walk through the maze-like old town and be captivated by the quintessential Greek Isles vista of squat white houses brightly juxtaposed against the cerulean sea. Browse the chic galleries and boutiques, follow flower-lined paths past age-old churches and tiny restaurants to secluded, sandy beaches, and spend the afternoon soaking up the rays and splashing in the water. Settle into your lovely room at the hotel. As the sun sets, maybe join Europe's party crowd at one of the many bars and clubs on Mykonos, or take a more traditional approach with a meal at a delightful backstreet restaurant.
Day 5 - Mykonos
This morning you will take a half-day trip out to the nearby island of Delos. One of the most important archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands, a sacred area that was once the political and religious centre of the Aegean, Delos is considered to be the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. A living museum, the wealthy built mansions in the town that developed around Apollo’s sanctuary, decorating them with luxurious frescoes, mosaics and statues. The island is overflowing with archaeological finds like the Terrace of the Lions and the Sacred Precinct, with many more still being uncovered. Later on today you might like to head to one of Mykonos' many beaches, which are some of the nicest in Europe. Take a short bus ride to the pumping Paradise or Super Paradise beach bars, or perhaps find a quieter spot to relax along the beautiful coastline. You could also check out the 19th-century House of Lena or the Aegean Maritime Museum in town. This evening you could make your way to the village of Ano Mera and seek out a tavern for a seafood dinner or perhaps wander down to Little Venice, where colourful balconies hang precariously over the sea.
Day 6 - Santorini
Take another ferry and arrive on the spectacular southern island of Santorini (approximately 2.5hrs hours). Renowned for its amazing natural beauty, Santorini is one of Europe's tourist hotspots, the home of the iconic image of the Greek islands – whitewashed, blue-domed buildings clinging to the cliff face with sparkling water in the background. Discover the hilltop ruins of Ancient Thira and its fascinating Prehistoric Museum, as well as the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that gives an insight into how the people here lived before the eruption. Check out the range of restaurants and shops in the island's capital, interchangeably called Thira or Fira. If you have time while you're here, perhaps head to one of Santorini's volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos or Agios Georgios. Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious food – the nutrient-filled volcanic soil makes the ingredients grown here full of flavour.
Day 7 - Santorini
In 1500 BC a volcanic eruption sank the center of Santorini, forming one of the most significant geological formations on the planet – the awe-inspiring caldera. The spectacular natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place. Today make an excursion along the crater rim, starting in Thira town and walking through little villages all the way to Oia, passing steep cliff faces and experiencing breathtaking views along the way. If you have time, you might also like to take a half-day trip to the island's volcano and hot springs in the centre of the lagoon. Or perhaps visit one of the island’s wineries – the vines here are cultivated in a very unusual way, with the plants being pruned to form a low basket shape that sits on top of the volcanic soil to protect the grapes from strong winds. On the last evening of your adventure, rub shoulders with friendly locals in packed pubs and cafes, sipping a cocktail as you witness a magnificent Santorini sunset.
Day 8 - Santorini
Today, you’ll receive all the necessary instructions along with your ferry tickets from Santorini to Heraklion and a hotel voucher for your overnight stay. Please note that this part of your journey will be self-guided, without your Tour Leader. Once you arrive in Heraklion, take some time to settle into your hotel and enjoy the city at your own pace. Heraklion has plenty to offer—whether you’d like to stroll along the Venetian harbor, visit the impressive Koules Fortress, explore the Archaeological Museum, or wander the lively streets filled with shops and cafés. If you’re up for a short trip, you can also visit the famous Palace of Knossos, just a short drive from the city center. This is your chance to relax, discover, and experience Heraklion in your own way.
Day 9 - Heraklion
Today is free for you until 6pm Welcome meeting. If you haven’t yesterday, maybe visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, see the Palace of Knossos or wander through the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology by Kotsanas. After the group meeting maybe head out for dinner with the group.
Day 10 - Heraklion to Knossos
This morning, head out of the city to the renowned archaeological site of Knossos, considered to be Europe’s oldest city. Explore the ruins with your leader and soak in thousands of years of history within its walls. After, discover one of Crete’s most celebrated commodities (vino, of course)! with a visit to a nearby winery for a tasting. Learn about the different varietes of grape grown here and sample a range of small-batch vintages. Then it’s time to slow things down – continue to the small village of Omalos, set at an altitude of 1000 metres, offering a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic Cretan countryside.
Day 11 - Sougia
Lace up your boots as you set off on a hike through the gorges this morning, stopping at the entrance of Agia Eirini Gorge along the way. Hear stories about the area’s historic past and how it once hid Greek rebels during the Turkish Occupation. Look out for the endangered Cretan wild goats and dittany trees as you walk. After, travel along the beautiful south coast to the village of Sougia. This is Crete at its very best – an undiscovered sweep of beach overlooked by mountains. When you arrive, the afternoon is yours to spend at leisure.
Day 12 - Sougia
After breakfast, set off on a boat trip , where there will be a couple of swimming stops and later join your leader for a traditional homecooked meal in a rural area. Discover the region’s rich history as you cruise, then join the family for lunch. Maybe try some seasonal local dishes. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you please. Maybe explore one of the coastal trails, take a swim in the warm waters or simply lay back on the beach with a drink in hand.
Day 13 - Chania
Say goodbye to Sougia this morning and catch a local bus to Chania. When you arrive, join your local leader on a guided tour of the Old Town. As you walk, you’ll explore the city markets, the Ottoman neighbourhood and Jewish quarter and pass by the workshops of traditional artisans of local pottery. The rest of the day is free for you to explore at your own pace. Tonight, maybe venture out into the bustling night life and sit down to dinner at a local restaurant – your leader will have the best recommendations!
Day 14 - Chania
Today is a free day for you to enjoy how you like. Maybe set off on a boat tour of the Balos and Gamvousa Islands or join a kalitsounia workshop where you’ll learn firsthand how one of the most famous Cretan pastries is made. Kalitsounia is commonly enjoyed as an appetizer or for breakfast, and you can choose your fillings according to your taste – Cretan mizithra or anthotyro cheese with Cretan greens or maybe a sweet filling instead. You could even take them with you to enjoy later in the day. This evening, maybe to head out to a local restaurant for a final dinner and use your knowledge of Cretan wine to pair with your meal.
Day 15 - Chania
With no activities planned for the day, your adventure on Crete comes to an end after breakfast this morning. If you’d like to spend some more time exploring the island, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
09-05-202623-05-2026AUD $ 8,990-
16-05-202630-05-2026AUD $ 9,280-
30-05-202613-06-2026AUD $ 9,280-
15-08-202629-08-2026AUD $ 8,195-
29-08-202612-09-2026AUD $ 8,230-
05-09-202619-09-2026AUD $ 8,560-
12-09-202626-09-2026AUD $ 8,530-
19-09-202603-10-2026AUD $ 8,295-
26-09-202610-10-2026AUD $ 8,630-
03-10-202617-10-2026AUD $ 7,495-
17-04-202701-05-2027AUD $ 8,135-
15-05-202729-05-2027AUD $ 8,420-
29-05-202712-06-2027AUD $ 8,420-
19-06-202703-07-2027AUD $ 8,135-
24-07-202707-08-2027AUD $ 8,525-
14-08-202728-08-2027AUD $ 8,525-
21-08-202704-09-2027AUD $ 8,525-
28-08-202711-09-2027AUD $ 8,525-
04-09-202718-09-2027AUD $ 8,525-
11-09-202725-09-2027AUD $ 8,525-
18-09-202702-10-2027AUD $ 8,420-
25-09-202709-10-2027AUD $ 8,420-
02-10-202716-10-2027AUD $ 8,135-

Accommodation

Hotel (11 nights), Guesthouse (3 nights)

Transport

Ferry, Public bus, Taxi, Metro

Map

Related products

Recent Blog Posts

Browse Trips in

Greece Intrepid
More of activity:
Walking & Trekking