Long time lurker, first time poster
We (5 of us at present but will probably be 8-10 when we go) are planning a trip 9/7/17 - 9/30. I was planning arrive ATH from PHL 9:15AM on 9/7 then flying to Chania for 5 nights, ferry to Santorini, 3 nights, Ferry Naxos 5 nights, then ferry or fly Athens 2 nights, rent a car to Nafplio 3-4 days, then a longer road trip to Delphi and Meteora for 3 days, then our remaining time in Athens until the 30th. I am trying to avoid driving more then 4 hours in a day. I planned it this way so some in our party that must leave after 15 days would have a couple days in Athens before returning home and the remainder could continue with the mainland trip. We already have our award flight tix from USA 9/6-7 returning 9/30 from ATH
I've already run into a snag, in that we cant get a flight to Chania until late in the day on 9/7, and after a 17 hour trip from the USA this would be a long layover. Thinking I may have to go Santorini first (11:40AM flight) then Naxos then ferry Crete then fly back to ATH. I am trying to keep hotel cost to around $100/night ($50 per person, doubles) except for our 3 nights in Santorini where we may have to pay more to stay up high and get a view. We will rent a car in Chania and on the mainland (except time in Athens)
I would welcome any advice or recommendations. We really aren't museum people but prefer experiences instead, ie. we took a bike tour thru Paris and around the Louvre but never entered. We would enjoy ruins but not 18 of 24 days. Much more into sight seeing and experiencing local food and culture. We are mostly in our mid 50's.
I would welcome any advice and suggestions as we are only locked into our arrival and departure flights at this time.
Thanks for any help.