Hello, Forum regulars. I’m a 71 year old Canadian - first time on RS Forum. I’m seeking advice on taking an organized tour (no longer than 7 to 9 nights) that starts with a flight from Athens to Crete, returning via an islands tour/cruise back to Athens (although I suppose doing the reverse, and flying back from Crete after an islands tour to there would work just as well ..?) . I already have Athens accommodation from May 29 to June 12 (then on to London). My intro to Greece was 3 days in Athens last year and I loved it, so still want to spend another few days in Athens before flying on to London. Travelling alone. Don’t want hassle of ‘winging it’ by booking each segment of a Greek islands tour on my own, but I suppose I could at least arrange a direct flight from Athens to Crete myself, spend maybe 2 or 3 nights there (only need a taste, don’t need to see everything!), followed by an organized 4 to 5 nights island cruise back to Athens. Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
Posted by
Philadelphia, PA, USA
3696 posts
There aren't any organized tours like you describe -- That's just what YOU want, not what is commercially best for tour companies. What you really want is someone to make your arrangements -- and I suggest contacting 2 well-reviewed travel agencies based in Athens, -- Fantasy Travel & Dolphin Hellas. Both are VERY experienced w dealing online w N Americans, setting up all travel, lodgings and local-tour arrangements.
They do best when you're very clear & specific about key facts -- (1) LENGTH of TRIP (exactly) .. clear up confusion about this -- you say you are booked in Athens May 29 to June 12.. surely you just mean 1s night, & last few nights, not the whole 15 days?!?11 (2) what KIND of Lodgings you prefer (big hotel/small/ balcony/near beach?) (3) preferred rate-range per night (4) SOME idea of sightseeing options. (do a bit of homework on this). You need to give some info, or they'd have to guess. Email both at same time, see which answers fastest, & compare. (You can trim costs by eliminating add-ons like "car service to hotel" as long as you are fit enough to wave down a taxi, you can save $ )
GENERAL THOUGHTS -- Island first, Athens time LAST. Crete is HUGE, so you should have at least 5 days there (6 nights), then ferry to smaller Isle for 2 full days (3 nights). On arrival May 29, FLY asap to CHANIA Crete. Spend 5 days, & last night in HERAKLION (see Museum & Fortezza & Knossos). AM next day, ferry to ?PAROS? ... arr early aft. Stay in/near port town of PARIKIA> Then FLY back to ATH (you don't have time for ferry taking most of day). CHANIA Sightseeing recommend - check out this great day-tour operation (Small 12-pgsr bus) - https://wanderlustchania.gr/ -- choose tours u like, & tell agencies to get bookings.