Name: The Ultimate Luxury Greece Vacation
Brand: Zicasso
Price: 975 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (542 reviews)

Luxury pool at Canaves Oia Boutique Hotel in Santorini, Greece

What to expect on this itinerary

Experience the quintessential luxuries of Greece on this 10-day tour meant to show you the thrills and frills of antiquity, from the mainland to the islands, where Western Civilization began. Let the wonders of the modern world collide with the sensations of a rich and cultured history reflected in the stellar ruins and opulent beaches, whitewashed houses and stunning panoramas. The extravagance of Greece isn’t just in its grandiose modernity but within the country’s elegant past and lavish nature. Arrive in Greece and enjoy the splendid treasures that keep the world yearning for more.

Countries Visited

Greece

Places Visited

Athens, Crete, Heraklion, Santorini

Suggested Duration

10 Days

Day 1

Athens - Luxurious Dreaming

Step into the luxuries of history with your arrival in Athens, the capital of Greece and the cradle of Western Civilization. Olive trees climb along the golden hills that surround the capital. As you journey to Athens’s center you can see the pillars of the Acropolis rise above the city, the blue and white of the Greek flag flowing in the breeze. The streets begin to narrow and the passing cars start to dissipate. Remnants of ancient history stand tall around the city, from the pillars and arches to busts and writings, all prominently displaying their proud cultural identity and connection to modern Athens. Discover the gems of Athens at your leisure as you stroll through the historic city as if in a dream.

Pass the Panathenaic Stadium; the marble seats and around the stretch of field that runs along the main Athenian road which was used when Athens hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Taste the candied baklava: flaky puff pastry stuffed with rich almonds and drizzled with the natural sweetness of honey. The scent of roast lamb floats along the cobblestone streets of the Plaka, the pedestrian road of Old Athens. For a perfect introduction to the luxurious life of Greece enjoy dinner over the cobblestone streets with the vibrancy of Athenian life pulsating around you at Kalamaki. The grilled saganaki cheese gives a rich taste and buoyant texture and a truly luxurious body to bite into. The fairy lights float over the walkway, the city life passes you by, and you settle into the treat of contemporary flavors and the splendor of history wrapped up in present Athens.

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Day 2

Athens - An Affluent History

Today you will journey deep into the past with a tour of the historic city of Athens, including the new Acropolis Museum. With a narrative that has shaped the entirety of Western Civilization spanning a period well over 2,000 years, you will be surrounded by wonder, awe, and inspiration, knowing that the art and ruins of Athens predate even that of ancient Rome. Begin with your visit to Syntagma, also known as Constitution Square. Displayed within the metro station below are remnants of Athens, from the pipelines to old roads, from pre-Christian homes to a Byzantine burial ground. The glass display prominently shows the layers of the evolution of the city, beneath the plush modernity of Parliament, which was once King Otto the I’s palace. At the hour you can watch the changing of the guard. The soldiers that stand before parliament are dressed in standard cultural uniforms on Sundays: loose white shirts, large sashes, and shoes that resemble soccer cleats, complete with tacks positioned beneath the soles, once valued as a weapon during hand-to-hand combat.

Climb the old stairs of Acropolis Hill on your way to the base of the collected architectural masterpieces of the city, constructed during the Golden Age of Athens. There is a distinct scent of marble and earth; the sheen of the polished rock mirrors the sunlight. The sound of the crowd is replaced with the silent awe of the historic structures that have persevered through time and over occupation. Walk through the Propylaea, the monumental gateway that welcomes you into the collective temples that overlook the ancient streets and existing sprawl. Stroll through the walkway, beneath the towering pillars that stand proudly around you, the off-white color giving you another sense of the stained history that fills each crevice of the city. The pillars open up and you step onto the top of Acropolis Hill where several temples decorate the plateau including the eminent Parthenon dedicated to the goddess Athena, from whom the city of Athens was named. The open air of the plateau is almost taken away leaving you breathless as you sight the extravagant pillars of the Parthenon, the engraved triangular pediment displaying horses, people, and daily life dedicated to serving Athena. The affluence of Ancient Greece is written on the walls of the ancient hill, standing on the central mountain of the city that gave Athens a panorama of oncoming villages and peoples.

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Day 3

Crete - The Grecian Urn in a Venetian Town

Today you will depart from Athens waving goodbye to the statues and pillars of ancient history. Fly from the mainland to Greece’s largest island, Crete where you will experience the blissful wonders of the food, people, sites, and towns of the western part of this unique island. Arrive in Rethymnon, a picturesque Venetian port city with the inviting stretch of the largest warm, sandy beach in Crete. The old port sits colorfully along the water’s edge. The buildings shine reds and blues meant to guide fisherman home from a long outing at sea. The lighthouse stands tall at the edge of a jetty, both to provide guidance to ships in the evening darkness and once used as a barrier to keep unwanted ships from entering the port. The water within the harbor is crystal clear giving you a view to the deepest rock formations below making it look as though the ground swirls in the gentle wake of the water.

Stroll through the seaside city to see the evolution of Rethymnon, from the Venetians to the Ottomans, where the thin cobblestone streets meander like alleyways between the stone buildings. The Neratzes Mosque has arrow-like archways, quintessential to the Moorish influence, the golden bricks raising the interior into a dome. The mosque was originally constructed as the Holy Virgin Church; however, now a minaret towers over the three domes of the structure in an impressive display of dominance and grace. The Fortezza overshadows the edges of the city overlooking the water and on guard for pirates and Turks. The sweet sea laps at the ends of the harbor as a plethora of boats, from large yachts to individual fishing vessels, bob along the walkway. Tables mark the vibrant café and restaurant life that encircle the port. Relax next to the water with a glass of Rakomelo, a distilled spirit made and loved by Cretans. Every family is said to have their own recipe boasted to be the best, and is made from grapes and infused with the delightful candied flavor of honey giving you a proper and comfortable taste of the island.

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Day 4

Crete - Greece’s Venice and the Wealth of Wandering Waters

Today you will continue your exploration of Western Crete. With all of Crete at your whim today you can venture through the hills of Rethymnon province, along the quaint villages that speckle the hillsides, and into the Venetian port town of Chania. Similar to Rethymnon, the buildings of Chania are colorful along the harbor with lively restaurants. People call to you offering all day cruises on the sea or a free glass of wine which you can enjoy while you sit along the water’s edge and watch the passersby. The glassy water gives you a cinematic view into the lives of the minnows that linger in the nearby waters in hopes of breadcrumbs. The lighthouse stretches out into the center of the harbor opposite the Venetian fortress. The narrow passageways of the city give you a change to get lost amongst the beautiful stone buildings, manicured vines wrapping up and around the antique structures, where tables are set in the most random and tight places giving every possible corner a secluded and unique essence; the island of Crete, after all, is known for its sensational food.

While wandering through the cobblestoned alleyways you can see the connection with Venice, the rich architecture, the hidden stores, the tight spaces opening to bright sky and vast area. Within the stretch of streets you feel like you’ve been transported to Morocco. The minaret towers over the street and each store fills a tiny space, and each alleyway is dedicated to a particular trade, from shoes to jewelry, kitchen supplies to purses. The streets blossom with a mixture of the hidden sea and sweet Greek coffee. You can hear the horse carriages clopping through the avenues giving the old city the feeling of a fairytale and you the blissful protagonist.

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Day 5

Crete - Pink Sand like Gemstones

Another day on the sensational island of Crete brings ample opportunity to discover the breathtaking wonders of the island. Why not spend some time within the island’s natural beauty, stretched out on the pink sand of Elafonissi Beach. The water is as clear as air, slowly fading to turquoise in the distance. The reflection of the light on the water adds a special rose color along the shoreline, making the sand look like gemstones twinkling and winking at you. The water is cool on your toes giving you reprieve from the hot sand. You can watch your feet sink slowly beneath the powder as the water surrounds you. The gentle wash of the sea drifts through the air. Whether sitting comfortably in on the shores or delighting in a cooking class learning to prepare and indulge in traditional Cretan dishes, take advantage of the day to ensure the best sense of Grecian gratification.

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Day 6

Crete - Past Palace Extravagances

Your final day in Crete should be spent luxuriating in the variety of life that the island offers to locals and visitors alike. Whether in the mountain villages, where traditional dress and dialect continues to thrive, or within the not-to-be-missed Minoan Palace of Knossos, spend your day strolling along the harbor of Rethymnon or beyond the steps of time and the ages in Herkalion. Knossos Minoan Palace is known notably as the site of the Minotaur, the half man, half bull born to Queen Pasiphae. The air is filled with stone and history while colorful murals continue to decorate the remaining walls of the palace, including the mural of a bull, deep red on a background of blue, rushing through the surrounding mountains. The palace itself was the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization that dates to around 1900 BC. Large pots line the confines of the palace, situated in corners and stretching beneath halls, chiseled with geometric shapes and some standing almost six-feet tall. The structures grow over a long area eventually giving way to shallow steps, connoting a royal entryway where horses and people would stroll into the opulence of the welcome gate. Although the labyrinth of the Minotaur may not be present, the mystique and affluence of the palace remains.

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Day 7

Santorini - The Opulent Myth of Whitewashed Homes Comes True

Today you will board the hydrofoil at Heraklion leaving behind the island of Crete and making your way along the gorgeous water to the illustrious island of Santorini. As the ferry pulls closer to the cliffs you can see the glow of the famous whitewashed buildings lingering over the sea, their bright blue crowns imitating the water below. The terrain looks rugged and russet. You board your transfer from the port and meander up the cliff and into the highland watching the whitewater brush against the rocks. The scent of tanned earth and rich volcanic soil fills the island. You traverse the winding, narrow roads of the capital Fira until you arrive at the charming and small town of Oia, pronounced “Ee-ah.” Look out over the cliff side and you can see the caldera sitting in the center of the crescent shape of the island. The whitewash makes the mountainside radiant.

Wander through Oia, the fresh and rich grilled seafood makes your mouth water. The marble pathway extends from the road to the edges of the village where hotels and homes climb down the mountains. Sit at the casteli, the once giant fortress that stands at the top corner overlooking the water below. On the opposite side of the island you can see the silhouette of the lighthouse. The twisting pathway beneath you guides the famous donkeys from the small harbor to the lower tiers of Oia. Infinity pools stretch over empty air. The breeze brings with it the fresh sea; sailboats glide along the water in almost every direction. Look behind you and you can see the images that grace the postcards that you have stared at for most of your life: classic Santorini with its glow of the whitewalls and blue roofs standing in contrast to the mountains beyond.

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Day 8

Santorini - The Golden Sunset

Leisure is at its finest on the cliff side of Santorini where the pools are as cool as a cucumber and the view is unparalleled. The quiet of the morning reaches a pinnacle of a noiseless breeze giving you nothing but the private currency of relaxation. The gleam of the sun off of the white facades gives the day an extra warmth. The rocky cliff spices the air before you are taken to the opposite end of the island for the stunning sunset cruise to come. The yacht shines in the afternoon along the aquamarine water. The crew is friendly and kind. The wind swoops against the bluffs and over the sea. The sail catches the breeze taking you out along the island’s outskirts. Look up and see the pillar of the lighthouse standing at the edge of the precipice. The red beach is marked with oxidized sand climbing the rock face giving a stellar intensity to the shore. The white beach blushes with limestone that travels down onto the black bank.

Dive into the water, the refreshing and calming cool of the sea is the most comfortable you have been in the ocean. Look down and notice the sensational clarity of the sea. Feel the warmth of the hot springs drifting from the active volcano beneath the caldera. Pass the hermit that lives on a tiny island where the remnants of the previous eruption jut from the water in pitch-black rugged stones as if reaching from the ocean floor to the sky. The ocean air becomes redolent with grilled seafood: fresh squid and tuna; roasted vegetables, zucchini, bell pepper, and eggplant. The salty and velvety aroma of grilled feta fills the boat as you dine amidst the serene water and looming islands. The sun begins to set and casts an orange luminescence along the horizon. The light doesn’t drift but sinks leaving a trail of color in its wake before the night pulls its shade over the sky and you return to shore.

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Day 9

Santorini - Luxurious Findings of the Ancients

The island is yours to explore on your final day in Santorini, which gives you the unfettered beauty of choice. From a hike along the island’s meandering cliffs to an exploration of the far to reach towns, there is no limit to what you can see or do within the border of the stellar crescent. A visit to Akrotiri, known as the Pompeii of Greece, is always a favorable idea. The Minoan settlement was smothered in volcanic ash during the Theran eruption around 1600BC, keeping the city in remarkable shape, and is also said to be the inspiration for Plato’s myth of Atlantis. The city grid remains in place with pottery and intact archways, drainage systems and even three-story buildings. Frescos continue to document the art of everyday life, with boats and farmers, boxing youths and women at work. Traversing the streets of the city gives the spine chilling sensation of the well-preserved life. The rich display of the decorative pottery, spiraled with geometric shapes and shades, gives one last opulent look at the ashen city before the museum site comes to a daily end.

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Day 10

Santorini - The Quality of Life

Today brings with it the end of your luxurious exploration of Greece; you will make your way to the Santorini airport and into the skies for your journey home. The white and blue buildings of the island wink in the sunlight as you glide higher over the sea. Your time has brought you through the beauty of antiquity, onto the settlements of Venice, within the natural splendor of the terrain, and to the luminescence of whitewashed homes that turn orange in the fading daylight. Greece has provided you with all of its splendors and the opportunity to appreciate the ideal luxuries of living, the joy of food, the majesty of history, and slowing down enough to revel in a remarkable sunset.

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Trip Highlights

Walk in the footsteps of history with a visit to the distinguished Acropolis
Pay a visit to the wondrous Knossos Minoan Palace known to be the home of the infamous Minotaur
Relax along the clear waters of Crete and marvel at its Venetian influences
Stand along the beach of Elafonissi where the sand glitters pink as if it were paved in gemstones
Experience the postcard perfection of the white and blue buildings of Santorini
Luxuriate in a sunset cruise around the crescent island and hot spring caldera of Santorini
Traverse the ashen-preserved ruins of the Grecian Pompeii, Akrotiri, said to be the basis for Plato’s story of Atlantis

Detailed Description

Indulge in the quintessential luxuries of Greece on this 10-day vacation in Greece tailored to show you the opulent history, rich modernity, and lavish landscapes of Athens, Crete, and Santorini. Open the door to the cradle of Western Civilization where the most sought after temples adorn the central hill of Athens within the Acropolis. Venetian ports continue to decorate the Cretan Sea. Beaches sparkle with pink sand, some with red walls, others with white cliffs. Swim in the natural hot springs of an active caldera. In Greece it’s about the essential luxuries of living: the beauty of food, the sensations of history, and taking the time to enjoy a spectacular sunset.

Begin your exploration of Greece’s exquisite luxury with your arrival in Athens. The Acropolis stands tall, which lingers over the city on one of the oldest inhabited areas of the Greece and overlooks what was once the entirety of ancient Athens. Be guided through the city’s past, from modernity to ancient history, where the open air is as much of a museum as the New Acropolis Museum nearby. Explore the opulent remnants of the temples that glorified and celebrated the gods held most dear by the collective city of Athens.

Transfer to Western Crete where the largest of the Greek Islands brings with it the majestic blend of Greek culture, with Venetian city planning and Moorish styling. Immerse yourself in your surroundings where the Venetian influence is well received and easily viewed along the meandering alleyways. Visit Elafonissi Beach and experience the pink glow of the sand along the shore. Enjoy your time discovering the lavish remains of the Knossos Minoan Palace, home of the Minotaur, and exploring a large stretch of fantastic ruins from centuries before the Athenian civilization flourished.

Hydrofoil to Santorini where you can watch the sun reflect off of the classic whitewashed homes that decorate the cliff side. The cool breeze blows along the crescent shape of the island. Traverse the outer expanse of Santorini on a sunset cruise where the crystal blue water brings the mist to your face and the bountiful grill on the boat brings fresh seafood to the plate. Your final day on the island is at your leisure to roam the beauty of the terrain as you see fit; a gorgeous experience is a visit to the ancient city of Akrotiri, known to be Greece’s Pompeii. The ash covered city remains intact and a spectacular site to see, filled with luxurious history, rich tapestries, and a magnificent story to tell.

Your journey through Greece is fully customizable and is meant to share with you the essential luxuries of Athens, Crete, and Santorini. The best time to visit is in the fall, between the months of April through October. Read reviews for travel agents for Santorini and Greece to see what other travelers enjoyed while on their customized vacations in Greece.

Starting Price

$9,800 per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

Accommodations
In-country transportation
Some or all activities and tours
Expert trip planning
24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

5.0

Verified Traveler Reviews

Based on 606 reviews

Greece Anniversary Vacation Review: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Catamaran Cruise, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting, Hiking, Local Cuisine, 2-Week Trip

We recently returned from an incredible two-week Coral Anniversary trip to Greece and it exceeded every expectation. From the ancient wonders of Athens to the whitewashed villages of Mykonos, the dramatic cliffs of Santorini, and the authentic traditions of Crete, every stop offered something unique and unforgettable. Most importantly, the people we met along the way transformed a beautiful vacation into a truly special experience. The journey took us through Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete.

Outstanding Planning and Service

Every transfer, hotel, tour, ferry, flight, restaurant reservation, and activity was flawlessly coordinated by Zicasso's travel partner. The itinerary struck a perfect balance between guided experiences and personal exploration, allowing us to enjoy Greece without ever worrying about logistics.

Athens – History, Culture, and Exceptional Hospitality

Our stay at our hotel in Athens gave us incredible Acropolis views and a perfect base for exploring the city. Walking through the Acropolis with our guide and standing before the Parthenon was breathtaking. The Acropolis Museum and city highlights tour helped bring thousands of years of history to life.

One of the highlights of our anniversary celebration was dinner at a restaurant atop Lycabettus Hill. Watching the sun set behind the Acropolis while enjoying excellent Greek cuisine and wine was a magical experience and one we'll never forget.

We would especially like to recognize our driver in Athens. He was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in making our trip memorable. During our day exploring the Argolis region, Epidaurus, Mycenae, and the Nemea wine country, he provided insights that helped us better appreciate the history and culture of Greece.

What truly distinguished our driver was his attention to detail. While we were traveling along the Athenian Riviera toward Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, he realized we were hoping for a true seaside lunch experience. Without being asked, he contacted the travel company and coordinated everything to make a last-minute adjustment so we could enjoy lunch by the sea. That thoughtful gesture perfectly reflects the level of service he provided throughout our stay. It turned a wonderful day into one of our favorite memories of Athens.

Mykonos – Relaxation and the Beauty of the Aegean

Mykonos provided the perfect contrast to the historical focus of Athens. Staying at our hotel in Mykonos overlooking the Aegean Sea allowed us to fully appreciate the island's beauty.

We spent time exploring the charming streets of Mykonos Town, admiring the famous windmills, and enjoying the relaxed island atmosphere. A major highlight was our private catamaran cruise to Delos and Rhenia. Sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean while visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delos gave us a fascinating glimpse into one of the ancient world's most important religious centers. The secluded waters around Rhenia were stunning and provided some of the most beautiful scenery of our trip.

Santorini – Spectacular Views and Unforgettable Sunsets

Santorini is every bit as beautiful as the photographs suggest and somehow even more impressive in person. Our stay in Oia overlooking the caldera was breathtaking. Whether enjoying breakfast with panoramic views or simply walking through the village, every moment felt special.

The wine-tasting experiences at a winery were outstanding. Sampling the island's distinctive Assyrtiko wines while learning about Santorini's unique volcanic terroir gave us a new appreciation for Greek winemaking. The carefully paired food-and-wine experiences were among the culinary highlights of the entire trip.

Our private sunset catamaran cruise around the caldera, White Beach, Red Beach, Black Beach, hot springs, and the volcano was another unforgettable experience. Watching the sunset from the water while enjoying dinner and local wine created one of the most memorable evenings of our anniversary trip.

Crete – The Heart of Greece

As amazing as Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini were, Crete became our favorite part of the journey.

Our quick stop at Knossos Palace and the historic city of Rethymnon allowed us to learn about the Minoan civilization and experience the rich blend of Venetian and Ottoman influences that define the island. The old Venetian harbor in Chania was equally impressive and provided a spectacular setting for our stay.

Samaria Gorge

One of the most rewarding experiences of our entire trip was hiking the Samaria Gorge. Covering 11 miles through one of Europe's most spectacular natural settings was challenging and incredibly rewarding. The dramatic cliffs, pristine landscape, and sheer scale of the gorge were unlike anything we had experienced before.

A tremendous part of that experience was our guide. Our guide brought expertise, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for Crete that elevated the hike far beyond a typical excursion. His knowledge of the region, local culture, and natural environment made every step more meaningful.

Kissamos Villages and Cooking Class

Our final full day in Crete may have been the most authentic and memorable day of the entire trip.

The tour of the traditional villages of Kissamos provided a fascinating look at everyday Cretan life. Learning about olive oil production, tasting regional products, and experiencing rural villages gave us a perspective on Crete that most visitors never see.

The cooking class that followed was exceptional. Our host created an atmosphere that felt less like a tour and more like spending a day with friends. Together with his mother, he shared not only recipes, but the stories, traditions, and values that make Cretan culture so special.

For anyone traveling to Crete, we cannot recommend this tour company highly enough. Their commitment to authentic local experiences is truly outstanding.

This trip exceeded our expectations in every possible way. We experienced world-famous historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, incredible food and wine, beautiful hotels, and unforgettable adventures. Yet what we will remember most are the people who made the experience so special.

We returned home with wonderful memories, a deeper appreciation for Greek culture, and gratitude for everyone who helped make our anniversary celebration the trip of a lifetime.

Greece Tour Review: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Chania, Acropolis, Delos, Rhenia, Knossos Palace, Wine Tasting, Sunset Cruise, Food Tour, Olive Oil Tour, 2 Weeks

This was one of the best-organized trips my wife and I have taken in Europe. Zicasso had put us in touch with Zicasso's travel specialist. She called us to ask about the dates, interests, islands we wanted to see, sights, etc. She formulated a travel plan including hotels, transfers, and tours (including food tours). We discussed the plan, chose hotels based on our budget, and finalized a tour plan with her.

Right from the moment we arrived at Athens airport, everything was taken care of for us. We had a limo waiting, even though it took time to go through the EU's new immigration system. Our hotel in Athens was right next to the city center, with a beautiful Acropolis view from our balcony. The room was comfortable and spacious, and ready when we arrived at 2 pm. Our travel specialist even suggested a restaurant to celebrate our anniversary and made reservations for us, as we were unable to do it online.

The next day, we had a tour of the Acropolis conducted by a professional tour guide. It was a good two-hour walking tour and we enjoyed it very much. The tour guide was very knowledgeable, took time to explain the history, which we are interested in, and also took some amazing pictures for us. We had free time to go to the city center to shop and try out some of the Greek taverns.

From Athens, we went to Mykonos by ferry. Ferry tickets were sent on a WhatsApp group chat created by her. Our limo came at the designated time and our ferry trip was easy and very enjoyable. On arrival, our limo was waiting to take us to our hotel in Mykonos, located on top of the hill, with a balcony overlooking the central area and a scenic sea view. It was easy to go down and see the shops, windmills, Little Venice, and explore the city center that day. Nighttime was party night, with almost everything open late.

The next day, we had a private Jeep tour of the island. We went to different parts of the island to explore. Our driver and tour guide were very thorough and patient, and it was a very enjoyable tour.

The following day, we were taken by a tour bus to the port, where we went on a private tour of the Delos and Rhenia islands. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and pointed out the sights of an ancient civilization. Lunch on the boat was basic, but on the whole, it was a very informative tour.

We then left for Santorini by ferry. Again, ferry tickets arrived a day before on WhatsApp. We requested an upgrade from basic tickets to Club Class/Platinum Class for the rest of the tour, which was immediately arranged and payment was accepted by credit card. In Santorini, we stayed at our hotel, which had a beautiful view from the balcony and the breakfast was superb, made to order, with the rooftop restaurant having spectacular views of the caldera. It was just awesome! In the afternoon, a tour guide took us in a van and showed us the sights, including the Three Bells of Fira. We did not have to wait anywhere, as the guide knew exactly how and where to go to see the sights and take photos. We learned a bit of history of the island.

The next day, we had two wine-tasting tours, first to a premium vineyard and then to the oldest winery in Santorini. Our tour guide and van arrived on time everywhere for a well-conducted and planned private tour.

On the third day, we went on a semi-private sunset cruise to the volcano, hot springs, and beaches. It was a well-conducted tour with a BBQ on the boat! The crew even accommodated my shellfish allergy by cooking the chicken before cooking the seafood on the BBQ. The food was good and, more importantly, the crew was friendly and very caring. The crew members took some beautiful pictures of us against the spectacular Santorini sunset.

We left for Crete the following morning by ferry. Everywhere, we had private transfers waiting to take us and we did not wait anywhere to be transferred. In Heraklion, we were staying at our hotel in the city center and therefore had access to some very nice traditional Greek restaurants where the locals went for dinner. The following day, we had a private tour of Knossos Palace with a very friendly and knowledgeable tour guide. On our return, our limo was waiting for us to take us to Chania in Crete.

Our journey to Chania took us two hours and was very informative and enjoyable, as our driver pointed out a number of sights on the way. Our check-in at our hotel in Chania was quick and efficient. The hotel even sent us a bellboy to the drop-off point (cars are not allowed inside) to help with our luggage. The hotel room was spacious and had a balcony overlooking the waterfront, the lighthouse, and all the restaurants in the area. The next day, we were taken on a private olive oil tour and, in the evening, a food tour with a tour guide who spoke seven languages and knew the city inside and out!

The following day, a private limo and a private boat took us to Glyka Nera, Loutro, and Marmara. We were able to swim and see some of the beautiful azure-blue water and sights, again in the company of the same tour guide from the previous night. Lunch in Marmara was exceptional. At no time during this tour were we rushed and everything moved at a very easy pace. We checked out from the hotel the following morning for a flight to Athens. The hotel manager helped us with our luggage to the pickup point. Boarding passes were sent on WhatsApp and our check-in and travel were smooth. Everything went like clockwork. Our limo was waiting on arrival and we were taken back to our hotel in Athens, where we stayed the night before our travel home the following day.

At all the sites we visited, our travel specialist even suggested some restaurants to try. These were special in their own ways and not touristy. This tour was very detailed, meticulously planned, and executed by her and the team, who kept in touch with us every day throughout the tour to make sure we had a great time. Thank you for making this a memorable, special, and personalized tour.

This was our 35th-anniversary celebration trip and, thanks to Zicasso's travel specialist and the team, it was a memorable trip for us.

Greece Tour Review: Athens, Peloponnese, Santorini, Messinia, Voidokilia, Pylos, Methoni, Monemvasia, Nafplio, Mystras Castle, Polylimnio Waterfalls, Elafonisos, Olive Oil Tasting, Hiking, 10 Nights

We had a wonderful and memorable trip to Greece, thanks to the Zicasso travel specialist’s excellent planning. In addition to exploring Athens, she designed a seamless road trip across the Peloponnese Peninsula that took us to beautiful beaches and ancient castles in Messinia, Voidokilia, Pylos, Methoni, Monemvasia, and Nafplio. She also provided clear directions and recommended great stops to break up our drives, including Mystras Castle and the beautiful Polylimnio Waterfalls.

Our hotel accommodations were excellent throughout the trip and we really enjoyed our stay in beautiful Santorini. We also appreciated her restaurant recommendations, which saved us from having to search for places to eat and always led us to great food. She stayed in touch via WhatsApp the entire time, checking in on us and answering our questions whenever they came up. There is so much to see in Greece that we’ll definitely need to go back for another visit.

Greece Trip Review: Athens, Crete, Chania, Santorini, Paros, Ferry Ride, Wine Tasting, 12 Nights

We loved our Greece trip and had so much fun with our activities. Of the referred travel companies from Zicasso, we gravitated to this travel company because of its personal attention to detail regarding our vacation wishes. Our travel specialist took the time to listen and tailored an itinerary that captured our interests. It did not disappoint. This was our second trip through Zicasso and, as with the first, the guides, drivers, and support were on point.

The travel company lined up excursions with the nicest and most engaging people. From our arrival at the airport, they made us feel welcomed and special. We went to the head of the line again and again, and avoided much wasted time. The guides and drivers were genuinely glad we were there and our enjoyment was of the utmost importance. They always seemed to go above and beyond expectations with the knowledge they imparted and the amount of personal attention they provided.

In general, we found the people of Greece to be so nice and that really made the difference on this trip. Need a restaurant suggestion, just text our guide, as he was always right. Need a reservation, just text the travel company through WhatsApp and it was made. We are still texting a couple of the guides for additional information and recommendations for friends traveling to Greece.

Traveling by boat was one of the best decisions we made. The overnight ferry from Athens to Crete was an unexpected pleasure, and we would recommend it over air travel anytime, as it was very relaxed. Chania was engaging, Santorini was beautiful, and Paros was the ultimate place to chill out before traveling home.

We can't stop talking about how much fun we had in Greece. Thank you, the travel company, our travel specialist, and Zicasso. We will be in touch about our next adventure!

Greece Vacation Review: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Beaches, Scenery, Shopping, History, 9 Nights

Zicasso's travel specialist went above and beyond to curate a fantastic, scenic, exciting, and restful vacation for us and was sure to provide us the best possible accommodations at each destination (Athens, Mykonos, Santorini). We didn't have to worry about one single detail for the entire trip as all of our transport was covered, we had a local contact in each location, and all hotels were pre-paid and perfect. We loved every single second of the trip and would absolutely recommend our specialist for anyone seeking a wonderful visit to Greece!

Greece Tour Review: Athens, Santorini, Crete, Delphi, Hiking, History, Culture

The itinerary is not the best for the price we paid and for a family with two children. We thought we could come back to Greece, but after this trip, we might not come back or even use Zicasso again. Here are the reasons: 1. The hotels are subpar for the price we paid for this tour. Our hotel in Athens felt like a 2-star. Our hotel in Santorini has a great view, but it's just a view, no pool, etc. nearby. Our hotel in Crete is not near a beach, a 20-minute walk. 2. Too much time was wasted on travel from one location to the next (Santorini to Crete and Crete to Athens). 3. Four nights in Santorini with two children is overkill since there is not much to do other than take photos, hike, and that's basically it. 4. Some of the tours are okay but nothing special, i.e., the hiking tour in Crete where they call the "little forest" is merely just for the name. It has nothing to do with the tour guides. All tour guides are great. However, we feel the tour company is crafting ordinary tours, labels it special, and calls it private. 5. In Delphi, we could have had more time to look around after the two hours. If any of the tours were great, it was the tours we had in Athens and Delphi. If we had known this type of tour we received, we could have done an all-inclusive resort in Greece and done our own without having to go through Zicasso and the tour company.

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The Ultimate Luxury Greece Vacation

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Athens - Luxurious Dreaming

Athens - An Affluent History

Crete - The Grecian Urn in a Venetian Town

Crete - Greece’s Venice and the Wealth of Wandering Waters

Crete - Pink Sand like Gemstones

Crete - Past Palace Extravagances

Santorini - The Opulent Myth of Whitewashed Homes Comes True

Santorini - The Golden Sunset

Santorini - Luxurious Findings of the Ancients

Santorini - The Quality of Life

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