Embark on a captivating 10-day family adventure to mainland Greece and Crete, offering a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty. This moderately-budgeted trip focuses on exploring ancient sites, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant local markets. Delight in authentic Greek cuisine and capture stunning memories through photography at every turn.

Arrive at Athens International Airport (ATH), collect your luggage, and take a taxi or pre-booked transfer to your accommodation.
The express bus X95 connects directly to Syntagma Square, or consider a pre-booked private transfer for convenience with luggage.
From airport, take Metro Line 3 to Syntagma Square, or the X95 express bus. A taxi will cost approximately EUR 40-50.
Explore the iconic Acropolis of Athens, including the magnificent Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Propylaea.
Enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Book tickets online in advance to skip the queue. Wear comfortable shoes as there's a fair amount of walking and uneven surfaces.
Enjoy traditional Greek cuisine at a charming taverna in the historic Plaka district, at the foot of the Acropolis.
Explore the narrow streets for souvenir shops and a lively atmosphere. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating.
Wander through the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athenian public life.
Visit the Temple of Hephaestus, Stoa of Attalos, and various archaeological finds.
A combined ticket for the Acropolis and Agora can offer better value. Plenty of shade in parts, but bring water.
Enjoy lunch in the vibrant Monastiraki Square area, known for its diverse food options and lively atmosphere.
Try souvlaki or gyros from a local street vendor for an authentic and quick meal.
Discover fascinating artifacts found on the Acropolis site, housed in the modern Acropolis Museum.
The museum is very family-friendly with clear explanations and visual displays. Great views of the Acropolis from the café.
Experience the bustling Monastiraki Square in the evening, browse the flea market, and enjoy dinner.
The flea market is particularly active on Sundays but many shops are open on weekdays. Watch for street performers.
Visit the largest archaeological museum in Greece, housing priceless artifacts from various periods of Greek history, from prehistory to late antiquity.
Allow plenty of time to explore the vast collections. Consider renting an audio guide to enhance your experience.
Witness the ceremonial changing of the Presidential Guard (Evzones) in front of the Hellenic Parliament at Syntagma Square.
The full ceremony happens on Sundays at 11 AM, but a smaller ceremony occurs hourly.
The hourly change is less elaborate but still impressive. Arrive a few minutes early for a good spot.
Relax and wander through the beautiful National Garden, a green oasis in the heart of Athens, home to ancient ruins, a small zoo, and various plants.
Perfect for a leisurely walk with children, who might enjoy the playground or small pond.
Take the funicular up Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens, to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city, especially stunning at sunset.
Afterwards, dine at a restaurant with a view.
The funicular is located at the intersection of Ploutarchou and Aristippou streets. There are cafes and restaurants at the top.
Visit the impressive ruins of the Temple of Olympian Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece, and Hadrian's Arch.
A separate ticket is required, or use a combined ticket if you purchased one. It's an open-air site, so bring sun protection.
Wander through the picturesque, hidden neighborhood of Anafiotika, built in the Cycladic style, resembling a Greek island village right beneath the Acropolis.
It's easy to get lost in its charming, narrow alleys, which is part of its appeal. Respect the local residents.
Enjoy a quiet lunch at a local taverna in or near the Anafiotika area.
Look for small, family-run restaurants for authentic Greek dishes.
Spend the afternoon browsing the numerous shops in Plaka for souvenirs, local crafts, and enjoying a coffee or snack at a cafe.
Great place to find gifts like olive oil products, leather goods, and traditional jewelry.
Enjoy a farewell dinner in central Athens, perhaps trying a different neighborhood or revisiting a favorite spot.
Psirri and Gazi districts offer more contemporary dining and nightlife options.
Visit the Panathenaic Stadium, built entirely of white marble, which hosted the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
You can even run on the track!
An audio guide is included with the ticket, providing interesting historical context. Kids usually love running on the track.
Enjoy some last-minute shopping on Ermou Street, Athens' main commercial thoroughfare, for clothing, accessories, and gifts.
A pedestrian-only street, great for walking and browsing various international and local brands.
Have a relaxed lunch at a cafe or restaurant near Ermou Street.
Use this time for any last-minute sightseeing you missed, grabbing final souvenirs, or returning to your accommodation to pack and relax.
Confirm check-out times with your accommodation or arrange for luggage storage if needed.
Enjoy a final dinner in Athens, preparing for your transfer to Crete tomorrow.
Board your flight from Athens International Airport (ATH) to Heraklion International Airport (HER).
Enjoy the short scenic flight to Crete.
A short domestic flight is the quickest way to travel from Athens to Crete.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, Mythos Palace Resort & Spa.
Check in and settle into your accommodations. Enjoy lunch at the resort or a nearby taverna.
Arrange a taxi or pre-booked transfer from Heraklion Airport to the resort (approx. 1 hour drive).
Visit the magnificent Palace of Knossos, the center of the Minoan civilization and the legendary home of King Minos and the Minotaur.
Explore the ancient ruins and vibrant frescoes.
Book tickets in advance online to avoid queues. Consider a guided tour for deeper insights into the history.
Discover one of Greece's most important museums, housing a vast collection of Minoan art and artifacts from Knossos and other sites across Crete.
Located centrally in Heraklion. Combined tickets with Knossos Palace are often available.
Enjoy a traditional Cretan dinner at a taverna in Heraklion, perhaps near Lions Square or the Venetian Harbor.
Try local specialties like 'dakos', 'apaki', and fresh seafood.
Spend the morning at Aquaworld Aquarium & Reptile Rescue Centre, Crete's first aquarium.
See local sea life and rescued reptiles. A great interactive experience for the whole family.
Engaging for children and adults alike, with many rescued animals. Hersonissos is easily accessible from Heraklion.
Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes along the Hersonissos port.
Plenty of options for Greek food, pizza, or international cuisine.
Embark on an exciting off-road safari with Safari Experts Crete.
Explore the rugged landscapes, traditional villages, and hidden gems of the Cretan countryside, away from the usual tourist paths.
A thrilling way to see the island's natural beauty and get off the beaten track. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
Return to the resort for some relaxation by the pool or on the beach before dinner.
Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants within the Mythos Palace Resort & Spa.
Enjoy a scenic drive along the northern coast of Crete to the charming city of Chania, known for its Venetian harbor and picturesque Old Town.
Consider renting a car for flexibility or using a taxi/private transfer for this day trip.
Explore the narrow, winding alleys of Chania's Old Town, visit the Venetian Harbor, the iconic lighthouse, and browse local artisan shops.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Don't miss the Firkas Fortress and the Maritime Museum.
Experience Chania through a private tour with Crete Lux Travel.
Discover hidden gems and local stories with a personalized itinerary tailored to your family's interests.
A private tour offers flexibility and in-depth local knowledge. Perfect for a family wanting a personalized experience.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at one of the many restaurants lining the picturesque Venetian Harbor in Chania, enjoying fresh seafood and the evening ambiance.
Drive back to Mythos Palace Resort & Spa after a wonderful day in Chania.
The drive back in the evening offers a different perspective of the coastal road.
Explore the lush Botanical Park & Gardens of Crete.
Wander through nearly 20 hectares of land filled with fruit trees, herbs, medicinal plants, and ornamental plants. A serene and educational experience.
Located near Fournes, a short drive from Chania. Ideal for nature lovers and a peaceful family outing.
Enjoy a traditional Cretan lunch at a local taverna in the charming village of Fournes, near the Botanical Gardens.
Head to a nearby beach for an afternoon of swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.
The area around Georgioupolis offers beautiful sandy beaches like Kalyvaki Beach.
Enjoy the clear waters and family-friendly atmosphere. Many beaches offer sunbed rentals and beachside cafes.
Enjoy a farewell dinner in Georgioupolis, savoring the last flavors of Cretan cuisine by the sea.
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at the resort.
Take some time for last-minute packing and enjoy the hotel amenities.
If time permits, do some last-minute souvenir shopping in Georgioupolis for local products like olive oil, herbs, or ceramics.
Complete the check-out process from Mythos Palace Resort & Spa.
Transfer from your resort to Heraklion International Airport (HER) for your return flight.
Ensure your transfer is pre-booked to avoid any delays.
Depart from Heraklion (HER) for your flight back to the Netherlands, concluding your Greek adventure.
Flight duration may vary depending on direct or connecting flights.
This 10-day itinerary for Athens, Greece can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.