Private Greece tour with Professor Lucy Bartholomee. 8 nights across Athens, Crete and Santorini

June 23: Athens

June 24: Athens

June 25: Chania (Crete)

June 26: Chania (Crete)

June 27: Heraklion (Crete)

June 28: Heraklion (Crete)

June 29: Fira (Santorini)

June 30: Fira (Santorini)

July 1: TOUR ENDS

Detailed itinerary coming later. We are keeping all the essentials of the previous tour itinerary with some new addition as well. Biggest change on new itinerary is a 2nd night in Chania (we will take short flight Athens to Chania rather than overnight ferry).

I’ll be straight with you–I like to travel with positive, optimistic, fun-loving, flexible people who can roll with the punches. Travel can be a tough experience sometimes. Bad weather, strikes, and overcooked pasta are all hazards we face. If you get cranky when things aren’t perfect and will be upset about spotty wifi, I’m not your girl.

On the other hand, if you’re an easy-going type who doesn’t complain, can walk reasonably well, can manage luggage, and wants to see other cultures as they really are–warts and all– I think we are going to get along just fine. Bonus points if you like wine and having fun with a bunch of new friends. I promise to give you a rich, empowering, enlightening experience no matter where I take you. Girl Scout’s honor.

Day 1
Arrival in Athens. We will meet for our welcome session, hand out the Traveling Art Supply Kits, and start getting acquainted. Enjoy a chilled glass of Assyrtiko wine and some honey-soaked, cinnamon-spiced loukomades at our hotel as we review the tour before an orientation walk around Plaka neighborhood. Welcome dinner at local restaurant.nsert itinerary information here.  

Day 2

Guided sightseeing tour revealing the glories of ancient Greece. Ascend to the top of the Acropolis and visit the iconic Parthenon, dominating the city below. Visit to Acropolis Museum. Afternoon to explore more of the bustling Plaka area or perhaps visit the National Archaeological Museum. Greek cultural evening at classic taverna with authentic cuisine, live music and dance. Optional meet-up for working in our art journals together after dinner

Day 3

In the morning we will meet for a creative activity to design and paint traditional Greek gods eyes, a symbol of good luck and protection, on a wall hanging or necklace. After lunch, we'll have free time until we leave for our flight to Chania on the island of Crete. Transfer to hotel in the old quarter of this sublime and charming town. Group dinner.

Day 4

Enjoy a Cretan breakfast with the speciality of dakos (barley rusks with tomato, feta and herbs) followed by a guided walking tour to uncover the layers of Venetian and Ottoman empires. Rest of the day free to explore the winding back streets of Chania with possible group visit to local glassblowing or wooden embroidery artisan (TBD). The 19th century Egyptian lighthouse at sunset is the perfect spot for inspiration and creative activities.

Day 5

Depart Chania and head to our next destination, Heraklion. Cooking class at farm in the small village where vegetables, wild greens, aromatic herbs and olive oil all come from the garden and farm. Sample local cheeses, honey, oils and other local products before sitting down to authentic lunch. Short stop at seaside town Rethymno for before arriving late afternoon in Heraklion. Group dinner. 

Day 6

This morning we will visit the palace at Knossos, to get to know the Minoans. This civilization predates classical Greece and was once of the most influential ancient cultures on the Mediterranean. Then enjoy a wine tasting with local delicacies (light lunch) at Lyrarakis Winery in the scenic countryside. We have extra time booked here so you can find the right viewpoint/vineyard for doing art. Late afternoon back in Heraklion & group dinner.

Day 7

Morning ferry to the island of Santorini, which some believe to be the lost continent of Atlantis. Transfer to hotel in main town of Fira to enjoy the truly stunning views of the island’s iconic blue and white painted houses and the caldera, the mostly submerged volcanic crater in sea from an ancient eruption. Full afternoon at leisure to explore, shop, chill or swim. Optional art activity in late afternoon. Group dinner. 

Day 8

Day 8 overnight Fira (Santorini):

Morning tour of the sights of Santorini including breathtaking views from Prophet Elias Mountain, pictures alleys and iconic Cycladic windmills of Emporia and the stunningly situated village of Oia. In late afternoon we will embark on a sailing cruise that’s just in time for sunset (dinner and drinks included). Take a dip, snorkel or just relax and enjoy the rugged cliffs, majestic caldera and beautiful backdrops on our last evening together.