Crete Post-Voyage Extension

Disembark in Lavrio and transfer to the Athens airport. Fly to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and tour the city’s Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s most impressive collection of Minoan artifacts, including jewelry, pottery and frescoes. This evening, visit Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village, modeled after a historical island town to depict daily life of both rural and affluent classes. Prepare authentic Cretan dishes at a cooking class and then sit down to a dinner featuring your creations. You’ll also peruse the town museum, with exhibits on the daily life, traditions and folklore of Crete. (B,L,D)

Today, get immersed in the history of King Minos during a visit to the reconstructed Palace of Knossos, the largest and most spectacular of all Minoan palaces and an excellent illustration of the impressive advancements made by the Minoans. See the royal living quarters, a theater and workshops, and gain unique insight into Europe’s oldest known civilization. Following your visit to Knossos, experience the archaeological site and rolling hills of Archanes, and have lunch at the renovated, modern-day village by the same name. This afternoon, choose to go on a hike or visit an olive oil farm for a tasting and a history lesson on the olive grove. (B,L,D)

Depart Heraklion for the fishing village of Elounda, where you’ll board a boat for a scenic cruise across Elounda Bay to the historic island of Spinalonga. Situated at the entrance to the natural harbor, this small rocky islet has played a strategic role for centuries. Fortified in antiquity to protect the ancient city of Olous, it later became one of the Mediterranean’s most important Venetian sea fortresses, built in the late 16th century to defend Crete from invasion and piracy. Its Venetian name, meaning “long thorn,” reflects its formidable presence guarding the bay. In the early 20th century, Spinalonga took on a very different role as a leper colony of the Cretan State. Despite harsh conditions, its residents built a functioning community, with homes, families, and a resilient social life. Today, the island stands uninhabited and preserved as one of Crete’s most moving and visited historical sites.

After your visit, return to the mainland for lunch on your own in the nearby village of Plaka. Continue on to the picturesque port town of Agios Nikolaos, where you’ll enjoy an afternoon coffee and a local sweet. Later, travel back to Heraklion.

This evening, dine at a restaurant overlooking Heraklion’s Venetian harbor, with views of the illuminated Koule Castle.
(B,D)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Athens and your return flight home. (B)