See two different sides of the island with this city-meets-town holiday.
Combining the buzz of Chania with the chilled-out vibes of Elounda, it’s the best of both. Vibrant Chania makes a great starting point. Whether you want to shop, sunbathe, sightsee or sip cocktails until dawn, there’s something for everyone here. After the excitement of the island’s second-biggest city, the sleepy fishing village of Elounda with its stunning views and laid-back tavernas comes at the perfect time.
Multi-centre
Beach & island, City & beach, Culture, Foodies, History, Honeymoon, Family, Watersports
From £2,999 per person
Price includes €105pp (approx. £89.74) in taxes & fees which are payable locally at your resort
Up for another island? Santorini is a relatively short hop north by ferry but has a completely di...
Highlights of trip
Historical Crete
Dive into Crete’s rich traditions and folklore on a trip that also introduces you to some of the island’s most striking scenery. The adventure kicks off in the charming village of Vrisses, with its backdrop of the White Mountains, where you’ll visit a family-run vineyard and learn about the wines as well as olive oil and other local products. Heading eastward through more enchanting settlements, you’ll reach Myriokefala, home to a picturesque monastery dating from the 11th century.
Uncover a sanctuary of ancient stories and whispers as you take to the historical site of Knossos. Famous for its ancient Greek ruins, Knossos may be dominated by time-honoured architecture, but these primordial structures still cut an imposing silhouette. A guide will lend an expert insight into those age-old city walls, delving deeper into the captivating mythology of the many Minoan artifacts before retreating back to the centre of Heraklion for a guided tour through the beating heart of the city.
Set off on an evening enriched with enchantment as you course the rolling Mediterranean waves by sunset. The ideal opportunity to unplug and disconnect, this trip begins in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, before setting sail across the cobalt ocean and finally anchoring in the pristine waters of Kolokitha.
Witness the world-famous white-washed architecture for yourself as you set sail along the southern coastline of Santorini. Home to a sanctuary of stories and jaw-dropping scenery, this place is a seventh heaven that will leave you slack-jawed in amazement. Time slows and nature’s beauty takes centre-stage at the picturesque Red Beach, where a fiery carpet serves the ideal spot for a coastal stroll.
Our travel savvy team's top tips and insight to the places we visit
Stacey Warley, Personal Travel Manager
It's about a 3-hour private transfer that takes you along the northern coastline from Chania to Elounda. It's an experience in itself as you drive through beautiful mountain villages with stunning views out to sea.
Days 1-3
Chania
Chania has definitely got the looks. There’s a charming old town where boutiques and bars spill out onto colourful streets. Walk a little further and you’ll reach the beautiful Venetian harbour where buzzing tavernas jostle for space. The beaches are just as stunning as the town, with the white (and pink) sands of Balos and Elafonisi within easy reach. Or, if you’re more of a hiker than a swimmer, Samaria Gorge makes a great day trip too.
Things to do
Historical Crete
Crete
Dive into Crete’s rich traditions and folklore on a trip that also introduces you to some of the island’s most striking scenery. The adventure kicks off in the charming village of Vrisses, with its backdrop of the White Mountains, where you’ll vis...
Explore Historical Crete
Historical Crete
Crete
Dive into Crete’s rich traditions and folklore on a trip that also introduces you to some of the island’s most striking scenery. The adventure kicks off in the charming village of Vrisses, with its backdrop of the White Mountains, where you’ll visit a family-run vineyard and learn about the wines as well as olive oil and other local products. Heading eastward through more enchanting settlements, you’ll reach Myriokefala, home to a picturesque monastery dating from the 11th century.
The main draw is its ancient frescoes, only rediscovered recently during renovation work, though the cheese pies with honey from a nearby coffee shop – a local speciality – are also well worth investigating. Your next stop was one of western Crete’s most important cities during Roman times, before being destroyed in 828 AD. You’ll find traces of ancient Lappa in what is now the village of Argyroupolis, where you can enjoy lunch in one of the local taverns. On the return to Chania, there’s one last pause: the stunning Lake Kournas, in a beautiful setting backed by hills.
• Duration: full day
• Time: 9am to 4.30pm
• Daily departures
• Operates year round
• Private experience
This peaceful and luxurious Cretan retreat puts a modern spin on rustic design and has a ‘living well’ philosophy at its core.
Days 4-8
Elounda
Trade busy streets for a bit of peace and quiet with a trip to the northeast coast. It may be less busy but it’s equally as beautiful with a mountain-backed harbour scattered with fishing boats and palms. From here, you can also sail to one of the country’s most breathtaking spots – Spinalonga Island, where turquoise bays, hiking trails and ancient ruins await.
Things to do
Discover Knossos
Crete
Uncover a sanctuary of ancient stories and whispers as you take to the historical site of Knossos. Famous for its ancient Greek ruins, Knossos may be dominated by time-honoured architecture, but these primordial structures still cut an imposing si...
Explore Discover Knossos
Sunset Sail to Mirabello
Crete
Set off on an evening enriched with enchantment as you course the rolling Mediterranean waves by sunset. The ideal opportunity to unplug and disconnect, this trip begins in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, before setting sail across the cobalt...
Explore Sunset Sail to Mirabello
Discover Knossos
Crete
Uncover a sanctuary of ancient stories and whispers as you take to the historical site of Knossos. Famous for its ancient Greek ruins, Knossos may be dominated by time-honoured architecture, but these primordial structures still cut an imposing silhouette. A guide will lend an expert insight into those age-old city walls, delving deeper into the captivating mythology of the many Minoan artifacts before retreating back to the centre of Heraklion for a guided tour through the beating heart of the city.
• Duration: Half day
• Private experience
Good to know
Specialist guides are available at Knossos and Heraklion Archaeological Museum for an extra fee.
Sunset Sail to Mirabello
Crete
Set off on an evening enriched with enchantment as you course the rolling Mediterranean waves by sunset. The ideal opportunity to unplug and disconnect, this trip begins in the charming town of Agios Nikolaos, before setting sail across the cobalt ocean and finally anchoring in the pristine waters of Kolokitha.
Storied by a tapestry of jaw-dropping vistas, be sure to keep your eyes peeled if you want to catch a glimpse at the ancient venetian fortress. Kolokitha will instantly win you over with its untouched beauty, while the opportunity to swim, snorkel and paddle will keep you endlessly energised and entertained. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, hop back on-board and indulge in a flavour-filled gourmet Grecian feast mounted by a mesmerising ocean panorama.
• Duration: Half day
• Daily departures
• Operates: 16th May - 15th October
• Group experience
This recently renovated resort combines a unique design with an indulgent spa, magical views and facilities for all ages.
Extend your holiday
Santorini
Up for another island? Santorini is a relatively short hop north by ferry but has a completely different feel. Wander the steep car-free streets, take in the Caldera views and dip into Cycladic-white shops and tavernas.
Things to do
Discover Santorini from the Water
Santorini
Witness the world-famous white-washed architecture for yourself as you set sail along the southern coastline of Santorini. Home to a sanctuary of stories and jaw-dropping scenery, this place is a seventh heaven that will leave you slack-jawed in a...
Explore Discover Santorini from the Water
Discover Santorini from the Water
Santorini
Witness the world-famous white-washed architecture for yourself as you set sail along the southern coastline of Santorini. Home to a sanctuary of stories and jaw-dropping scenery, this place is a seventh heaven that will leave you slack-jawed in amazement. Time slows and nature’s beauty takes centre-stage at the picturesque Red Beach, where a fiery carpet serves the ideal spot for a coastal stroll.
One of the island’s lesser known wonders, this chilli pepper paradise is met by a lap of crystalline waves that were made for paddling in. From one sandy stretch to another, the powdery sands of the White Beach will quieten your whirring brain, while a stop at the Black Mountain lends a fresh glimpse at the volcanic isle’s many marvels. Boxed off with a beautiful lighthouse and a plunge into the irresistible hot springs, the fun-filled moments are fuelled by a mouthwatering on-board lunch with wine and dessert thrown in for good measure.
• Duration: Full day
• Daily departures
• Operates: Year-round
• Group experience
Based on 14th October 2026 departure. Price includes €105pp (approx. £89.74) in taxes & fees which are payable locally at your resort.
£2,999
Guide price information is based on economy class international flights, accommodation, transport and experiences as detailed in the itinerary above. Guide prices do not include optional things to do. Prices can change both up and down and these prices represent only a guide, call us for up-to-date prices. The cost of your holiday depends upon the time of year you travel, duration of your holiday, preferred departure airport, airlines, hotels and things to do. Prices are per person based on 2 adults sharing a room. Local taxes and fees may change before travel and are based on current exchange rates.