8-Day Cultural and Coastal Adventure from Athens to Chania

Day 1: Historic Athens

Athens, Greece on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mokka Specialty Coffee

Start your day with exquisite Greek coffee and freshly baked pastries in a cozy local café, setting a perfect tone for your Athens adventure.
EUR5, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Acropolis Museum

Explore world-class exhibits featuring artefacts from the Acropolis with stunning modern architecture. The museum is open from 8am to 8pm in June.
EUR10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani

Enjoy a traditional Greek meze experience with cured meats and cheeses in a charming, authentic deli-style setting.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore the Acropolis

Visit the iconic Acropolis archaeological complex, including the Parthenon and the Erechtheion. Visit hours are 8am to 8pm in June.
EUR20, 2h

4:00pm

Walk through Plaka district

Stroll through the narrow, vibrant streets of Plaka, enjoy local shops and cafés with stunning views of the Acropolis.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Strofi

Dine with spectacular views of the illuminated Acropolis, sampling contemporary Greek cuisine that highlights local ingredients.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 2: Ancient sites & markets

Athens, Greece on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ergon House

Indulge in a delicious Greek breakfast buffet that features organic produce and traditional dishes.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Ancient Agora

Discover the ancient marketplace and visit the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus, open from 8am to 8pm in June.
EUR8, 2h

12:00pm

Stroll through Monastiraki Flea Market

Explore the lively flea market for souvenirs, antiques, and local crafts, a perfect spot for unique shopping.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at O Thanasis

Sample authentic Greek souvlaki and grilled meats in a casual and popular spot near Monastiraki Square.
EUR12, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the National Archaeological Museum

Explore Greece’s largest archaeological museum housing an extensive collection of artifacts from across the country. Open 8am-8pm in June.
EUR10, 2h

6:00pm

Relax at the National Garden

Enjoy a peaceful late afternoon walk in this beautiful garden oasis located near Syntagma Square.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Kuzina

Enjoy Greek fusion cuisine with spectacular views of the Acropolis from the rooftop terrace.
EUR30, 1.5h

Day 3: Travel to Chania

Athens to Chania, Greece on June 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Grab a quick breakfast to fuel your travel day with Greek yoghurt or a light pastry.
EUR8, 0.5h

8:30am

Flight from Athens to Chania

Take a direct morning flight from Athens to Chania for approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes. Flights typically start early morning with multiple options.
EUR50-80, 1h10m

10:00am

Check-in and rest at hotel in Chania

Settle into your accommodation and take some time to relax before sightseeing.
Varies, 1h

11:30am

Explore Chania Old Town

Walk through the picturesque Venetian harbour, old harbour lighthouse, and lively streets with shops and cafés.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Tamam Restaurant

Savour Cretan specialties at this well-loved restaurant located in the heart of Chania Old Town.
EUR20, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Archaeological Museum of Chania

See fascinating artefacts from the Minoan civilization and other local finds. Open 8:30am–3pm weekdays and 10am–3pm weekends.
EUR6, 1.5h

6:00pm

Relax at the Venetian Harbour waterfront

Enjoy a stroll or coffee at one of the many cafés watching the sunset over the harbour.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Salis

Experience modern Cretan cuisine in a stylish setting overlooking the harbour.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 4: Chania & Surroundings

Chania, Greece on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Koukouvagia

Enjoy an artisanal breakfast with delicious coffee amidst charming decoration in Chania Old Town.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Day tour to Balos Lagoon

Take a boat or guided tour to Balos Beach and Lagoon, famous for its turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Tours typically run from 9am to late afternoon.
EUR40-60, 6h

4:00pm

Return to hotel and relax

Relax from the day's excursion with some downtime or a swim at your hotel pool.
Included, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Well of the Turk

Dine in a tranquil courtyard offering traditional Cretan cuisine with vegetarian-friendly options.
EUR25, 1.5h

Day 5: Elafonissi Beach

Chania to Elafonissi, Greece on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a wholesome hotel breakfast to prepare for a day trip.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Elafonissi Beach

Travel to the famous Elafonissi beach renowned for pink sand and clear shallow waters, about 1.5-hour drive from Chania.
Car hire approx. EUR40/day, 1h30m

10:00am

Relax and swim at Elafonissi

Spend a relaxing day swimming and sunbathing in this acclaimed natural wonder.
Free, 5h

3:00pm

Lunch at Elafonissi Canteen

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Cretan lunch options at the beach canteen.
EUR20, 1h

4:30pm

Return to Chania

Scenic drive back to Chania for evening relaxation.
Included, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at La Bodega

Relish a tapas-style dinner with local wines right by the Venetian harbour.
EUR30, 1.5h

Day 6: Exploring Chania

Chania, Greece on June 13, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at His Queen’s Letters

Start your day with great coffee and freshly baked goods in an artistic setting.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Visit the Maritime Museum of Crete

Learn about Crete’s naval history and maritime heritage. Open 10am-5pm in summer.
EUR4, 1h

11:30am

Walk the Fortifications of Chania

Explore the Venetian and Ottoman walls around the old town and the Firkas Fortress.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Yannis Taverna

Enjoy a casual meal of grilled fish and Greek salads in a local favourite.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Botanical Park and Gardens of Crete

Explore exotic plants and Crete’s native flora in a peaceful garden setting. Open 9am - 5pm.
EUR10, 2h

6:30pm

Return to Chania for free time

Relax, shop or enjoy the café culture of the town at your leisure.
Free, 1.5h

8:00pm

Dinner at Salumeria

Dine at this refined spot with delicious Mediterranean plates and a great wine list.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 7: Relax and Farewell

Chania, Greece on June 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at To Stachi

Savour a traditional Cretan breakfast with homemade cheeses and honey.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Visit the Maritime and Folklore Museum of Crete

Delve into Crete’s rich cultural and maritime heritage with exhibits open 10am-5pm.
EUR5, 1h

11:30am

Free time for last-minute shopping or beach visit

Enjoy your final leisure hours by revisiting the harbour or shopping in the old town.
Free, 3h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Well of the Turk

Return for a relaxed meal of Cretan and Mediterranean dishes with fresh ingredients.
EUR25, 1h

4:00pm

Prepare for departure

Return to hotel, pack and rest before your departure the next day.
Free, Rest of day

8:00pm

Farewell dinner at Captain’s Restaurant

Celebrate your last evening in Crete with outstanding seafood and sunset views over the sea.
EUR40, 2h

Day 8: Departure

Chania, Greece on June 15, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick and energising breakfast before your trip home.
Included, 0.5h

8:00am

Transfer to Chania Airport

Allow ample time to reach the airport for your flight back or onward destination.
Taxi approx. EUR20, 1h